When artists collectively enter their zone, magical things can happen. For Austin, Texas-based trio Fort Never, that magic is their own Never-Neverland, a place where their creative energies combine and soar, and where beautiful music is made.
In 2017, Fort Never frontperson Chantell Moody and Producers Timmie Rook and Dean Cote released their collective debut project Home, an electronic-heavy work that displayed various angles of the band’s personality. The meaning of “home” was woven intricately into the lyrics and production. “To me, it was like finding home no matter where you were,” Timmie says of the work. “Putting that project together was very therapeutic for us.”
Their upcoming project boasts a stronger identity, though a willingness to take more risks. “This new record is more about letting loose,” Timmie continues. “We’ve finally found ourselves, but now it’s about losing ourselves.”
Tracks like “We Keep Catching Fire” hold a strong, socially conscious meaning. “It’s all about how women keep catching fire for things that shouldn’t be up for discussion,” Chantell explains. “It’s about women’s rights and standing in solidarity.” Other tracks like “May You Always” detail life’s obstacles and searching for that light at the end of the tunnel. There’s meaning, but there’s also fun. It’s a perfect balance from a band of friends. “We’re more than a band,” Deano says, “It’s a friendship, and I think it comes through in the music. The more we record and the more we do it, the more we become ourselves through our music.”
As they ready their new album, their live shows tie it all together. Fort Never is bigger than just a band, it’s a place to be yourself. “I want people to feel like when they come to our shows it’s a safe space,” Chantell concludes. “Everyone is welcome here.”
RIYL: Portishead, FKA Twigs, Bjork, Little Dragon, Hiatus Kaiyote
