Los Angeles, CA — Electrifying synth-pop duo Clay and Kelsy have released their highly anticipated debut EP, I Am, a collection of intoxicating anthems of empowerment, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of introspection. Comprising five emotionally charged tracks, I Am invites listeners to journey through the struggles of identity and vulnerability, laying the groundwork for a three-part EP series that captures the complexities of the human spirit. Clay and Kelsy’s EP is now available to stream and download on all platforms worldwide.
photo credit: AceofLA (IG: @Aceofla)
In an exclusive interview with Apricot Magazine, the duo opened up about their journey, creative process, and the deeply personal stories behind their music:
How did the two of you meet, and what inspired you to form a duo?
Clay: We met at a young age, right before college. Kelsy was a singer, and I had just started the home studio that we’ve now been building together for the last 13 years. Over time, the songs and ideas we worked on started to take on a life of their own, and the duo just appeared from the music.
What were some of the biggest influences—musical or otherwise—on the creation of your debut EP I Am?
Kelsy: Musically, we drew inspiration from opera and theatrical works like Dido and Aeneas. The storytelling in those pieces is hauntingly beautiful. We also come from the world of experimental electronic music, influenced by artists like Aphex Twin, Autechre, and FKA Twigs. Outside of music, the concept of self-discovery in works like Dante’s Inferno and Twin Peaks played a huge role.
Can you walk us through the creative process for the EP?
Clay: It started without a clear plan—just emotions and sounds. As we worked, we realized there was a thread connecting everything, almost like a story forming itself. We embraced the journey, letting each song shape the next, like chapters in a play.
Is there a specific song on the EP that holds special meaning for you?
Kelsy: “Memories of Me” stands out. It came from such a vulnerable place for Clay, and it became the foundation for the rest of the EP. It captures that feeling of being lost while searching for meaning amidst the chaos.
How do you balance your individual creative visions while working as a duo?
Clay: Trust and communication. We’ve been working together so long that we instinctively understand each other’s strengths. Sometimes one of us takes the lead, and other times, we blend our ideas into something greater than what either of us could achieve alone.
Los Angeles has such a vibrant music scene. How has the city shaped your sound and artistic direction?
Kelsy: We grew up in the Valley, just outside the city, which gave us a mix of industry exposure and nature. Our home studio is surrounded by trees and quiet, offering a sanctuary for creativity. Friends love coming here to collaborate—it’s a blend of city energy and natural calm.
What has been the most rewarding or surprising part of releasing your debut EP so far?
Clay: The most rewarding part is people connecting with the album and trusting us with their time. The biggest surprise has been how much the EP has helped us understand ourselves.
Are there any upcoming projects we can look forward to?
Kelsy: I Am is the first act of a three-part series. We’re finishing the final songs for the next two acts and crafting a live show that will bring the entire story to life.
How would you recommend new listeners approach I Am?
Clay: Start from the beginning and let yourself experience it as a journey. Listen in a quiet space, with good headphones or speakers, and allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up.
Summary
Clay and Kelsy’s I Am is more than an EP—it’s an introspective journey through the complexities of the human spirit. The duo has crafted a captivating first act that blends haunting melodies, raw vulnerability, and theatrical storytelling. With more music and live performances on the horizon, Clay and Kelsy are set to redefine synth-pop artistry. Stream I Am now and immerse yourself in their transformative soundscape.
