Justin Elswick aka Sleepthief has become well known after the release of his wondrous album "The Dawnseeker" . In a short time his project has gained recognition world wide. This is one of the cases where I honestly think this reaction is what the well done work really deserved. I would dare to say we shall know from him in the near future and certainly he's already rather busy so we're grateful he took a little time to reply this little interview. This is one of the cases where I honestly think this reaction is what this work really deserved. I met Justin a while back in his myspace page, and I was surprised not only by the quality of his music but also because of his humble and gentle personality. From NM we wish him all the very best. Philo C. from our friend site En el Aire often airs his music so remember this name next time she showcases. So, do you want to know more...?

Genre: Downtempo, Ambient, Ethereal, Female vocalists, Soft Electronica

P.H: Where did your artistic name come from?

J.E: The name "Sleepthief" came to me when I was working very late one night on a song. I had been trying to think of a name for my project alias, and for almost a year, I could not find the right name. Then, on this special night, I thought "this music is stealing my sleep time...it is such a sleepthief." That was it! I knew that the name would be perfect.

P.H:How would you describe your music? What inspires you?

J.E: I would describe my music as cinematic, yet very intimate and personal with classical, celtic, world, and electronic elements. As far as inspiration, I think that first and foremost, human beings in general inspire me. I love that we can do so many things. Every person is imbued with talent and beauty. I also love film, literature, photography, traveling, music...all of those things provide me sources of inspiration.

P.H: How you build up a new song?

J. E: I usually just sit down and write it on piano first. After that, I program string parts and percussion. Then, I go into the studio with Israel Curtis (my co-producer and engineer), and dump the tracks and basically reconstruct them.

Have you got a favourite theme in "The Dawnseeker"?

I guess my favorite theme is one of open-heartedness. I think that each track conveys something special to the listener....the words and music together form a message that I think reveals aspects of my heart.

P.H. The cd is full of collaborations with wondrous female vocalists... tell us a bit about the experience.

J.E. I am a big fan of good female vocalists. Many of the singers that appear on THE DAWNSEEKER are artists that I respect and have listened to for a long time. Each of them has unique vocal beauty and style. In approaching each of them, I tried to be respectful--although it was a bit intimidating at first! In the end, I have become good friends with almost all of the vocalists...and I respect them even more.

P.H:Tell us a bit about your current and future projects

J.E: Currently, I am working with Israel Curtis and Caroline Lavelle on a full-length side project. Caroline will be performing all of the vocals. It is a combination of all of our styles and I think it will be very striking. I am totally honored to work with Caroline as she has been a favorite of mine for years. Also, I am working on the new solo album by Roberta Carter Harrison (of Wild Strawberries and ATB).
I am writing new tracks for SLEEPTHIEF II as well.
Oh, three tracks from the DAWNSEEKER will also be appearing on a special compilation called BEAUTY that will be released in the next few weeks. And, I am putting together a compilation of female artists that will be released by my label, Neurodisc.

P.H.: Which is your favourite album ever?
J. E. :Watermark by Enya. I think it is her best work, and also the album that most influenced me as a musician.

Thanks!

PH: Thanks to you Justing, for letting us know a bit more about you!

Justin 's music is also accompanied by music videos.

Watch EURYDICE music video in YOUTUBE