Founded as an art project in late 2017, Silver Relics blends modern elements with classic rock influences, offering a barrier-shattering sound that engages listeners in an endlessly compelling, thought-provoking experience.Beginning at age 10, Sepassi actively honed a raw talent as a vocalist, performer, and by his late teens, a prolific songwriter.
Raised on the iconic British songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s, including The Beatles and The Beach Boys, he later discovered the technicolor experiments of the psychedelics and brooding ’80s indie rock. He deftly incorporates the best of these influences in his compositions while adhering to a classical “songs first” philosophy, crafting poignant lyrics and bold, electrifying melodies that command attention
What’s your story as an artist?
I started writing my own songs as soon as I had my first keyboard and guitar. I didn’t have a strong desire to learn covers, so I’ve been creating my own material since the beginning. I joined my friends in my first band in high school and have been hooked on it ever since. I’ve been lucky to work with some amazing artists throughout and all of it has been an influential and important part of me.
What do you want your music to communicate?
For our upcoming album, the message revolves around challenging yourself in unfamiliar territory. It’s an endurance challenge during a difficult time. The themes heavily revolve around personal improvement and the empowerment of others. Taking risks and instinctively trusting yourself to keep moving forward, as well as strengthening the relationships that mean the most to you.
What are some sources of inspiration for your storytelling?
A lot of my style is from reading/writing poetry. I love how uniquely powerful a sentence or phrase can be. Most of the stories are formed through conversation and observation of others, so a lot of the themes I like to write about seem to be something familiar – something people can connect to through their own experience.
Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?
Johnny Marr. He’s classic and prolific. I read his book, “Set The Boy Free,” and I admire how open and hard-working he is. I really appreciate how complete he is as an artist and the company he keeps in his band. 10/10.
What’s the record or artist that made you realize you wanted to be an artist?
Well, there were several, but I can recall Pet Sounds having a big impact. The harmonies and beauty of progressions throughout that record are contagious. It also made me think about composition and the essential parts of what makes a song a song.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
“Tails” evolved a lot since the idea first happened. I brought the demo to Mark first who put a really strong bass on it. That really helped tighten things up for Brian to approach it with his drums. That gave me plenty of ideas and space for guitar and vocals. It came together quickly once we found our stride and we’re happy with how it turned out.
What inspires your sound?
Rock bands starting from the early ‘60s through the current date. The instrumentation and songwriting itself I view as traditional/classic, but the modern elements of production help to inspire a new and familiar sound. That’s what makes us Silver Relics. It’s meant to inspire thought and risk.
What’s your favorite tune of yours?
Right now, it’s definitely our latest release, “Tails.” It’s also really fun to play live.
Where are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist?
I’d love to continue to tour, write and record as much as I can. The West Coast, South America and Japan will all be destinations at some point hopefully. I want to collaborate with more artists that I have a connection with as well. Growth is an important part of this band and working with other musicians pushes me towards that. I’d also like to learn a new instrument soon. Way overdue!
Favorite lyric you ever wrote?
“It’s better late than never to spend the youth you found.” – Small Talk
Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up?
There have been only a few instances where I’ve had to debate the future. Though I recall those moments to be fleeting. Eventually the pendulum swings the other way just like anything else and you’re reminded how insane the notion of giving up is truly. Navigating the unknown is always a challenge that artists experience at some point in their career and my story is no different. Having Mark, Hitomi and Brian as bandmates helps quite a bit!
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
Art is an open and ongoing conversation between you and no one else – until you decide it’s for everyone.
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?
I think it will be the resurgence of guitar-based rock bands. There are so many emerging and established groups working to keep it on track. And that’s very exciting to this band. Thank you for having us and we’re fans of your magazine!
