As a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and actor, Sara Niemietz has done it all, but that doesn’t mean that she’s done challenging herself or trying new things. In fact, her upcoming album, Superman is all about doing what makes you uncomfortable and finding the superhero inside of you. Representing a reinvigorated era in her artistic continuum born from small vulnerable moments brought on as a result of lockdown, Superman found Sara not only stepping outside of her comfort zone, but it also found her beginning a new collaboration with co-writer and co-producer Linda Taylor, the guitarist on the hit ABC show Whose Line is It Anyway.
Together, Sara and Linda found themselves creating an exciting, soulful and incredibly personal release that kept them incredibly busy for the majority of lockdown. Unlike anything that she has done before,Supermanis a celebration of music, complete with with massive anthems and more vulnerable ballads. With the album coming soon, we caught up with Sara Niemietz once more to talk about the project, her growth as an artist and her collaboration with Linda Taylor. Read more and listen to the new single, “Locks” now below.
Prelude Press: It has been quite a while since the last time we caught up! Since then, you’ve released countless new singles, a few new albums and you’re gearing up to release another new album this year (and that doesn’t even count your work with Postmodern Jukebox). What has been the highlight of 2022 so far for you?
Sara Niemietz: It’s great to catch up. Returning to the world has been the highlight for me! Don’t get me wrong, I love some sweatpants and staying in as much as the next person, but it feels so right to be putting out a new album, recording in the studio WITH PEOPLE, and playing live FOR PEOPLE!
You’re currently gearing up to release your new album, Superman! What are you most excited for fans to hear on the album?
This record is unlike anything I’ve released previously. I can’t wait for people to hear it. There are huge guitar-driven anthems, as well as more vulnerable numbers. It tells the story of the last few years for me. Superman is the most representative release to date.
You teamed up with Linda Taylor for this album, as well! What do you feel she was able to bring to the table for this project?
She is a total rockstar. I’m in awe of her musicianship and ability as a producer/writer to hone in on the heart of a song.
We started working together remotely during the pandemic, just sending ideas back and forth, and from that, the album was born.
Is there anything you’ve learned from each other while writing and playing together?
I’ve learned a lot about getting to the heart of a song. Finding the right words, textures, and approach to what the song wants to say.
Over the course of writing this record, Linda and I sent countless audio files back and forth. A few times where a song ended up was very different from where it began, but I’ve learned to trust the process and not second guess.
How do you feel you’ve grown as an artist with the writing and recording of Superman?
I’ve put it all out there! This album is the blood, sweat, and tears (not the band) of the last few years.
There were moments where I was tempted to censor myself or soften certain edges, but we decided to keep it authentic and honest.
The album is also a 100% self-funded and crowd-sourced release. Did that give you a different sort of freedom or pose any sort of challenges when working on it?
That’s right!!! It gives immense freedom. Linda and I would joke – want to put in jazz chords? – use a charango? have a full on 60s acid-jam tune? Go for it. We were free to follow our inspirations.
What was the most rewarding part of working on the album?
Working with Linda. It’s not often you find a collaborator who connects so effortlessly with the music in your head.
Sending ideas back and forth was a true joy and I can’t wait to start the next album! Another fun element was recording a few of the songs in Chinese. I’ve sung in Chinese for many years, but this is the first time I’ve had one of my songs translated into the language.
What would you like for fans to take away from Superman?
Hope via rock and roll! We approached the album as a book; each song is a chapter. Certainly all books have their rising and falling actions, their hardships and triumphs, but this one has a theme of empowerment to it and a joyful ending.
Do you have any other big plans or goals for 2022?
I just returned from a two month European tour and in two weeks I’ll be leaving for NYC for a residency at a new place called Al Coro.
My big mission for 2022 is to get Superman to as many ears as I can!
Thank you for chatting with us! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
May your days be happy, and your coffee strong!
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