Matan KG has been masterfully creating pop tracks since the inception of Paper Idol. Blending infectious pop hooks with signature indie flair, Paper Idol has cultivated a dedicated niche base while catching the ear of mainstream audiences. The latest installment in their discography is “Tightrope,” a single glistening with sun-dripped pop production that dives into lyrical themes of imbalance and desire. We talked with with KG, discussing the background of the single and what the future holds for Paper Idol.
What inspired “Tightrope”?
The main hook to “Tightrope” came to me while surfing. I guess it makes sense, surfing being another balance-related sport. The song is about never feeling fulfilled by the things we crave, even when those cravings are satisfied.
Where has your creativity been wandering to during this pandemic? Have you discovered anything new about your creative process?
I always liked writing alone, but music making has been even more solitary throughout the pandemic. A lot of the songs I wrote last year were a bit more introspective and melancholy, but it’s opened up a new sound for me. My bandmate Adam has been keeping me sane, the music we write together is much more fun than the stuff I make alone! Overall, I’ve gotten more confident as a producer and feel like I can try new genres and techniques without losing “Paper Idol” in the process, if that makes sense.
Where are you currently located? Has that impacted your music?
Just moved to frogtown in Los Angeles. My current location hasn’t necessarily impacted my music, but the fact that I’ve moved so much definitely has. For context, I’ve lived in over 12 different houses the last 2 and a half years. That sense of imbalance has made its way into my music, for better or for worse.
This is your second EP, how does it differ for money for flowers and what is the future look like for paper idol?
The future looks fantastic. I feel like “Money for Flowers,” and the singles I released prior, were great hors d’oeuvres that introduced people to the Paper Idol sound. This next EP is the first entrée. It tells a cohesive story in the artwork and the music. It also has an element of honest self-reflection that I’ve never shared before. Couldn’t be more excited to get it out into the world!
We are excited to bring you “Tightrope,” the ear-snatching single from Paper Idol.
