by Jordan Finn
Who is DAEM really???
DAEM is more of a notion than a being. It’s a pseudonym influenced by feminine entities – a new representation of the once honorary, and later derogatory, term used toward women. This choice held significance because I wanted the name of this sonic art project to encompass aspects larger than oneself.
So Nashville's your current home, has it always been home base?
Originally hailing from Montana, I resided in Boston and then Nashville for several years and wouldn’t trade a second of the experience. Nashville most certainly has a community-centric feel to it, which makes it a welcoming place for a vulnerable songwriter to flourish. However, during a road trip across the country last summer, a realization washed over me: the West was calling. I answered and moved back to Montana last fall. It probably won’t be my last stop, but the return of energy from living at a slower pace has done tremendous things for me as a creator!
Do people really call it Nash Vegas or is this just scuttlebutt?
Oh, yes. “Nash Vegas” is a real thing – especially as the city grows to be the nation’s #1 Bachelorette Party destination. Ultimately, it refers to a particular nightlife culture within downtown Nashville. Fortunately, there’s so much more outside of it.
What are three words you would say describe your music to the uninitiated?
Cinematic, dark, and ethereal!
How in the heck do you get such big sounding tunes? They sound like cathedrals!!!
Thank you - that’s what I aim for! While composing, I try to implement production ideas as soon as possible, especially toying with the utilization of vocal, harmonic and textural layers. The magic really happens in the mixing process – typically ending up vocal-forward and riddled with reverb.
Will this be your first time at Dreyfest? If so, have you already heard of the legendary BBQ sauce that Nels Jensen provides to all the artists?
Yes, I am a Dreyfest newb, but I couldn’t be more excited. I haven’t heard of this legendary BBQ sauce – now that I’m aware, I look forward to treating my tastebuds on top of contributing to a great event!
What is your favorite sound?
The whisper of wind grazing through leaves of a Cottonwood tree. Or the buzz of a Sawtooth Wave. Depends on the day.
What are the future plans for DAEM? Perhaps a Lizzo collab?
I’m dying to compose for film and television. A Lizzo collab, though? #goals
Any shoutouts you want to throw out there for the uninformed lay-people?
Shout-outs to DAEM’s manager, Andrew Kimber, who never fails to help keep the vision alive, even all the way from Australia; My mentors, especially Pat Pattison, Larry Sheridan and Robin Ruddy who’ve helped influence my craft; The family and friends who have been there through thick and thin; The people who have broken my heart – they’ve given me great material to work with.
Time machine question: If you had to go back in time and see one performance, what would it be?
This is a tough one! I’m going with Prince at The Forum in LA in 1985 for the ‘Purple Rain’ Tour, where he performed his heart-wrenching rendition of Joni Mitchell’s ‘A Case of You’.
