Ian Cobiella Premieres the Music Video for His Sincere Single “Trial By Fire”

There’s a familiar formula with a lot of singer-songwriters, but Ian Cobiella is more intent on carving his own niche. He brings a lot of originality to his songwriting, blending sounds and styles towards devising something original that feels true to him as an artist.

Today, he debuts the music video for his new single “Trial By Fire.” Both the song and video feature a very personal touch. The song is very revealing, like an inside look into Cobiella’s life and spirit. With thoughtful lyrics and a reflective tone, Cobiella considers the courage required to go all in, while also accepting the outcomes without bitterness or regret. Even if the opposite outcome from your expectations presents itself, you have to find a way to be fine with it. Being uncomfortable can be good sometimes, and “Trial By Fire” is about being ok with that potential discomfort, or even disappointment.

Commenting on the song, Cobiella states:

“‘Trial By Fire’ came from looking back at my past without trying to do damage control or clean it up. I was thinking a lot about what it means to give everything you have and not pretend it didn’t hurt. The song is about sitting in that outcome and accepting it for what it is. I believe there’s real love and courage in making declarations, even when you know they won’t be reciprocated. There’s a weird kind of peace that shows up when you stop arguing with the result. I just want the production to reflect that same honesty.”

Cobiella is a Los Angeles-based artist. He’s less traditional than your average singer-songwriter, which has a lot to do with his background and training. He comes from a Cuban-Bolivian background, so naturally he grew up with the musical influences of his own culture. But rather than growing up and learning his craft on an acoustic guitar, Cobiella is a classically trained musician. He grew up learning classical piano, which he has combined with his own cultural influences. He also draws influence from folk and alternative music, bringing many musical worlds together. As a songwriter, he lets emotional honesty lead the way. That’s promoted and reinforced with the production of his songs, which favour intimacy over excess.

As a songwriter and as a person, Cobiella is ok with things being a little uneven. We’re human, and missteps are just a part of the game. So we may as well accept it.

Ian Cobiella “Trial By Fire” single artwork