Liam Maye has released his debut EP ‘Overthinker’.
The new release from the pop producer showcases his musical versatility with a blend of pop, funk, spoken word and ballads presenting a varied mix of music in a 12-minute bundle.
Speaking of the EP, Liam said: “The idea behind ‘Overthinker’ was born during a difficult phase in my life when I was forced to make a decision in order to change things for the better. However, the inner pressure made me feel limited in my judgement and so I was afraid to make the wrong decision. As a result, I began to rack my brains about it and suddenly I found myself in a spiral of thoughts with no way out. So I started to write it all down and all of a sudden I had about thirty song ideas ready to go. Four of which actually made the record. I really put everything of myself into every word, every sound, every melody, every chord, every little detail of those songs and I hope people will feel that and can connect with my songs.”
To delve deeper into the release, we caught up with Liam Maye to discover 5 tracks that influenced ‘Overthinker’.
6lack – Stan | Listen via Spotify
While producing this EP I was Listening to a bunch of 6lack. His Album ‘East Atlanta Love Letter’ was pretty mind-blowing to me. Especially the last track ‘Stan’! The chord changes on that are just so great.
Bon Iver – Towers | Listen via Spotify
Tying into that I was fairly addicted to Bon Iver’s self-titled Album ‘Bon Iver’. I’d listen to tracks like ‘Towers’ or ‘Perth’ daily. Those two albums were especially fascinating to me because they are so calm and so passionate.
The Ezra Collective – Chasing the Square | Listen via Spotify
In the beginning of 2019, I also was lucky enough to discover the Ezra Collective. Their ‘Chapter 7’ EP was really a turning point for me. It made me appreciate the piano so much more than I already did! Since I loved the piano more after that EP, I set off to learn new chords which ended up inspiring new songs! Favourite song off the EP would be ‘Chasing the Square’.
Michael Jackson – Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough | Listen via Spotify
I also believe that the music I’ve been listening to my whole life must have had a huge influence on my songwriting and production. Songs like ‘Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough’ by Michael Jackson have been a part of my life forever. My parents showed me the song in the car once when I was 11 and I’ve been addicted to the groove ever since. That song has two chords – two chords and a catchy bassline! – showing that music does not have to be complicated to be interesting.
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Can’t Stop | Listen via Spotify
Me and my friend would always play Red Hot Chili Peppers songs. I loved what Anthony Kiedis did in songs like ‘Can’t Stop’. He managed to rap but in a supernatural and authentic way and that got me all excited about lyrics and it motivated me to express myself in music.
You can stream Liam Maye ‘Overthinker’ EP via Spotify below: