Marsha Swanson Interview With Colby

Marsha Swanson stopped by for a chat!

What inspired you to revive “Like an Angel”?

One of the main factors was the favourable response the ghost track started receiving once it had been discovered. Many began referring to it as their unexpected highlight or standout track. It also seemed to be having a life of its own, gaining traction despite it not being a single or on any playlists. It was the combination of this as well as the approaching 1 year anniversary of the album which led to two band members independently suggesting that we record it properly as a band. It felt the right time to do justice to it and give it the same treatment that the all the other tracks on the album had had.

How does this version differ from the ghost track?

We aimed to retain the essence of the ghost track in terms of emotion but also to build upon it by creating a strong rhythmic foundation that would be compelling whilst also staying sensitive to the lyrics. Henry, Martyn and Tony spent a long time establishing the key groove between them. Once we had that secured, we knew that the rest of the orchestrations and musical embellishments could be played with and savoured. The hardest part for Henry and I was to cull so much good material provided by the musicians in order to service the track as a whole by not overloading it. At the back of our minds, we were always checking that adding wasn’t taking away! I was attached to the raw authenticity of the original ghost track so it was a risk to try and develop it. I wasn’t sure if vocally I could match the same emotion. This is where being in a non-stressful environment really counts. Henry helped me to think through so much of this side of the holistic planning as opposed to the normal practical considerations. Once I was in a room with this particular group of musicians, it happened so beautifully and organically.

What draws you to working with Sam Chegini?

When working with Sam, you feel completely seen, heard and understood which in itself is rare. Once the key concept and message has been successfully conveyed, there is this wonderful anticipation as well as a deep knowing that he is going to go away, run with it and come back with something extraordinary that you know you never could have envisaged! It is so magical and exciting to see your song brought to life in a new way that totally compliments and enhances it. You also never have to worry about execution, no matter how complex the idea, so there is this incredible freedom and relaxation to working with someone who is at the top of their game with complete mastery over their medium. As a person, Sam is a joy to work with and his warmth and empathy shine through in everything that he does.

Who influenced the song’s meaning for you?

It was an Ode to my brother. It started off as a long-distance collaboration. He sent me these guitar hooks and the only lyrics I could make out sounded like he was saying “Like an Angel”. I asked him what he meant by that. He said “A calm presence, like a welcome visitor”. He didn’t know whether internal or external. I thought I’d make him that Angel and then it would be easy for me to write the lyrics.

What’s next for 2025?

Without wanting to give away any surprises, I can just say that there is still more to come from “Near Life Experience” this year! You may have noticed from the inclusion of the ghost track at the end of the album, as well as the resurrection of the ghost track into new form, that I’m quite attached to the idea that just when you think something has ended, something begins! I wanted the album to echo the cycle of life in this way. You can also expect more collaborations with Sam Chegini which are already in process! This year, I will also be busy market-testing a musical resource for schools that I have been developing that was recorded with the band during the pandemic. The mental health of children and adolescents is at an all-time high and I wanted to create something that could be helpful for children, teachers and parents at this time.