Interview With Anders L. Rasmussen

How would you describe your music to any person who may have never heard it before?

Anders: My music is rooted in Americana and singer-songwriter traditions, with touches of blues and rock woven in. It’s more personal and reflective than my work with Ohmwork, focusing on storytelling, mood, and atmosphere. I try to write songs that feel honest and human—music that can connect whether you’re listening closely to the lyrics or just letting the sound carry you.

What's the significance of your musical moniker?

Anders: I chose to release my solo work under my own name, Anders L. Rasmussen, because this project is very personal. Unlike my band work with Ohmwork, where the sound is heavier and more collective, this music is about expressing my own stories and influences more directly. Using my name felt like the most honest way to present it.

What's the significance of your band's band? Anders: My name. L. Stands for Ljosdahl and is my mom's surname.

What are your musical influences?

Anders: My influences are pretty broad, but they often circle back to strong songwriting and authentic expression. I draw inspiration from the storytelling tradition of Americana and folk, the soul and grit of the blues, and the energy of rock.

What are your musical inspirations?

Anders: My inspiration often comes from real life—personal experiences, observations, and the emotions tied to them. I’m inspired by the stories people carry, the landscapes I live in, and the moments that make you stop and reflect. Music for me is about honesty, so I’m always chasing that feeling of capturing something true, whether it’s joy, loss, or just the beauty in everyday life.

If given the chance, what musician(s) would you like to collaborate with? Rather this is to either write a song or be featured on a track.

Anders: That’s a tough one, because there are so many. I’d love to write or share a track with artists who value strong storytelling and authenticity—someone like Jason Isbell would be amazing.

What's the new single about?

Anders: "Skyward" is about striving toward something beyond yourself—whether it’s hope, freedom, or just the courage to keep moving forward when life gets heavy. It’s a song about lifting your gaze, even when the ground feels unsteady.

What's something you hope people take away from the new single?

Anders: I hope listeners feel a sense of openness in it. That even in the struggles we go through, there’s always a way to rise above. If the song can give someone that little push to keep going, then it’s done its job.

What did you allow yourself to do creatively for this song that you haven’t in the past?

Anders: With this track, I allowed myself to lean more into atmosphere and space, letting the song breathe instead of filling every corner with sound.

When you find yourself in a creative rut, what do you usually turn to? Any habits, environments or even non-musical sources that help you reconnect with your creativity?

Anders: When I hit a creative rut, I usually step away from the music for a bit. Going for long walks, spending time in nature, or just observing everyday life helps me reset. Often it’s those small, ordinary moments that spark new ideas.

Do you have any favourite songs to perform live? Could be your own music or even a cover. Any reason why?

Anders: My own songs, always. How about the single, "Skyward"?

If you could perform a show this very second anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Anders: New York. Love that city.

Is there any particular venue(s) or city/cities that comes to mind?

Anders: Playing a smaller, intimate venue in New York would be a dream—somewhere the audience is close, and you can really feel that connection. Beyond that, I’d love to take the songs to other cities with a strong live music culture, places where people come to really listen.

What do you currently have planned for the remainder of the year?

Anders: I’ll be releasing at least a couple more singles leading up to my debut solo album in November. I’m really excited about that. Along the way, I’ll also be playing shows to share this music live and connect with people face-to-face. If your music was a type of food, what would it be and why?

Anders: I think my music would be something like a hearty stew. It’s rooted in simple, honest ingredients—Americana, blues, and rock—but simmered together over time so the flavours blend into something deeper. It’s warm, down-to-earth, and made to be shared, but there’s also a richness there if you take the time to really taste it. Thanks for the time today, Anders. Is there anything else you may want to add that I didn't cover before you go?

Anders: At the end of the day, "Skyward" is about looking up, moving forward, and daring to dream a little bigger. I hope listeners can take that feeling with them when the song ends.