Can You Hear Me? is the raucous new single from Staytus and it was noisy and bold enough to pique my interest to learn more. Happily, Staytus agreed to answer a few questions for me. As a lifelong fan of Gary Numan, I suddenly made the connection as to why the single resonated so well with me. Please read on:
Please give us a brief background about yourself?
I’m a multi-instrumentalist, music producer, and sound designer based in Scottsdale, Arizona. I started making music when I was 15, experimenting with entry-level digital audio workstations, which eventually led to my passion for industrial rock and electronic music production. I’m an unsigned artist, currently working on expanding my presence in the music industry. In addition to producing my own music, I’ve studied audio production and hold multiple certifications, including the highest Pro Tools certification. My journey has been about creating a distinct sound that blends multiple genres with a personal narrative.
On your social media you describe yourself as a "goth femboy, erotic artist, music producer, film composer, sound designer, voice actor" - can you break that down and explain more?
Each of these facets is a part of who I am and how I express myself creatively. Being a "goth femboy" represents my personal identity and aesthetic, which draws from gothic culture and non-binary gender expression. As an erotic artist, I embrace the darker, more sensual themes in both my visual and musical art. As a music producer, film composer, and sound designer, I craft immersive, emotionally charged soundscapes. My background in voice acting allows me to bring my voice to life in a variety of roles, from narration to character work, which sometimes spills into my music.
How would you describe your music?
My music is a fusion of industrial rock, electronic, and goth influences. It’s dark, raw, and deeply emotional, often exploring themes like inner turmoil, trauma, and the search for connection. I incorporate heavy, serrated guitar riffs with glitchy, electronic beats and ethereal vocals to create a sound that’s expansive and intense. I aim to make my music immersive, something that surrounds the listener and evokes strong emotions.
Tell us about your creative process and where do you record?
My creative process typically starts with a core idea or emotion that I want to explore. From there, I build the instrumental layers—starting with drums and percussion to establish the rhythm, followed by synths, guitars, and bass. Vocals come last, allowing me to match the intensity of the lyrics to the emotional landscape of the song. I record most of my music in my home studio, where I have the freedom to experiment with different sounds and effects until I create the perfect sonic atmosphere.
What are your musical influences?
I draw inspiration from a wide range of artists, including Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, Gary Numan, The Cure, Grimes, Slipknot, Linkin Park, and Massive Attack. I’m also heavily influenced by video game soundtracks, especially those from titles like Portal and Half-Life. The immersive nature of game music has inspired how I approach my own soundscapes, blending electronic and industrial elements to create a cinematic experience for the listener.
Please tell us about your latest work?
My latest single, Can You Hear Me?, is a raw and intense track that delves into the struggle with inner demons and the desperate need for connection in an often isolating world. Working with producer Sean Beavan, known for his work on Nine Inch Nails' The Downward Spiral, was an incredible experience that pushed me to explore new creative territories. The track blends my industrial rock roots with experimental electronic elements, and the result is a song that’s both familiar to my fans and daringly new.
Do you play live shows, if so, what do they involve?
I’m currently planning to start performing live shows in small venues around Los Angeles in 2025. My live performances will be an immersive experience, combining dark, atmospheric visuals with intense, emotional music. Expect a blend of industrial rock energy with electronic beats, and I aim to take my audience on a sonic journey through the themes of my music. It’s all about creating an emotional connection and an unforgettable experience for the audience.
What can we expect from you next?
You can expect more releases that dive deeper into the dark, emotional themes that I’ve been exploring. I’m also focusing on expanding my live presence with performances in Los Angeles. My goal is to continue evolving my sound while staying true to my industrial and electronic roots, and I’m always working on pushing the boundaries of my music and creative expression.
Which track would you like to nominate for the Spotify Sidetrack Jukebox and why?
I’d like to nominate "Kill The Messenger" by Mojave Phone Booth. I love Tobey Torres-Doran’s vocals. The track captures a raw, dark energy that resonates with me, blending haunting melodies. It’s emotionally charged and thought-provoking, which is the kind of music I gravitate towards. The track pushes boundaries while maintaining an atmospheric and immersive quality, something I aim to achieve in my own music.
Finally, where is the best place for people to connect with you?
The best way to connect with me is through my website, www.staytusmusic.com, or you can follow me on social media @staytusmusic. I’m always posting updates, new releases, and behind-the-scenes looks at my creative process.
Can You Hear Me? the new single by Staytus is available now - go seek it out!