music & CULTURE

STYLING
DUSTIN CONNOR ELLIS

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COLE CAMERON

Sage Devault, AKA Devault has debuted his new EP today titled Empty Room following Ruby, his 2020 songs collection. Devault’s tunes are inspired by the musical notes of Depeche Mode, Prodigy, and Daft Punk and visuals from 80’s mystery thrillers like Blow Out and Dressed to Kill. Today, the breakout producer is known for his moody alternative electronic music and is often touring across the US. With upcoming performances at various EDC festivals and aspirations of playing in Europe and Australia, Devault is a star on the rise.

“I’M A VERY VISUAL PERSON, SO I USUALLY GET A LOT OF MUSIC IDEAS BY WATCHING MOVIE SCENES OR VISUAL ART. LATELY, I’VE BEEN WATCHING A LOT OF 80’S MYSTERY THRILLERS LIKE BLOW OUT AND DRESSED TO KILL TO INSPIRE ME.”

*Opposite:* Jacket and pants DEADWOOD, boots PSKAUFMAN, necklaces TALENT’S OWN.

Vestal __ What first got you into music?

Devault __ My family introduced me to music at a very young age to the beats of Depeche Mode, Prodigy, and Egyptian Lover. I remember that electronic music was often played in the house and the car. When I was thirteen, my older brother brought home a turntable set, and I immediately fell in love. I took a deep dive into DJs at the time, you know, guys like Daft Punk, DJ Shadow, Chemical Brothers, etc. I was so inspired by the mystery in their music and the creation of larger-than-life music paired with visuals.

Vestal __ How would you describe the music that you typically create?

Devault __ It is hard to pinpoint genre-wise as it’s solely me, which I’m proud of doing. But I’d describe my music as Alternative Electronic, Moody, Ethereal, and Raw.

Vestal __ What is your creative process with your music?

Devault __ I’m a very visual person, so I usually get a lot of music ideas by watching movie scenes or visual art. Lately, I’ve been watching a lot of 80’s mystery thrillers like Blow Out and Dressed to Kill to inspire me.

Vestal __ Is there an artist you would love to collaborate with on a track?

Devault __ I could name a few … I would love to collaborate with Slowthai or Disclosure.

Vestal __ If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be?

Devault __ Daft Punk. Let’s hope they return in our lifetime.

Vestal __ What is one message you would give to your fans?

Devault __ You all inspired me deeply. I am incredibly appreciative of all the support I have received so far. Your love is by no doubt the main reason I continue to create music.

Vestal __ Do you sing in the shower? If so, what songs?

Devault __ Of course, I love Sade and old Justin Timberlake. They’re my guilty pleasure. I usually belt those songs out while showering.

Vestal __ What would you be doing right now if it wasn’t for your music career?

Devault __ I’d be a bit lost; I think it’s hard being in your 20’s and find your true passion. I was fortunate to fall in love with music early on. It is truly my passion.

Vestal __ Where have you performed?

Devault __ I’ve been all over the US but still have yet to play in Europe and Australia. I am dying to play out there, which I am working on doing.

Vestal __ What are your favorite venues?

Devault __ Favorite venues are Echostage in DC, Temple in Denver, and the Tabernacle in Atlanta.

Vestal __ Do you have any upcoming shows?

Devault __ I do! Currently on tour with Madeon and playing a ton of festivals like EDC and Beyond Wonderland to close out the year. I will be joining San Holo on tour shortly. It is so exciting! I can not wait to perform.

Vestal __ How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

Devault __ It’s removed the mystery of being an artist. Fans want to be directly involved and engaged now with their idols. On the flip side, many music communities formed that usually would remain underground without the Internet.

Vestal __ What is your favorite song to perform?

Devault __ So many but one, if I had to say, would be, “Tell Me That You Tried.”

Vestal __ Which famous musicians do you admire?

Devault __ I admire many French acts like Daft Punk and Justice because they are unique.

Vestal __ What is the best advice you’ve been given?

Devault __ Be in the pursuit of your most genuine self and put it on display. The result is bliss.

Vestal __ If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

Devault __ I would have to say less gatekeeping and algorithms and more risk-taking.

Vestal __ What’s next for you?

Devault __ Releasing my new EP titled Empty Room and touring a lot. I already got a head start on my next music as well. These are exciting times!