For those without the gift and talent of musicianship, myself included, the thought of creating anything musically proficient is a castaway dream, let alone doing so from the back of an RV. That’s exactly where alternative hip-hop project Bent Self (aka. Dustyn Marsing) is doing and does so very well. His latest album, ‘Waves’, is certified proof and we had the privilege to catch up and find out more…
STTR: Do you think there’s a method to writing a song that’s ‘addictive’?
I think writing songs is very addictive no matter what method is used which makes songwriting so magical. The most addictive method for me is writing the music first to create a certain vibe and then writing vocals to match the vibe. It’s important to me to have an instrumental that I really connect with because it makes lyric writing and recording fun and exciting.
STTR: What’s a song that, to you, is ‘addictive’ and why?
That is definitely a hard one to choose but right off the top of my head Nine Inch Nails song “Head Like A Hole” has always been one of those addictive songs for me. I was addicted to the dark vibe, the music dynamics and the grimy vocals the first time I heard the song back when I was 9 years old. It was unique, had hooks and still sounds fresh today making it a classic.
STTR: Does writing music come naturally to you? Or do you have a process?
Yes writing music comes naturally, I guess I would call myself an organic musician. I am self taught and have worked relentlessly for the past 21 years to grow my vocal and song writing skills.
STTR: Who or what is your main source of inspiration?
I really don’t have one source of inspiration, everything around me inspires my music which is why I love to travel to experience new people and lands. Bent Self music is about life, emotions and all the dynamics it comes with.
STTR: How would you describe the way rhythm is used within your music?
Thats a tricky question being an experimental artist but I would say that I use a groove based rhythm within my music or a push pull type of effect. I really like the dynamics that pockets and drops create in a song especially when mixing industrial and hip hop.
STTR: How would you say your 2020 record, Waves, differs from past albums?
Well ‘Waves’ and the two previous albums were more concept albums from start to finish with the music written within a year or so of them being released. The first album ‘Double Edge Sword cut#1” was created using music written within an 8 year time frame while busy with my band Arvins Garden giving it more of a random feel. ‘Waves’ brings more of the dark/alternative vibe with a touch of industrial/techno compared to the past albums.
STTR: What has been the reaction so far to your new album?
The reaction has been amazing from my long time supporters, new listeners and new opportunities opening up because of the albums success. I have supporters message me that my music and lyrics connect with them on a new level and even saved their lives when they were in a dark place. It feels so good to hear that my music is unique and helps people in this crazy world.
STTR: How was ‘Waves’ affected by the pandemic in terms of the writing/recording process?
Well as far as being able to write and record it wasn’t to bad being quarantined because I’m an Independent artist doing everything from my mobile studio in my RV. The pandemic still affected the process as far as mentally dealing with everything that is going on, monetary stress and trying to stay focused. Meeting up and recording the featured artists on the album was also more difficult and had to push the release date back a couple times.
Waves is out now and available everywhere! Connect with Bent Self below: