Ciao Ciao Marigold: Behind the Satsuma Album

Ciao Ciao Marigold: A Sonic Tapestry Woven with Surrealism and Soul

Ciao Ciao Marigold’s debut album, Satsuma, is a captivating journey into the realms of the surreal and the soulful. It’s a sonic tapestry meticulously crafted by NYC-based producer Mike Brun, known affectionately as “Ciao Ciao,” who imbued every element of the project with his unique artistic vision. From writing and producing to mixing, Brun wove together a world of sound, collaborating with fellow NYC musicians and visual artist Hannah van der Weide to bring its accompanying animated world to life.

Brun’s musical influences are as diverse as his sound. He draws inspiration from the experimental soundscapes of Georgia Anne Muldrow and Khruangbin, the dreamy grooves of Hear We Go Magic, and the innovative artistry of artists like Mid-Air Thief, Nick Hakim, and Unknown Mortal Orchestra. He thrives in the space were these diverse influences converge, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.

“If Princess Mononoke took edibles,” he quips when describing his music, perfectly encapsulating the adventurous and enchanting nature of his creations. This whimsical comparison hints at the layered complexities found within his music – a blend of the mystical and the familiar.

brun’s musical journey began in his childhood,attending a Gloria Estefan concert. Though the experience was overwhelming, leaving him with a lifelong aversion to loud environments, it sparked an enduring admiration for the music icon. He remembers his first record purchase vividly – a cassette tape that could have been either Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill or a Seal album, illustrating how his musical tastes have evolved substantially over time. Today, he finds solace in the depths of Frank Ocean’s Nights, confessing, “I’m in a very serious Frank Ocean phase right now. It’s a moth-to-flame situation with me and Nights – I’m circling, circling, getting closer and closer, warmer and warmer.”

When asked about his favorite lyric of all time, Brun turns to the infectious energy of Gloria Estefan, quoting: “Come on, shake your body baby, do the conga.”

Ciao Ciao Marigold: Weaving Surreal Soundscapes and Soulful Stories

NYC-based producer Mike Brun, known as “Ciao Ciao” to his friends, has created a sonic world unlike any other. His project, Ciao Ciao Marigold, is a captivating blend of the surreal and the soulful, testament to Brun’s diverse musical influences and creative prowess.

“If Princess Mononoke took edibles,” he quips, describing the enchanting adventurousness of his music.This whimsical comparison holds weight, as “Satsuma,” Ciao Ciao Marigold’s latest album, evokes a sense of fantastical landscapes and deep emotional resonance.

Brun is a true musical architect, crafting every element of “Satsuma” himself, from composing and producing to mixing. He meticulously assembled a talented ensemble of NYC musicians to bring his sonic vision to life. The album’s visual counterpart, a series of captivating animations, is the work of visual artist Hannah van der Weide, further deepening the immersive experience.

Brun’s musical tapestry is woven from a rich selection of influences – experimental soundscapes like those of Georgia Anne Muldrow and Khruangbin, the dreamy grooves of Here we Go Magic, Mid-Air Thief, Nick Hakim, and Unknown Mortal Orchestra. It’s in the space where these diverse threads converge that his artistry truly flourishes.

“I think it’s a natural byproduct of my eclectic taste in music,” he shares. “I’m drawn to artists who experiment with sound and push boundaries, but I also love music that’s deeply emotional and heartfelt. I try to find that sweet spot where those two worlds collide.”

this unique ability to blend the surreal and the soulful is what makes Ciao Ciao Marigold’s music so captivating. Brun’s music invites listeners to embark on a sonic journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, all while tapping into the deepest emotions of the human experience.

Mike Brun: Weaving Soundscapes and Storytelling

Music has always been a powerful force, capable of transporting us to distant realms and stirring our emotions. For Mike Brun, this realization began at a young age with a life-changing experience at a Gloria Estefan concert. Though the sheer energy might have tipped him towards a quieter lifestyle, the spark ignited within him proved enduring.

“That concert was definitely a defining moment,” Mike shares. “Even though it was overwhelming, it showed me the power of music to transport you to another place. I may prefer a quieter habitat now, but the energy and passion of that performance stayed with me.”

His journey hasn’t been confined to the realm of sound alone. Mike is equally passionate about visual storytelling, particularly animation. He sees it as a natural extension of music, a way to breathe life into the sonic landscapes he creates. “ I’ve always been fascinated by animation and felt it would be an amazing way to bring the music to life visually,” he explains. Collaborating with Hannah, his creative partner, he meticulously honed their style to perfectly capture the moods and themes of their work.

Imagination knows no bounds, and when asked to envision music as the soundtrack for a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world, Mike’s answer reflects his profound understanding of both music and storytelling. “That’s a great question! I might go with something by Björk,” he says. “her music often explores themes of conversion and resilience, which feels fitting for a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is rebuilding.”

This fusion of sound and vision is what makes Mike Brun’s work so compelling. His music invites you in, immersing you in a world of emotions and narratives. To truly experience this sonic tapestry, dive into his music on YouTube and Spotify.

How does Mike Brun’s music blend visual storytelling elements, particularly animation, to enhance the listener’s experience?

Ciao ciao Marigold: Weaving Surreal Soundscapes and soulful Stories

music has always been a powerful force, capable of transporting us to distant realms and stirring our emotions.For Mike Brun, this realization began at a young age with a life-changing experience at a Gloria Estefan concert. Though the sheer energy might have tipped him towards a quieter lifestyle, the spark ignited within him proved enduring.

“That concert was definitely a defining moment,” Mike shares. “Even though it was overwhelming, it showed me the power of music to transport you to another place. I may prefer a quieter habitat now, but the energy and passion of that performance stayed with me.”

His journey hasn’t been confined to the realm of sound alone.Mike is equally passionate about visual storytelling, particularly animation. He sees it as a natural extension of music, a way to breathe life into the sonic landscapes he creates. “ I’ve always been fascinated by animation and felt it would be an amazing way to bring the music to life visually,” he explains. Collaborating with Hannah, his creative partner, he meticulously honed thier style to perfectly capture the moods and themes of their work.

Inventiveness knows no bounds, and when asked to envision music as the soundtrack for a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world, Mike’s answer reflects his profound understanding of both music and storytelling. “That’s a great question! I might go with something by Björk,” he says. “her music often explores themes of conversion and resilience, which feels fitting for a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is rebuilding.”

This fusion of sound and vision is what makes Mike Brun’s work so compelling. His music invites you in,immersing you in a world of emotions and narratives. To truly experience this sonic tapestry, dive into his music on YouTube and Spotify.