Through the eyes of his students, Westmark explores life’s major and minor moments with both tenderness and insight — adopting their perspectives while unmistakably leaving his own mark on the result.

”In my work as a songwriting mentor, I began observing my students and used them as inspiration for the lyrics — their victories, but also their struggles”, Westmark explains about his approach to the album.

A 70s party musician setup as the sonic foundation
The album’s sound is as colorful as its lyrical universe. In a garage in Jutland, Westmark found an old Roland rhythm box and a Roland Jazz Chorus amplifier, both of which became crucial to the album’s sound:

“I also bought an electric accordion, but that was quickly shelved. The rhythm box and chorus amplifier, however, became the foundation for the sound on Melody Maker”, he shares.

The 12 songs on ‘Melody Maker’ take us through a variety of characters and life situations. We meet the privileged individual who finds it hard to look beyond their own privileges (‘Let’s Not Talk Anymore’), and the person who, despite a tricky psyche, still shines brightly (‘Bright as a Button’). The artist fights for peace and freedom in a chaotic world (‘Melody Maker’), but also cannot help but react with anger towards corruption and war (‘Now is Not The Time’). There’s also the restless soul who forgets that the beauty of life lies in the journey, not the destination (‘No Runaway Ride’), yet simultaneously feels trapped in that very process (‘Why Am I Not Here?’).

The songs also touch on themes such as the influence of television on Generation Y’s norms and upbringing (‘Raised By Sitcoms’), and the lovers who have lived close to each other their entire lives but only meet in Copenhagen (‘Across The Water’). The materialist fighting to break free from the desire for more and attempting to dissolve their ego (‘Want To Want Less’), and the girl who throws herself headfirst into love, even though she knows it will hurt (‘When You’re 22’). Finally, we meet our protagonist striving to be the best version of himself, frozen in a snapshot of his ideals (‘Light on Surfaces’).

Collaboration with Stella on the title track
The title track stands out as one of the album’s most remarkable moments — not least due to the collaboration with talented singer and former student Stella (Sophie Darum), whose songs ‘Listen Now’ and ‘Here For You’ have been frequently played on Danish National Radio. Her vocals add a depth and rawness that complement both the production and Westmark’s own voice.

“It was important for me to have a personal connection to the singers on the album and to be a fan of them, more than just having a big name to bask in their achievements”, says Westmark.

An refined touch of experience
While Westmark has found new inspiration in his surroundings, he is no newcomer. As the frontman of international acclaimed rock band The Blue Van, he has previously proven his musical worth with hits that have made an impact both at home and internationally. Now, as a solo artist, he stands stronger than ever with Melody Maker, which he has composed, produced, mixed, and played himself. The album is mastered by Jan Due.

The album also features contributions from Rishi Dhir (Elephant Stone), Scottish-Danish Lizzie Nielsen, Linda Marí Josefsen (Marí), Ida Ploug, and Maiken Holmbeck.