Shakey Graves Says He Intently Focused on Capturing ‘Real-Time Nostalgia’ via New Album “Fondness, Etc.” (Exclusive)

### Shakey Graves Embraces Moments of Nostalgia in New Album ‘Fondness, Etc.’

Texas-born artist Shakey Graves, also known as Alejandro Rose-Garcia, has candidly shared insights about his latest album, ‘Fondness, Etc.’ In an exclusive interview, he discussed how the themes of nostalgia, fatherhood, and awareness of life’s fleeting moments deeply influenced the project. At 38, Graves is acutely aware of the swift passage of time, prompting him to capture these sentiments artistically through his music.

Graves describes the emotional essence of his new songs as reflections of “real-time nostalgia.” He explains that while everything seems to be slipping through his fingers, there is a positive undertone to his realisations. “I feel very aware of the sweet moments that are rushing by me in life,” he remarked, indicating a desire to preserve and celebrate these experiences through his work.

The creation of ‘Fondness, Etc.’ was a whirlwind affair, resulting from a transformative phase in Graves’ life that included the impending birth of his child. The first song recorded for the album, “When the Love Is New,” became a foundational anchor for the project, shaping his creative direction. He was motivated to complete the album quickly, expressing that he wanted to share his music without delay. “I didn’t want to sit on it for two years,” he stated, underscoring his wish to maintain the immediacy and freshness of his creative impulse.

One significant shift in Graves’ approach this time was a departure from overthinking the songwriting process. He aimed to embrace a style reminiscent of 1950s pop, characterised by simplicity and honesty. “I had to really stop trying to say stuff,” he joked about his previous writing habits. “I purposefully wanted to write on a surface level.” This intentional simplicity allowed him to create an album that feels both intimate and emotionally direct, drawing inspiration from icons like Roy Orbison, whose influence permeates the record.

Particularly in tracks such as “Time Flies,” Graves channels this nostalgia. The song, originally by Frankie Sunswept, evokes a reflective atmosphere that connects his early days performing at open-mic nights to his current artistic self. The listener experiences a gentle lullaby, portraying an artist who brings new perspective to cherished memories.

Balancing creativity with newfound responsibilities as a father has reshaped how Graves approaches his craft. In April 2023, he married fellow musician Stephanie Hunt and welcomed their first child in 2024. This monumental change has imbued his work with a sense of structure reminiscent of the boundaries that often accompany parenthood. “I had all these nice constraints where I’m like, ‘I only have this long,’” he shared, recognising how those limitations fostered creativity during the recording process.

The production itself reflects this human touch. Much of the album was recorded at his home, employing tape machines and improvised setups that celebrate the spontaneity of live recording. Some songs were even laid down on his patio, where natural elements became part of the audio landscape. “You can hear the wind blowing on the mics, and it creates all sorts of weird, uncontrollable inconsistencies,” he noted, illustrating how these characteristics contribute to the album’s warmth.

Graves views the seemingly laissez-faire process of creating ‘Fondness, Etc.’ as both effortless and healing, particularly in contrast to more formal studio recordings. He believes this album represents his current state both personally and artistically, showcasing the nuanced challenges and progress he navigates in his career. “I have trouble believing that progress is just an upwards incline,” he reflected, hinting at the loop-like nature of personal growth.

One constant remains in Graves’ journey: a willingness to learn and explore. “I’ve always just followed my curiosities,” he affirmed. With ‘Fondness, Etc.’ set for release on May 15, listeners can expect a collection of heartfelt songs that resonate with life’s fleeting moments, crafted with sincerity and intimacy that is distinctly Shakey Graves. The album is available on all major streaming platforms, marking another chapter in the evolution of an artist dedicated to capturing the essence of life’s sweetest uncertainties.