Calling on the ghosts of outlaw country past, Arizonan Max Harms’ debut single “California” scorns LA for a more authentic life. I was taken by the lush steel guitars and Harms’ world-weary vocals. In our interview, Harms explains where that sense of hypnotic disillusionment comes from. This is Harms’ first solo release, so I can’t wait to see what he has further up his sleeve.
Who is your biggest influence?
My biggest musical influence has gotta be Townes Van Zandt. He had a way or writing and performing that was more honest than anyone I’ve heard to date. I also really love Lucinda Williams for doing nothing other than exactly what she wanted, and I respect that.
What’s a recent release you can’t stop listening to?
A recent release that I’ve been stuck on is probably TK and The Holy Know-Nothings “The Incredible Heat Machine.” These guys recorded the whole thing live on the floor, and it really shows. Go check em out, you won’t be sad you did. Also Kassi Valazza’s ‘Dear Dead Days’ is an absolute gem, seriously.
Explain the title of your new single, “California.”
“California” is my first single release. I’ve spent recent years working as an audio engineer and producing. This song was born after I moved back to small town Arizona after spending years in LA working in studios until COVID came around. I felt like a took a huge deep breath leaving LA, and have embraced creating my own space here, and that’s what this song is about.
What’s the theme of your song?
I’d say the biggest theme of this project is getting the hell out of a situation that is taking away from your happiness. Put yourself where you want to be, and make it happen! Also, LA is a total shit show and this is my middle finger to the scene.
Tell us about your writing process.
As far as my process writing this song; I had been sick for weeks (not COVID) and was stuck in a brain fog, and it just kind of came to me from the lethargy of that whole situation. I think it was about a 20 minute process to jot down most of the lyrics, then I worked on the structure around that. I produced and recorded it myself over the next few weeks with the help of some great friends and players, and now it exists!
I really appreciate anyone listening, and hope ya like it!
Max Harms — Instagram
Excellent work, Max. I’ve heard some of your production work, as you know, and this is some great work!
Max Harms really has an ear for music. Excited to see what he does next.! Short but great interview
Great interview, can’t wait to hear what comes next from the fabulous Max Harms
Great song….. Here in Dewey Az.