Inversion, as defined by Merriam-Webster is a change in the position, order, or relationship of things so that they are the opposite of what they had been. For Tim Butler, it’s a phenomenon and EP project that’s taken three three years to arrive.
Finding himself at a crossroads of his musical career, the Glenside singer/songwriter took a hiatus from regular album releases and shows. Choosing instead to lay low until his musical energy was re-fueled. Thankfully, Butler’s creative juices are once again firing on all cylinders. His new EP is a blend of catchy melodic pop combined with tasty guitar work and inspired topics.
Whether he’s singing about love, moving forward or just being happy, rest assured Butler’s songs speak to the positive side in all of us. And in times like these, it’s something we all need to be reminded of.
I spoke with Butler about Inversion as well as his return to one his favorite venues.
It’s been three years since we heard new music from Tim Butler. What spawned the Inversion project?
As many of my fans know, I took some much needed downtime. For the first time in my music career I was becoming a little burned out from regular gigging. I was in a sort-of creative slump, which was something I was not used to at all. Although I did do some random shows during that period, I decided to lay low for the most part. Eventually, it got to the point to where I really started to miss making music. I had a few songs I had never recorded and decided to sit down and see what would happen. I ended up writing a few new songs too.
Why the title – “Inversion”?
I was really indifferent as to what to name this project. In the past, I’ve always just named projects after a song if I wasn’t inspired otherwise. This one was almost called “Sweet Is”, which isn’t too bad. “Inversion” though is simply another way of describing my return to songwriting and sharing my music.
How did you approach writing for this album?
Although my approach was not all that different from what I’ve done in the past, I just really let these songs go and let whatever happened happen. I wanted the sound to come together a little more organically and didn’t try to over think it. I carried that same process over to the band and then into the studio. I like the outcome, a lot!
Let’s discuss a few tracks from Inversion: “Moving Forward”
It’s a song about how I processed this particular project and about getting out of a creative slump. It’s more of a reflective song for me.
“Sweet Is”
That was a song that I wrote a few years back. It was written about a very special relationship and appreciating the simple, yet huge things that make it special. I performed the song solo for a long time but never recorded it. I loved hearing it come together.
“We’ll Be Happy”
My favorite of the new bunch. It encompasses everything I love about pop tunes and what I have become known for: melodic hooks, great production value, harmonies and a song that just makes you smile. The main jist behind this tune comes from my writing philosophy. It’s about just letting things be the way they are. Express the music as you want to and be happy with it.
Where do you find the inspiration for your songs and lyrics?
Inspiration usually comes from experiences for me. Sometimes it can be about who I am listening to at the time. I tend to be a “music first” kind of writer and specifically choruses. I’m more attentive to sound and that’s what inspires lyrics.
Who are some of your musical influences?
That’s the single toughest question I get asked. When I first started writing songs I was mainly influenced by three artists/bands: Crowded House, Michael Penn and Matthew Sweet. Michael Penn is just flat out an amazing songwriter on all fronts. He’s respected in many circles but highly underrated. Mathew Sweet brought melodic sound to my head. Catchy rock and roll BUT with a guitar driven push that I’ve always loved! Crowded House and the Finn brothers….say no more. For me, their library of tunes embraces everything I love. I’m also a huge fan of bands like Velvet Crush, The Foo Fighters and Superdrag. Basically, anything that’s melodic pop.
Do you have any shows lined up?
Right now, all of the focus will be on May 3rd at Puck, which will also be a band reunion. I’m really looking forward to getting back on stage and sharing the EP. Following that, I’ll start game planning for more shows. EP support is now the new priority.
What do you like most about that venue?
Puck has always been a favorite of mine and the band as well. I love the stage and the in-house production. It’s a cool room that lends itself well for music listening. I’ve also found Doylestown to be an attractive place for my fan base. It’s all about location.
Tim Butler Will perform at PUCK on Saturday, May 3rd.
For Details and Directions: Click Here
Keep Up With Tim Butler by Clicking Here
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