Recently I was able to connect with the lead vocalist of Sleeping With Sirens, Kellin Quinn, to discuss his great new solo project called Haunted Mouths. The project was produced by Aaron Marsh of Copeland, and the two musicians also collaborated in the writing process found on the record, A Collection Of Greetings. In this interview, I asked Kellin about working with Aaron, the differences in writing for a solo project versus for Sleeping With Sirens, and how he thinks people will react to the music once they put their ears on it. A Collection of Greetings released last Friday, and is up on all streaming services here.
Thank you for your time today, Kellin! Your solo project, called Haunted Mouths, will be releasing its first record called A Collection of Greetings on February 14th. What is the meaning of the album title, and how do you think these songs encompass that theme?
Appreciate you having me! The album title name is a reference to an old cemetery “Mouth Cemetery” that my friends and I would frequent in Michigan. The album is a series of love letters so I thought to name it A Collection of Greetings. There’s something very sweet about the time and effort it takes to write and send a letter.
Let’s now discuss the first single called “Further Til We Disappear.” I really enjoyed the depth that you went into both lyrically and vocally on this track! What was the inspiration behind this key song on the record?
Thank you! This song was one of the first tracks recorded for the album.. and the lyrics are referencing things that my wife and I love! Example (“coffee beans and pumpkin tart”) is a reference to a cafe that she and I frequent and order a coffee and a pumpkin tart pastry.
I understand Aaron Marsh (of Copeland) produced and collaborated on the new LP. What was the overall experience like with writing/recording with Aaron?
Aaron is amazing! I’ve been a fan of Copeland for as long as I can remember and followed Aaron’s career! To be able to be in a room with him and watch the way he works and how he builds songs was an incredible experience.
Do you have any vivid memories from recording A Collection of Greetings that made you realize that taking the brave step out on your own for a solo record was the right decision?
I think just having the freedom to make something new with no expectations was what made me want to do this album. I’m honestly very pleased at what Aaron and I accomplished! It’s really a beautiful album.
What are the key differences in writing for Haunted Mouths than for Sleeping With Sirens?
Like I said before, having the freedom to create something without expectations was a key different in writing this album.
For longtime fans of your work, including myself, what do you hope listeners will take away from listening to A Collection of Greetings in full, front-to-back?
I hope that listeners enjoy it! I love that it offers another side of me that is different but also familiar. I think if Sirens fans love our acoustic and re-imagined songs then they will def love this album! Thanks, Adam!