INTERVIEW: Moon Construction Kit discusses origins and influences alongside new single ‘Snake Charmer’

Swiss artist Moon Construction Kit returns with a captivating new chapter as he unveils his latest single ‘Snake Charmer’. The project of Lausanne-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Olivier Cornu, Moon Construction Kit continues to blur the lines between psychedelic pop, alternative rock, and richly textured indie songwriting. With its haunting fairground atmosphere, shimmering piano lines, and vintage-leaning Mellotron flourishes, ‘Snake Charmer’ balances beauty with an underlying unease, mirroring the song’s exploration of the moment when the solution you trust becomes the very source of the problem.

Drawing inspiration from artists such as Father John Misty, Elliott Smith, and Temples, Cornu has built a reputation for crafting immersive worlds where nostalgia meets modern introspection. Following the release of singles like ‘Chemicals’ and ‘Long John Silver’, ‘Snake Charmer’ further expands Moon Construction Kit’s evolving sound, combining cinematic arrangements with thought-provoking lyricism.

We caught up with Olivier Cornu to discuss the ideas that inspired the track’s unsettling yet alluring atmosphere, and how Moon Construction Kit continues to push the boundaries of his musical universe.

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What was the first rock song or artist that made an impact on you?

“The very first song that grabbed me was ‘Say Say Say’ by Paul McCartney. I’m not sure that one qualifies as Rock; it’s more of a pop gem, but the first artists to truly impact me in a “Rock” sense were The Pixies. Hearing ‘Debaser’ from their Doolittle album was a total revelation; it changed how I thought about energy and structure.”

Who are some of your biggest musical influences within the rock genre?

“It’s a mix of eras: The Buzzcocks, The Pixies, and Pavement for that alternative edge. But at the core, it always comes back to the melodic and harmonic foundations laid by The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Zombies”.

Are there any non-rock musicians or genres that have also influenced your music?

“Definitely. In terms of classical music, I find a lot of inspiration in the textures of Maurice Ravel and Claude Debussy. I also have a deep admiration for Antônio Carlos Jobim. I could listen to “Águas de Março” on a loop for hours; the harmonic sophistication of Bossa Nova is timeless.”

What is your main inspiration when looking to write new music?

“Musically, it’s about the process of experimentation. I love playing with chord sequences over and over until something clicks, and then layering in vocal harmonies. That’s really “my thing”, finding the magic in the arrangement.”

What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have any memorable live performance experiences you’d like to share? 

“To be honest, I’m much more of a “studio creature.”My past live experiences haven’t always been the most traditional. I did once play an entire concert wearing a monkey mask and a fur coat; it was quite an experience, though I think I almost got beaten up that night! It certainly made it memorable.”

What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your musical journey so far?

“Wrapping up my first EP in 2022. There were moments where I didn’t think it would be possible to get it over the finish line, but I’m proud that I didn’t give up. Seeing that project completed was a huge milestone for me.”

How would you define success as a musician?

“Success, for me, is the emotional connection. If I can give someone chills while they are listening to one of my songs, then I’ve done my job.”

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out? 

“Trust your intent. If you’re making music for the right reasons, because you love the craft and have something to say, then you’re already on the right path.”

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Listen to Moon Construction Kit’s new single ‘Snake Charmer’ below.