W: Rachel June
Max Winter’s music is difficult to pin down. His voice cuts through gritty soft-rock beats, layered with bold synths and unexpected textures. The result is a dramatic, possibility-filled sound that refuses to be boxed in.
Ahead of his upcoming release Mourning Routine (out Oct 24th), we caught up with Max to talk about his journey so far. Already known for his collaboration with thredd, Max has since stepped into his own lane. Following the haunting and mesmerising single The Olympics, he continues to craft a sound that’s both masterful and distinctly his own.
Take a listen here and see for yourself.
'Mourning Routine', what inspired it?
An interest to dive further into songwriting and experiment with close collaborators
Describe it in 3 words.
Intricate. Melodic. Big.
What's the story?
These songs were born out of collaborations and sketches from a few years ago. Early iterations of each of these tracks were performed live, but never felt quite right. I think I needed some time to catch up with the ideas I had created, and commit to the songs. I had been fighting my tendency to switch up and change sections, and potentially over complicate things. This EP has become an exercise in constraint, and following through with an idea to its completion.
Did you collaborate or make it yourself?
Collaborated with Melo-Zed, Will Lister and Imogen & The Knife as well as many incredibly talented musicians
What's your fave part of the music-making process?
The first bit.
Then the bit where you record people playing what you’ve written
What has surprised you?
How much I’m singing on it
What's been a challenge?
Finishing it
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Don’t wait!
Who/what inspires you?
Everyone around me!
What is the overarching theme of the EP?
Life in cycles.
What song is on repeat for you right now?
Paul Westerberg - Only Lie Worth Telling
What's your dream venue?
Emirates Stadium
Dream collab?
Cameron Winter & Jessica Winter
Plans for 2025 and beyond?
More music!