Former Seed of Sorrow guitarist, NIK (Nick Laidlaw) releases his second solo album ‘Rising’ in March. We were lucky enough to get an early listen and ask him a few questions…
What did you learn both musically and practically from the release of your debut ‘Statis’?
I found that although I’m extremely proud of ‘Stasis’, I was still finding my sound as a solo song writer. It’s got quite a mixture of genres in there. So by the time of it’s release I knew exactly what I wanted to do for ‘Rising’ and feel I’ve succeeded with what I set out to do. A melodic metal album with some satisfying hooks and riffs. While at the same time bringing some heaviness.
How did your journey with Seed of Sorrow impact on your music now?
Being in Seed of Sorrow certainly got me listening to the heavier and more technical side of metal so that’s definitely contributed to my guitar playing and music tastes. I’m not too sure if that shows through in “Rising” though? Perhaps in some sections of songs I guess!
The artwork used for all your music is really vivid, how important is getting the whole package right for your music?
The artwork is one of my favourite things about my albums! Both designed by the amazing Matt Crowther. He’s really captured exactly what I was after and just brings everything up to a more polished level.
Listening to the new tracks they really feel as if they would be epic in the live setting, are there any thoughts about gigging in the future?
The thought does go through my mind a lot. Perhaps if one day I have a full band that will help me bring it all to life then I could see it being a possibility. But in all honesty I have no plans as of yet.
There was a lot of love for statis, what are your hopes for the new album?
When the album is released my goal for the album has already been completed. All I want to do is create music and put it out there. Any feedback from anyone willing to give it a listen is just a wonderful bonus. And people have been really kind! (Thank you all)
What are your musical influences for this album?
There has certainly been a few bands. In Flames, Soilwork, Chimaira and Trivium just to name a few. But a massive influence to me is seeing my friends perform their amazing music live. Really encourages me to pick up my guitar and get writing!
The album is released on the 15th March 2024 via the normal streamers. Keep track of NIK via Facebook.
