[Interview] SNAILS Discusses His Return, Inspiration & Coping During COVID-19

As you know, the novel coronavirus pandemic has greatly affected our beloved community. While many artists have chosen to welcome this impromptu pause from their usual lifestyles, SNAILS has taken this opportunity to reevaluate his life as a whole. 

Last year, the Canadian producer collaborated with SVDDEN DEATH for their chart-climber 'DEATHMATCH.' On February 3, 2021, after more than a year's hiatus, the Montreal native released his first original, 'FROGKIND', leaving his fans eagerly anticipating what's to follow. 

Frédérik Durand, professionally known as SNAILS, had been hinting that some considerable changes would come into play during the past few months. His fans quickly caught wind of these exciting developments thanks to the significant shift in his visual aesthetic on his socials. 

After hearing the highly-anticipated release, we believe it undeniably embodies the essence of his artistic journey thus far. The deep drops, texture and organic sounds took us right back to the early days of his career. Bless your ears by giving it a listen, if you haven't already.

We're beyond stoked to hear the complete upcoming EP! While we all *im*patiently wait for that day, we decided to reach out to the man himself. We dove right in by asking him about his brief hiatus, specifically what projects he had been up to and what has kept him inspired throughout the pandemic.

It was a pleasure touching base with the creative mastermind behind "vomitstep." We look forward to seeing Durand play a live show once again (hopefully in the near future), especially with an arsenal of new music he's been sitting on. Without further ado, check out our exclusive interview below!

1) Can you walk us through the creation process for your newest single, and why you believe it will set the tone for your captivating new branding?

I wanted to get back to my roots. So, I started by revisiting my older projects to really capture the essence of what the SNAILS sound is. I sat down and worked hard for an entire year on this new SNAILS sound method. It’s heralding to return to my roots; but, there are plenty of exciting new twist, all while I stay true to my sound. 

2) We can’t wait to hear the rest of your EP! What details can you share in its entirety? If COVID wasn’t a thing, what would be your dream venue to premiere it at?

I have to keep it a secret, but you’re in for a treat! It’ll be weirder and snail-ier. I love Red Rocks - I can’t wait to play there again.

3) As you know, inspiration comes in many forms. Which elements in your surroundings influence you the most?

I get a lot of my creativity from visual mediums, like comic books and video games. My emotions are so tied into what I am reading or playing. I really get a lot of my creativity from diving into other worlds that people have created.

4) Pandemic life can be tricky. We hope the curfew in Quebec hasn’t caused you too much grief. What’s the first thing you’d like to do when it’s lifted?

I cannot wait to be able to see my fans again, but it’s important to be careful and remember that we are all staying home to keep our loved ones safe.

5) Lastly, is there a misconception that people think of you that you wish to clear up, or anything else you’d like to share with The Flag Gang?

I want my Slime Gang/Vomit Squad to know just how thankful I am for the continued love and support. You guys are the reason I get up in the morning. I can’t wait to see your smiling faces in the crowd once again. There were a lot of ups and downs in 2020, but I've worked hard to turn each of those experiences into a learning lesson for myself, both personally and professionally.