ISSUE NO.1: Biography Series — Timothy Steiner
For this addition of ISSUE NO.1's: Biography Series, we had the privilege of talking to Timothy Steiner about his personal influences, time working with The Vanguard Room, and the recent success of his new album.
Sporting nearly 400 monthly Spotify listeners, Timothy’s band “Calland,” is a two-man duo comprised of himself and his Calgary, Alberta-based friend Alex Greco. The pair connected while studying abroad and began writing music over the internet. What became of the long-distance collaboration was a 7 track, full-length album entitled “Idle Prophecies.” With wild success among local listeners, the album (produced by Evan Eliason of The Vanguard Room), started appearing in the playlists of Lakelander’s everywhere — including The Vanguard Room’s founder Aaron Marsh. When asked about his experience in recording the album, Steiner responded by saying “The cool thing about the guys at the Vanguard Room, is they’re not just good engineers, they’re also amazing producers.”
Cost has been proven to be an obstacle for some local musicians looking to record music. It can be difficult for artists to connect with an engineer/producer that they can afford. When asked his take on the subject, Timothy responded by saying “Every studio makes their keep, and every artist has a budget.” Steiner described Evan as being super proactive on the “Calland” record, and upon first listen, it is apparent: at The Vanguard Room, you get what you pay for.
Though Timothy’s songwriting trademarked the “Calland” record, these days he has begun work on a new solo project. Describing it as more soft and journalistic, he hopes to tour with the new material. Along with streaming platforms, artists largely rely on social media and touring to connect with their listeners. Timothy, like many other musicians, prefers connecting with people through playing live. “I’m always riding the line between f — social media and needing it” he says, but “You are selling something. It’s yourself, it’s your thing. If you want to make it a career, you have to put the work in.”
Even with the industrial push for artists to become self-salesmen, the beauty of music is not lost on Steiner. While for some, songwriting may act as therapy, it doesn’t function that way for him. “Songwriting is an art — its not just about being a tortured soul, nor is it only an outlet for your misery.” he says, “Music is the unspoken energy of our species. It’s a cool thing.” His latest record “Idle Prophecies” touches on subjects like love, loss, and the dichotomy of searching/finding. “The things we are most terrified in the world, we don’t write about. I think that’s a horrible thing.” He said. There is truly nothing subtle about Timothy’s approach to songwriting. For him, music is more than just a catchy love song.
Timothy’s album “Idle Prophecies” can be found on all streaming platforms. He is an exceptional musician, ardent songwriter, and an important figure in our community. We’re happy to support him and encourage you to attend one of his upcoming shows. Thank you as always, for supporting Lakeland’s local music.
