Mitch Grassi, widely recognized as a member of the a cappella group Pentatonix, has embarked on a multifaceted journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. From winning NBC's "The Sing-Off" to exploring his unique musical identity with his solo project Messer, Grassi's evolution showcases his relentless pursuit of creative freedom and personal growth.
Pentatonix: A Launchpad for Success
Pentatonix's rise to fame is a testament to their talent and adaptability. After winning "The Sing-Off" in 2011 and briefly holding a $200,000 record deal, the group turned to YouTube, where their innovative pop-rock covers garnered over a billion views. This success propelled them to mainstream recognition, three Grammy Awards, and the distinction of being the first a cappella group to top the Billboard charts.
Grassi's role in Pentatonix has been pivotal, allowing him to share his perception of the world through music. However, the collaborative nature of the group also led him to seek an outlet for his individual artistic vision.
Messer: Embracing a Unique Musical Identity
Messer, Grassi's solo project, represents a departure from the a cappella sound of Pentatonix. Initially launched with the 2021 EP "Roses," Messer presented a darker, more experimental side of Grassi, with his identity partially concealed behind elaborate visuals. The music leaned towards electroclash, drawing inspiration from artists like Fischerspooner.
Grassi's decision to create Messer stemmed from a desire for creative autonomy. He wanted to experiment with sounds and ideas without the constraints of a collaborative process. The COVID-19 pandemic provided him with the time and space to explore this new direction, leading to the creation of "Roses."
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"Cuts": A Lighter, More Personal Sound
Messer's first full album, "Cuts," marks a shift towards a lighter and more accessible sound. The lead single, "Not Yet," is a glitchy hyperpop anthem that reflects Grassi's newfound happiness and love. This album represents a culmination of his journey to find his true voice, both figuratively and literally.
Grassi acknowledges that "Cuts" is more "digestible" than his previous work, potentially appealing to a broader audience. He attributes this shift to a more natural and less forced approach to songwriting.
Influences and Inspirations
Grassi's musical influences are diverse and eclectic. He cites Imogen Heap (particularly her Frou Frou era), Madonna, and Röyksopp as major inspirations. He also draws inspiration from video game soundtracks, particularly those of Akira Yamaoka from the Silent Hill series.
Fashion as a Form of Self-Expression
Grassi's fashion sense has evolved over the years, mirroring his personal growth and artistic exploration. While he once favored flamboyant and extravagant clothing as a way to stand out, he now gravitates towards simplicity, comfort, and well-tailored shapes. He admires the work of Anthony Vacarello at Saint Laurent and the Olson twins' brand, The Row, for their focus on clean lines and perfect garments.
Grassi's earlier embrace of "super-flamboyant" fashion may have been a reaction to his conservative upbringing in Texas, where he felt limited in his ability to express himself. As he gained more freedom and confidence, he began to experiment with his style, using it as a form of self-discovery.
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Love and Vulnerability
A significant turning point in Grassi's journey was falling in love. His relationship with his partner, whom he met in Berlin while touring with Pentatonix, has had a profound impact on his music and perspective. The long-distance nature of their relationship inspired the song "Not Yet," which captures the longing and anticipation of being apart from someone you love.
Grassi credits his relationship with bringing a lightness and vulnerability to his music. He delved into "shadow work," confronting his fears and insecurities in order to be a better partner. This process of self-reflection is reflected in the themes explored on "Cuts," which ultimately offers a message of hope and resilience.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Identity
Grassi's upbringing in Texas presented challenges to his sense of identity. He felt alienated by the rigid gender roles and lack of nuance in his environment. This led him to question his own masculinity and to rebel against societal expectations.
Coming out as gay at a young age was a liberating experience for Grassi. While he faced some negativity, he found strength in his identity and used it as a shield against bullies and naysayers.
Creative Freedom and Artistic Growth
Messer provides Grassi with the creative freedom to explore his musical vision without compromise. He can take his time with the songwriting and production process, meticulously crafting each song to his exact specifications. This freedom has allowed him to discover new vocal techniques and to tap into the storytelling aspect of his voice.
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Grassi emphasizes the importance of staying true to himself and creating art that feels authentic. He is not afraid to defy expectations or to experiment with different genres and styles.