Get to know GIO and her electric new single
Photo via GIO
By Ruby Staley
Get familiar with the name GIO because she’s the next best thing in local pop.
Delivering tasty new track Holding On, GIO channels a brooding and dreamy sound that will make you want to queue on repeat.
The new single details heartbreak with an all too familiar depiction of clinging onto a love that’s already lost.
GIO once again teams up with producer and frequent collaborator Rino Darusman for the new track, drawing on elements of future garage and indie electronica to create a softened base to allow her vocals to soar.
Influenced by the likes of Melbourne based duo’s Kllo and Two People, ’Holding On’ is just another example of GIO’s developing artistry and an undeniably talented voice, proving that she is indeed one to watch in the months to come.
Pre-single release, I chatted to Giorgia Deslandes to find out a bit more about the brains behind the banger.
Releasing a music in a pandemic must have been daunting to say the least, what's it been like and how has the reception been so far?
Honestly this experience has been somewhat of a lifeline in the midst of all the chaos! It’s nice to feel like I can use this time to create and explore, but also try to keep things real if I don’t feel like being productive.
It’s also really emphasised how amazing the music and arts community is in Melbourne! People are so innovative and supportive of one another it’s pretty incredible. I feel very lucky. So far, reception has been lovely which is pretty mind blowing!
Some major inspirations for Holding On?
I would say one of the major inspirations for this track is Canadian electronic musician Jacques Greene, his album Dawn Chorus encapsulated a lot of the sounds I wanted to use for this track. I love the way he combines poppy top lines with darker, UK garage inspired breakbeats. These are definitely elements I tried to incorporate into the track (with the help of crazy talented Melbourne producer and musician Rino Darusman).
I understand you're talented not only musically but also in filming and editing, how do your creative passions relate and intersect?
Ah I’ve been super lucky to be able to dabble in a few aspects of the art landscape, but honestly I think it’s more because I just have no idea what I want to be when I grow up! It is very useful to be able to explore the track and accompanying visuals as a an integrated immersive experience. In the case of this track, I was fortunate enough to work with an all female film collective from
Melbourne called Tuesday (who are beyond incredible) for the visualiser, which is coming out very soon!
What's your experience been like as a young, multifaceted, female creator in Melbourne?
Honestly my experience has involved a lot of self doubt and uncertainty, basically just feeling like I couldn’t do it. Sometimes it feels very daunting.
I have just been lucky enough to be surrounded by so many amazingly supportive friends and family who are always encouraging me, that makes all the difference.
What's in store for the future of GIO?
I am hoping to release some more singles over the coming months in prep for an eventual EP drop, and I’m really looking forward to doing some more collaboration!
‘Holding On’ is out now on Spotify and Soundcloud.