Paul Noir is a veteran independent musician who has spent nearly twenty years performing in a series of bands. As the pandemic took hold of our lives, the singer was already working with co-writer, producer and engineer Nathan Elliott. The dark realities of our modern times provided the duo with the incentive to escape into the mysteries of the past.
“Odd Experiments” is the debut solo single from Paul Noir, released worldwide to all major streaming services on February 22, 2022. With the song he introduces a unique Dark Pop sound that looks to the music and culture of the early 20th century for inspiration. Noir and Elliott have created a richly layered and timeless bit of musical theater.
An ensemble of piano, bass and drums meters out a slow and steady rhythm of stabbing quarter-note chords. Strings, woodwinds, brass and keys paint the edges of the mix and create an ominous and theatrical vibe. Meanwhile, Paul Noir delivers a dark tale of alchemy, science and unholy experiments.
The song’s appropriately creepy video, directed with Paul’s long-time friend “Super” Dave McFadden, is a perfect match to the track’s timeless sound. Of the film Paul Noir says “This video is really an artistic creation. Dave built this amazing world of graphics and visuals to fit the track.” It portrays multiple characters played by Noir that illuminate the period piece.
Check out the “Odd Experiments” video below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Dive playlist, or listen on your favorite streaming service. We had the chance to chat with Paul Noir about the song, the video and more. Check out his answers to our 8 questions. And follow the links at the end of this article to connect with Paul Noir. Get on his socials and get in the loop on all of the music to come, including the single “Near But Far” due March 22, 2022.
8 Questions with Paul Noir
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Northeast Pennsylvania, near Allentown…like the Billy Joel song. But, I’m a
bit of a wanderer. I’ve lived on the West Coast in LA, as well as many other places.
How long have you been making music?
I’ve been writing, recording, and touring in different bands and projects for over two decades.
The music business is a very humbling experience. I took a long break between this and my last
musical endeavor. I was really trying to find something honest and heartfelt in myself and my
art.
Who are the musicians involved in your project?
Believe it or not, it’s just my writing partner Nathan Elliott and me this time around. We’ve
been making demos for years, and planned on bringing in studio musicians. But we ended up
just polishing a lot of the creations that Nathan recorded. He performed almost every
instrument.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
I think the artist who had the biggest impact on my songwriting was Chris Cornell. The way he
put chords and melodies together was truly magical. I miss him… I’m sure he influenced a lot of
other artists, who I’m quite fond of as well. I don’t even need to go into his voice, which was
angelic and masterful.
My favorite stage performer and frontman was always Scott Weiland. He had a slithery snake-
like approach to the stage that really spoke to me. I loved how sexy and sultry he could be in a
Bowie or Morrison-like androgynous way, but then switch completely to a masculine aggressive
character. I think that versatility on stage is rare. I miss him and his beautiful voice too.
What is your greatest non-musical influence?
I’m a huge fan of movies and cinema. I think it’s the most complete art form. It affects so many
of our senses. I always felt I would work in film in some capacity one day. There’s still time,
Haha.
With that said, it would make sense that my biggest non-musical influences are actors. There
are so many, but Johnny Depp on and off camera was the one who I gravitated towards
stylistically and emotionally. His connection to other influences of mine like Tim Burton, Danny
Elfman, Vincent Price, and others, only further solidified him as an artist to admire.
What inspired you to create this project?
I had unfinished business with these particular song ideas. I’ve been writing this theatrical dark
cabaret sound for a long time. I always seemed to get distracted from what was in my heart by
other bands and endeavors. The pandemic gave me a little push with free time to bring this
project to life.
Once the collection of songs started to come together for this album, I knew I had something
special. The sound finally felt like me for the first time… strange, intense, and whimsical. I can’t
wait for everyone to hear it, and see these intriguing visuals we’ve created as well.
What are your plans for the future (musically)?
I’m trying not to get ahead of myself. I’ve already been on stages with crowds that a lot of
musicians would dream of. I just want to continue to create passionate art, and build some
lasting memories and relationships with those who appreciate it.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
Just that it’s an honor to do an interview for The Static Dive. I hope those who find this article
are moved to discover more about my vision and art. It’s going to be a weird and wonderful
ride… Cheers!