Local Memory
Illinois-based band Local Memory is proof that music rooted in community can also feel expansive and boundary-pushing. With Amy Myers (vocals, guitar), Matt Ciani (bass, acoustic guitar), Nico Ciani (drums, percussion), Lucas Chamberlain (lead guitar), Nicole Murray (keys/organ), and Lydia Cash (vocals), the group layers storytelling with rich instrumentation and harmonies that feel both intimate and powerful. We caught up with the band for a written interview to talk about their creative process, the influence of the Illinois music scene, and what’s next for Local Memory.
We sent Local Memory a few questions about their journey, creative process, and what makes their sound unique. Here’s what they had to say:
Local Memory has such a rich lineup of instruments and voices. How do you balance all those layers to create a cohesive sound?
“Great question! Honestly, it’s something we’re still figuring out. Matt and I started this project with the idea of making a record from my old songs, so in the beginning he was handling all the different parts himself. When we brought the band together, everyone was mostly playing the parts he’d originally written. Things really clicked once I started bringing in new material and encouraged everyone to speak up and share ideas. Local Memory isn’t just one person and I think groups work best when everyone has a stake in the project and feels safe to contribute. As we’ve gotten to know each other and settled further into our dynamics, we’ve gotten better at voicing what we want and that has made the whole project stronger.”
With Matt and Nico being brothers, how does family influence the creative dynamic of the band?
“We’re so lucky to have The World Famous Great Ciani Brothers holding down the rhythm section. These two are completely in sync and have been playing together for ages. Right now they’re in three other projects together (Prathloons, Lydia Cash, and Model Living) so they’re sharp, well-rehearsed, and definitely have their own musical language. On top of being brothers, they’re also really good friends - which is very sweet. I’ve known Matt for a long time, and when he suggested Nico as the drummer I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the band is absolutely stronger for it. We love these two!”
What’s the story behind the name Local Memory?
“I had the world’s longest iPhone note full of truly terrible band name ideas. Anytime I thought I’d landed on a rare good one, I’d Google it and, sure enough, it was already taken. Then my friend Nick showed me the Willie Nelson song Local Memory. We did a quick search to see if any band had claimed the name, found nothing, and decided to run with it as a little nod to the King. Local Memory isn't fully a country band but that's definitely one of the genres of music that I am most inspired by.”
Can you walk us through your songwriting process , does it usually start with one person’s idea, or is it collaborative from the beginning?
“I write all the songs for Local Memory, but when I bring the band an acoustic demo, they help me shape and arrange it. Sometimes that means reworking the instrumental structure, other times it’s transposing things to make them easier to play. I don’t have any formal musical training beyond never shutting up when it comes to singing so they also keep me accountable for any Wacky choices and teach me things about their respective instruments. I'm extremely grateful for the patience and collaboration. “
Illinois has its own music history and scene, how has being based there shaped your sound or identity as a band?
“I’m a lifelong Illinoisan. I grew up in both Southern and Central Illinois, then went to college down in Carbondale before moving up here in 2013. I guess it’s fair to say it’d be pretty hard to separate myself from this state. As for the band, we all met here — either through the Chicago music scene or friends of friends — so it really couldn’t have happened anywhere else. CHI TOWN BABY!”
If each of you had to describe Local Memory’s music in just one word, what would you pick?
“Amy - personal
Matt - open
Nico - local
Lucas - Rockin
Nicole - floral (idk what she means by this but I support it)
Lydia - friendship”
What song in your catalog feels the most personal or defining for the band, and why?
“We played a show at the Hideout called The Singer and The Song, which challenges artists to write something based on a word prompt. The song I wrote for it is called Home, and I think it was one of the first tracks where we all felt like, “Yeah, this is really ours.” It carries a more serious tone, which makes it feel especially personal to me. This one isn't released yet, but we'll be looking forward to sharing it soon!”
Looking ahead, what’s next for Local Memory? any projects, shows, or goals you’re especially excited about?
“We’re actually playing the 312 Block Party next weekend which is a music/beer/food festival in Chicago, hosted by Goose Island. This is definitely the biggest show we’ve ever played, so we’re super excited to share what we’ve been working on.”
“The band also played backup on our friend Orillia’s new record, so we’re looking forward to his release show at the Hideout in October, where we’ll join him onstage for part of the set. Beyond that, we've got some time carved out for recording next month! “
With such a dynamic lineup and a sound that bridges intimacy and energy, Local Memory is carving out a unique space in the Illinois music scene. We wanted to dive deeper into how the band works together, what inspires their music, and where they see themselves headed next.
A huge thank you to Local Memory for taking the time to share their story with us. Their thoughtful answers highlight not just the craft behind their music, but also the heart that drives it. Keep up with the band on spotify and bandcamp follow them on instagram to stay tuned for what’s next!
