Rykarda Parasol

Rykarda Parasol is coming to Klub on the 30th of october to present us her new album "The Color Of Destruciton", so we talked to her about that and some other stuff.. How would you describe your music in one sentence?

I can describe it one word: Duende.

What was your motivation to start creating music?

I was not motivated to create music. Music was motivated to create me. It needed me and I answered the call ;-)

What do you do beside music (if anything)?

My natural talent lies in the visual arts. I was always drawing, painting, doing something of that nature be it art or craft long before music or poetry. I studied painting in addition to creative writing. At the moment, I concentrate heavily on the album art as I feel it is totally a part of the music. Occasionally I do sew - I made the Pierrot costume in the "Cloak of Comedy" video and the togas in "I Vahnt tou Beh Alohne". I'm rather passionate about Argentine tango and recently started studying ballet.

Which artist do you look up to the most?

Knowing another artist personally has a different impact on your life than just knowing their work. I've always looked up to my cousin, who is a textile designer and illustrator. She has always had a strong unique sensibility and connection to her pieces. She's never been like anybody else and her work reflects who she is. She has often been prompted by others to create more commercial products, but she stays true to her vision.

What is your favorite place on earth?

I spend a lot of time in my best-friend's backyard. It is an oasis of sorts.

How do you imagine a perfect evening?

I don't imagine it, I pursue it.

What was the proudest moment of your career?

Besides this interview? I think I'm more in touch with a feeling of accomplishment than pride. I can recall moments of feeling another person's pride in what I do, but for the most part I just look out for the times when I know I've completed something from start to finish in the way I set out to and that feels quite satisfying. For instance, when I finish a song and it truly conveys what I hope it could/would do. Or finishing the album and it feels complete. I'm proud of the work in that sense.

If you could start your career again from scratch, what would you do differently?

There was a lot of subtle chauvinism when I began. I wish I would've faced it directly and head-on. It created a lot of emotional havoc - anything from certain people not accepting my leadership or others simply dismissing my ability to create serious work without opening themselves up to it. It was very tricky to navigate through.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I hope to be dancing tango in Buenos Aires.

Are you as dark and introverted as your music is?

If all anyone hears is darkness in my music, then they fail to comprehend me. Both light and darkness exist in both my music and myself. In truth, I think we've all been confusing complicated with dark.

What were your impressions of Croatia when you visited last year and what is the first thing that crosses your mind when you hear "Croatia"?

Unfortunately, bands on tour are never able to see more than a half day's worth of most places. When one has performances on their agenda, it's not always easy to carve out space for tourism. What one usually takes away are the beautiful moments spending time with gracious hosts, talking, and laughing. Enjoying a good local meal. Everyone we met in Zagreb was particularly warm and welcoming.

What is the theme of your upcoming album and when will it be out?

To burn or to drown? If one knows they are doomed to fail, which ending shall they choose? "The Color of Destruction" serves as something as an antithesis to the last album, "Against the Sun", wherein the narrator retreats into self-reliance and introversion. Instead, "The Color of Destruction", portrays an outward openness into the world. They're vulnerable but fearless. They know the attempt is futile, but they will pursue it to the full extent, if not beyond. Rather than simply letting the ship sink, they will set it on fire and sink to the bottom in a fiery blaze.

Will we be able to buy it on the show?

Yes, I am 99.99% sure you can buy the album at the show.

Are you coming by yourself or are you bringing a band with you?

I will be accompanied by keyboardist Milosz Wosko, and drummer, Robert Rasz. Both from Warsaw, Poland.

Any message for Croatian fans?

I'm looking forward to seeing your beautiful faces!

ujak stanley // 26/09/2015