Spotlight: Books Of Moods Crafts Sonic Tales of Emotional Odyssey with “Dreams”
THE CREATIVE FORCE BEHIND — Books of Mood, the enchanting musical project, is Hugo Sailer aka Woodrow Luth. This indie folk-rock project is more than just a collection of melodies. Hugo crafts a journey through the intricate landscapes of human emotions.
Born from a passion for storytelling and a desire to transcend musical boundaries, Books Of Moods invites listeners to an emotional odyssey against dreamy tones and folk-infused melodies. The project officially took flight three years ago, with its public debut at a small music festival. But the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic allowed Hugo to refine and expand the project's sound, culminating in the upcoming release of his debut album, The Sun, set to release in 2024.
Over the past few years, Books Of Moods has undergone a transformative evolution. Initially rooted in acoustic simplicity, the project took an unexpected turn during the pandemic. Hugo, also known by his musical alter ego (at the time), Woodrow Luth, delved into music production, acquiring and mastering various instruments, including guitars (Martin 0015M , Godin, Fender Statocaster Ed O’Brien , Fender Jazz Bass), keyboards (OP1, Organelle,Sitar), violin, percussions, to name a few. This shift laid the foundation for a more layered and nuanced approach to storytelling, marking a significant turning point in the project's sonic identity.
Woodrow draws inspiration from diverse sources beyond conventional musical influences. Dream realms, scents, landscapes, and profound encounters serve as the wellspring for his creativity. While musical icons such as David Bowie, The Beatles, and Radiohead have left an indelible mark, contemporary artists such as Arcade Fire, Patrick Watson, Broken Social Scene and Grandaddy inspire the innovative spirit of Books Of Moods.
Among his singles already released, "Dreams," "Sunday Mood," and "Happiness" hold a special place in Woodrow’s heart. Each track tells a unique narrative, capturing a range of emotions and experiences that define the essence of Books Of Moods.
The distinctive style of Books Of Moods is deeply rooted in Woodrow’s passion for the acoustic guitar. While the project's foundation remains tied to this resonant instrument, the future promises explorations into cinematic compositions, laid-back lo-fi tracks, and rock-infused vibes, expanding the project's sonic horizons.
"Dreams" represents a love song that transcends time and space. The composition began as "Morning Tea," evolving into a grander narrative that captures the enduring nature of the connection between Woodrow and Luth, the central characters in Woodrow’s musical storytelling.
The artist takes pride in the fact that he is deeply involved in the composition, production, and performance of Books Of Moods. Collaborating with Susie Garcia Lopez for mixing and Benjamin Savignoni for mastering, he brings his musical visions to life.
“My dream feature would undoubtedly be Little Monarch,” Woodrow writes in our email interview. “Her talent is truly exceptional, and the dreamy lofi vibes in her compositions, coupled with her soft and touching vocals, create a safe and immersive sonic space. The prospect of collaborating with her would be a harmonious blend of our shared appreciation for atmospheric and emotionally resonant music.”
For the past year, music has been Woodrow’s primary occupation. Not only is he fully dedicated to Books Of Moods, but he has also founded his indie music label, Void City Records. This bold move has allowed him to channel his passion for music into a fulfilling career.
While Books Of Moods has graced festivals in France and the Parisian music scene, a full-fledged international tour remains a dream for Sailor and his talented bandmates. The aspiration to share the dreamy tones of Books Of Moods with audiences worldwide is alive and well.
Beyond the auditory experience, Woodrow aims to incorporate visuals soon.
“A comic accompanying the album release would provide a visual narrative, allowing listeners to not only hear but also see the stories unfold,” Woodrow states. “In the coming year, I aim to create a musical journey that transcends borders, resonates globally, and invites people into the immersive world of "Books Of Moods."
