Montreal-based artist Flower Face, also known as Ruby McKinnon, is not just a musician. She has been teasing her upcoming album “Girl Prometheus” with various creative outlets like Polaroids, drink recipes, a loveline, and poems. The album is a follow-up to her successful 2022 release “The Shark In Your Water“, with 10 powerful tracks delving into themes of heartbreak and desire.
Starting out creating lo-fi tunes in her bedroom as a tween, McKinnon’s music has since gained popularity, leading to a record deal during the pandemic. Now at 26, Flower Face continues to captivate her audience with each new release. “Girl Prometheus” is described as an emotional journey with poignant lyrics set against enchanting string arrangements. The opening track “Biblical Love” transitions from a serene acoustic beginning to an unexpected burst of intensity. The album is filled with such compelling shifts, depicting the complexities of love.
In an interview over Zoom, McKinnon shared insights into her musical journey, her creative process for “Girl Prometheus“, the inspiration drawn from breakups, and her latest single “Maniac”. Watch the video for “Maniac” below and delve into the conversation.
Reflecting on a decade in music, when did you start your journey as Flower Face?
RUBY MCKINNON: My music journey began around the same time I adopted the persona of Flower Face. Writing has been a passion since a young age, and my interest in music grew during my early teens. Immersed in online communities like Tumblr, I discovered artists on Bandcamp, which inspired me to start creating my own music. With basic recording equipment at home, courtesy of my radio-working father, I released my first album on Bandcamp. Over the years, my fanbase expanded globally, prompting me to transition to more serious platforms like Spotify.
What were the themes of your early songwriting at 13/14?
MCKINNON: Despite my young age, my early songs delved into themes of heartbreak and grief, albeit from a fictional perspective. Drawing influence from extensive music and literary exposure, the songs I penned then now hold surprising relevance in my life, despite initially seeming disconnected from my reality.
Which artists from Tumblr resonated with you during that time?
MCKINNON: Artists like Nicole Dollanganger left a lasting impact on me. While observing their rise to prominence through platforms like Bandcamp and Tumblr, I cultivated an appreciation for their craft. Additionally, acts like Bright Eyes played a significant role in shaping my musical taste from a young age.
Your father’s influence in introducing you to music is evident. Which bands stand out in your musical upbringing?
MCKINNON: Bright Eyes, introduced by my father, held a special place in my early music education. Other significant influences include the National, Tom Waits, Kate Bush, Tory Amos, Portishead, and Tricky. My parents’ diverse music collection heavily influenced my musical journey.
Having been exposed to music at a young age, how do you view that early immersion now?
MCKINNON: Reflecting on my musical beginnings, particularly being introduced to Bright Eyes at a tender age, I realize the profound impact it had on my creative expression. While some of my early works may mirror influences strongly, they hold a sentimental value despite my personal evolution as an artist.
You transitioned from a music fangirl to a musician yourself. How has that journey unfolded for you?
MCKINNON: The transition from fan to artist has been transformative. Having once idolized musicians and cherished brief encounters with them, I now strive to provide similar meaningful experiences to my own audience. Receiving messages mirroring the ones I once wrote to artists is a humbling experience, reinforcing my gratitude for the impact of music.
Signing with a label amidst the pandemic must have been surreal. How did that milestone resonate with you?
MCKINNON:## Life During the Pandemic
When signing her contract, McKinnon was with her family and had to do it over a FaceTime call with her manager due to the restrictions of the pandemic. The process felt strange to her, and she had to wait a long time before her album “The Shark In Your Water” was released, even though it was completed before the lockdowns. The delay made the experience surreal for her.
## The Impact of “Angela”
McKinnon was initially hesitant about including the song “Angela” on her album but was persuaded by her mother. The song, inspired by a visit to Montreal, resonated with listeners due to its bittersweet theme that blends sadness and hope, allowing people to connect with its emotional depth.
## Evolution of Sound
McKinnon’s musical style underwent a significant transformation between her previous album and her latest release. She aimed for a grand cinematic sound on “Girl Prometheus,” drawing inspiration from her love for immersive and dramatic music production, which she finds exhilarating and enjoyable.
## Scaling Up Production
Despite the challenge of continually expanding the scale of her music production, McKinnon has managed to elevate each new release by gradually improving the production process. From recording on a laptop at home to working in bigger studios with orchestral arrangements, she continues to push the boundaries of her sound.
## String Arrangements
McKinnon took on the task of arranging the string sections on her album, despite having no prior experience with string instruments. The process involved intense work but was ultimately fulfilling when she witnessed professional musicians bringing her compositions to life in the studio.
## Crafting the Album Experience
The cinematic sound on the album is strategically placed at the beginning and end, creating a sense of symmetry and a gradual progression of emotion. The first song builds up to a powerful musical transition, while the final track serves as a poignant conclusion, symbolizing a transition in McKinnon’s artistic journey.
## Vocal Experimentation
Recording the backing vocals involved McKinnon trying out new techniques, including screaming lyrics for the first time. The immersive recording process, which took place in a remote cottage, allowed her to fully channel the raw emotion required for the album’s intense vocal performances.### A Solo Halloween Night
The artist found herself alone on a spooky Halloween night, recording tracks and experimenting with eerie sounds. She later shared her creation with a friend, receiving positive feedback that affirmed her work.
### The Quest for Fulfillment in Love
The artist reflects on her struggles with deep love, constantly seeking more from her relationships. This search for fulfillment and questioning her desires forms the core of her song’s lyrics, exploring the theme of unattainable love.
### Embracing the “Maniac” Persona
In “Maniac,” the artist confronts labels and criticisms directed at her by acknowledging her flaws and challenging others to introspect. The song’s simplicity contrasts with its cutting lyrics, defying the crazy girl stereotype with raw authenticity.
### Heartbreak as Artistic Fuel
Drawing inspiration from universal emotions, the artist delves into heartbreak as a creative muse. Despite initial doubts about the significance of breakup songs, she recognizes the power of transforming pain into art that resonates with others.
### Memorializing Relationships Through Music
By immortalizing past relationships through her songs, the artist honors the range of emotions and experiences that shaped her. Through music, she captures fleeting moments and reflections on love, creating time capsules that encapsulate personal growth.
### Breakups as Transformative Moments
Breaking free from the stigma surrounding breakup albums, the artist views heartbreak as a catalyst for growth and evolution. Each relationship serves as a stepping stone in her journey, shaping not just her romantic experiences but also her self-discovery and relationships with others.
### Creative Outlets and Artistic Expression
In addition to music, the artist explores various creative outlets such as poetry, visual arts, and podcasts to channel her creativity. These diverse mediums allow her to maintain a balance and keep her creative energy flowing, preventing stagnation and fostering continuous growth.
### Exploring Obsession and Self-Discovery
Delving into the theme of obsession, the artist finds parallels between personal exploration and unraveling the layers of oneself. Obsession serves as a mirror, reflecting internal thoughts and emotions, leading to moments of self-revelation and profound learning.
### The Multifaceted Artist
With an array of creative pursuits, from music to poetry and visual arts, the artist embraces a multifaceted approach to expression. Crossing boundaries between mediums, she finds inspiration and continuity in her creative endeavors, ensuring a dynamic and enriching artistic journey.
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