Tom Hartman

In this interview, singer-songwriter Tom Hartman discusses the inspiration behind “High Tree Climb,” the influence of nature on his music, and the reflective themes that shape his artistic journey.

1. Congratulations on the release of “High Tree Climb.” What was the initial inspiration behind this song, and how did the idea first take shape?

Thank you. This song was written from a subconscious line of thought that had been with me for around 16 years. The inspiration, to be honest, was a girl who wanted to date me, but I simply didn’t understand why. I felt that she was more grounded in the earthly world, while I was living in a dreamier place. That contrast found its way into the song.

2. The track blends acoustic guitar, harmonica, subtle synth textures, and field recordings of birds. How did you approach creating this organic soundscape, and what role does nature play in your songwriting process?

Nature plays a big role in my songwriting process. There is a certain silence in nature that allows me to focus on the emotions within a story. For “High Tree Climb,” I wanted to create a soundscape where the acoustic elements and the sounds of birds could coexist with the more subtle, atmospheric synth textures. To me, nature creates a space where you can slow down and really listen to what you are feeling.

3. You’ve described the song as coming from an “old soul” perspective, rooted in gratitude and acceptance. What personal experiences or reflections helped shape that outlook in the lyrics and atmosphere of the track?

There has always been this feeling inside me of, “I’ve been here already.” Almost a kind of sigh, as if this might be the last time I am wandering this Earth, if you believe in reincarnation, that is. I dont even know if I do, myself, but hey. This deep feeling found its way into both the lyrics and the atmosphere of the song.

The listener is invited to join me in looking at life from a kind of “helicopter view,” seeing things from above and gaining a wider perspective. That idea is also reflected in the sound of the track, where the earthly sounds of nature meet a more transcendent synth atmosphere.

4. Rather than building toward a dramatic climax, “High Tree Climb” embraces stillness and contemplation. In a music landscape that often favors intensity and immediacy, what draws you to this quieter form of expression?

The message of the song is a calm invitation to someone to join the singer in this perspective — to sit beside him and look at life from this wider view. For me, it is about a kind of spiritual acceptance of life. I think there is something powerful in allowing a song to simply breathe and exist without forcing it toward a dramatic climax.

5. Your live performances as a one-man-band are known for their energy, improvisation, and unpredictability. How do you translate a reflective and intimate song like “High Tree Climb” to the stage while maintaining its emotional essence?

That’s a good question! There is indeed a more reflective nature to this song, while others can definitely be more expressive and energetic. However, I believe there is no outburst without coming down. The quiet moments are just as important as the explosive ones. I try to let the song breathe on stage and allow that reflective quality to remain, while still leaving room for the energy and unpredictability that are part of my live performances.

6. Following the positive reception of “I’ve Been Away” and with more releases planned throughout 2026, what can listeners expect from the next chapter of your musical journey, and how does “High Tree Climb” fit into that bigger picture?

“High Tree Climb” is just the second single in this series of releases.

There is more music coming throughout 2026, and each release is another part of the journey. The first release can be seen as an introduction of the artist, where this song can be seen as an invite for the listener to join the artist. More about that story in the next releases.

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