While the sound of a new album is important, there is one thing that can really set a new project apart from the rest: its message. And, the message at the heart of artist Shamir’s newest album, Heterosexuality, is one both profound and important. Whilst channelling an eclectic array of sensibilities pulled from across genres and eras, an infectious 90s pop-rock sound emerges, with the help of celebrated production maverick Hollow Comet, accompanying soul-baring lyricism and poetic messaging on staying true to your authentic self and the intricacies of embracing your sexuality.

“I think I knew I was gonna go even deeper than I ever had before, which I didn’t even know was possible because I’m a fairly open person as it is,” explains the artist when discussing the album. “I think I was allowed to dig deeper because I didn’t have to focus on production as much because I trusted Hollow Comet’s decisions.”

Ahead of the release of his newest album, the talented artist sat down with Wonderland to talk the blended sound of his new album and how his chosen family inspires him the most.

Head below to enjoy our interview with Shamir…

Hey Shamir, how are you? How has this past year been?
The past year has been one of the best, honestly. I made my favourite album, wrote a book, the world opened up a bit more and it was nice.

With everything that happened during the pandemic, was your creativity affected in any way?
No, if anything I think it was heightened. I do my best work in solitary!

How did you first get into music, what sparked the interest?
I think my aunt. Growing up and watching her write songs made me want to do it because I always thought she was cool – and I still do.

And you’re from Vegas, did growing up here impact your sound in any way?
I don’t think it impacted my sound externally, but the lack of music community I felt there forced me to go out of my way to consume as much music as possible.

Talk us through your new album, Heterosexuality? What was your mindset going into this?
I think I knew I was gonna go even deeper than I ever had before, which I didn’t even know was possible because I’m a fairly open person as it is. I think I was allowed to dig deeper because I didn’t have to focus on production as much because I trusted Hollow Comet’s decisions.

It’s very 90s pop and rock, what did you go for this sonically?
Yeah, I love 90s and early 2000’s pop-rock. We were also influenced by industrial and even metal. I really love the modern pop-metal vibes lately, like Poppy and Jazmin Bean.

What do you hope people will take away from your music?
Catharsis? Relief? Acceptance!

Who inspires you?
Honestly? This might sound corny. But my friends inspire me, I love my chosen family.

What are you most looking forward to? What are you most excited for?
I’m looking forward to more touring and playing these songs, the few shows I did with Courtney Barnett were really fun.