Interview with Everon: Exploring the Innovative Subway Concept
In a recent conversation I had with Oliver Philipps, the talented singer, guitarist, and keyboardist of Everon, the discussion centered around their upcoming album, Shells, set for release on February 28th after a hiatus of 17 years. I began the conversation with Oliver by mentioning my history with their music, having been a fan for over 20 years. Despite stepping away from reviewing music for a while, I felt compelled to cover this new release from a band that had influenced my musical journey. Oliver was surprised by my dedication, noting my relatively young age for a progressive rock enthusiast.
Reflecting on our past interactions on the band’s forum when I was a teenager, Oliver recalled advising me to let songwriting flow naturally and not overthink the process. He emphasized the importance of trusting one’s creative instincts and not getting bogged down by expectations or external opinions. Drawing from his own experience, Oliver shared how he typically allows the initial inspiration to guide his songwriting, keeping bandmates and outside influences at bay until he feels confident in his work.
Discussing the creation of the new album, Oliver explained that he approached it without fixed expectations, unsure if it would align with Everon’s previous sound. However, once he immersed himself in the music-making process, the pieces fell into place. He highlighted the diversity and modern edge of the album, questioning if it retained the essence of their earlier works, to which I expressed my admiration for the fresh mix and dynamic tracks presented on Shells.
We delved into the concept of progressive rock and its broad scope that allows for creativity across genres and styles. Oliver revealed that he never intended to fit into a specific musical category, preferring to explore different sounds freely. His musical influences ranged from metal to jazz fusion, with a particular fondness for heavy guitars. Despite producing heavy music and working with metal bands, Oliver maintains an eclectic taste that transcends genre boundaries.
As we wrapped up our conversation, Oliver mused about the varying phases of music he had gone through, from rock to metal to fusion jazz, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His fluid approach to music-making, characterized by spontaneity and openness, shone through our discussion, offering insights into the creative process behind Everon’s long-awaited return with Shells. Through our dialogue, it became evident that Oliver’s dedication to authenticity and artistic integrity fuels his musical endeavors, resulting in a diverse and captivating body of work that defies conventional labels.