Welcome to another edition of our monthly music newsletter feature, where we highlight a local artist and upcoming shows from local acts. This month we interviewed a long-time DMV indie darling, Sunstoney, who recently moved to Colorado and dropped her latest EP last week. She shares what she misses about D.C., when she will perform locally, and her hopes of moving back.
🎙️ Spotlight: Sunstoney
Self-Described Sound:
Indie Pop
Background:
Ethiopian-American singer-songwriter Sunstoney grew up knowing she could carry a tune, but never thought much more of her talent. After her first real breakup when she moved to college in 2015, she decided to use her voice and lyricism for catharsis. Sunstoney began to write out all her heartache. Then, she started knocking on her friends’ doors to inquire about music software like GarageBand, Ableton, and Logic Pro, so she could learn to create and produce her own music.
Fast-forward a decade and another move — this time from D.C. to Colorado — and Sunstoney is back to expressing her emotions through song. Her new EP, “The Mirror is Calling,” which dropped April 26, explores her journey towards self-love and discovering herself apart from her friends and community in the District. Her ethereal dreamy pop sound adds a depth of intimacy and nostalgia throughout all five tracks.
Get To Know the Artist:
Your first EP was released in 2020, but you started making music in 2015. Why did you wait five years?
I was the girl that would perform in your basement but never had anything to show for it. I used to hoard my music. Now, I am addicted to putting songs out.
What was the catalyst for finally releasing music?
Losing my job in 2020. I said, “You know what? This is the most time I would ever have towards my art.” And that's how I did “In Your Apartment,” a lo-fi R&B breakup album.
With your new EP, “The Mirror is Calling” there is a through line of yearning in each song. Was that intentional?
Yes, I am always f**king yearning. The song, “The Mirror is Calling,” I am yearning to come back to myself. When I moved across the country I had no distractions that I had in D.C. I was going through my own shit and I realized I needed to love myself and take some time to be alone because I didn’t know how.
Did you take anything away from creating this album?
I had to forgive my past self and consistently learn to be kind to myself. I’m always glamorizing my sadness. I'm bipolar. It's hard to move on and not be stuck in a certain mindset or look in the rearview mirror. When walking away from this record, I was like, “Girl it’s time to be happy. Being sad is not sexy. Spend more time figuring out what you like, or what you like to do when no one is around.”
“What’s It All For” is a song about breaking from daily monotony. Where did you go in D.C. to break free from the monotony?
Rhizome, Lyman’s Tavern, Jackpot Basement Bar, DC9, and Songbyrd.
What artists influence you the most?
Little Dragon (they’re my crack), Santigold, Yves Tumor, Crumb, Sugar Candy Mountain, Tame Impala, MGMT, Young the Giant, and Two Doors Cinema Club.
Local artists shoutout?
Tosser, licui, Sonic Eddy, Black Techno Matters, Hast du Feuer.
What do you miss about the District’s music scene?
What makes D.C. unique is everyone is down to collaborate and be on a bill together, even if they don't know you. If you show up and you're supportive people are super lovely. I was actually planning on moving back when my lease ended recently, but it costs so much to move back right now.
Last song you listened to on Spotify or a streaming service?
Hiatus Kaiyote, “Everything’s Beautiful.”
Next Show:
Follow:
Song to Check Out:
Sunstoney. (Julianna Photography)
🎟️ Other Upcoming Local Shows To See
- Flowerbomb (opening for PACKS) (Indie Rock) | May 5 | 8 p.m. | $15+| DC9
- Brandin St. Clair, Ruqqiyah (opening for Leone) (Neo-Soul )| May 10 |8 p.m. | $12+ | The Pocket
- S Y Z Y G Y X (opening for Godly the Ruly) (Synth-Pop) | May 11 | 10 p.m. | $22.25 | Comet Ping Pong
- Nova Twins (Hard Alt. Rock) | May 14 | 8 p.m. | $25.75 | Songbyrd
- Al Hostile (opening for serpentwithfeet) (R&B) | May 20 | 8 p.m. | $25+ | Union Stage
🎵 New Local Music Mentions
If you’re a fan of satire, punk rock anthems, and lecturing people on sustainable practices, this song is for you! Griefcat’s latest album, “Late Stage Capitalism,” is full of funny themes and lyrics, but this track turns it up to 11.
🎧 Your Local Playlist
Check out this Spotify playlist we made, featuring Sunstoney’s songs and inspirations, plus music by the other local bands above.
