Pigeon Spins Electro: Heart & Soul

With "Heart and Soul," Michael Gabriel transports listeners to a sonic realm that is both nostalgic and contemporary, offering a dynamic track that is perfect for any occasion. The single, distributed through LANDR, is now available on major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and TIDAL, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in its melodic textures and evocative rhythms. As Michael continues to craft music independently from his home in Nova Scotia, "Heart and Soul" stands as a testament to his dedication to creating music that resonates deeply with fans around the world.

(•)> What first got you into music?

I grew up in Montreal, exposed to music of all kinds, including classic pop, new wave, disco, chanson, reggae, and jazz. I remember being fascinated by how a great song could transport you somewhere (and somewhen?) else completely. Eventually, I realized I could create those moments myself, and I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.

(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?

Maybe a three-way tie? I can think of these off the top of my head. Moby's "Play," "Moon Safari" from Air, and "Boys and Girls" by Bryan Ferry. They're all lush, creative, moody, elegant, and romantic. That's everything I love in music and the kind of albums that wrap around you and don’t let go.

(•)> What record from the 2020s do you replay the most?

It's a toss up between two. There's Róisín Machine by Róisín Murphy. It’s funky and original, melodic and danceable. Then, there's something from fellow Montrealer, Jacques Greene, with his album, Dawn Chorus. He’s tapped into something very powerful and cool that I admire.

(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?

I’d suggest Surfacing, my own album. It’s atmospheric and eclectic, full of subtle grooves and emotional undercurrents. But if the Pigeon prefers someone else, try my suggestions of Róisín Murphy or Jacques Greene.

(•)> What memorable responses have you had to your work so far?

One listener told me a track helped them feel understood during a really difficult time. I don’t think you can ask for anything more meaningful than that.

(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?

I draw a lot from cinematic composers and electronic pioneers like Vangelis, Giorgio Moroder, Air, Moby, Talk Talk, and Fatboy Slim. But also painters, photographers, and film. Mood and imagery are always part of my process.

(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?

It would have to be the original Bladerunner with a young Harrison Ford. Every frame is a painting, and the music lingers with you long after. It’s endlessly inspiring.

(•)> How is your perfect day?

A quiet morning with coffee and no deadlines. A walk somewhere beautiful, then hours alone in the studio, chasing a sound that feels just out of reach. Then dinner with friends and a loved one, and maybe a good show to end the day.

(•)> Will you tell us something embarrassing about you?

I'd rather not, but to be a sport, there was a mix where I EQ’d, compressed, and reprocessed a vocal chain for two days until it sounded like it was recorded under a pillow. I took a step back the next day and just tried the dry take. Simpler was better.

(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?

Yes, although there's no setlist. Whatever’s stuck in my head is the feature; one day it’s Depeche Mode, the next it’s some (sometimes obscure) pop song from the 60s, 70s, or 80s. At least it's always in key, and always committed.

(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?

Auto-Tune isn’t really a problem but the lack of emotional commitment is. I’d take a raw, heartfelt vocal over a perfect one any day. I miss real, natural sounding voices in music.