Q&A: Truman Sinclair Opens Up With Unwavering Grit in Rivers of Sugar and Blood
PHOTOS BY ABBIE MURPHY
Indie rock artist Truman Sinclair has been involved in some of LA’s well-known bands, like Fat, Evil Children, but for the past few years, he has pursued his solo project, which serves as an expansive look into the mind of Sinclair.
His recent January release, Rivers of Sugar and Blood, explores themes of grief, depression and perseverance, showcasing Sinclair’s range and depth, which is heightened by an air of vulnerability. The six-track EP cleverly blends indie folk, early ‘00s rock and Americana, which highlights the album’s most intimate moments. Each song feels like an extended hand between Sinclair and the listener, not as a plea for help, but as reassurance that they’re there to support one another.
Pleaser sat down with Sinclair to discuss Rivers of Sugar and Blood, his transition into a solo artist and what fuels his passion as a musician. Check out the full interview below.
PLEASER: When did you get your start in music, and how has that shaped the artist you are today?
TRUMAN SINCLAIR: I got my start playing in bands with my friends after school. We would walk back to my friend's house and play all night. I carry that joy with me every time I play. I understand the power of music and I always play it seriously, but I never take for granted the sheer joy of making a loud sound.
What's your favorite part about being able to release music within a band and as a solo artist?
TS: I just love the freedom that comes with my solo project. It is me making music with no rules. I think the best way music is made is in new situations and environments. I want to continue to express myself in any way I can for as long as possible and follow any path I find.
PHOTOS BY ABBIE MURPHY
Was there a song on the EP that felt the most challenging to complete, and why?
TS: “Dust to Dust” was a harder one just because it was very complicated and layered.
When you think of the EP as a whole, what sort of visual landscape do you envision?
TS: Rivers of sugar and blood and guts.
Compared to your first release, what are some of the key ways you and your music have developed in your latest project?
TS: Honestly, I can’t really say; it comes from the same place as always. Growing up has obviously changed so much about how I see the world, but I continue to treat music as my secret lair of personal feelings. The world outside the lair just changes more and more every day, so I keep finding new things to say.
Every day I hear new music and sounds that inspire me. Ears and eyes open!
PHOTOS BY ABBIE MURPHY
What fuels your passion to continue making music?
TS: I just love it, and I always have. It has saved me many, many times and taught me everything I know. Listening and making.
What does the title Rivers of Sugar and Blood symbolize for you?
TS: To me, it invokes images of plagues and curses and desire and traps. I feel like depression is a curse, and dealing with it is a spiritual battle. The rivers of sugar and blood feel to me like the battlefield. This record was me dealing with all of that.
As your music continues to reach wider audiences, what do you hope fans take away from this EP?
TS: I hope that people know this is personal and honest to me, and that community is the most important thing in the world.
