Trinidadian-American artist previously known as Nafets now emerges as FISHLORD, and delivers his cross-genre, debut single ‘WHAT’S YOUR NEED?‘. By fusing nu-metal with contemporary drum and bass loops the track is a signature blend of melodic introspection, intense screamo vocals and heavy breakbeat drums.
Drawing from his struggle to express himself growing up as a first-generation immigrant, ‘WHAT’S YOUR NEED?’ offers a first glimpse into FISHLORD’s upcoming EP of the same name, delving into his roots of nu-metal, punk, and rock. FISHLORD takes all the best elements of 2000s rock and infuses a fresh and contemporary energy, making ‘WHAT’S YOUR NEED?’ an energetic, whirlwind of a debut from the deeply innovative artist.
Following the release of his debut single, we sat down with FISHLORD to find out more about his origins and influences over the years.
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I started playing drums when I was about 12. I play guitar, bass, and piano now too, but drums are still my favourite instrument and my favourite part to work on in my production. Unfortunately, I don’t get to play them very often now that I live in an apartment.
What was the first band or artist you enjoyed when you were younger?
Metallica was the first band I was ever really obsessed with. I watched every documentary, listened to all the albums and even defended the bad ones (i.e. St. Anger). They ended up being my first concert as well. I haven’t listened to much of their newer stuff or kept up with the news about the band, but I still have a special place for their songs in my heart.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I bought was an Aaron Carter CD from Best Buy. I honestly don’t remember which one, but I really used to be blasting it in the Walkman and around the house.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There are honestly so many, and I think they’ve changed over time; but one that always gets me is Everything’s Good by Chance the Rapper. The verses are just so fun and inventive while still being beautiful and heartfelt. It really captures a mood of nostalgia and family.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I always am listening to Zulu, System of a Down, Thirdface, Earl Sweatshirt, and Mitski. But recently, I’ve mostly been re-listening to Slipknot’s Iowa album on repeat.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
My favourite moment in my career was when I got to see my music on a TV show for the first time with my mom. At the time, I had moved back home to Maryland during COVID. I got an email from Terrorbird, a sync-company I work with, that my song called Glorious under my previous project, Nafets, had got placed on a TV show called “In the Dark” on the CW. My mom and I stayed up to watch the episode that my song was supposed to be in. It kept getting closer to the end and we were both wondering if maybe they didn’t use it. But in the last 5 minutes of the show, it came on, and it was just so surreal hearing my music on TV and getting to see it with her.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Zulu or Tyler the Creator.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
There are a ton! Mitski, Soul Glo, Arlo Parks, Zulu, Jean Dawson, SZA, Earl Sweatshirt.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding thing for me has always been seeing other first-generation kids or brown and Black kids who connect with me and the feelings I share through my music. When people message me or come up to me and say my music makes them feel seen or understood, it feels like I’m really doing what I’m meant to be doing.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
There is a Primus compilation album called “They Can’t All Be Zingers,” and I really love the message of that title: you shouldn’t get attached to something just because you made it, or think that everything you create will be the best example of your work. Don’t be afraid to accept that you’ve got something better in you. Just keep making and trust that you’ll keep getting better. They can’t all be zingers.
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FISHLORD’s debut single ‘WHAT’S YOUR NEED?’ is available across all streaming platforms now. Watch the music video for the track below.
Photo Credit: Nik Antonio
