INTERVIEW: Das Kope
All photographs by Tony Lam
BY TONY LAM | 9/07/2022
Das Kope is a Brazilian-born artist specializing in psychedelic pop. Das Kope (derived from the word “Kaleidoscope”) is the definition of a “solo artist:'' he's his own writer, producer, and designs his own visuals for shows. He’s brilliant and his music is unique, as well. Songs, such as “L.A.X.” and “Tiger” are some favorites that are definitely worth checking out!
Das Kope allowed us the opportunity to interview him after his show in Las Vegas where he opened for STRFKR. He walks us through his production process, his journey in music, and his goals in the industry.
Q: What inspired you to pursue music and the genre that you specialize in?
A: I think my original inspiration came from my interest in records and guitars that started when I was very young. The type of music I make comes from years of experimenting with recording techniques and writing. I have spent a lot of time alone messing around with sounds, guitar pedals, synths, and whatever I can get my hands on. That’s pretty much where I put most of my time.
Q: What artists helped shape and influence your music?
A: I’m influenced by so many artists. But it’s hard to say. When I started writing the songs for my first album I was listening to a lot of 60’s psychedelic, 60’s French pop, 70’s punk, 70’s Brazilian music, German avant-garde and some hip-hop and disco too.
Q: In terms of your career, what do you aspire to accomplish within the next year and what can we expect for the future?
A: I’ve been working on new music, and I can’t wait to start releasing some new singles. And yes, second album is coming too. Apart from music. I’ll also be making new music videos and animations as well.
Q: Regarding touring with STRFKR, how did this experience help you grow as an artist and how has it impacted your sound? Were there any notable moments on tour with them?
A: It was so great to be part of STFRKR’s 2022 tour. I opened for one of their tours in 2019. But this last one we played a lot more dates and I also got to play half of their set with them. So yeah, I played 2 shows every night! I feel so lucky that I got to sing my songs to audiences all over the US, at great venues that were always packed. Thank you STRFKR! Favorite Moment: Being at the merch table after the shows and meeting a lot of cool people (while also hanging out with Chance).
Q: With your song “Tiger”, what did the production process look like and what inspired you to create it?
A: The recording process for most of my songs are quite similar. I’m not a coffee guy really. I start my day with sleepy time tea, and throughout the day I have more sleepy time tea. I never thought about it, but maybe that’s why my recordings can get a bit woozy. Who knows. I started Tiger with some chords on a guitar. Lyrically that song is about solitary people in Los Angeles. When it came to producing it I wanted the sonics to feel like a chill house cat turning into a wild Tiger.