Mayday 13 Interview: Decoding His Latest Album ‘Cryptograms’

Mayday 13, the enigmatic solo indie-rock artist, makes waves with the release of his highly anticipated second album, Cryptograms. The album features ten fresh tracks that navigate the complexities of life, capturing a wide range of emotions — from joy and sadness to frustration, anger, and fear. With a raw spontaneity, each song highlights Mayday 13’s unique blend of lyricism and musicality, creating a captivating and mysterious artistic expression.

Cryptograms is more than just an album; it’s a puzzle waiting to be solved. In keeping with the album’s mysterious nature, this hidden message remains concealed in the digital version, offering a special treat for collectors and fans.

Treating us especially, Brian Hadley joins us to decrypt the brain behind the project.

How would you describe your own music?

Brian Hadley: “I would say that my music is a combination of all the musical influences I had throughout my life. I have heard people say my music is like a throwback to ’90s alternative, which I agree with. I have heard elements of ’80s music, which I also agree with. Modern rock (Bloc Party, Killers, Arcade Fire). There are also aspects of more modern genres like French indie which for those not familiar are bands like M83 and Phoenix. I think with some of my earlier music that was true.

“The new album has a bit less of that. I think. I like to change it up. And I don’t try to force a song into a style or genre. I kind of go wherever it takes me, and if I like the outcome I run with it. My latest album varies quite a bit in style and for me that’s ok. I have heard that you want to find your sound and focus on that, but why can’t ‘your sound’ be a mix of different genre subgenres, right?”

Tell us about your most Cryptograms. What was your experience of making it? What went on behind the scenes? Any notable moments that stand out?

“I set out to start putting together songs for a new album last October. I was actually playing a live show to support my previous album Dreaming Is Easy which came out in 2023 and wanted to add a couple of new songs to the live set. Those songs were “Submarine” and “The Way.” Those songs got a really positive reaction so I knew I had to get recordings done asap, that really started Cryptograms. Right from the start this album felt very different from my first. It felt a lot less forced and the songs had a bit more of a rock edge overall which I am quite happy with.”

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

“There are so many artists I would love to collaborate with. (Thom and Johnny) of Radiohead, Bon Iver, M83 — those are obviously heads in the clouds. Wishlist artists, but those are the top three that come to mind. They are so creative; I feel like any collaboration with those artists could not fail.”

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

“This is an easy one. I would make it less dependent on social media. I feel the music should speak for itself. I’m not a fan of how your success in the industry is all about how many followers you have on social media or the content you post. It’s a real struggle for me. There is just so much noise on those platforms. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate social media for what it is. There are some really really creative people on Instagram and TikTok. However, I don’t feel that necessarily translates into being a good musician or songwriter.

“The industry now, while more accessible in some ways because of social media, also has newer obstacles and locked doors, as a result. The old music industry was about who you know. The new industry is about how many people you know or know you.”

Do you ever get stage fright? What’s your solution for it?

“I tend to get stage fright playing in front of a very small intimate crowd of people I know. I have played in front of large crowds and always feel like there are too many people to notice that one guy or girl (or 20) with a judgy look (laughs). But when you play for a small group of friends or relatives it’s the opposite. I notice everything and everyone and feel like they do too. I worry if I hit a bad note and see a face reflect that it just kills it for me. It kills energy and makes me more self-conscious.”

Cover Art for ‘Cryptograms’ by Mayday 13

What are you still trying to figure out?

“How to navigate the new music industry and grow my following. How to find new fans and really connect with them. This industry is so dependent on social media and I’m not the greatest on social media. I’m trying to learn, but honestly, I’d rather just talk to people in real life. I love talking to people.”

For years, albums and, generally, all new music have been dropped on Tuesdays. Now, it’s typically Fridays. What are your thoughts on the change?

“So, I actually read about this last year when trying to decide when the best day to drop my album was. I read this is all because of Beyoncé. That she is the reason for the change and wanting to drop an album on a Friday. It did so well that it changed the model for the entire industry. As far as how I feel I guess what better way to start a weekend off than listening to new music.”

If you had an unlimited budget, where and with whom would you record your record? What about production and mastering? And why?

“Rick Rubin, he has worked with the best. I love his whole persona and his book really changed my perspective on a lot of things, music and otherwise. Nigel Godrich, who is responsible for producing my favourite album of all time, would love to see what direction he would take my songs. For mastering, I would use Metropolis or Abbey Road. They are the best of the best, pretty much an industry standard. I have used Metropolis in the past and they were fantastic.”

Politics and music. Yay, nay or what the hay?

“So, this is a tough one for me. I have my views and I discuss them with friends and family, As an artist, it is your right to use your platform how you see fit, However, I would not want to alienate people who are just out to listen to music and distract themselves from all the drama of life. I think the point of music is to help people find an escape. So, I would kind of just keep my politics to myself. Also, it could turn potential fans away. Music is for everyone, regardless of your political affiliation.”

What are your touring plans for when the new music drops?

“No plans just yet. I just put a band together to perform songs from the new album. We have been rehearsing, and I’m very excited about the possibilities, but there is a ton of work to be done. I’m hoping to start lining up some shows in the very near future. Currently, I am without a booking agent so I will have to try and figure out how best to navigate this going forward.”

Tell us about your experience going it alone as an artist. How hard is it to get your music distributed, promoted, shared, etc?

“It’s been an adventure. Self-releasing an album is no small task. It is a ton of work. The administrative aspect of putting out an album seems endless. There are services that make it much easier, however, there are so many steps to do it right. I would recommend trying to find a company with experience to help guide you through the process if possible.

“On the other hand, there is a real sense of accomplishment once you get this done. Once the album is out you can sit back and relax… for about five minutes, then you must start promoting yourself which is an even greater task. Being an indie artist is endless work but being a solo indie artist is nearly impossible. Hats off to anyone out there going it alone and actually finding success if you are that individual and you are reading this. Please reach out and teach me your ways (laughs). Seriously, though.”