Captain Of The Lost Waves – Beautiful Ugly- Podcast

Hello everyone, Phil Aston here from Now Spinning Magazine, and in this special podcast episode, I had the pleasure of talking to the one and only Captain of the Lost Waves (a.k.a. Shaun). We caught up on his brand-new album, Beautiful Ugly, a record that’s as intriguing as its title suggests.

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A Journey Through Pain & Creativity
When I last spoke to the Captain, he was navigating life-altering challenges—physical pain, recovery, and all the emotional hurdles that come with it. Yet here he is with a new album that not only reflects his struggles but also transcends them in ways that feel profoundly healing. Listening to Beautiful Ugly, you sense a collision of “beauty” and “struggle,” woven into ethereal soundscapes that float around Shaun’s soulful, whispered vocals.

Music as Medicine

For the Captain, music has been a form of therapy—an uplifting force that propelled him through days when his body resisted every note. This duality of “pleasure and pain” shapes the album, channeling his experiences into something both gentle and transformative.

The Essence of Beautiful Ugly
Vocals as Instrument: Shaun’s voice doesn’t simply sing; it often whispers or hovers in the mix. It feels as though he’s sitting right beside you, sharing a secret in the most intimate way.
Lyrical Depth: From esoteric references to universal themes of love and spirituality, the words on Beautiful Ugly can take multiple listens to truly absorb. Shaun describes them as flowing from a subconscious stream—almost as if they chose him.
Ambient Soundscapes: Co-producer and multi-instrumentalist Damian Clarke (along with Wendy and Mark Tucker) envelops the Captain’s vocals in softly pulsing synths, orchestral strings, and other subtle textures. The result is immersive, something you feel as much as you hear.
A Spiritual Core
Spirituality weaves through Beautiful Ugly like a guiding thread—Shaun mentions everything from Eastern philosophies to mystical Western teachings. But rather than forcing these ideas on the listener, the songs gently invite you to reflect on life’s mysteries. “Collective consciousness,” “universal love,” and “trust” all serve as undercurrents for a record that wants you to slow down and breathe.

The Physical Package
If you’re someone who values physical media, you’re in for a treat. Beautiful Ugly comes in a stunning, tactile design—soft-touch matte lamination, tarot-style lyric cards, and evocative photography. It’s a piece of art you want to hold, not just listen to. This attention to detail reflects the Captain’s ethos: every aspect of the album should feel intentional, personal, and beautiful.

A Community Effort
Shaun credits his dedicated community for making Beautiful Ugly a reality via crowdfunding. As an independent artist, he’s built a close-knit family of supporters who believe in his vision. In a music industry where it’s increasingly hard to stand out, the Captain’s fans have proven that true passion can still light the way—one pledge at a time.

Final Thoughts
Beautiful Ugly is a quiet, meditative journey. It doesn’t assault you with hooks and choruses; instead, it offers layered soundscapes and whispered confidences that ask for your full attention. Let it wash over you, and you might find it changes not just the atmosphere of your room, but something deeper within yourself.

If you’re ready for an immersive musical experience—one that invites you to slow down, reflect, and rediscover the spiritual in the everyday—then Beautiful Ugly just might become a cherished companion.

Remember, music is the healer and the doctor. Keep spinning those discs!

Visit the Captain of The Lost Waves Website

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

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