Dorian Duvall released an album titled Mirror Gazer in 2012 under the artist name Onuinu. He was living in Portland, OR at the time, and the label that released his album folded shortly after it was released. Now, that 2012 album has been re-issued by Fresh Selects and Duvall is also back with his first official release of new music in five years, "On My Way," premiering below.
Now using the artist name Mirror Gazer, Duvall explains how his creative process has changed since his last release. "I've been writing more songs with the guitar and I'm taking more inspiration from my older influences of rock and alternative music," he says. "I still use a lot of the same equipment, I'm just going for something more emotional and personal these days."
Writing, producing, and playing all the instruments, "On My Way" is a reflection of Duvall's vision as an artist, and we can't wait to hear more new music. Listen to the 2012 album here and learn a little more about the artist and his move from Portland to New York below.
Tell us about your journey from 2012's Mirror Gazer to this new single?
It's been an interesting journey, moving from Portland, OR to NYC. Adjusting to a new city can be a struggle. I've grown a lot, I've learned to open up more, which was somewhat difficult for me in the past. As far as music goes, I've always been writing. I never thought it would take this long to have another proper release. I'm happy to be putting something out into the world after so many years, I feel like it's been long overdue.
Why did you decide to move to Brooklyn?
I felt like it was time for a change, I had been living in Portland for awhile and had been talking about moving for years. I thought NYC would help me gain some perspective, I also have family out here.
What does "On My Way" mean to you and what do you want listeners to take from it?
To me the song is about a person hoping a relationship will work, but that person is holding back out of fear of being hurt. So they're kind of destroying the possibility of maybe something great ever happening, while trying to remain positive and hoping things naturally come together. But in the process of waiting they're indulging in destructive behavior to cope with it all. Listeners can take whatever they want from the song, it's up to them, I just hope they enjoy it.
