Chicago indie/alternative duo, Still + Storm – comprised of husband and wife Rachel and Dave Raymond – specialize in experimental, edgy vibes reminiscent of Wall Of Trophies, Halsey and oddly enough, a lighter side of Garbage.
While Rachel wades in the comforting sounds of early 90’s grunge, Dave (also a vocalist for Hidden Hospitals) brings all of those emotions and modern day sensibilities into the digital realm, making this one hell of a power duo destined for big things.
While it’s always fun to imagine what it would be like to make music with a significant other, we wanted to get the real story from a couple in the middle of the ride. We asked Rachel to discuss the dynamic between her and Dave when it comes to creating music together and what that might entail artistically in this exclusive TDL guest blog!
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For the first few years we were together, we did not write or play music together. Dave was busy with Hidden Hospitals and I was mostly a bedroom musician. Dave is such a dynamic and powerful writer and musician, I was intimidated to share anything I had written. To me, it felt like a milestone in our relationship, and ultimately a relief, to break the dam and finally collaborate. I have learned and grown so much since working with Dave. Logistically, it’s fantastic, too. It is much simpler to collaborate and schedule rehearsals with your partner, especially when you live together. And in a way, it is easier to disagree or deliver constructive criticism to someone you already have an established mutual love and respect with.
Our priorities align. We have always naturally integrated writing and music into our lives and home, without having to discuss it much. There is no tension surrounding time apart for tour, or “alone time” to write. We value having our own personal space and time. It just happens and it’s understood.
Our individual writing habits work well for us. Not that we never write together, but I usually bring Dave completed songs. He then enhances them without sacrificing the original intent. He is a master at arranging instruments and structuring songs… and he writes killer bridges! I get a renewed appreciation for my songs after Dave elevates them. I love the way he sees them, and me.
Interestingly, our first musical encounter was entirely without words. During the first month of us seeing each other, Dave was writing a lot of music. He sent me this short, beautiful piece with all of these overlapping guitars. I remember it well because he titled it “breaking taking.” He wrote it in a half an hour or so while he was taking a break from writing for his record. It floored me but I knew it would soon fade from his purview. So, I stayed up that night for hours, until I had written a vocal part. I was so nervous to send it to him. His reaction was awesome – so supportive and positive, and he continues to be that way when I share my ideas. That definitely enhanced our connection in those early days and is what sustains it now.
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