Welcome to an insightful conversation with Johannes Rest, a visionary progressive rock songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist from the German prog/psych rock band, Digital Carbs. In this interview, Johannes shares his journey into the genre, tracing it back to his early days of musical exploration when he took up the bass in a band. The mutual challenge of mastering intricate songs fueled his passion for progressive rock, creating a profound connection with its complexity and innovation. Despite his initial divergence from the genre, Johannes reflects on how his current project naturally incorporates progressive rock elements, showcasing the deep influence it has had on his musical language. Join us as we delve into the artistic evolution and inspirations behind Johannes Rest’s captivating musical odyssey.
Talking about “Niche Documentaries,” a song featured on “Progstravaganza: Harmony in Complexity,” Johannes says: “The central theme of “Niche Documentaries” is our overly success-oriented society. We continually measure ourselves based on achievements, losing sight of all the little joys that are life. With social media only exacerbating the issue, as everyone presents themselves in the best possible light. This song was also the hardest to finish on the entire EP. It underwent various structural changes before we finally got it right.“
When it comes to creativity, the story begins with a simple acoustic guitar and the allure of possibility. According to Johannes, the essence is to capture the elusive “vibe” that sets the tone for the entire musical narrative. As the chords and melodies start to weave their tales, Johannes records these embryonic ideas on his phone, forming a reservoir of potential compositions in the form of countless voice memos.
Yet, not every musical spark transforms into a blazing anthem. Johannes periodically revisits these fragments, evaluating whether the initial magic still resonates and if it merits evolving into a complete composition. The lyrics, often the final piece of the puzzle, take shape as placeholders during the song’s formation. Random words and phrases, born in the process of sculpting the musical landscape, become the foundation upon which the lyrical edifice stands.
The plot thickens with the release of “Conform Deform,” the latest chapter in Digital Carbs‘ discography. Here, the narrative takes an intriguing turn as the creative process becomes a collective endeavor. In contrast to the debut album, where Johannes solely authored each piece, the EP witnesses a collaborative symphony of ideas. The challenge of harmonizing diverse perspectives adds complexity to the plot, yet the outcome is a musical tapestry enriched by the contributions of each band member. In the end, Johannes cherishes the collaborative spirit, acknowledging that the shared creative journey has rendered “Conform Deform” a profoundly layered and rewarding chapter in the evolving story of Digital Carbs.
Who or what are your major influences in progressive rock? How do they impact your own musical style?
Johannes Rest: Bands I used to listen to a lot are Tool, Porcupine Tree, Steven Wilson, Pain Of Salvation, King Crimson and Pink Floyd, just to name a few. Generally speaking, I’m not particularly drawn to the more technical bands that are out there today, though I have huge respect for what they’re doing.
As I mentioned earlier, it was never the intention to make progressive rock. But since I was really into the genre early on in my musical journey, it just always comes through in my songwriting.
What challenges have you faced as an artist in the scene, and how have you overcome them?
To be honest, we haven’t face any challenges in the scene so far. Quite the opposite actually. The progressive rock fans have been really supportive of our music, despite us not really catering to that audience.
How do you see the scene evolving, and what role do you believe your music plays in that evolution?
I don’t think I can give a valid opinion on this matter, as I’m not familiar enough with the scene. There definitely are some insanely talented musicians active right now who make fantastic music. What I’d like to see more of is other genres incorporating more elements of progressive rock. Many modern post-punk bands from the UK, like Black Country, New Road, Black Midi, and Squid, bring a refreshing touch to progressive rock, even if they may not get labeled as such. This is what we are aiming for with our music as well.
Share with us some of the most memorable moments in your musical journey so far.
We are only starting out in the music world, but it’s just mind blowing to receive messages from people all over the world who listen to our music. We can’t wait to meet some of those people once we get the opportunity to play shows in those places. People singing along to your own songs also has to be one of the most rewarding experiences ever.
Do you have a personal favorite among your own compositions? If so, which one and why?
We all love the song “Mr. Five”. It’s got this really thick atmosphere while also being kind of challenging to play. As for live shows, we have to go with our song “Maniac”. That one always goes hard!
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re working on?
Right now, we’re working really hard on our next release, which is set to be released late summer/early fall. You can expect the first single some time in April. We’re also planning a tour following the release, with stops in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. So, we’re really excited about that!
What does it mean to you to be a part of our compilation? How has the experience been for you?
It’s really cool to be featured next to so many amazing artists. Thank you so much for including us in the compilation!
Is there a message you’d like to convey to your fans who will be discovering your music through this compilation?
Thank you for checking out our music and taking the time to read through this interview. It’s really nice to see people still taking the time to go in-depth about new music releases.
For the quick-fire round, Johannes was joined by his bandmates, and here is what they had to say.
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or not, who would it be?
Konrad Diesch (drums): Cory Wong
Markus Willmann (guitar): Robert Smith – I love him and I can’t even say why.
Gillian Höller (guitar): Steven Wilson
Johannes Rest (vocals, bass): David Bowie
If you had to pick one instrument (besides your primary one) to master, what would it be?
Konrad: Piano
Willy: My Voice
Gillian: Violin
Johannes: Drums
What’s your all-time favorite progressive rock album, and why?
Konrad: Pain of Salvation – Road Salt One
Willy: Karnivool – Sound Awake. A very organic sounding band effort where every musician involved truly shines. It’s also very ambitious without sounding forced. The ending of Deadman gets me every time.
Gillian: Steven Wilson – Hand. Cannot. Erase. for it’s perfect blend of melancholic, emotional passages and technicality.
Johannes: Tool – Aenima. Sinister and mystical atmosphere so thick you could cut it with a knife. Also love the rawness compared to their later records.
Are there non-musical influences that find their way into your music? (e.g., literature, art, science)
Konrad: Yoga and Marx.
Gillian: Blown glass art.
Willy: Books and movies that have kind of an introverted and dreamlike vibe to them to the point where the lines of reality start to blur. (e.g. works by Haruki Murakami).
Johannes: Literature definitely finds it’s way into our music. Our song “Campbell’s Chemical Cleanup” is a direct reference to Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture Of Dorian Gray”. I also like to paint from time to time and painted the cover art for our debut album.
Any final thoughts or reflections you’d like to share with our audience?
Just once again, thanks for listening!
Where can our audience find more about you and your music?
