Following the release of his 20-track deluxe album 'Axel Stallion Myths Edition,' Flex caught up with Spanish indie artist Lower Mars to find out what influences his sound. Known for his immersive soundscapes and captivating storytelling Lower Mars has pushed boundaries with 'Axel Stallion Myths Edition,' a concept album that interweaves a medieval fantasy narrative that's sure to enthrall audiences. If you enjoy Lower Mars' picks be sure to check out 'Axel Stallion Myths Edition,' at the end of the article.
1. Kelsey Lu – Rebel
I have to start with a huge inspiration: Kelsey Lu. I looped this song—and the whole album—so much, and I’m still not tired of it. It’s just beautiful. Rebel was a huge influence on My 1, especially in the ambient strings and the long vibratos in her voice. But beyond that, she changed the way I see music. I once heard her say that she started looking at music as this powerful tool when it was collaborative, and that really stuck with me. It made me want to approach my own music the same way—seeking out people who elevate what Lower Mars is to me.
2. Caroline Polachek - Gambler’s Prayer
I loved this album so much I showed it to everyone I met when it dropped. I first fell for Caroline during So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings, but after this album, I couldn’t take my earplugs out. Gambler’s Prayer is the kind of song that just works at any moment. Whether I’m sad or happy, it soothes me in such a beautiful way.
3. Houdini - Kate Bush
What can I even say? She’s an icon. But beyond that, she played a massive role in shaping Axel Stallion. After hearing Houdini, I called Mothware and told him we had to listen to the whole album together. It was such an experience. This song made me see how a voice can act as an instrument in ways I hadn’t fully grasped before. It was on loop while Mothware and I created Witch’s Lair.
4. My 2 - Arca
I love Arca. And I loved the absolute chaos of her dropping an album every two days or so—wild. But I was there, listening, absorbing all those worlds she was creating. My 2 took my breath away from the first listen. I can’t even explain exactly why, but the fierceness in it is unreal.
5. Sad Day - FKA Twigs
We’re really talking about high-pitched voices in this list, damn. But yeah, this song has been on loop since the day it dropped. Funny thing is, I didn’t even realize how much it influenced My 1 until I listened to it again with Mothware not too long ago. I’m so connected to FKA Twigs’ art that I didn’t realize how much she’s shaped my music. She’s the queen.
Listen to Lower Mars 'Axel Stallion Myths Edition'
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