Exclusive Interview with SUNSET SURRENDER

The unique fusion of Retrowave Synth-pop created by Matteo Zandonella Bolco, a passionate dreamer and multi-talented musician, is Sunset Surrender. Matteo captures the essence of the human experience through sumptuous soundscapes and eerie melodies, inspiring awe and wonder that transports listeners on an emotional journey. Check out the exclusive interview below:

1. Can you tell us a bit about where you come from and how it all got started?

SUNSET SURRENDER: I am currently based in Rome, born of both Italian and Polish heritage, yet I consider myself a global citizen. From my earliest memories, my life has been marked by relocating due to my father’s profession. This has granted me the privilege and challenge of growing up across different continents – from Africa and South America to Eurasia and, now, Europe where I currently reside. As I mentioned before, this constant movement not only allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures but also brought about a sense of rootlessness. No single place truly feels like home, compounded by the inherent struggle of letting go of the life I had woven for myself. The recurring experience of starting anew invariably positioned me as an outsider, often accompanied by a disconcerting sensation of isolation. However, let’s turn our attention to music. During my teenage years in Argentina, I faced a distressing incident where my peers played a prank that escalated into a collective amusement at my expense. Feeling helpless and not wanting to burden my parents, I concealed my anguish for six months. Music emerged as my sanctuary during this time of emotional turmoil. Already having begun to play the guitar, I would spend nights strumming away while my favorite melodies provided solace. On one particularly bleak night, when I felt I had reached my breaking point, the thought of ending my pain crossed my mind. Yet, in that moment, I realized that such a choice would inflict agony upon those I cared for. This realization empowered me to step back from the edge and sit on my bed. Time seemed to elongate. Gazing out of the very window that could have marked my end, I beheld the moon, radiant and more luminous than ever. Its glow seemed to beckon me towards my guitar resting on the opposite side of the room. And, astonishingly, it felt as though time stood still. After a few minutes of contemplation, I picked up the guitar and strummed a chord that gave birth to my inaugural composition, an outpouring of raw emotions. From that pivotal instant, I grasped that music was more than a form of self-expression; it was a conduit for narratives, a lifeline for those hesitant to seek aid, an inspiration for the disoriented. This realization has stayed with me, resurfacing as I embarked on this project. To me, music is about being there for others. My story and struggles are what made me the person I am today, and I wouldn’t change that for the world. I firmly believe in what I do, and no feeling of success or realization has been truer than reading messages of people telling me the impact these songs might have had on them. I apologize for the extended response, as I rarely delve into this chapter of my life. However, I genuinely believe that by confronting and embracing my past, I can illuminate the essence of who I am today.

2. Did you have any formal training or are you self-taught?

SUNSET SURRENDER: Well, as a teenager, I did start with some music lessons, especially for guitar. But honestly, I kinda regret not giving theory its fair shot back then. But hey, no regrets, right? Now I’m actually getting into it again, determined to become the best musician I can be. I am currently enrolled in guitar, drumming and singing lessons.

3. Who were your first and strongest musical influences and why the name ‘SUNSET SURRENDER?

SUNSET SURRENDER: Your question resonates with me, and I’m glad you brought up these two aspects, as they’re interwoven with my earliest memories. I owe a lot to my two older sisters – they’re basically the reason I’m here having this conversation with you. One of my earliest recollections takes me back to entering Magdalena’s room, where MTV was playing on the television. Enigma’s “Return To Innocence” was on (it took me a good 14 years to finally figure out the song title after that!). That track remains a tearjerker for me even today, not just due to the nostalgia but also because of its emotional depth. My sister had impeccable musical taste, and that influence seeped into me. I fell head over heels for bands like U2, New Order, The Cure, Depeche Mode – and I can’t help but admit I’m a total Cher fanboy! As I grew, I developed a passion for Post Punk and Pop Punk, especially Joy Division and Underground acts like Sum 41 and Blink 182 (This year, I’m finally going to see them perform live, an absolute dream come true, I’ve been waiting for 25 years). As for the name ‘SUNSET SURRENDER’, let me take you back to one of my earliest memories. I barged into Kamila’s (my oldest sister) room one day. She had a balcony, and she was outside, drying her hair. The air was warm, and the sun was gradually setting, painting the sky with its hues. I vividly remember being captivated by those colors – I can still feel the gentle warmth of the breeze against my skin, witness it dance through palm fronds, and play with the sand. It was one of those rare moments when I was so entirely present that I forgot about everything else, just for that fleeting second. You could say I surrendered to that sunset, embracing its beauty and tranquility. That’s the essence I wanted to capture in the name – a reminder to surrender to the beauty of the moment, just like I did on that balcony all those years ago.

4. What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?

SUNSET SURRENDER: To me, the core components of my music encompass a profound sense of Nostalgia, often even conjuring a Past that perhaps never truly existed. It brings to mind the Japanese concept of “Natsukashii”. – “Natsukashii” is a Japanese term that encapsulates a feeling of nostalgia, often tinged with a sense of fondness or longing for something from the past. It’s a complex emotion that evokes a mix of bittersweetness and comfort when reminiscing about experiences, moments, or objects that hold sentimental value. This term encompasses the wistful affection we feel for times gone by and the yearning to relive or reconnect with them, even if those memories might be idealized or embellished in our minds. Parallel to this nostalgia, the aspect that seems to resonate most profoundly with my listeners is undoubtedly my lyrics. I’ve had direct feedback indicating that they resonate on a deeply relatable level. As I mentioned earlier in this interview, I put a great deal of effort into infusing value into the stories within my songs. I hope this sentiment comes across clearly. As for the sound I craft, I prefer to envision it as an authentic, narrative-rich embodiment of the 80s inspiration. Certain tracks have emerged spontaneously, driven by overwhelming emotions – songs like “Your Surrender” or “Lies, Lies, Lies!” flowed out cohesively, resulting in what I consider some of my most accomplished work to date.

5. What’s your view on the role and function of music as political, cultural, spiritual, and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of technical artistry, personal narrative, and entertainment?

SUNSET SURRENDER:

Honestly, I tend to steer clear of strong ideological influences in my music. These often create divisions among listeners who might not share my viewpoint. However, I do aim to utilize music as a social vehicle. My music conveys my own struggles, with the intention that it reaches those grappling with similar challenges. Through my songs, I want them to understand that they’re not alone, and seeking help isn’t something to be ashamed of. I’m always open to conversations with anyone who reaches out. So, for me, music functions as a carrier of positive vibes. I employ a nostalgic sound that evokes happy memories, paired with a deeper message and sense of purpose. Ultimately, my music is a way to bring joy, offering both a familiar sonic landscape and a profound message. After all, no one is meant to traverse life’s journey alone.

6. For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you? How would you describe your own development as an artist and music maker, and the transition towards your own style, which is known as INDIE (synth pop, post punk, new wave)?

SUNSET SURRENDER:

When I first set out on this musical journey, I was captivated by how Blink 182 artfully infused nursery rhymes into their riffs and melodies. This creative approach truly opened my eyes. From the beginning, I always aimed to carve my own path, even though ironically, I’ve noticed a distinct style emerging only recently. It’s as if I stumbled upon a certain sound while actively seeking out elements to incorporate into my own unique blend. An example of this process is evident in “Lies, Lies, Lies!” where I drew inspiration from the sound of Joy Division and endeavored to pay homage to Ian Curtis’s lyrical brilliance. Oddly enough, as I’ve matured as an artist, I find myself reconnecting with the music I cherished during my younger years – those memories of my sister playing 80s tunes on MTV, back when they still actually played music. In a twist of fate, I discovered that my connection to this genre solidified when I was crafting a project song for my Sound Engineering degree. This song, after undergoing about 200 iterations, ultimately morphed into “Kings Of The Night,” the eleventh track on my debut album, “Lives Like The City.” This process illuminated the path that led me to my distinct sound, fusing elements of INDIE such as synth-pop, post-punk, and new wave, a musical expedition that feels both genuine and uncharted. Top of Form Bottom of Form

7. Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfillment as the amount of work you are putting into it or are you expecting something more, or different in the future?

SUNSET SURRENDER: Well, that’s quite the question. In the realm of an Indie Artist, there’s a continuous demand to learn novel ways of marketing your music, enhance content quality, and refine songwriting – it’s a perpetual evolution. If I’m being honest, when I hear one of my older songs now, I can’t help but cringe at some of the production choices I made back then – hindsight is 20/20, right? (laughs) I’d say that currently, I’m getting back more than what I put in, so I must be doing something right. However, I approach this with a grounded set of expectations. Looking ahead, I do see a promising horizon. Who knows, perhaps sooner than anticipated, I might find myself fortunate enough to make a livelihood doing what I love. As I sat gazing at the Greek sea, a surge of initial joy washed over me – a reminder that this, my music, is the one true thing that ignites my soul with happiness. I’m resolved to fight for it with a fervor that surpasses all limits. Ultimately, I’m still that boy who once dreamt of reaching for the stars (citing my song memoirs of a future I), and that aspiration remains unwavering. I found myself once more.

8. Could you describe your creative processes? How do usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song? Do you usually start with a tune, a beat, or a narrative in your head? And do you collaborate with others in this process?

SUNSET SURRENDER: It’s interesting – my creative process tends to ebb and flow, often hinging on the specific song in question. At times, I find myself immersed in playing around with an instrument, usually when a particular mood strikes me. This leads to recording the initial snippet, capturing the essence of that moment. From there, my imagination runs wild, sketching out the rest of the song. This often results in a collection of instrumental demos that are eagerly awaiting lyrics and vocal melodies to bring them to life. Conversely, there are instances where words flow through me. These moments compel me to write frenetically, and before I realize it, a draft of the lyrics comes together. I’ve also been experimenting with penning lyrics in fragments throughout my day, subsequently finding the ideal instrumental canvas to fit them into or even building fresh melodies around these snippets. Oddly enough, I perceive my writing process akin to constructing with Lego bricks. It’s a gradual assemblage of various elements, culminating in what feels like an invention – usually spaceships in my case (chuckles). This creation often requires refining, like trimming down excess and interweaving melodic facets (I have a tendency to overload songs with melodies, so I’m learning the art of restraint). While collaborations aren’t a constant, they’re always a welcome addition. Witnessing where another producer can take my initial idea, or vice versa, is simply incredible. My most recent collaboration was with the Venezuelan Synthpop band Lombardo. It’s an avenue I’m eager to explore further, as it offers an opportunity to unearth uncharted creative territories.

9. What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?

SUNSET SURRENDER: The most demanding trial, without a doubt, has been persisting despite the doubts and skepticism of those closest to you. It’s never an easy feat to pursue something when even your nearest and dearest consider it an uphill battle, or even nearly impossible. Self-doubt has been my most persistent adversary in this regard. However, speaking on a deeply personal note, the passing of my childhood best friend, Silvana, stands as a profound blow that I had never anticipated. The intensity of the pain was beyond anything I could have imagined. What adds a bittersweet layer to this heartache is the knowledge that in her final moments, she still found solace in my music, specifically the song “The Dance.” Learning this shattered me, prompting me to extensively rework the song for weeks, even months, culminating in multiple versions of it (so the song now exists in three distinct renditions). To this day, I struggle to perform the song without succumbing to an overwhelming wave of emotions. The most bittersweet aspect of it all is that years have elapsed, yet I continue to grapple with finding the words to offer the farewell I never had the opportunity to convey to her through music. It’s a struggle I carry with me, a tribute in silence to a friendship that meant the world.

10. On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?

SUNSET SURRENDER: To me, success isn’t necessarily quantified by numbers. The most joyous instances in my musical voyage have come when I’ve received messages from listeners sharing how one of my songs served as a lifeline during challenging times. This, fundamentally, is what I set out to achieve, and witnessing such responses only fuels my determination to continue. Yet, I must also acknowledge the satisfaction derived from the short film “Making My Day,” featuring my song “Your Surrender.” This film’s success, securing wins and nominations across diverse international film festivals, fills me with immense happiness and pride. It’s an accomplishment that resonates deeply, magnifying my commitment to this creative journey.

11. With social media having a heavy impact on our lives and the music business in general, how do you handle criticism, haters, and/or naysayers in general? Is it something you pay attention to, or simply ignore?

SUNSET SURRENDER: I believe in acknowledging criticism, especially if it’s offered constructively. The truth is, not everyone will or can resonate with what I create, and that’s entirely okay – it’s ultimately a matter of personal preference. Fortunately, I rarely encounter outright haters. When I do, I make an effort to respond with respect and kindness. After all, we can never fully grasp the struggles someone might be facing in their own lives at that particular moment. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by a circle of caring and supportive individuals who genuinely understand and appreciate the purpose behind my creative journey. To me, this project is a shared endeavor, belonging as much to them as it does to me.

12. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?

SUNSET SURRENDER: It’s a bit of a unique situation for me. While I’m yet to take the stage as Sunset Surrender, I can certainly attest to the excitement building around it. Rehearsals have kicked off, and I’m in the process of unraveling the intricacies of my live setup – a slightly more complex task given that I’m currently a one-man band. Drawing from my prior band experiences, I can confidently say that nothing quite matches the enchantment of sharing a moment with kindred spirits who genuinely appreciate the music and emotions you pour out on stage. Yet, studio time will always possess its own magic. When I pick up an instrument, I’m venturing into uncharted territory – the thrill of the unknown always beckons. Whether it’s reviving an older demo or embarking on something entirely new, the prospect of that creative journey is profoundly exhilarating and deeply enjoyable.

13. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?

SUNSET SURRENDER: YOU KNOW, I ACTUALLY REALLY ENJOY WHEN FANS CRAFT THEIR OWN INTERPRETATIONS OF MY SONGS. IT CREATES THIS SHARED EXPERIENCE, MAKING IT MORE THAN JUST SOMETHING I PENNED DOWN. TRUTH BE TOLD, SOME OF THESE THEORIES THEY COME UP WITH ARE INCREDIBLY THRILLING (chuckles). I’M CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF CRAFTING A FRESH SET OF LYRICS WHERE LISTENERS GET TO CHOOSE HOW THE STORY ENDS. THE CONCEPT OF ENGAGING THEM IN SUCH AN INTERACTIVE WAY REALLY APPEALS TO ME. SO, WHILE THE STORIES AND MESSAGES ARE THERE, THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE SEEING A LISTENER PUTTING THEIR OWN SPIN ON A SONG – I DO IT ALL THE TIME WHILE LISTENING TO MUSIC.