Americana singer-songwriter Holly Lerski sat down recently with @skopemag to talk about her gorgeous new album, “Sweet Decline.”
@skopemag: Tell us about your new album.
Holly Lerski: It started with a bucket list American road trip I took in 2019 to get over a broken heart. I took the California Zephyr from Chicago to San Francisco, then picked up a car and tried to see as many National Parks as possible before heading for my final destination, Big Sur. I went back two months later and did it again – ended up with an album and a story and realized I had to share it. I wanted to get the message out to people there is life after heartbreak – you just have to get out there and connect with life.
@skopemag: How do you feel about releasing this album?
Holly: I feel a huge sense of relief and joy. This has been an epic, five-year journey. When I set off, I never planned to write an album. I was just trying to find some way to rebuild my life. I’d decided I’d go out there and say yes to everything. I spoke with everyone I met, tried to engage with them in an authentic way. It was a complete conscious change of attitude toward life, and I was met by nothing but the kindness of strangers. And all these crazy synchronicities and songs.
@skopemag: How would you describe your music?
Holly: It’s very emotional. It does seem to connect with people on a deep level, maybe because it’s real? None of it is made up. If you can be that honest and it helps people connect with similar feelings, it can only be a good thing. I was also told recently it’s like getting a warm hug – which I love because this is why I do it. I want to make people feel better and not alone. I had many times growing up I was alone; the big breakup took me back to that time. Music saved me. That’s what I’d like my music to be for someone.
