Voo Visits
For this episode, we met Alias Error in her studio and home in Berlin-Neukölln. She is actively involved in writing, recording, and performing within the Berlin electronic and indie-pop music circuits. Working as a solo artist, she is also the vocalist and lyricist in the project a.s.o. music, a duo that releases downtempo, trip-hop and other musical gems.
Voo and Dr. Martens had a conversation with the artist, touching upon the intricacies of songwriting and the nuances of her creative processes.
Alias Error: I’m a real homebody. I like to spend a lot of time at home, filling my space with lots of colourful things that inspire me. Creating a cosy environment allows me to write, think, and daydream, which I think contributes to my creative process.
A: Yes, either this space or from my bed. I write a lot in bed as well, just because I like being comfy and warm. I’m a bit like a cat in that way.
A: This guitar here; it’s the first thing I bought when I moved to Berlin in 2017, a cheap portable guitar to write songs on while traveling and exploring Europe. I wrote many of my first songs on this guitar. It has stayed with me ever since. I’ve had other guitars that have come and gone, but this one has sentimental value.
A: I’m inspired by many artists. Currently, bands like Perfume Tree and Cocteau Twins are influencing me. I have been revisiting a lot of Beach House too. I also love Madonna, Kyle and other amazing women in the world of pop. Whether it’s their songwriting ability or how they use their voice, I appreciate artists for various reasons.
A: I have two ways of writing. Usually, I’ll come up with a melody, add lyrics, and then chords on the guitar or keyboard. It varies between lyrics coming first or melody coming first. Working with different producers, I often write in the studio with them and then refine the lyrics or melody at home. Sometimes, I start with a pen and paper, writing a poem, and then adding a melody. I did go through a phase of reading a lot of poetry which influenced my songwriting.
A: Creative blocks are a common challenge for me. When I’m faced with one, I try to just ride it out, practicing self-kindness and allowing myself the time to navigate through it. Avoiding excessive pressure,
I revisit the work at a later time. I have songs that I started writing ten years ago that I’ve come back to much later because there was something about them that still resonated with me.
A: The music I’m writing at the moment is heavily influenced by shoegaze and dream pop, It is quite guitar led, ethereal and floaty – it’s pop, but firmly rooted in those genres.
A: I think balancing personal life and creative pursuits is a delicate act. I think I work better when I progress at my own pace, avoiding any external or internal pressure and just allow things to unfold organically. While maintaining motivation and passion, I’ve learned to let go when it comes to my career. Embracing the ebb and flow, I remain open to possibilities, working consistently but always at my own rhythm. I’m learning to allow myself to let things happen, and not trying to control or or steer things in any particular direction.
A: I think balancing personal life and creative pursuits is a delicate act. I think I work better when I progress at my own pace, avoiding any external or internal pressure and just allow things to unfold organically. While maintaining motivation and passion, I’ve learned to let go when it comes to my career. Embracing the ebb and flow, I remain open to possibilities, working consistently but always at my own rhythm. I’m learning to allow myself to let things happen, and not trying to control or or steer things in any particular direction.
A: I miss the weather. I love nature and I miss my family and friends but definitely the Australian landscape. It is so beautiful and I wish I could bring that with me.
A: I am quite proud of my name because it is actually just my name. It’s an anagram, I guess. It’s that simple and it just kind of worked.
The Dr. Martens Creepers silhouette has undergone multiple revivals over the years, particularly within various subcultures such as Gothic and Punk. Embraced with enthusiasm by musicians, this classic design has stood the test of time.
Dr. Martens Creepers in both pink and black colour ways are available here.
Voo Visits is a series introducing new and old friends of Voo, like-minded creatives and people from Berlin who inspire us.