NDGO takes us down a dark and emotional journey of the inhumanity that exists in the world with their latest single, "I See You."
Looking through the music of NDGO, one can see that the band is not only outspoken about their personal pain and triumphs, but of the world around them. Now more than ever, one can say that we live in a world of smoke and mirrors, where sometimes the smoke is so thick we can’t see what’s in front of us at times. It is only till one holds a mirror to the truths that we are otherwise uncomfortable talking about or feel pain expressing that we can look at solutions and hopefully begin to heal from the personal wreckage that outside forces sometimes thrust upon us. For NDGO’s latest single, “I See You, “ this is not a political statement nor is it to push any sort of agenda. We know of the migrant crisis. Those that have gone missing and the people that mourn the loss of their loved ones because of such inhumanity.
“I See You” isn’t entirely focused on the migrant crisis. Yes, the migrant crisis was brought up during our writing session in April of 2020 and assisted in giving light to such an upsetting topic but I can assure you this message is intended for all. This anthem is to bring awareness to the fact that as humans we’ve neglected the reality that human slavery continues to consume the darkest parts of our world and the prime target is children. What has and is taking place at our borders is the tip of the iceberg and deserves all the attention. - Hector Longoria (Vocalist)
"I See You" is not only a heart-wrenching piece that highlights the cruelty suffered by innocent people but also brings to chilling vocal life the fact that human slavery is still taking place in various parts of the world, with children being the ones who bear the brunt of these deplorable acts. The pain and suffering experienced by many of these people all over the world is indescribable, and what is happening on our borders is only a fraction of this. In their latest single, "I See You," NDGO sheds light on this issue.
Welcome back to Into The Void NDGO! So this new single we are delving into, there are some pretty heavy topics you are discussing. “I See You” is talking about the ongoing migrant crisis. What is your personal relationship to this? What made you want to write such a poignant piece of music?
Hector Longoria: It’s a pleasure to be back. I want to start with making one thing clear, this is and will not be used to push any political views nor take any side. I’ve made it clear to the entire team that this is for the recognition of those that have gone missing and those who mourn because of it. Over the years I’d like to think that NDGO has and always will write about the state of our world as seen through my eyes with respect. Especially on topics that involve the innocent. “I See You” isn’t entirely focused on the migrant crisis. Yes, the migrant crisis was brought up during our writing session in April of 2020 and assisted in giving light to such an upsetting topic but I can assure you this message is intended for all. This anthem is to bring awareness to the fact that as humans we’ve neglected the reality that human slavery continues to consume the darkest parts of our world and the prime target is children. What has and is taking place at our borders is the tip of the iceberg and deserves all the attention. Unfortunately, division plagues our world, country, hearts and minds, and in doing so we’ve turned a blind eye refusing to address the very issues creeping closer to our personal lives. It is a hard pill to swallow when you understand there are individuals out there who only exist to prey on the defenseless and the innocent for profit. I'm human and I love deeply and prefer to be part of the solution. No child should be subjected to any fear, pain, nor sorrow. Children deserve a world where they are appreciated and loved unconditionally. The reason we chose to write about this is like anyone else speaking out against such monstrosities. It pains us. We cannot stay silent when their voices have been stripped from them.
How was working on “I See You” different from other instrumental projects you have worked on in the past? There is something deeply atmospheric and melodic about this single but there is a bit of a bite to it that shows that you guys still have kept some of your aggressive footprint in there.
Hector Longoria: Instrumentally “I See You” allowed us to express a heavier score. A type of song to withstand all diversity. A side of NDGO that kept anticipation, pain, anger, and angst at my throat, delaying the phrases. With its heartbeat tempo of the ongoing battle against time, “I See You” sets apart from previous NDGO releases in many ways. A story of an undetermined hero’s rise at a moments notice at the sight or sound of a child’s suffering.
It’s as if swimming against a current and fighting for a breath of fresh air as the grizzly attempts to lock its claws around your lung. The emotions that day solidified how real “I See You” is and because of that it is impossible to express everything I experienced during its creation. That being said, I’ll leave you with one other sentiment. You know that emptiness in the pit of your stomach as you look down a 17th floor elevator or stare down a cliff on a hiking trail and instantly consumed by goosebumps? Yeah, well that’s it. Exhilaratingly heartbreaking. It’s almost fictional. Absolutely, the aggression behind this bite is very intentional. These footprints are ones to leave on this earth.
What are you wanting people to take from this new single? This is a slightly different side instrumentally and somewhat lyrically from the band. While you guys have always made these edgy, eclectic experiences up to this point, this one hits differently, and for obvious reasons. I feel there is a need for these kinds of things because it is important. These images and these terrible things that are happening and that you are painting within this single are happening. A lot of times, and I get it, we want to bury our heads in the sand and pretend everything is okay with the world. But these things are happening all around us, and even in music we need to shed light even on the things that are uncomfortable to talk about and look at.
Hector Longoria: Time escapes us all but some sooner than others. Be the ancestor generations will speak of. See past the mirage and find an understanding within. Their silence will echo through generations. I agree with you 100%. As uncomfortable a topic may be to discuss, critical thinking must be the universal understanding. 1 + 1 = 2. Radical emotions complicate all situations and divide on all fronts.
Since making “I See You” how has that affected you as an artist?
Hector Longoria: Everything I’ve had a privilege in creating including “I See You” increases my awareness. A priceless gift.
What is next for you guys? I feel like with every new single you guys release we see something interesting and different. And that is a good thing.
Hector Longoria: Next, we ride the wave followed with a mood change. Focus all of our energy on ensuring we bring the audience (The NDGO Fam) what they all deserve, another solid release. Your time is greatly appreciated. We love every single one of you. Past. Present. Future. I will embark on some great opportunities and later this year NDGO heads out on the road. As for interesting and different we have much of that, so stick around and help us spread the word. NDGO is the new secret club for all you Indigo Children. Come join, it’s fun. Much love!