by Mike Wheaton
Springer’s unique fashion style matches the band’s unique sound.
Harry Springer is no stranger to the rock scene. He was the guitarist of the Colorado-based band The Midnight Club, which relocated to Los Angeles in 2020, hoping to find more opportunities for their music. But then the pandemic hit, and everything changed.
Springer found himself stuck at home, unable to play live shows or collaborate with other musicians. He decided to try creating songs for sound libraries, which supply music for movies and TV shows. He thought it would be an excellent way to earn money and practice his skills.
But something unexpected happened. As he was writing songs inspired by his idols like Jack White, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, and T-Rex, he realized that he had a lot of things to say; thoughts that he didn’t want to give away to someone else.
“I sold some, and it was going fine, but then I wrote some songs, and I was like, ‘I don’t want to give these away,’” he says.
That’s how Moon Walker was born; a solo project that allowed Springer to express his political views, his sarcasm, his mysticism, and his love for fuzzed-out ‘70s rock. He played all the instruments, sang all the vocals, and produced all the tracks in his bedroom. He also recruited his friend Sean McCarthy to play drums on some songs.
The result was Truth to Power, a seven- track album that quickly gained attention on TikTok and earned praise from The Darkness’s Justin Hawkins. The album showcases Springer’s versatility as a songwriter and performer, from the catchy anthem “Tax the Churches” to the psychedelic ballad “The Attack of Mirrors.”
The songwriter and performer says that Moon Walker is what he was always meant to do. “I think this is what I was always getting towards, at least in my music-making journey,” he says. “I was always meant to sound like this and look like this. … It happened naturally in the context of the most unnatural thing ever.”
Moon Walker performs live at the Mercury Lounge in New York City.
Started Songs For Sound Libraries
The musician says he learned a lot from making songs for sound libraries. He had to follow specific guidelines and formats and adapt to different genres and styles. He also had to sign away any rights to his music when he sold it.
“It was a good exercise for me as a musician,” he says. “It helped me develop my skills and my ear. But it also made me realize I wanted more control over my music. “
Springer says he started writing more personal and original songs reflecting his influences and opinions. He says that he was influenced by the political and social turmoil of 2020 and wanted to make music that spoke to that.
“I wanted to make honest and raw music,” he says, “music that has a message and a purpose.”
Springer Drew From His Idols And Views
He grew up listening to classic rock bands like Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, and T-Rex. He says that he admired their creativity and their charisma, as well as their musical prowess.
“I love how they blended different genres and elements,” he says. “They were not afraid to experiment and try new things.”
He also looked up to Jack White, one of his favorite modern rock artists. He says that he was inspired by White’s guitar playing, his songwriting, and his attitude.
“He’s a genius,” he says. “He’s always pushing the boundaries of rock music. He’s also very outspoken and authentic.”
He wanted to emulate these artists by creating unique and distinctive music. He says he also wanted to infuse his music with his views and beliefs, often critical and sarcastic.
“I’m not a fan of organized religion or capitalism or any of the systems that oppress people,” he says. “I like to poke fun at them and expose their hypocrisy.”
Some of his songs have been misunderstood or misinterpreted by some listeners, who have accused him of being conservative or offensive. He says he uses sarcasm to convey his message, but some people don’t get it.
“I’m not trying to offend anyone,” he says. “I’m just trying to make people think and question things.”
Plans To Keep Making Diverse
And Adventurous Music
He is not planning to stop making music anytime soon. He says he has already finished his second album, which he expects to release soon. He says the new album will be even more diverse and adventurous than the first one.
“I tried to explore different sounds and genres,” he says. “I have some peppier songs, some that are funkier, some that are heavier. I also have some songs that are more personal and emotional.”
Springer hopes his music will reach more people and inspire them to follow their creative passions. He wants to show that anyone can make music, even in difficult circumstances.
“I made this music in my bedroom with a laptop and a guitar,” he says. “I didn’t have a big budget or a big team. I just had a vision and a drive.”
He is grateful for the support and feedback that he has received from his fans and peers. He says he is always open to collaborating and learning from other artists. He says he is also looking forward to playing live shows again after the pandemic.
“I can’t wait to get back on stage and share my music with people,” he says. “I think that’s the best part of being a musician. ”
Moon Walker is not just a band name but a state of mind. He says that it represents his attitude and his philosophy of life.
“Moon Walker means being yourself, being free, being adventurous,” he says. “It means walking on the moon, where anything is possible.”
See Moon Walker Live
Larimer Lounge Presents Moon Walker with Annabel Lee on Tuesday, June 20. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show begins at 8 p.m. Cost is $15 per ticket for ages 16 and up. To purchase tickets online, visit https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/3229296/moon-walker-denver-larimer-lounge.
