Alex Bent + the Emptiness
Canadian artist Alex Bent + the Emptiness dropped his new album Baby on August 23rd.
Produced by Alex Bent, Chris Hatam, Connor Barkhouse and Rareison, the project is a love letter to Bent himself.
The Canadian artist created a 10 track album where he got to portray his versatility and musical identity through an honest songwriting. For this album, Bent collaborated with Jack Larsen (appears on the song “Kiwi”), Merv Xx Gotti (“Dope Forever”), Sextrap ( “Coolin”), Jeah (“Wish Me Bad”) and Christian Minus (“Baby08”).
By telling his personal story, Bent is hoping to convey this important message:
“It’s okay to admit weakness and to ask for help.”
Baby is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Logan Tanner
Introduce yourself - where are you from?
My name is Alex Bent and I’m from Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
What's your story?
I make music under the name Alex Bent + the Emptiness. I’ve relied on my music as a source of fulfillment and to fill a void in my life, hence the name.
When did you realize you had to be an artist and release your original music?
I don’t know if I’ve ever made a conscious decision to start being an artist. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a creative person and have been creating music in some form or another.
How did your sound and artistry evolve over the years?
As time has gone on, my sound has settled into a more balanced combination of my influences.
How would you describe Alex Bent + the Emptiness, the artist?
Honest.
Baby is your new album. What's the story behind this album?
I had been holding back for quite some time and was uncomfortable with the idea of releasing something as full as an album. I went to Chicago for the first time last year to work with some friends and felt a boost in confidence. That combined with a recent heartbreak ended up being the driving force behind this album.
When did you start working on this project?
I started “New Drums” as I was sitting on my friend Jack Larsen’s couch in Chicago in May 2018. That was the first song I started for this project.
Could you describe us the songwriting/production process for this album?
It’s been fairly random. Sometimes I’ll create an instrumental and continue working on it from there. Other times I’ll write most of it in my head and jot things down over time.
You have a few collaborations on this album - what are you looking for in artists when working with them?
Something unique that I know I can’t offer myself.
At what point did you know this album was finished?
I could just tell once it felt like I was pushing to change things too much. At a certain point, I knew that I needed to let things be.
What do you like the most about this album?
My favorite song is “Kiwi”. I love how it came together. It was the first real song I knew was made for this album.
What were the hardest parts about making this album?
Letting this album be what it needed to be.
Any favorite memories from the making of this project?
The Chicago trips were the highlight and main source of inspiration.
What made you want to name your album Baby?
I just thought it was a simple enough title while still making you think. It could be an insult, a compliment, a pet name, etc.
What message do you want to convey through this album and your music in general?
It’s okay to admit weakness and to ask for help.
As an artist, what do you want to accomplish?
I hope to inspire others the way my heroes have inspired me.
What are the things you are the most proud of?
I'm most proud of the fact that I haven’t given up and I’ve continued to be true to my gut instinct.
How do you want to be remembered for?
My openness.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
No social media.
What biggest life lessons have you learned so far?
There are no mistakes. If you don’t like the outcome, make another decision.
Connect with Alex: