Inside VOLK: Mark Mallet on Inspiration, AI, and the Connection Between Artist and Listener.
- Editorial Board
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
The artist behind VOLK discusses hearing melodies in unexpected places, using technology to shape his sound, the energy of a packed dance floor, and the evolution of his forthcoming project, VOLK D’va
Today we have the pleasure to have VOLK (MM) here on Goathead.
GHR: What inspired you to write music?
VOLK (MM): What inspired me to write music? I've always loved music, many times moved to tears by it. I would write songs in my head. I would even play them on guitar. Long ago....The desire to put that which moves me, into physical form music. Driving in solitude for example, in the rain, I would hear melodies to the beat of windshield wipers. Putting lyrics to that. Crazy as it sounds. Inspiration to be sure. And it comes in many forms. I't drives me. Also the desire that feeling the music creates. The experience.
GHR: How do you use AI in your creative process?
VOLK (MM): I use AI to get a base with a song and lyrics as many artists do now. Then I will after some time usually make the changes I have in mind as to how the final sound should be and the lyrics work. I concentrate on the beginning of a song and always the choruses. If the song doesn't touch me or move me, it's scrapped and I move on. Not always perfect but my audience is important to me. Once the basis is solid and I feel it's right. Everything is stripped down and remastered in DAW to the best standards I can achieve.
GHR: How would you describe your songwriting process?
VOLK (MM): My song writing process is inspiration driven. Sometimes from an idea, an experience, a saying, but always mine. Granted I use AI to assist in the musical end. But the lyrics tell a story. And I try to keep it relatable to my listeners.
GHR: What motivates you most as an artist?
VOLK (MM): I won't lie to you, having money is good. Not the primary reason for me. To share the experience. I want to be adored by my listeners. There is no better feeling than running DJ in a big dance hall, and watching the whole crowd hit a groove to your song, then erupt in dance raising their hands. And as an artist I can't help but groove with them. It's like magic. I'm totally hooked on that feeling. The audience (and my) experience. Money can't buy that. Symbiosis with the listener. Not an egotistical thing.
GHR: What can listeners expect from your next project?
VOLK (MM): My next project is more of a continuation of what I started in Volk 1. Applying here what I learned in Volk 1 to write better songs. It is about the experience, whatever that may be. how it makes them and(and me) feel. Below is a draft for Volk D'va or 2. That album feels better than the last....
Volk is a project of Mark Mallet.
Don’t forget to follow VOLK (MM) and listen to his music on all streaming platforms.
