Credit: Justin Aranha
Marci – the project of TOPS’ Marta Cikojevic – returns with her new single ‘Immaterial Girl’, out on 3 May. The track is the latest instalment from her upcoming debut self titled solo album, set for release on Arbutus Records this summer. Marci also announces a headline tour, including a date at London’s Laylow on 10 August.
OUR MUNDANE OPINION: New, fresh pop made it in a special, MARCI-like way
Tell us about the genesis of your project Marci. How did you get to where you are now?
Well I wanted to make a record, but never had the courage to – classic case. I began recording some of my songs onto tape, at home or at my pal Duncan Jenning’s house (Orville Peck) but never committed to finishing them. While waiting for our ride at the airport, David and I started chatting and he told me to send him my songs. After that I moved to Montreal and started making a record with him!
What should a song or piece of art communicate in your opinion?
I enjoy when a song or piece of art feels cathartic, also when it reveals or reflects emotions and perhaps teaches me something through discovering those emotions.
Who were your top 3 artists last year?
-Amery Sanford – amazing illustrator @amerypress
-Justin Aranaha – remarkable photographer @aranhahahaha
-Brett Eduardz – fabulous painter @Bretteduardz
Looking at what i was listening to in 2021:
-Marvin gaye
-Kacey Musgraves
-Toni Braxton
What do you do when you’re feeling uninspired?
To get out of it? I guess I will take more walks to clear my head or spark a new feeling, listen to new music, live life and hang out with my friends.
What are your 2022 projects and goals?
Rehearse and play some live shows, continue working on LP 2, go visit my parents!
Favourite movie or TV show?
A toughie! There is a long list, but.. The Simpsons is a staple.
Tell us about your latest release ‘Immaterial Girl’ and how it came about
This is definitely one of my favourite songs on the record. I wrote most of the chords in a sublet I was staying at, dead of winter in Montreal. I brought the song to Davids and we jammed it out together, having fun with it. We jokingly were messing around with some classic 2000’s chord progressions (backstreet boys), which then ended up inspiring the pre-chorus of the song. Lyrically it was easiest to discover what words work well with the melody and then build the story around that – and the word Immaterial fit so well.
What is something you would want to change in the music and entertainment industry?
Fair pay for streamed music, more variety being pushed in mainstream media.
Can you outline your creative process?
It changes but I prefer to work on music earlier in the day, and just play around with whatever I have at the moment and record it. I need to be in a room where no one can hear me though!! haha. I also enjoy showing friends my progress to get a different perspective.
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
A hard question to answer because I find my inspiration is all over the place musically, from R&B to country to classical music. Personally though, I think my friends and people I surround myself with inspire me the most.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?
Being asked to join TOPS, I love them all very much and have great gratitude for what i’ve learned from them musically, and the support and confidence they have given me as a musician and person.
What do you think an artist should sing about nowadays?
Anything that feels true to them
Do you have any regrets?
Haha currently I regret bringing my nintendo switch on tour because I can’t stop playing it.
What is some piece of advice you would give to yourself right now?
Put down the switch… but also be easy on yourself. Also health is wealth!
Marci will kick off her debut solo North American tour this Autumn, starting in Montreal on 8th October. Ahead of that, she will be touring Europe with TOPS, including a date at London’s iconic Village Underground on 1st June.
2022-08-10 | London, UK | Laylow
2022-10-08 | Montreal, QC | Diving Bell Social Club
2022-10-10 | Boston, MA | Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre
2022-10-11 | New York, NY | Baby’s All Right
2022-10-13 | Chicago, IL | Schubas
2022-10-14 | Detroit, MI | UFO Factory
2022-10-15 | Toronto, ON | Monarch Tavern
2022-11-09 | Los Angeles, CA | El Cid– Ticket info available here –
