Welcome to the Cloud Machine Podcast! Your backstage pass to the creative industry, brought to you by Eights Creative, the agency redefining live performance.

In this episode, host Mat Landry is joined by indie pop artist Akeem Oh as he returns to the podcast to celebrate the release of his new single, “Fomotion”—his first release in years. Akeem opens up about the inspiration behind the track, how it blends themes of FOMO and being outside the mainstream, and why it’s his freshest and most danceable track yet. Mat and Akeem reflect on his growth as an artist, their long-standing collaboration, and what it’s like to return to music after a hiatus. Tune in for a fun, insightful conversation packed with creative sparks and musical wisdom.

📖 Chapters:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:02:36 - Akeem’s favourite live show, Radiohead

00:05:08 - what makes lives experience memorable, easing into the show

00:08:45 - Looks & cooperation VS Talent (quote segment)

00:11:45 - authenticity, women & diversity in music

00:13:39 - where is the industry going?

00:15:15 - inspiration for Akeem’s new single - FOMOTION | Pandemic, FOMO & friendships.

00:18:04 - taking time off & growing before releasing music

00:21:00 - Akeem’s fan mail campaign

00:24:30 - writing and production changes from previous work

00:29:30 - Taking a break, growing confidence, longevity of bands

00:37:00 - Finding confidence & feeling comfortable as yourself

00:38:38 - Akeem’s future projects

00:42:30 - experiences shaping FOMOTION | disappearing & vices

00:45:45 - staying relevant in an evolving indie pop scene

00:48:36 - general tips for creative block

00:53:20 - Dream fest game | Black Eyed Peas, Neil Young, Paul McCartney

01:01:00 - Outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Akeem on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akeemohmusic

Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded creatives, ask questions, and gain insider perspectives in the industry. Join here: https://discord.com/channels/1254855233348177921/1254998795389898774

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your backstage pass to the creative industry, brought to you by Eights Creative, the agency pushing boundaries in live performance.

In this episode, host Mat Landry is joined by Alex DiMauro, a key member of the Toronto-based band, Valley. Fresh off the release of their third album, "Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden," Alex shares an inside look at the band's creative journey, his role within Valley, and the making of their latest record. They discuss the artistic process behind the album, the challenges and triumphs of being in a band, and what it’s like to bring their music to life on tour. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, collaboration, and the music industry.

📖 Chapters:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:30 - Catching up post-album release

00:02:40 - Alex’s favourite band, meeting Green Day story

00:09:00 - authenticity & making live experiences memorable (Good clip)

00:14:00 - Looks & cooperation VS Talent (quote segment)

00:18:40 - new developments in the music industry, new wave of authenticity (good clip)

00:22:50 - the meaning behind Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden (good clip)

00:25:40 - the writing process of Valley’s new album, band changes

00:30:10 - writing in a cabin in the woods

00:36:30 - key messages in Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden

00:39:00 - Alex’s favourite track on the new album

00:41:20 - Reception of the album

00:43:08 - Live translation of Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden

00:47:25 - Touring stories

00:50:10 - balancing band member responsibilities

00:54:45 - Valley & Alex’s upcoming plans

00:58:10 - Advice for beginning musicians & comparison

01:02:00 - The Dreamfest game

01:08:00 - Outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Alex on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexdimauro1

Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Valley: https://www.instagram.com/valleyband/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded creatives, ask questions, and gain insider perspectives in the industry. Join here: https://discord.com/channels/1254855233348177921/1254998795389898774

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your backstage pass to the creative industry, brought to you by Eights Creative, the agency pushing boundaries in live performance.

In this episode, host Mat Landry is joined by Nate Day, co-founder of Eights Creative. Together, they dive into the latest updates on Eights Creative’s journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs of growing a creative agency. They share insights on the evolution of their vision, the impact of recent projects, and what’s next for Eights as they continue to push the boundaries of live music experiences.

📖 Chapters:

0:00 - Intro

1:50 - Catching up

3:26 - How Eights has changed in the past year

8:25 - Unexpected lessons from running Eights (good clip)

15:10 - Eights’ evolving creative process, collaboration vs direction

20:50 - Expanding into new markets & services, expanding to the US

27:10 - Eights’ milestones, The Beaches & Valley Toronto show

32:42 - Eights’ impact on Nate and Mat’s personal life

44:00 - Eights next goals

48:10 - Rapid Qs - fav bands, fav post-show snack, dream Eights project, oh s*** moments

1:06:30 - not drumming, feeling creatively fulfilled

1:12:20 - Perfect day off

1:18:00 - outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Nate Day on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateday_/ Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded creatives, ask questions, and gain insider perspectives in the industry. Join here: https://discord.com/channels/1254855233348177921/1254998795389898774

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your backstage pass to the creative industry, brought to you by Eights Creative, the agency pushing boundaries in live performance.

In this episode, host Mat Landry sits down with Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes, a versatile drummer, keyboardist, playback engineer, tech, and music director who’s currently on tour with global sensation Tate McRae. Jarvis shares his journey from the early days to Madison Square Garden, discussing how his extensive experiences and versatile services have shaped his career. They also explore the demands of live performances and touring, the art of collaboration in 2024, and how Jarvis balances his multiple roles in the industry.

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jarvisjeb/

Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded creatives, ask questions, and gain insider perspectives in the industry. Join here: https://discord.com/channels/1254855233348177921/1254998795389898774

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your backstage pass to the creative industry, brought to you by Eights Creative, the agency pushing boundaries in live performance.

In this episode, host Mat Landry chats with his brother, Simon-Rys Landry, a multi-talented artist currently studying at the University of Ottawa's theatre conservatory. Simon delves into the nuances of creativity, navigating artistic mediums, and balancing multiple passions. They also explore the meaning of authenticity, the evolution of Simon’s creative journey, and his insights on performance and artistry.

🔍 Episode Chapters:

0:00 - Intro

1:53 - Simon’s Favourite Live Shows

6:43 - What makes live experience’s memorable & some experiences better than others?

14:35 - Looks & cooperation vs. talent (quote segment)

22:18 - Confidence vs. talent, developing confidence

26:13 - Simon’s artistic journey

32:50 - Artistic burnout & balancing multiple creative projects

37:45 - Everyone’s impact on your art, the village of collaboration

41:24 - What does authenticity mean to Simon? Staying true while taking inspiration

47:00 - How Simon’s creativity has evolved over time & theatre vs. music

57:40 - Feeling self-assured and connected on stage — Simon’s biggest lesson from live performance

1:02:20 - Simon’s first play performance

1:06:30 - Up next in Simon’s artist journey

1:11:35 - Simon’s dream role

1:15:00 - The Dreamfest Game

1:24:00 - Outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Simon Landry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rys.simon/

Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded creatives, ask questions, and gain insider perspectives in the industry. Join here: https://discord.com/channels/1254855233348177921/1254998795389898774

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your all-access pass to the music industry, brought to you by Eights, the innovative agency behind some of your favourite live concerts and tours.

In this episode, host Mat Landry sits down with Chris Mermer, a CPA, bookkeeper, and the creative mind behind Vertigo Blue. Chris shares his journey in the accounting world, the launch of his new artist-services venture, Gemini, and the importance of financial literacy in the music industry. He also dives into financial advice for all creatives and how his artistic side influences his professional endeavours.

🔍 Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

1:50 - Wakes a good live show, The 1975 & Turnstile

6:40 - Looks and cooperation vs talent (quote segment)

9:20 - Where is the industry is going? Labels, publishing, artist transparency, quality vs quantity

17:50 - Chris’s journey in accounting in music & Gemini

23:40 - Indicators of financial health in a business

25:30 - importance of budgeting in the music industry

28:00 - taxes in the creative industry

31:40 - how creative businesses navigate financial regulation and tax laws

35:00 - how Chris is balancing accounting with creative work

37:10 - saving money vs reinvesting into your creative business

42:20 - advice for young creatives dealing with debt

44:40 - diversifying income streams in the music business

47:30 - advice for accounting in the creative industry

54:30 - staying updated on trends in finances for the music industry, using AI

59:10 - Chris’s top financial advice - cash is king & start investing young

1:01:20 - Chris’s goals, Vertigo Blue, balancing creative projects with accounting

1:08:30 - The Dreamfest Game

1:13:16 - Outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Chris Mermer on Instagram: [Insert Chris's Instagram link]

Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded individuals, ask questions, and gain access to insider perspectives in the music industry. Join here: https://discord.com/channels/1254855233348177921/1254998795389898774

👍 Don't forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your all-access pass to the music industry, brought to you by Eights, the innovative agency behind some of your favorite live concerts and tours.

In today's episode, host Mat Landry dives deep into the world of music and creative philosophy with the talented artist Jayde. Known for her emotional depth and captivating sound, Jayde shares her insights into the creative process, the evolution of her artistry, and the release of her latest singles "I Don't Want to Hate You" and "Absurdist Reality."

🔍 Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

01:30 - Jayde’s favourite Shows & The 1975

05:15 - I’m Sorry It’s all my Fault, releasing & promoting projects

10:00 - Looks and cooperation vs talent

16:00 - Where the music industry is going, social media vs community building

20:00 - Jayde’s interest in music as a child

25:30 - Sticking to an artistic vision, Jayde’s influences, songwriting

31:50 - Complexity vs clarity in songwriting

37:00 - Openness in collaboration, mutual support, vulnerability in songwriting

43:48 - Role of dynamics in songwriting

47:40 - Navigating creative block, taking breaks

50:30 - Comfortability and your environment’s impact on songwriting

53:14 - Jayde’s future in music & advice to her younger self

56:15 - Absurdist Reality & Upcoming projects

58:45 - Producer’s Game

1:06:00 - Outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Jayde on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjaydemusic/

Follow Mat Landry: https://www.instagram.com/matlandry_/

Follow Eights: https://www.instagram.com/eightscreative/

Follow Eights Network: https://www.instagram.com/eightsnetwork/

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded individuals, ask questions, and gain access to insider perspectives in the music industry. Join here: https://discord.gg/admhEuP3

👍 Don't forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.

Welcome to the Cloud Machine podcast! Your all-access pass to the music industry, brought to you by Eights, the innovative agency behind some of your favorite live concerts and tours.

In today's episode, host Mat Landry sits down with the immensely talented Darryl Joseph-Dennie. As a Producer, Music Director, Band Leader, Educator, and Keyboardist from Mississauga, Ontario, Darryl is at the forefront of Toronto’s most culture-forward music projects. We delve into his influential work with Listening Room Toronto, Nostalgic Playlist, and Who You Got?, and discuss his role in fostering community through Jazz, Fusion, and Neo-Soul.

🔍 Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:02:00 - Favourite Live Show Experience

00:04:30 - Best Representation of Darryl's Work - Nostalgic Playlist

00:08:00 - The Listening Room Project and Music Industry Trends

00:10:20 - Joni Mitchell's Quote and Darryl's Response

00:13:25 - Future of the Music Industry — Threat of AI

00:18:20 - Social media in the music industry

00:19:25 - Darryl’s journey in the music industry

00:26:40 - Saying yes & making unexpected connections

00:29:00 - Listening Room Toronto

00:36:10 - Improvising Music & How to Jam Better

00:39:40 - How the Listening Room Toronto Works

00:42:00 - Listening Room Highlights

00:48:00 - The Nostalgic Playlist

00:51:00 - Working with a team vs working Solo

00:53:00 - Working as a Musical Director

00:57:00 - Balancing Multiple Projects

01:01:00 - The Toronto Music Community & Upcoming Toronto Artists

01:06:26 - Advice to Aspiring Musicians & diversifying skills

01:10:59 - Staying inspired & Darryl’s Goals

01:15:30 - The Producer’s Game

01:26:10 - Outro

🔗 Stay Connected:

Follow Darryl Joseph-Dennie on Instagram: @darryljdennie

Follow Mat Landry: @matlandry_

Follow Eights: @eightscreative

Follow Eights Network: @eightsnetwork

Join the Eights Network Discord: Connect with like-minded individuals, ask questions, and gain access to insider perspectives in the music industry. Join here: https://discord.gg/admhEuP3

👍 Don't forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Cloud Machine is produced by Eights Creative - https://www.eightscreative.com/

Many thanks to LMDSolutions for their support & resources.