Carla dal Forno is an Australian singer and songwriter with a devotion to beautifully eerie, moody and often haunting music. Originally singing in bands Tarcar and F ingers, Carla launched her solo project this year, from her new home in Berlin, with the atmospheric single Fast Moving Cars. With its cool rawness and mesmerising tune, Carla has established herself as a truly exciting talent and we can’t wait to hear what she puts out next. In the meantime we spoke to Carla about her new life on the other side of the world and asked her to make us a mix to tide us over. Do your ears a favour and press play.
You are from Melbourne but live in Berlin. Why did you move and where do you see the differences?
Imoved here last year because I was feeling restless in Melbourne and wanted to see what living somewhere else would be like. Actually it’s not so different but it’s helpful in terms of playing shows/touring etc. Melbourne feels quite isolated from the rest of the world sometimes, perhaps that’s the main difference; in Berlin you are close to a lot of other cities.
When did you start making music and why?
I’ve been playing music since I was a kid but started writing music and playing in bands about five years ago. Once I started writing songs and playing with other people it felt natural and I enjoyed it so I kept going.
What makes your sound different?
The only part of my sound that is truly different or unique, as with any singer, is my voice. Otherwise I’m making sounds with electronic and acoustic instruments, recording with mostly lo-fi equipment, and then using Ableton to continue working on production/mixing etc.
When was the last time you mistrusted someone?
Yesterday.
What is your plan for the future?
To continue working and living here in Berlin for a bit and then I want something unpredictable and unexpected to happen.
What is the story behind your song Fast Moving Cars?
I wrote it a few years ago when I was back in Melbourne and I guess it captures something of how I was feeling at the time – starting a new relationship and having lived in one place for too long.
What is your favourite thing to do in Berlin?
I like walking in Berlin. Being in a new city I find myself paying more attention to my surrounds. I feel at home in this city but also like an outsider and I enjoy that dichotomy.
Tracklist: Music to .. mistrust
O$VMV$M – Beyond
Saada Bonaire – You Could Be More As You Are
Yong Yong – Maca Lu-Lu
DVA Damas – NIghtshade
The Lines – The Landing
Mental Powers – Communicate In Code
Broadcast – Black Cat
Gast and Copeland – Sisters Of Control
Polyphonic Size – Logique Polygonale
Asda – Killer Of Men
The Flying Lizards – Hands 2 Take