NDGO's new single "Selective Hearing" is more than a new single for the multi-genre newcomers; it is an exciting, intimate, new chapter of unexplored evolution for the band moving ahead into the new year.
For NDGO, the past few months have drastically impacted how they make music. Hector Longoria has found that the approach to each release, especially "Selective Hearing," has been unique. As independent artists in the industry, every step one takes could be their last, as they compete with other self-sustaining artists who are trying to achieve the same goals. While finding that balance has been challenging, to say the least, the journey to finding the essence of who NDGO is has been rewarding. NDGO has come to mean more than just a band, it's an extension of everything that comes to pass for the bandmembers from their childhood to maturing into adults who work their 9-5 jobs yet continue to live their passions of writing and producing music.
In all reality, the musical mindset behind “Selective Hearing” is NDGO’s sonic roots. Written by former guitarist Sidney Steelhammer, Lee Rouse, Joshua Landry, and myself, “Selective Hearing” set the standard. By standards, I mean, as a songwriter, vocalist, and overall performer, I no longer wanted to write anything that could not match the experience.
"Selective Hearing" is a product of that experience. An intricate blend of groovy djent guitars and pop flavors, "Selective Hearing" talks about dealing with a situation in which we choose to hear and deal with what is going on, or do we hide behind the fantasy of what we want to believe to keep that emotional wall from deteriorating in front of others. While this single represents a very intimate new start for the band going into the new year, NDGO has not lost their step in bringing together aggressive, provocative, and melodic concepts to generate impressive experiences.
Hey NDGO! I appreciate that you have returned to Into The Void to chat about your new music! Over the past few months, you have released a few singles that have showcased the growth and change your band has experienced. During this process, you have learned what the band means to you. Now, with your new single "Selective Hearing" releasing, can you share what this song means to you?
Hector Longoria: Sammie!!!! It's our pleasure. When Danny told me you were up for discussing the possibility of having you write another piece for our new single, I was ecstatic. Your previous article captivated the start of NDGO very nicely. Exceptional work must be recognized and appreciated, and when allowed to work with such talent, one should never hesitate at the start of the gun. I immediately informed my wife, Vivian, how excited I was to chat about our next release. Thank you for being a part of our wild journey once again and allowing us to give your readers a glimpse of the other side. We wouldn’t miss it for the world.
Yes, these past few months have drastically impacted the manner NDGO approached its releases. For myself, I’ve found my approach to be a little different than some. As a self-sustaining artist, every step to the next big release could mean my last, if not properly executed. Finding the balance in the experience hasn’t been easy but it is a major key to success. Personally, I continue enjoying the art I have the privilege of creating with such talented people in the industry and everything that comes along with it. It's not for the faint of heart. The honor to be able to craft the way we do comes at a hefty price but the reward is so much more. There is no monetary value on a gig that pays back in life experiences, absolutely delightful.
As a collective, NDGO is quite impressive and has shown massive growth. Though it may seem months of sudden changes, situations that occurred and are occurring behind the scenes more often than not have been years in the making. Honestly, I’ve personally come to appreciate moments like these as a lesson in the most difficult profession on this planet, life.
The bright side of it all is, that during this process, I’ve come to love and appreciate NDGO for what it truly is. NDGO has become an extension of my immediate family to the fans that are buzzing over it. From childhood movies, games, TV shows, and music, to the real-life experience of having a 9-5 while pursuing a dream career and facing the world head-on. NDGO is a movement I’ve become very passionate about and I want to share it with anyone willing to listen.
Now, for anyone listening “Selective Hearing” has and will always mean a great deal to me and the individuals involved for so many reasons. One of those reasons for me personally is finding a sound I resonated with.
I know you guys are always consistent with experimenting with genres and different textures and harmonies in your music, going into "Selective Hearing," what made you want to go into this with a different kind of musical mindset?
Hector Longoria: You'll hear this more than once on this journey with us, but the funny story is, that “Selective Hearing” was written in early/mid-2018 in Monroe, Georgia in Aaron Marsh’s beautiful home which I briefly mentioned in your previous segment. Why is it now making its debut? Who knows. In all honesty, this release's timing was unplanned, and our song “I See You” (unreleased) was next on our cycle for release. I’ve come to accept that NDGO is a free-flowing art similar to a river, always changing and new elements bonding.
In all reality, the musical mindset behind “Selective Hearing” is NDGO’s sonic roots. Written by former guitarist Sidney Steelhammer, Lee Rouse, Joshua Landry, and myself, “Selective Hearing” set the standard.
By standards, I mean, as a songwriter, vocalist, and overall performer, I no longer wanted to write anything that could not match the experience. Lee the magician that he is, easily blends elements and textures that complement the intricate groovy djent guitars Sidney recorded on the track.
The inspiring pop flavors and aggressive guitars allowed us to approach the song with more MJ-style vibes. Who could reject such a request to honor the King Of Pop after all? Josh’s recommendations drove “Selective Hearing” all the way home. Not only were the words provocative, but the delivery went hand in hand, introducing a new sass to NDGO. Personally, I enjoy the choir harmonies. They definitely completed the sound design. The harmonies inspired an idea for a music video years ago, though slightly different than my original idea for the music video, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
"Selective Hearing" talks about dealing with a situation in which we choose to hear and deal with what is going on, or do we hide behind the fantasy of what we want to believe in to preserve that emotional wall from breaking down in front of others? Can we talk about this song in depth and what this means for the future of NDGO moving forward for the new year?
Hector Longoria: The option is yours. The suffering we cause is merely a reflection of our inner struggles. Choosing to hear and deal with an issue the moment it is conceptualized is far more rewarding than the fantasy being fabricated to continue the ongoing vessel of pain dragging its fist across the pavement in pity to satisfy others' emotions rather than themselves. It takes a lot of courage to sacrifice your IQ. But, it's not that deep. Sometimes you’re in a relationship, and the one thing you both can agree on is how great the sex is.
We’re bringing sexy back! Moving forward, NDGO will continue to share our intimate journey with whoever chooses to connect.
What more can we expect going into the new year for you guys?
Hector Longoria: Expectations lead to disappointments. BUT…. Expect music that will ignite your inner child's wildest imagination. Much Love! Respectfully.
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