Shadow of Io is a Post-Rock artist from Amsterdam, Netherlands. They made their debut in 2019 with the single “Last Step on the Moon.” Since then the creative multi-instrumentalist has released a series of ever more exploratory tracks.
Post-Rock is an experimental form of music featuring elements of Rock, Ambient and Jazz. Often instrumental, the music frequently employs traditional Rock instruments but uses them to create entirely new soundscapes and musical arrangements. Post-Rock musicians seek to push the boundaries and expand the sonic possibilities of modern musical instruments and structures.
“Frozen Shores” is the latest single from Shadow of Io, released worldwide to all major streaming services on April 29, 2021. The piece opens with the ambient natural sounds of the sea. A low droning synth bass swells from below as two electric guitars panned left and right play different versions of the same haunting melody. The piece simmers quietly through most of its three minutes as the guitars explore the abstract soundscape. Near the 2:00 mark the song builds in intensity for about 30 seconds. Then, like a receding wave it quietly passes back into the surf.
Listen to “Frozen Shores below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Chill playlist. We had the chance to chat with Shadow of Io about the song. Read their answers to our 8 questions below. And follow the links at the end of this article to connect with the artist. Get on their socials and get in the loop on all of their current and future projects.
8 Questions with Shadow of Io
Where are you from?
I am from Amsterdam, the Netherlands
How long have you been making music?
I first picked up the guitar about 14 years ago. It wasn’t until 3 years ago that I picked up another guitar. Then another. Then a piano. Then a bass. I probably should stop.
Who are the musicians involved in your project?
Only myself. One human band, as I like to call it.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
Sleep Dealer was the one that introduced me to post-rock and Darren Korb’s works that really pushed me to record music myself. Then, God is an Astronaut, Russian Circles, Caspian.
What is your greatest non-musical influence?
Probably somewhat unusual answer – Dungeons and Dragons. A tabletop roleplaying game. Why? Because as a game master I often find myself thinking about the scenery, wondering out into an imaginary world.
What inspired you to create this project?
Darren Korb’s work on soundtrack to a videogame Pyre.
What are your plans for the future (musically)?
Post-rock is a niche which not many people are even familiar with. I would like to keep doing what I am doing, releasing a few tracks per year, trying to introduce more people to the genre.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
Would like to give a special thanks to Can from Worldhaspostrock who was the first person to publish my music to a broader audience. Thank you to all my fans – you people are really the ones who make this journey worthwhile!