It all started over four years ago as a solo visual music project led by singer-songwriter Ben Schneider. After moving out to LA to pursue a career in visual arts, Schneider quickly found that his passion for music was leading him in a slightly different creative direction. In 2010, Schneider took a week off from his life in Los Angeles to return to his home state of Michigan. He recorded several songs during his stay at Lake Huron, and created the visuals for what would later act as the artwork for his newest project. Realizing that he needed a band, Schneider called up all of the musicians that he knew, which included a group of his childhood friends from Okemos.
While his visual artwork may have taken a backseat to his music, his artistic background continues to have a huge influence on his albums. Over the years, he’s found that the two passions seem to complement one another. In an interview with Songwriting Magazine, he explains how he developed images to accompany the music while he was in the process of writing new songs.
Growing up, Schneider had an interest in world music as well as American folk music. He credits artists such as Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young as musical influences. Lord Huron’s newest single, “Fool For Love,” tells the tale of a man fighting to win a woman’s heart. The lyrics depict the heartache and hopefulness that come with the pursuit of love. “I’m leaving this place behind, and I’m heading out on the road tonight,” sings lead vocalist Ben Schneider. “Before I commence my ride, I’m askin’ Lily to be my bride.” The full-length album, “Strange Trails,” is set to be released on April 7th, 2015.