Evan Issac – “It’s a sign that the new age is coming where we stare into infinity but never lose our minds”

Pittsburgh alt-pop singer/songwriter Evan Issac is a natural performer in every way. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing him live, you’ll know how he ignites a room with wide-eyed, almost theatrical energy. You’ll know his distinctive voice, which ranges from the most dreamlike vocal takes of Thom Yorke to the most throat-shredding performances of John Lennon. And, you’ll know his versatility as a songwriter, crafting clever, melodic hooks that fall somewhere in between all four lads from Liverpool.

So what does such a talented performer do when everyone must stay home? Keep creating. Evan spoke to us about staying motivated during the quarantine, the mixed blessings of social media, and the little things we sometimes take for granted.

It’s an unprecedented time for artists and performers. How has all of this affected you?

This new paradigm is truly unprecedented when it comes to life as a performing artist. I don’t think there has ever been a time where live performance was extinguished universally like it has been. The crazy thing is that it’s the right thing to do! I had a few shows I was looking forward to but I was lucky enough to not have any huge plans that were cancelled. Of course the internet has been really helping us (sort of) satiate our need to perform and be seen. I certainly miss the vital energy of being in the same space as people. As a capital A artist, I think this time is very nuanced. Many of us have a chance to dive deep and really give ourselves time to create. At the same time, the completely reasonable overriding anxiety makes it a little harder to maintain focus. As a performer we have to switch to the screen and as an artist I think we just have to be patient with ourselves.

For many artists I know, this time is giving them the opportunity to step back and reflect on what they do. Do you find that to be true for you?

I think that stepping back and reflecting is always an important step for artists to take no matter what the outside circumstances dictate. I have been finding that there is almost too much time right now to do this with live music being non-existent. I am trying to stay motivated and make space for myself to just create without having to sit back and reflect because sometimes it’s just depressing thinking about everything that we once took for granted. While social media is great for getting yourself seen by others I think that since you are able to watch yourself after the fact it can be distracting. I like how at a live gig you perform and then it’s over. Maybe there’s a few videos and pictures but it is more like theater and once the moment has passed it has passed. I think this is a good time to get in the wood shed and practice things that are either new or where we find difficulty. I have yet to do this but it seems smart. 

It’s interesting how social media has been our saving grace during this time despite all its flaws. How do you feel about more and more of life being online?

I will admit that I am addicted to my phone. It’s not something I’m proud of and I’m working on not making it a part of my down-time every time I have it. There is so many amazing things online but it often leads to judgements, comparisons, and frustrations with other people. How can our brains handle so much? A lyric from one of my upcoming songs “Same Heart Attack” illustrates what I hope we are able to do, “It’s a sign that the new age is coming where we stare into infinity but never lose our minds”. The internet is the closest thing we have to infinity that is not within ourselves and represents a conglomeration of literally everything and if we are able to handle this without losing ourselves I think we are capable of so much. 

What have you been doing during the quarantine to keep yourself healthy and occupied?

The main job is keeping myself accountable with bugging out on social media. I’m fortunate to be in an area with lots of available hiking in the beautiful Western Pennsylvania woods. Being present while the change of season helps a lot, observing the plants come alive and the atmosphere change. I’m glad its not winter. I practice yoga, and watch a lot of Criterion Channel. I recommend the movies “Too Late to Die Young” and “Babette’s Feast”. Tiger King is absolutely bonkers and sort of makes sense right now. Lots of horrible characters making bad decisions. Of course I am so grateful to have music and it really makes you consider how important it is to share  whatever you have to share. Take nothing for granted, especially nights out dancing. Who knew? The main thing that I’m trying to do is be patient with myself and the people around me because we are truly all in this together. Of course we always were but now its obvious.

Yeah, I think everyone is re-appreciating the vital role of music and art in society. Is there anything you’d like to see change about how people support artists once all this is over?

The general public has always been great about supporting artists. When people find music that resonates with them they treat it like sharing a “gospel”. There seems to always be an endless amount of respect and enthusiasm. That being said, the platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube which are so efficient with getting music out there need to be held accountable for paying artists what they deserve. The way the system is running is not sustainable and they are literally nothing without the artists. I think further legislation needs to be passed to protect musicians, songwriters, and producers from being taken advantage of by these companies. 

What are some ways people can help support your music?

Order a hoodie or T-shirt. Head to my Instagram, give me a follow and check them out! They’re designed by my amazing partner Lacey Hall. Check out her work as well. Dreamscapes of a beautiful mind. Buy stream/my music on any platform. Share with a friend, give life to the work! A song must be played to exist.

What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?

Thank you to anyone who shows genuine appreciation. I try to remember to show support to other artists when something moves me because it gives life to the work. Your support gives life to the work that I care so much about and that means a whole lot.

What’s next for you?

I have several songs in the works with Harrison Wargo of BADBOXES. I really dove into a rhythmic realm with these songs that I think is really pleasing while at the same time diving into some more complex and dark lyrical themes. I also have a few songs I recorded myself that are more downtempo, hopeful and simple that I think I want to put out there as well.