‘Edgar Allan,’ the hauntingly poetic latest release from Scrimshaw Porn, offers a glimpse into the eerie and melancholic world inspired by the master of macabre tales, Edgar Allan Poe. Crafted around Halloween, this track delves into the creative process that brought forth a narrative paying tribute to Poe’s tortured brilliance.
The genesis of ‘Edgar Allan’ began with a simple bassline and the refrain bearing the literary maestro’s name. The chorus hook, entrenched in Nick Helgesen’s mind, led to the fleshing out of a storyline that encapsulates Poe’s genius. The composition unfolds as an homage to the young Poe, parentless and writing by candlelight, blending Gothic horror with stories of beauty, longing, and forlorn love.
Nick’s ungodly early morning routine unfolds in his dark and isolated home recording studio, where the magic of ‘Edgar Allan’ took shape; Driven by admiration for Poe’s mastery of language, the song reflects the ticking time, a thematic element central to Poe’s works.
The recording process elevated the track at TRIAD Normandy in Warren, Rhode Island, with co-producer Matt Ricci contributing his brilliance. Real piano replaced MIDI, and the layering of vocals, along with the addition of guitar accents by Neal McCarthy and sax by Trevor Kellum, added depth to the composition. The sax, with its ethereal Valhalla-style reverb, turned out to be a standout element, thanks to Trevor’s inspired improvisation.
Nick’s synergy with Matt, evident in their collaborative history spanning several songs, ensures a seamless creative process. The infusion of real-world samples, including raven wings and caws, random chatter, and the evocative sounds of digging and scratching, enhances the atmospheric quality of ‘Edgar Allan.’
An unexpected twist of fate occurred during the post-production phase when an extended sample revealed someone yelling ‘Edgar!’ This serendipitous addition, though unintentional, added a karmic layer to the song, concluding the creative journey of ‘Edgar Allan’ with an eerily fitting touch.
Artist Bio: Scrimshaw Porn
Scrimshaw Porn, a moniker both enigmatic and captivating, encapsulates the essence of an artist deeply rooted in the fabric of indie/pop music.
This solo musical journey is the brainchild of Nick Helgesen, and born out of a lifetime immersed in the diverse sounds of artists like Dave Brubeck, Carol King, CSNY, Santana, James Taylor, and Miles Davis, Nick’s musical journey began at the early age of four when the family’s Steinway piano became a gateway to the world of melodies.
Growing up in a household where music was a constant presence, Nick developed a natural inclination for playing by ear, a skill that persists to this day, untouched by the formalities of sheet music. His musical lineage is enriched by the memory of harmonizing with his mother, a gifted singer who left an indelible mark on his artistic soul.
Venturing into the Boston music scene post-college, Nick became a founding member of Brave New World, later renamed The Arm, sharing stages with iconic acts such as Eric Burden and the Smithereens. Their first national album release landed in top 25 requested on 127 stations in the US, but the inevitable ebb and flow of musical tastes led to the disbandment of the band. Yet, Nick’s passion for music endured, driving him to establish a recording studio where he devoted himself to crafting his own compositions.
Approaching the music industry with a fresh perspective, Scrimshaw Porn acknowledges its saturation while aspiring to spread joy and provoke thought through his music. Influenced by ’80s British bands like The Cure and The Smiths, his songs serve as personal narratives, weaving tales of love, loss, and the poignant moments of life. Outside the music sphere, Nick’s eclectic interests include tennis, sci-fi films, live comedy, DIY projects, real estate brokerage, and a deep appreciation for astrophysics. His pursuit of perfection extends to his immaculate car and a tendency to forego ample sleep.
Aspirations for Scrimshaw Porn encompass an immortal legacy through music, a luxurious tropical abode, and the dream of hearing his compositions grace the soundtrack of a cinematic masterpiece. Collaborative ventures and the pure utilization of his music for its inherent value are integral to his artistic vision as his journey continues, driven by an unyielding passion for the art of sound.
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