Q&A – Balthazar

“Our new song and video is about the repetitive lack of control you have on situations, your life, your own ways.

Even for a moment when you think you can escape your own loop, you find yourself right back at the start again, finding out the changes didn’t change the outcome, or you.”

Jinte Deprez reflects upon the context around his band’s new release. We caught up with his sonic partner, Maarten to find out more about how the Belgian art-poppers are getting on in the pandemic.

How has the pandemic affected your mental health?

Physically I’ve never lived healthier, mentally the boredom takes its toll.

I find it hard to be creative when nothing much happens to inspire you, and creating is my mental oxygen

Are you doing anything differently to look after your mental health during this period?

First lockdown I got bored drinking too much, then I started yoga and meditation.

I’m kind of a restless person, so I’m trying to tackle the be happy with nothing idea.

What are you looking forward to doing once things improve?

Playing shows for sure.

Feeling that connection with the audience is what we live for.

Dancing with too many people in a too small bar would be welcome as well.

What new TV, films, music or books have you discovered during lockdown that you’d recommend?

Started reading Camus, watched Succession, love the Sault music they released.

What advice would you give to 16 year old you?

Your beard isn’t mature enough.

If you had to draw a pie chart for what keeps you mentally well – what would it look like?

Sleep, meditation, sex, soup . . .

What are you passionate about?

Train schedules

Tell us something not many people know about you.

I was brought up on a farm with disabled goats.