On Episode 144 of The TLB Podcast, James sits down with Hani Latif and Justin Kellner of Counters and Feelers, to talk about their long-awaited debut record, Watering Dead Plants. They break down the unique challenges and unexpected joys of creating music remotely, how old ideas evolve into new creative breakthroughs, and why tone, gear, and intentional sound design play such a crucial role in their writing process.
The conversation explores the band’s musical influences, their commitment to crafting a cohesive artistic identity, their production journey, the resurgence of early 2000s rock, and how visual aesthetics help shape the world of Counters and Feelers.
Hani and Justin also share honest, uplifting advice for aspiring artists - authenticity, patience, enjoying the process, and the importance of staying connected to the reason you create in the first place.
Support the Show
Early access on Patreon → https://tinyurl.com/mva2z9se
Audio-only on Spotify → https://tinyurl.com/ytfnwx6s
Connect with Counters and Feelers
Counters and Feelers Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/countersandfeelers
Counters and Feelers TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@countersandfeelers
Counters and Feelers Linktree → https://www.linktr.ee/countersandfeelers
Hani’s Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/hanilatifmusic
Justin’s Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jcollapse
Chapters
00:00 - Intro
03:00 - Creative Inception
09:00 - Musical Influences and Inspirations
15:00 - Remote Collaboration
21:00 - Band Name and Visuals
27:00 - Encouragement and Advice for Creatives
33:00 - Friendship in Musical Collaboration
39:00 - Creative Freedom and Authenticity
45:00 - Inspiration and Perseverance in Music Creation
51:00 - Technical Aspects of Music Production
57:00 - Past Musical Projects
01:03:00 - The Impact of the Pandemic on Creativity
01:09:00 - Exploring New Musical Directions
01:15:00 - Visual and Lyrical Elements
01:21:00 - Overcoming Creative Challenges
01:27:00 - Future Plans and Aspirations
01:33:00 - Final Thoughts
01:39:00 - Closing Remarks
#music #collaboration #songwriting #recording #creativity #artisticprocess #banddynamics #musicalinfluences #production #remotecollaboration #rockresurgence #creativejourney #CountersAndFeelers #HaniLatif #JustinKellner #thetlbpod
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