Interview: Steve Mahabir Release's New Album "Peace Love War & Hate"

What inspired the theme or concept behind this album?

As the curse goes, may you live in interesting times. I don’t think anyone is untouched by the state of the crazy world we currently live in. As an artist this record is my therapy.

Were there any particular events or emotions that shaped the songwriting?

The record is a reaction to the wars raging in the world and the internal ones inside of me. Whether it’s displaced people, or love lost, there were many inspirations. I don’t like to get too specific in the explanation because in my experience the music resonates more when it is not labelled too specifically. 

Were there any challenges you faced during the recording process?

We lost our producer - my dear friend and recording legend, the late Peter J Moore. The two of us spent countless hours on songwriting and pre-production for this album. I miss him dearly. We were fortunate to have additional recording and engineering done by George Guerra, with additional production by legendary producer Terry Brown (Rush, The Who, Donovan). 

Which track was the most fun to create, and why?

‘Go To Hell’. Punk rock roots run deep.

Did any collaborations influence the sound or direction of this project?

Even though I am considered an emerging solo artist, I’ve spent a long career playing with many talented collaborators. This record is a reflection of a life lived. It sounds like I sound. The inspiration comes from decades of making music with talented people. 

Did you experiment with any new techniques, instruments, or styles on this record?

I’ve been doing this a long time, so I tend to stick to what feels true. But we did bring in some

AI videos.

How do you feel this album represents your evolution as a band?

I feel like it’s an evolution. Natural and organic as I grow and evolve as a songwriter. I took my time with this project. I only write when I have something to say. I have no interest in making something that sounds forced. 

What do you hope your fans take away from this album?

A shared connection. You aren’t alone. We are going through it. We’re gonna get through it together. 

Have fans influenced the direction of your music or this album in any way?

The success of the first album is entirely responsible for the second. A lot of people only make one solo record. I felt inspired by the support the first record got.

What can fans expect from your upcoming tour or album release events?

There will definitely be some live music in the near future. The problem with working with extremely talented people is that they have busy schedules. But all shows will be announced on my socials.

https://linktr.ee/SteveMahabir

Do you have any music videos planned for the album? What can you share about them?

We have a new video for the song ‘Go To Hell’ coming out. Directed by filmmaker Rob Stefaniuk (Suck/Phil the Alien). It’s a hybrid of performance and AI. A lot of people are on the fence with AI. But we’re using it to make art that otherwise wouldn’t exist. So, it can’t be all bad. I mean how many indie artists have a helicopter in their video?

If you could describe this album in three words, what would they be?

How about four words? Peace, Love, War & Hate. 

Is there a specific moment during the album’s creation that you’ll always remember?

There’s a big note at the end of ‘Away’. A long-sustained note that was a little intimidating for a veteran rocker like me. But then right before hitting record, the late, great Peter J. Moore said to me, “Give me a good one, Steve, this one’s for Elvis”.

Do you have a tour booked or is one being booked to promote the album?

Working on dates.

Anything Else That You'd Like the Fans to Know.

It can be a crazy world out there. Be nice to each other.