Interview Machine on a Break

Machine on a Break's new single "Limbo" explores profound themes of belonging and questioning religion. In this interview, we delve into the personal experiences and creative processes behind the song.

1. 'Limbo' delves into some profound themes like belonging and questioning religion. Can you tell us more about the personal experiences that inspired these lyrics?

I wrote Limbo about the moments after I realised I had made a huge mistake. As someone who had never been religious, it was interesting to me that when it came to being faced with my own death I began to wonder if heaven might be real and how I might be judged. I wondered if I still belonged in life and whether my soul would belong anywhere, even though I didn’t necessarily believe I had a soul.

2. The song captures a moment of deep regret and a desire to live. How did you translate these intense emotions into the music and lyrics of 'Limbo'?

I feel like when I write music it is the sonic encapsulation of how I feel, so chords and melodies often mean more to me than the lyrics themselves. It started out as a piano ballad and then working with Jon (producer) we were able to create an overall sonic space and representation of the story with a lot of trying things out and going “yeah that’s how it felt” or “no not quite, how about…” but we were actually able to pull this one together really quickly as I was so clear with my feelings.

3. You mention the whispers of ghosts haunting you at the start of the track. Can you elaborate on this imagery and its significance in the song?

It’s no secret that I have experienced psychotic symptoms in my past, and so the whispers heard in the introduction allude to the ‘ghost people’ who tormented me for a few months of my life and drove me to some intense moments of despair, like the moment described in Limbo.

4. The contrast in 'Limbo' between atmospheric vulnerability and intense, heavy sections is striking. How did you achieve this balance musically?

I think it it a lot of finessing and trying things out to see what works where. Sometimes I’ll think something should be an aggressive moment but when we strip it back it hits harder, so experimentation is a huge part of it for sure. I also feel like no emotion is one dimensional so I really like to capture as much of the human experience as I can in my work.

5. 'Limbo' was a semi-finalist in the Listen Up Music Songwriting Prize in 2023. How did it feel to receive this recognition for such a personal song?

This was such a special moment for me, I actually cried (happy tears)! I’ve always felt more like a songwriter than a performer so it was amazing to be recognised for the artform I’m most proud of.

6. Your music is described as a blend of Taylor Swift’s pop sensibilities and the raw power of a heavy metal band. How did you develop this unique sound?

I think it is still a work in progress and always will be, but I really enjoy blending styles I personally enjoy listening to and trying to create the music I want to hear myself. I really enjoy a good catchy pop hook like The Band Camino but I adore double kick and extended range/drop tuned heavy guitars so it’s finding a way to marry up everything I enjoy personally.

7. You’ve mentioned that your music aims to inspire others to speak up and seek help. How do you hope 'Limbo' will impact listeners who may be going through their own struggles?

Despite being a really dark song, I hope the message of hope rings through - that I regretted what happened and I wanted to live despite everything I’d been through. I hope that in hearing me realise the mistake I made it will help others who feel like they are in a similar place avoid going down the same path and instead seek support and feel more comfortable discussing difficult topics. I really hope that by speaking about difficult and taboo topics that it becomes easier for others to feel they can do the same, and to help people feel like they are not alone. I am with them in solidarity, and all feelings are valid - not just happiness.

8. Can you share more about your songwriting process, especially when dealing with such heavy and personal themes?

For me, when I am feeling a big emotion I sit at the piano and I just make noise that reflects how I am feeling. When I feel like sonically I have a representation of my emotions I’ll then add lyrics that are inspired by those feelings. Sometimes I’ll already have a story in my head, but sometimes the emotions drive the story.

9. You’ve performed at notable events like the Northern Beaches Music Festival and supported bands like Wicked Things and Krave. How have these experiences influenced your music and performance style?

I feel like these experiences have helped me shape my live persona and stagecraft, but sonically I find it so important to be true to myself that I don’t think my music itself has changed as a result. Both Krave and Wicked Things put on such an amazing show, it is really inspiring to learn stagecraft from people who are so skilled at what they do. It has given me more confidence as well to try new things out and see what feels right for me.

10. Moving from Sydney to Canberra seems like a significant change. How has this transition affected your music and career?

It has definitely meant there was a big pause for a while, especially while settling in and looking for new live band members. I am really excited about my future here though, because it seems like people here are much more interested in going out and taking a chance on supporting new and emerging artists, especially in the metal scene.

11. Your upcoming launch party in Canberra for 'Limbo' must be exciting. What can fans expect from this event?

I hold accessibility near and dear to my heart, so although we will absolutely have space for a mosh pit, you better believe we will have accessible seating so everyone can enjoy the show in whichever way suits them.

12. What are your future plans following the release of 'Limbo'? Are there any new projects or collaborations we should look out for?

There is a bunch of new music in the works at the moment, it is certainly shaping up to be a busy year! I’m really excited about what is coming next, so keep your eyes on the socials or the website to stay in the loop!

Machine on a Break | Pop-Metal Singer/Songwriter