Get To Know: A Is For Atom
- Apr 22
- 4 min read
We speak with A Is For Atom whose latest record was shaped as much by life’s biggest beginnings as its quiet reckonings. Written during a period marked by profound personal change, the album moves between light and shadow, holding hope, uncertainty, and reflection in the same breath. Across walking-driven writing sessions in Brooklyn and Milan, and a collaborative recording process spanning cities and musicians, the project emerges as something both grounded and searching. We dive into the creative process behind the release, the shift toward a more direct, guitar-led sound, and the emotional threads that tie the record together: from unexpected transformation to the quiet work of staying open to what comes next.
Welcome to Curious For Music! Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest release?
I wrote this album while my wife was pregnant with our first child, so there was this overwhelming sense of possibility and hope in my life. At the same time, it naturally led me to reflect on my past—on moments of uncertainty, mistakes, and some of the darker experiences that shape who we become. The record really lives in that space between light and shadow. It’s about holding hope and longing at the same time, staying curious about what’s ahead, and ultimately coming back to love as the thing that ties it all together.
What was the creative process like for this project?
A lot of the early ideas came together on long walks—first in Brooklyn, and later in Milan. Walking has always been a big part of how I write; it gives me the space to follow a feeling or a phrase without forcing it. There’s something about being in motion that opens up curiosity and lets things surface naturally. The recording itself happened between Brooklyn and Toronto, so the album carries a bit of both environments—different energies, but both really important to shaping the final sound.
How does this new release differ from your previous work?
This record leans much more into a straight-ahead rock sound. My earlier releases explored more synth-driven textures and atmospheric layers, but this one feels more immediate and grounded. It’s more guitar-driven, more direct. At the same time, I think the emotional core is clearer—there’s a stronger sense of longing and connection running through the songs, but also a kind of optimism that feels new.
Were there any particular challenges you faced while making this music?
The biggest challenge has actually been everything that comes after the music is finished. I genuinely enjoy the creative and promotional side, but doing it all independently takes time and energy—especially while raising a young child. It becomes a constant balancing act between being present at home and staying engaged with the project. In a way, though, that tension mirrors the themes of the record—trying to hold onto hope and creativity while navigating real-life responsibilities.
Did you collaborate with any other artists or producers on this project?
Yes, and collaboration was a really important part of bringing this record to life. I worked with producer Uri Kleinman, who also played bass and contributed background vocals. Clara Lofaro added beautiful background vocals as well. I collaborated with guitarist Amit Peled, drummer Coleman Bartels, and pianist Brad Whiteley, all of whom brought their own perspective and feel to the songs. I also played guitar on the final track, “Falling For You.” It was a very organic process—everyone contributing in a way that supported the emotional tone of the record.
What message or emotion do you hope listeners take away from this release?
I try not to define that too specifically. For me, the goal is to create an emotional space where listeners can bring their own experiences into the music. If the songs can connect in a way that evokes hope, longing, curiosity, or love—whatever that means to them—then I feel like it’s doing what it’s supposed to do.
Is there a story or concept that ties the songs together?
There’s definitely a thread of unexpected change running through the album—those moments that come out of nowhere and shift your perspective completely. Whether it’s falling in love, becoming a parent, or confronting something from your past, those experiences often arrive unannounced. The record explores how we respond to those moments—how we navigate uncertainty, and how we find meaning in them.
How has your sound or style evolved on this release compared to your earlier work?
The core identity is still there, but I think I’ve grown a lot vocally and as a songwriter. My range has expanded, and I feel more comfortable exploring different emotional spaces in my voice. That’s allowed me to lean further into melody and expression—really trying to capture subtle shifts in feeling, whether it’s vulnerability, warmth, or tension. There’s more confidence in letting the songs breathe.
Is there a track in your music discography that feels especially meaningful to you? What makes it stand out?
“Creation” has always stood out to me. It was one of the first songs I wrote for A is for Atom, and it really helped define the project early on. There’s something about it that still resonates—it captures that sense of curiosity and wonder, but also a deeper emotional pull. It’s also one of my favorite songs to play live because it tends to connect with people right away.
How do you plan to share this release with your audience? Are there any upcoming performances, videos, or special projects in the works?
Right now, I’m focused on building a live show around the album—bringing these songs into a space where they can really connect with people in real time. At the same time, I’m already working on new material, so there’s a sense of momentum continuing forward. The goal is to keep releasing music, keep performing, and keep building that connection—staying curious about where it all leads next.
