Be absorbed by the new single from husband and wife duo Armand and SJ Lance, also known as Ghost Flowers. By Then is an atmospheric introduction to the duo, who began writing and recording songs in their isolated barn studio, overlooking the plains, just for their own creative fulfilment and release. Originally, there was no musical ambition beyond this personal pastime, a way of responding to and filling the quieter moments. A chance encounter with Sonic Lung label founder J. Fender changed their course and led to the pair’s music travelling beyond their farm and into the wider world. “After meeting J. so randomly, the music began pouring out, so inspired by our environment,” says SJ. “Our attic was perfect for our little studio, and my friend coming to film our life was perfect for a music video. Everything has come together so naturally, and it’s been so much fun.”
This first single is sparsely arranged, with fluent keys and graceful violin providing the platform for the duo’s contrasting voices, which are warm and intimate. This is deeply personal, authentic music to lose yourself in. The video was created by Ryan Espinosa, an old friend. It was shot on 16mm film across the year, taking in the seasons and emerging and evolving naturally, just like the song itself. It’s the same story but without words, beautifully shot and artfully edited. It features all the elements that inspired the song – a life of farming, horses, motorbikes and music. Armand laughs: “It’s a highlight reel. We’re not showing the misery of agriculture!”
By Then is the first song release from the duo’s forthcoming debut album, Built to Rust. This gorgeously crafted album explores themes of identity and impermanence, hence the album title Built to Rust. Armand explains: “A lot of the record is about how to carve your place in life, not being afraid to take that leap. Everything is built through us. Everything has an expiration. So you better enjoy it.” The pair live on a working farm in Burns, Oregon, a remote town of fewer than 3,000 people. The splendid isolation and monumental landscapes of this remote location are the inspiration for much of their songwriting, and the beauty of Ghost Flowers’ environment is certainly reflected in the thoughtful elegance of their music. Enjoy.
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