Interview with Dear Robin

«The Honesty of Analog Sound in the Digital Age»

In a world where music increasingly strives for perfect processing and algorithmic predictability, the German band Dear Robin takes a different approach. Their sound is a vibrant dialogue with the 60s and 70s, inspired by Deep Purple and Fleetwood Mac, but devoid of blind nostalgia. They sing in English, work with vintage equipment, and rely not on trends but on the energy of the moment. We spoke with the band about freedom from constraints, "imperfect" sound, visual identity, and why sincerity is once again becoming the new luxury.

Your sound clearly evokes the 60s and 70s. Which artists or bands have influenced you the most?

Has to be Deep Purple, Fleetwood Mac and Led Zeppelin. As well as recent ones  like Rival Sons, Blues Pills and Greta Van Fleet.

What’s more important to you - authentic sound or a modern take on retro?

Authentic sound! We sound the way we sound and we usually write songs without trying to hard to fit into something. But with the equipment we’re using and our  retro background, it just kind of happens to sound very retro.

How do you strike a balance between an “old-school” vibe and staying relevant today?

We don’t use TikTok. We have tried it several times and it doesn’t suit us. So basically there is no balance. There is only hope towards the new generations.

Do you use vintage equipment, or is it more about your approach and mindset?

Yes we do use some vintage equipment or replicas. Especially when recording a record we pay attention to work with people who understand this kind of sound aesthetic. For example: We used an old taping machine for our current album „Timebound“ plus vintage mics & amps & drumsets…

Female vocals are an important part of your identity. How did the singer’s style develop?

Our singer listens to a lot of rock music, plus lots of Americana. That might be a good mix! But we also have some songs sung by our guitarist. It is great fun to mix both  singing styles.

Do you draw inspiration from iconic singers of the past?

I love the way Stevie Nicks sings, I love Jefferson Airplane, Robert Plant, Janis Joplin (quite impossible to sing tho)…

What role do vocals play in conveying the atmosphere of your music - is it more about emotion or storytelling?

It would be even better to have both equally showing in our music. But probably the emotions. We are no native speakers, our lyrics function in a way that supports our musical idea. But they tell their own stories, anyways. Usually they are a story about something non personal. Which is probably different to many other artist. But as alyricist I see myself as a free author - just like someone writing a book or short story. Not everything has to be your deepest, darkest feeling.

How do your songs usually come to life - from a melody, lyrics, or a jam session?

Mostly chords and melodies, sometimes jams!

How much do you strive for a “live” sound when recording?

As much as possible. Our live energy is definitely high.

Do you have any fundamental restrictions - for example, not using modern plugins?

No need for that. It is our common mindset.

Do you ever intentionally “age” the sound?

Not really! We just love what we do. It is our natural output!

Your appearance is part of your artistic expression. Is it an extension of your music, or a story of its own?

I’d say it’s the way we would love to walk around every day! Just a bit more chic.

Why is it important to you to look like an old-school band, rather than just sound like one?

Because visuals matter so much today! And with our appearance - it is a clear statement and recognizable.

How carefully do you plan your visual image - from clothing to album covers?

We put in as much thought as possible. But we are no visual artists or multimedia experts. If we are lucky, the artist understands our idea and our aesthetic. Sometimes we step in ourselves… but there is potential.

Why did you choose English for your songs?

The music demands it. All our influences are in English. German does not fit this style in our opinion.

Do you feel a difference in how different audiences perceive your music?

Yes, it depends where you play. But each area got its pros and cons. Some are energetic and disappear after the show… some are calm during the show and completely happy afterwards & buy all our merchandise :D

Do you have any desire to experiment with other languages?

NO.

Why do you think the sound of the 60s and 70s is relevant again today?

Because it carries so much energy! It is raw and people love to hear something handmade again. It definitely is the opposite of AI music.

Is this nostalgia for you, or an attempt to bring back the “lost sincerity” of music?

Both, to be honest. Let’s see how far it can take us!

If you could perform in any era - where would you go?

Red Rocks (Denver), Royal Albert Hall, a Headline tour in Europe and a big show in Japan.

What’s more important to you at a concert: precision in the sound or the energy of the moment?

Not long ago it was the precision. But focusing more on the energy made us play even better. Luckily!

How do you recreate the atmosphere of “that era” on stage?

Never thought about that… For what it’s worth - it is all live! No backing tracks…

But we are not trying to recreate anything. We are just going on stage and enjoy it!

Have there been moments at concerts when things got out of control—and it was wonderful?

Yes! Whenever something unexpected happens, it kind of makes everyone laugh and reminds you that being perfect is not the goal, but to be present and human.

Do you plan to ever move away from the retro sound, or is that your foundation forever?

Never say never, but for now nothing catches us in typical modern music.

How do you see the band developing in the coming years?

We are going to release new music - probably the best songs so far. We are going to work with amazing artists and people in the background. Going through low payment shows and long car rides will hopefully bring us closer together & people will join us  on our adventures.

Do you have a dream related to your music that still seems unattainable?

No, it all feels possible!

Jenet Bonishi