Biography
Josh Hwang, known by his stage name Castlebeat, is an American bedroom pop singer-songwriter originating from Brooklyn, New York. Additionally, he functions as the proprietor of Spirit Goth Records, a record label.
Castlebeat's musical journey took shape during his high school years, beginning with guitar playing and later transitioning to music composition. The discovery of Garageband on his laptop ignited his passion for writing and recording indie rock. A diverse array of musical influences shaped his artistic sensibilities, including contemporary acts such as Wavves, Beach Fossils, and FIDLAR, as well as classic bands like Joy Division, The Cure, and The Chameleons.
In 2016, Castlebeat unveiled his debut self-titled album, "Castlebeat," a collection characterized by its melancholic pop melodies. All the tracks on the album were meticulously crafted in Hwang's own garage, a testament to his DIY ethos and resourcefulness.
Castlebeat's distinctive sound is marked by home recording and production, often guided by intuitive decisions rather than formal training. Notably, he relied heavily on a cream-colored American Stratocaster for guitar parts, occasionally introducing subtle effects like light distortion and compression pedals. Throughout his creative process, Castlebeat harnesses Logic Pro for sound design, seamlessly integrating both stock and third-party plugins. This approach culminates in a distinct sonic identity, characterized by reverb and effects that blend seamlessly with pop-infused melodic concepts.
The release of Castlebeat's album "Half Life" on July 27, 2022, marked a significant milestone. Reflecting a year and a half of work, the album revisits his earlier sound while incorporating expanded elements. The album boasts an eclectic range of styles, from bedroom pop and dream pop to alternative rock of the 2000s and post-punk shoegaze.
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