In Echo": Soft Palms' Musical Journey and Social Commentary
Long Beach-based couple Scott Montoya and Julia Kugel, who operate from their home studio known as the Centre of Mental Arts (COMA), are excited about their latest music project with their band Soft Palms. Their new album, "In Echo," has been in the making for over five years and is set to be released on Everloving Records this Friday. The album reflects their frustration with the world's state since 2020, a stark contrast to their previous record's more positive tone.
Kugel and Montoya's musical journey began when they met at a music festival in Dallas in 2012 while playing in different bands. They later formed Soft Palms and found a seamless creative partnership. Drawing from Kugel's existing song collection, they recorded their debut album in their home studio, allowing them to work at their own pace without external pressures.
"In Echo" showcases Soft Palms' vintage pop sound with an underlying anger that reflects the current state of the world. The album's lead track, "Radio," criticizes the ongoing conflicts in society, while "Nervous as Hell" addresses the negative impact of media outlets like Fox News. The couple's personal experiences, such as attending a challenging wedding, also inspired some of the album's tracks.
In addition to their music, Kugel and Montoya are actively involved in fostering a positive artistic community in Long Beach. They founded Studios for Schools, a nonprofit organization that provides recording equipment to underprivileged schools, and organized the Happy Sundays music festival for a decade. Their commitment to supporting artists led them to publish a guidebook titled "How to Be Self-Reliant in the Music Business," offering valuable insights for musicians navigating the industry.
Despite facing challenges in the music industry, Kugel and Montoya remain dedicated to their creative pursuits. They are currently preparing for a U.S. and European tour and are already contemplating their next music project. Their relentless work ethic and passion for music continue to drive their success, making their efforts worthwhile.
As they reflect on their journey and look ahead to future projects, Kugel and Montoya are grateful for the progress they have made. Their commitment to their craft and community involvement have not only shaped their music but also inspired others to navigate the music industry with confidence and resilience.