Start Listening To: Fold Paper

Fold Paper's debut EP '4TO': a deep dive into the music and minds behind the post-punk powerhouse.

Hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Fold Paper is about to drop their debut EP, '4TO,' a collection of tracks that promise to resonate with intensity and authenticity. In this exclusive Q&A, we get an inside look at the creative process behind '4TO,' the inspiration for their lead single "Idle Idle," and the personal journey that fuels their music. From their influences and live performance insights to the vibrant support from the Winnipeg music scene, Fold Paper offers a candid and engaging conversation that’s as compelling as their sound.

For those unfamiliar with your music, can you tell us who you are, where you’re from and about the music you make?

I am Chell, lead vox and guitar for Fold Paper. Born in Nigeria, raised in Michigan, and based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I’m just a guy tryna write some sick rock tunes.

Your upcoming EP, '4TO,' is described as ambitious and vicious, tackling themes from hypocrites to absent support systems. How did these themes shape the songwriting and overall tone of the EP?

They didn’t lol. Those are not my descriptions, but the descriptions of someone who knows how to write a very good blog. I would say the tone of the EP came from a natural love of the post-punk genre. The themes came naturally from experiences and events. Although, it’s still written so that people can interpret the themes as they want (constructively).

"Idle Idle" is the lead single from '4TO,' described as thunderous and energetic. What inspired this particular track, and how does it set the stage for the rest of the EP?

Quite frankly, I wrote it about people who are supposed to be there for you and support you not doing those two things. So it’s kinda calling them out. I’ve dealt with that all my life being the black sheep in my family. As for the rest of the EP, the other songs are just as banging and complex as “Idle Idle”. 

Fold Paper is known for its raw and energetic brand of post-punk. How do you balance aggression with musicality in your songwriting and performances?

Honestly (in a british accent), I save the aggression for the stage. But when it comes to songwriting, half of it comes from my extensive knowledge of how music works. I listened to a lot of country music growing up. The other half comes from my passion (obsession) for music. 

You've shared the stage with bands like Pile, Holy Fuck, and Cola. How has performing alongside these artists influenced your approach to live shows and your music in general?

Watching people better than me or people who have done it longer just makes me better as a live musician. I’ve learned (stolen) so much from artists that I’ve watched; ideas, dance moves, body language, eye contact. I feel like every show I become a better performer. I even learn (steal) from myself. 

Your music has been praised for its dynamic and frenetic energy. How do you achieve such intensity in your recordings, and how does this translate into your live performances?

Hey, intensity is in the eye of the beholder. I feel like live performances are a different beast. I don’t really see them translating much. I feel like you have to bring a certain but different type of intensity to each.

Could you describe the collaborative process within Fold Paper? How do each band member's contributions shape the final sound and direction of your music?

Most of Fold Paper has been just me but since moving forward there have been a few songs that my band mates have been able to make infinitely better with their ideas. With that said, the process is usually me bringing in an almost fully finished idea and seeing what my band mates can contribute. As Fold Paper reaches its second year though, there will be, and already are, songs that my band mates have a full hand in creating >:(

'4TO' is your debut EP. What challenges did you face in creating this record, and what were some of the most rewarding moments during its production?

Time. Time time time. It almost seems like there’s never enough of it while in the studio. A huge rewarding moment was getting the finished product post mastering. It’s always great to see where a project like this starts and finishes. 

Winnipeg has a vibrant music scene. How has the local community and environment influenced Fold Paper's growth and evolution as a band?

Winnipeg has been so accommodating and beneficial in the development of Fold Paper. The scene has been so receptive to the music and I truly believe it would be harder for us to be where we are if it wasn’t for the truly constructive Winnipeg scene. 

The EP artwork and single artwork for "Idle Idle" convey a distinct visual style. How does visual art complement your music, and what role does aesthetic play in your overall presentation as a band?

I tend to like what most people come up with artistically. That's one thing I’m very thankful for; how easily I flow with art. I can’t wait for y’all to see the video for “Come Down Awkward”. As for aesthetic in our presentation as a band, I think we’re a pretty cool looking band. 

What do you love right now?

I love Fortnite! (Add me Chelly101)

What do you hate right now?

I bloody hate onions. 

Name an album you’re still listening to from when you were younger and why it’s still important to you? 

Contra by Vampire Weekend. Why is it still important? Because it was life-changing. LIFE ALTERING. Such good and nostalgic music. 

Looking beyond '4TO,' what are your aspirations for Fold Paper's future?

I wanna crowd surf at a Fold Paper show to be honest.