Lora Mouna Discusses Horn Blowing in Edition 460
Lora Mouna, a Syrian-American indie-rock singer, songwriter, and artist, has recently unveiled her debut EP ‘phases of becoming,’ much to the delight of her fans. Drawing inspiration from artists like The Last Dinner Party and Wolf Alice, Mouna’s new EP serves as a vivid depiction of transformation, capturing various iterations of the self that emerge amid loss. Written in both Brooklyn and her childhood abode in North Carolina, the EP delves into the essence of dissolving, distorting, and reconstructing oneself in real-time.
Renowned for her confessional songwriting style and captivating vocals, Lora Mouna uses music as a medium to encapsulate moments of vulnerability within herself and her relationships. Her musical repertoire seamlessly navigates between indie-rock, folk, and Middle Eastern influences, blending diverse sonic experiences from her culture and sources of inspiration.
When asked about her musical influences, Mouna mentioned Sarah Kinsley, Indigo de Souza, and Dora Jar as her top inspirations. Each artist resonates with her uniquely, evoking emotions through their music in ways that she finds deeply impactful. Sarah Kinsley’s poetic lyrics, Indigo de Souza’s raw vocal delivery, and Dora Jar’s playful yet profound songwriting all contribute to Mouna’s evolving artistry and creative pursuits.
Reflecting on the film ‘Everything, Everywhere All at Once,’ Mouna expressed how it left a lasting impact on her, reshaping her perspective on life’s continuum. The film’s portrayal of abstract concepts, infinite dimensions, and the multifaceted nature of existence has influenced her artistic vision, pushing her to explore similar realms of thought and creativity in her work.
Among the cities she finds most inspiring, Damascus, Syria holds a special place in Mouna’s heart. Beyond its historical significance and rich cultural heritage, it’s the generosity and warmth of the people that leave a lasting impression on her. Recalling a poignant memory of a stranger offering her family freshly baked pita bread for free, Mouna credits the kindness and spirit of the people in Damascus as a profound source of inspiration in her life.
When asked about the most inspiring person in her life, Mouna singled out her mother. A multi-talented individual juggling roles as a musician, pharmacist, and architect, her mother’s relentless pursuit of her passions despite challenges serves as a guiding light for Mouna. Drawing wisdom from her mother’s words on songwriting, Mouna approaches her craft with a keen ear and a willingness to listen to the melodies that already exist within her.
The inspiration behind her latest EP stems from a period of personal growth and grief that spanned three years. Amidst losses, relocations, and shifting relationships, Mouna found herself grappling with feelings of stagnation and uncertainty. Reminding herself of the transformative nature of life, she embraced the process of evolving into versions of herself that were both familiar and new, navigating the ebb and flow of change with courage and introspection.
In her quest to inspire others, Mouna aims to create music that resonates deeply with listeners, offering a sense of solace and understanding. Through her lyrics and melodies, she seeks to connect with individuals on a profound level, exploring themes of mental health, self-acceptance, and personal growth. Additionally, Mouna hopes to empower fellow independent artists to pursue their creative visions with passion and community support, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual upliftment in the music industry.