Exclusive Interview: Pilo Releases G.L.A.M.

Pilo’s latest album, G.L.A.M., is more than a collection of tracks—it’s a bold statement of identity, transformation, and artistic vision. Delving into themes of empowerment and self-actualization, the album reflects Pilo’s personal journey while pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance music. With a fusion of nostalgia and cutting-edge sound design, G.L.A.M. invites listeners to explore their individuality and find strength in their uniqueness.

At first glance, the title G.L.A.M. evokes a sense of boldness and allure, but its meaning extends far deeper. “G.L.A.M. stands for 'Giving Love, Asking Myself,'” Pilo explains. “It’s about unlocking your inner superstar and embracing all facets of yourself.” The title captures the spirit of the album—an ode to authenticity in an era dominated by fleeting trends and constant comparison.

Pilo’s journey toward self-actualization serves as the album’s emotional core. “With G.L.A.M., I wanted to refine a sound that has resonated with me since the beginning,” he shares. This vision permeates the album, offering a deeply personal narrative that mirrors his growth as an artist and as an individual.

A hallmark of G.L.A.M. is its ability to evoke nostalgia while remaining firmly grounded in the present. Drawing inspiration from the electroclash era of the early 2000s, Pilo pays homage to pioneers like Fischerspooner, Felix Da Housecat, and Miss Kittin & The Hacker. Yet, rather than replicating the past, he reimagines it through a contemporary lens.

“My process isn’t about direct references; it’s about reconnecting with the feelings those songs stirred in me,” Pilo explains. He uses these emotions as a foundation, then builds upon them with modern sound design techniques. “Once the foundation of a track is laid, I push it further—distorting it, running it through effects, or remixing it until it becomes something entirely new.”

This approach is evident in tracks like “Superstar DJ” and “Girls Rule the World,” which embody themes of confidence and empowerment. “The glamorous, hedonistic energy of electroclash is so much fun to play with—it’s bold, unapologetic, and celebrates individuality,” Pilo says. These tracks not only showcase his skill as a producer but also his ability to craft narratives that resonate on a universal level.

Known for his experimental edge, Pilo has built his reputation as a boundary-pushing sound designer. With G.L.A.M., he sought to strike a delicate balance between sonic innovation and accessible songwriting. “My goal was to create rich textures and intricate layers while maintaining a melodic foundation that feels inviting,” he explains.

Collaborating with artists like Scopa, Sana, and DEEVIOUS, Pilo further refined his sound. “They helped me simplify certain elements, creating space for the vocals to shine,” he notes. This collaborative spirit shines in tracks like “Spend the Night,” where pop sensibilities merge seamlessly with experimental depth, resulting in a track that is both catchy and complex.

Pilo’s meticulous approach extends to every aspect of the album’s production. “I love resampling and creating textures that feel alive, but I’ve learned to trust simplicity when it serves the song,” he shares. This philosophy is central to the album’s success, allowing each track to feel both polished and emotionally raw.

Each track on G.L.A.M. serves as a chapter in Pilo’s personal and artistic journey. Take “Loverboy,” for example—a nostalgic nod to his high school days and the indie sleaze era. “It’s about embracing that part of myself as a strength, not a weakness,” Pilo reveals. “Loverboy isn’t just a song; it’s a lifestyle.”

Other tracks, like “A Slow Thinning Halo,” delve into darker, introspective themes. Inspired by the isolation of lockdown, the song features haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes. “It’s about navigating the stillness and finding meaning in the quiet,” Pilo explains.

The album’s closing track, “One Last Embrace,” is perhaps its most poignant. Born from a dream inspired by a late friend, the song blends ethereal vocals with layered harmonies to create a sonic tribute to memory and loss. “I wanted to push the boundaries of vocal manipulation, creating a choir of voices that play off each other,” Pilo shares. “It’s about crafting a soundscape that resonates with others while staying true to my vision.”

G.L.A.M. isn’t just an auditory experience—it’s a multimedia project that extends into visual storytelling. Pilo collaborated with a team of filmmakers to produce a mini-film that accompanies the album. “The film explores the album’s themes through a surreal, dreamlike narrative,” he says. Released on BNR’s YouTube channel, the project adds another layer to the G.L.A.M. experience, inviting fans to immerse themselves fully in Pilo’s world.

As Pilo reflects on the journey that led to G.L.A.M., he feels a renewed sense of clarity and purpose. “For the first time, I feel like I really know where I am and where I want to go,” he shares. Plans for the future include live performances, more visual projects, and a continued focus on songwriting.

“I’ve already crafted a full live set for the album, and I’m excited to take it on the road,” Pilo reveals. He’s also exploring new collaborations and experimenting with different genres, aiming to build upon the world he’s created with G.L.A.M.

With its blend of nostalgic influences, innovative production, and deeply personal storytelling, G.L.A.M. is more than an album—it’s a testament to Pilo’s growth as an artist and as an individual. “This album says the most about who I am and what I stand for,” he affirms. For fans and newcomers alike, G.L.A.M. offers a transformative listening experience that is as bold and dynamic as Pilo himself.