Inside the Bug Machine
With her latest single, “Bug Machine,” Sub DeVillain invites listeners into a world that feels intimate and surreal. We caught up with her to talk about the song, her creative process, and the influences behind her work.
What exactly is a bug machine?
A Bug Machine is a representation of my mind in the state I was in while writing the song. I felt like I was in a mindset where I felt as if I was constantly criticizing and looking at myself "bug eyed" and through a lens of perception that felt odd and out of place and time.
When writing, do you usually start with a lyric, a melody, or just an interesting sound that you want to chase?
When writing, I typically start with a lyric or concept and then follow from there. But I really like being able to build out an idea completely… that's what makes music so fulfilling and satisfying to me.
Photo by Marley Chaney
Your influences cover a pretty wide spectrum, from Joni Mitchell to Radiohead. Who do you think has had the biggest impact on your work?
I think the biggest impact on my work has, as of late, been Abby Sage. But definitely my roots are with musicians like Joni through my writing style and Radiohead through the way I visualize and express more sonic aspects of my work.
What non-musical art do you find most inspiring?
I definitely find sculpture to be the most interesting non-musical art. Especially more surrealist aspects in art. I also have always resonated a lot with more stream-of-conscious writing in poetry or journals.
Any sculptors or poets in particular?
Yes! I love Agua Viva by Clarice Lispector and frank: sonnets by Diane Seuss. As for sculptors, I think what Abby Sage does with the visual art she creates to pair with her music is incredible.