INTERVIEW: Stefaniii discusses origins and influences alongside debut single ‘Catalyst’

Making his debut with the electrifying single ‘Catalys’t, London-based Stefaniii fuses gritty post-punk energy with indie-rock theatrics and a cinematic touch that reflects his roots in film and experimental composition.

Stefaniii is the latest persona from Armenian-British composer and filmmaker Richard Melkonian, whose work has spanned everything from theatre scores to avant-pop. With ‘Catalyst’, he steps into the spotlight with a sound that’s raw, moody, and unmistakably alive; backed by roaring guitar lines, jolting percussive swings, and a lyrical lens that captures nightlife’s shadowy romance in all its bittersweet contradiction.

So we sat down with him to discuss more about his origins and influences over the years.

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

Dazed and Confused by Led Zeppelin, I was 12 or 13.

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

Elvis, Maynard James Keenan, Billy Corgan, Morrissey, Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, Cedric Bixler-Zavala

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

Literature and Cinema has more impact on my songwriting than other artforms. Some particular names that had big impacts on my work: Leos Carax, Luc Besson, Bresson, Milan Kundera, Gogol, Pushkin, Hemingway, Sofia Coppola, Wong Kar Wai, Hou Hsiao-hsien, Edward Yang, Jim Jarmusch. 

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

Mostly day-to-day moments of human interaction, often romantic. 

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

Dancing. I remember once when I played saxophone in an experimental free-jazz group called Owls. The saxophone seemed to lift up and away from me, really I was lifting it. I then, at the height of improv, I threw it into the crowd. It hit a woman’s head. But she was pleased. 

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

Hearing my music performed by a symphony orchestra. It’s only happened once, but it was enough pleasure to keep one going for a lifetime. 

How would you define success as a musician?

I try not to define it. But if asked directly. I think it’s having an audience who understand and appreciate your work.

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

Learn your instrument. 

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Listen to ‘Catalyst’ below.