GET TO KNOW: Almost Alive

Blurring the lines between human emotion and machine precision, Almost Alive is reimagining the shape of modern rock. Helmed by New Jersey-based artist and producer Evan Kanter, the AI-assisted rock project returns with the new album 'Hypnotica'. Fusing the spiritual tension of Tool and A Perfect Circle with cutting-edge production tools like ChatGPT and Suno, Almost Alive invites us into an immersive sonic experience where sound becomes ritual.

Following the high-octane debut 'Full Blast', this new era leans deeper into introspection, darker atmospheres, and genre-fusing experimentation. At its core, Almost Alive is a portal into the future of progressive rock, where creative instinct and artificial intelligence co-create something hypnotic, heavy, and hauntingly human.

So with the new album out now, we sat down with him to discuss his origins and influences over the years.

What was the first band or artist you fell in love with? 

I used to be a big fan of the band Live. Went to 20+ concerts before they stopped making new music.

Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like? 

No, I was never in a band until recently with Almost Alive.

What has been your primary inspiration in writing music? 

I’ve always enjoyed listening and watching rock music, and when I was technically able to make my own songs, I jumped at the opportunity to focus on a rock sound.  I wanted to make music that I enjoy listening to.  This is the underpinnings of what Almost Alive has always been about.

What is a song you wish you had written yourself? 

I don’t have any that come to mind. 

If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be? 

I’m just getting started in music, so nothing stands out yet.

Which artist would you most love to share a stage with? 

I don’t perform live, so for me this question is more about musical alignment than actually sharing a stage. If Almost Alive’s sound were part of a live environment, it would probably fit best alongside artists like Nickelback or Shinedown, where the emotional intensity and cinematic feel match well.

And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well? 

Because Almost Alive is an AI-powered studio project, collaboration for me is more about creative influence than traditional co-writing. Artists like Trent Reznor, Maynard James Keenan, or Brent Smith inspire aspects of my sound, and exploring a creative exchange with any of them would be incredible.

Where do you see yourself in five years time? 

In five years, I just want to still be creating music that excites me and resonates with listeners. If Almost Alive keeps growing and I keep improving with each release, that’s success to me.

Almost Alive's new album 'Hypnotica' is out now. Listen to it below.