On The Rise: Lutalo
Edifying anthems for a turbulent society.
Hailing from Minnesota's Twin Cities, multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter Lutalo released their praised debut EP Once Now, Then Again in 2022. The Vermont-based musician, who counts Fleet Foxes' Robin Pecknold and Big Thief's Adrienne Lenker among their fans (the latter inviting them on tour in 2022), now gets ready to release "part two", the companion EP Again, later this summer.
Immediately more up-tempo than its predecessor, Again is an accomplished, lively and fuzz-drenched body of work fuelled by a curious disposition, the songs once again delving into the political and social issues close to the artist's heart. Executed with impressive confidence, all the instruments and vocals are played and sung by Lutalo, rubber-stamping their undeniable musical dexterity.
"When writing I mostly enjoy working from a stream of consciousness, allowing whatever first comes to mind flow out. Everything is based around intuition and what seems interesting at the moment, so it all just feels natural."
Contemplative and compelling, Lutalo's songwriting is dense with introspection, ultimately imagining a greater societal equilibrium, free from superfluous living and within a country more mindful of the trials of its youth and the richness of its diversity. Once Again, it's a priviledge to be invited to join their conversation.
We're excited to announce Lutalo as part of Rough Trade On The Rise, our dedicated curation putting a spotlight on the emerging music we are the most excited for you to hear, to follow and become a fan of. Read on to discover more about the artist in their own words and don't miss new EP Again, on Winspear.
Lutalo on Lutalo
A self-penned bio
Hello, my name is Lutalo.
I am a producer and songwriter born and raised in the Twin Cities Minnesota. I use this project as an outlet, as my main form of creation. Simply put these are a collection of songs I happened to come across that I felt like sharing.
Growing up I was given West African drumming lessons by my dad, who taught me about Black history through the rhymes of MF Doom and Talib Kweli. After getting into all kinds of instruments as a kid, as a teen I found myself enjoying the production elements more, particularly in indie rock where I started listening to the likes of Tame Impala and Unknown Mortal Orchestra, this alongside me and my friend playing around with Ableton really led me into production.
I tend to create from a place of curiosity and experimentation. When writing I mostly enjoy working from a stream of consciousness, allowing whatever first comes to mind flow out. Everything is based around intuition and what seems interesting at the moment, so it all just feels natural. I began with drums as my first instrument and built my understanding of other instruments and rhythm around that.
I'm inspired by all kinds of music but so far this project is rooted in rock, funk, folk and hip-hop. Hope you feel or think something while listening.
Five by Five
5 Qs, 5 As
Describe Lutalo in 5 words.
I .AM. NOW .AND. CREATING
5 records you listened to prior to making your album?
Good Sad Happy Bad - Shades
Grizzly Bear - Veckatimest
Alex G - House of Sugar
Mount Kimbie - Love What Survives
Khruangbin - Mordechai
Top 5 career moments since forming?
Meeting my manager Tobi in Bristol UK.
Playing for my best friend.
Recording both of the EPs.
Getting Covid on my first tour and getting stuck in Pennsylvania.
Having my music put on vinyl.
You host a pre-release listening party for the album. Who are your 5 VIP guests (dead or alive)?
My Dad
My Partner
Winnie The Pooh
Death
Malcom X
Top 5 essential tour snacks?
Gummy bears
Jasmine Tea
Double Stuff Oreos
A block of Tofu
The fresh dew of a mango tree...