In the recent review of CIAO MALZ’s Safe Then Sorry EP I wrote that this Brooklyn-based Filipino-American Indie artist writes songs that are ‘buoyant and a little off-balance (think Friday happy drunk walking with purpose despite their broken compass) with arrangements that make an asset out of their looseness. The EP crackles with confidence and that woozy warmth is not without its sharp edges. Four perfect slices of marshmallow and peanut brittle pop.‘
I wanted to find out more about this exciting artist and asked if CIAO MALZ would be willing to do our ’10 Questions with…’ feature. They happily obliged.
What inspires you to make music?
I get a lot of inspiration from listening to other music and using that as a starting point. Occasionally, I’ll hear a great phrase or something that catches my ear, and I’ll see if I can incorporate it into a song.
What is the best description of your music that you’ve read or heard in a review?
Someone once said that my music sounds like walking around in NYC. I really like that because I spend a lot of time walking around the city, so it feels like I’m painting a clear picture of my life.
What do you enjoy most and least about playing live?
I love the actual performance—especially once the nerves wear off and I can have fun with it and match the energy of the room. The part I enjoy the least is scheduling rehearsals and dealing with all the logistics.
Is there a venue or city that you’d especially love to play, and why?
I really love The Sultan Room. I’ve seen a bunch of live shows there, and even though it’s a small venue, it feels like a time capsule. It’s very intimate and unique, and I’d love to play there soon.
What is the strangest thing that’s ever happened to you at a gig?
One time, mid-song, I had a random thought about forgetting the lyrics. There was a long interlude, and when it was time to sing, I actually did forget the lyrics. It was awful.
If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be and why?
I think streaming payouts for artists are too low. I wouldn’t expect them to be massive or passed directly onto consumers, but they feel disproportionately small. Since streaming is such a big part of the industry now, it would be nice if it benefited artists more.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and what would you work on together?
I’d love to work with the Pet Shop Boys. From what I understand, they make incredibly catchy songs that drive me crazy in the best way. Our styles are very different so there is a lot of potential in my mind.
Who are your favourite new bands/artists that you think our readers should check out, and what do you like about them?
I really like Merce Lemon. Their chemistry as a live band is incredible, and their studio album is just as amazing. Their sound is very warm, I feel like I’m going into their house when a song starts.
If you could give any aspiring musician one piece of advice, what would it be?
Just do it—even if it’s bad. And then don’t stop. Ever.
How has your approach to making music changed since you started?
I used to rush things more, like trying to force a puzzle piece to fit. Now, I take more time to get things right. I’ve also spent a lot more time learning and experimenting with production, which I incorporate into my projects.
What do you have planned for 2025?
A full album, I believe.
You can buy CIAO MALZ’s EP Safe Then Sorry from Bandcamp and stream on all good services.
CIAO MALZ socials: Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok
Introduction by Paul F Cook
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