Westerman Reflects on Spontaneity and His New Album Journey

British songwriter Westerman has embraced a new creative approach with his latest album, A Jackal’s Wedding, released in 2023. During a recent interview, he shared insights about his decision to move to Greece and the impact of spontaneity on his music-making process. This shift is evident in the album’s sound, which contrasts sharply with his earlier, more intricate productions.

In a Zoom call, Westerman described the album’s creation as an intentional departure from his previous methods. “Nothing is ever really finished if it’s a new idea,” he stated, emphasizing the subjective nature of artistic completion. In contrast to his meticulous work on earlier albums, he aimed to capture fleeting moments in music, resulting in a sound that feels more spacious and less congested.

A Jackal’s Wedding showcases tracks like “About Leaving,” which features a simple piano progression and soft drumming from Stella Mogzawa. This approach marks a significant evolution from earlier works such as “The Line” and “Idol; RE-run,” which were characterized by intricate production. The new album often allows the music to breathe, giving each idea the space to develop organically.

Westerman’s move to the Greek island of Hydra played a crucial role in shaping the album. He described the “ultra-brilliance” of the light in Greece, a stark contrast to the “dour” atmosphere of London, where he often felt directionless. “I found myself sleepwalking around a lot of the time,” he reflected. The vibrant surroundings of Hydra served as a catalyst for creativity during his two-year stay.

His creative process also mirrored his spontaneous life decisions. During his time in Greece, Westerman was not touring and had recently exited a relationship. “I just figured, well, I don’t have any reason to not do this,” he explained regarding his move. The relaxed environment allowed him to explore new creative possibilities without the pressure of overthinking.

Collaboration with co-producer and mixing engineer Marta Salogni was instrumental in realizing this vision. Westerman praised her ability to foster spontaneity in the studio. “Some of my favorite moments on the record were done with no setup,” he noted, highlighting the importance of trust and shared understanding in their creative relationship. Salogni’s approach treated the studio space as an instrument, enhancing the album’s sonic depth.

The recording took place in a repurposed 17th-century mansion, known as the Old Carpet Factory. Salogni utilized the mansion’s unique acoustics to create a rich sound landscape. “She’s always working,” Westerman remarked, emphasizing her dedication to the music.

Two standout tracks exemplify the album’s spontaneous spirit. The song “Adriatic” evolves from a drum machine loop into an engaging synth-pop experience, thanks to last-minute contributions from Mogzawa. Westerman recalled how Mogzawa’s involvement transformed the track beyond his initial expectations.

Another noteworthy moment occurred late one night when Westerman was playing an acoustic guitar. Encouraged by Salogni, he recorded a new song on the spot, despite his reservations about its incompleteness. They completed the track in under thirty minutes, a testament to the productive environment they created together.

Reflecting on the album, Westerman expressed pride in his ability to capture the essence of a moment without overworking it. He aspires to preserve that spontaneity in future projects, illustrating a profound shift in both his personal life and artistic direction. As he continues to explore his craft, the influence of Greece and his recent experiences will undoubtedly shape the music he creates in the years to come.