From Philadelphia Basements to Madrid’s Indie Scene: Lena Fine
- June B
- Nov 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Lena Fine’s musical journey began in a humble yet vibrant setting: a DIY show in her hometown. At just 14, she took to the stage for the first time, and from that moment, music became an undeniable passion. Years later, in a Philadelphia college basement, she performed her first show with a band, an experience that solidified her love for live performance and collaboration. Today, this indie rock/folk artist is based in Madrid, bringing her uniquely Americana-tinged style to new audiences across the Atlantic.
When it comes to songwriting, Lena’s process is reflective, personal, and evolving. Her lyrics often begin as fragments of thoughts, sketched out as they come to her. She later develops these ideas alongside her guitar, focusing on the story she wants to tell. The result is a blend of indie rock with hints of country, inspired by artists like Soccer Mommy, Pinegrove, and Radiohead. “I like marrying the storytelling and twang of country with the heavier, introspective elements of indie rock,” Lena explains, describing her sound as a bridge between two worlds.
In the studio, Lena adapts her approach depending on the track. For acoustic songs, she begins with her guitar and builds subtle layers that emphasize the lyrics and mood. For full-band tracks, her priority is crafting arrangements that bring energy and excitement, aiming for something as impactful live as it is recorded. Her dedication to creating an immersive musical experience has led to several memorable achievements, like her WXPN studio session in Philadelphia—a milestone she describes as “surreal.” Adding her name to a wall signed by artists she admires felt like a dream come true. Opening for Francis Forever at a large Philadelphia venue was another major moment, a tangible sign that her music was reaching more listeners.
Lena’s journey recently brought her to Madrid, a city where she arrived with limited connections and little knowledge of Spanish. Yet, she has quickly found that music transcends language, helping her forge friendships and find her place in a new city. Though her time here is brief, she is committed to immersing herself in Madrid’s indie music scene, eager to share her sound with new audiences and connect with local artists.
With a recent record release and plans for an upcoming EP, Lena Fine is a musician constantly in motion, embracing new experiences while staying true to the storytelling that has always defined her work. Whether in the intimate confines of a basement or a buzzing Madrid venue, Lena’s music resonates with the spirit of an artist unafraid to blend worlds, genres, and experiences into something entirely her own.
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