By Lindy Rybloom
Growing up surrounded by a musical family, Henry Sachs – better known as Cass Avier – has been entranced by the production and creation of music since he was a young child. Based in Seattle, Washington, this artist is local to the Puget Sound, and proud to be a part of the Pacific Northwest music scene. I often find myself comparing artists to other familiar musicians, but I can confidently say, Cass Avier’s music is precisely individual. Ranging from a variety of different sounds, chaotic and dream-like, listeners can find whatever they’re searching for in Cass Avier’s expansive discography. Producing and releasing 80 songs in 2023 alone, Cass Avier is eager to make music. These songs can be found strategically compiled onto five albums, two EPs, and among his collection of singles. I had the pleasure of sitting and chatting with Henry about his music, and I left an even bigger fan than I already was and feeling even more inspired by this young artist’s zest for creativity.
How long have you been playing/making music?
I’ve basically been playing music for my entire life. My older brother and sister were inspirational to me as a young musician. I grew up around a very musical family, my sister took piano lessons and my brother was in a few different rock/punk bands when I was younger. We had lots of guitars in the basement as well as pianos, and a drum set. As the youngest sibling, I was kind of the runt of litter who would try to play all these instruments along with my siblings.
How would you describe your music? Are there certain inspirations behind the sound that you try to create?
Hmm, I don’t know. I think the best term I’d use to describe it is DIY. Do it yourself. As far as other artists that have inspired me there are tons. Growing up I loved Nirvana, The Beatles. I feel inspired by the band Women, and I love Animal Collective.
Is the production of your music a solo process or do you collaborate with others?
For Cass Avier, that is just me. I do all the instruments, producing, and vocals by myself as well as mixing and production. When it comes to mastering my music, I prefer to have a second set of ears. My good friend from Canada, Angus Vedder does most of the mastering for me and my friend Grady Spors has also contributed, but besides that I do everything.
Do you prefer making solo music or being in bands with other members? Why?
They’re different processes. Being in a band is a very fulfilling collaborative experience but playing, writing and recording music by yourself is great for when you want to get your ideas down in no time and when you don’t want anything to be holding you back in the musical process. If I am in the mood to be super controlling, I’ll make my music by myself. If I want to make it a fun process, I’ll play with friends in a band. It’s fun either way.
What is the meaning behind your artist name, Cass Avier?
I liked the name Cass as a first name because it was gender neutral and something listeners could interpret in their own way. As far as Avier, I thought it related to being in the sky (aviation). For me, it represented being a spacey person which I think I am.
What are you most proud of as an artist? Do you have plans for new music?
I’d say what I’m most proud of tends to be what I am working on at that moment. Right now, I am most proud of the music I am currently working on. And I do have plans for new music! I have a punk song that will be coming out soon, it’s completely finished, it just needs to be mastered. I’m also playing bass in a band called Images Band with some of my friends as well as playing guitar and drums as a duo called GALVN with my friend Sasha!
Do you have any specific goals for your future as an artist?
I think the main thing is making money off of doing what I love. It would be nice to find a way to do that whether that be playing live shows or selling CDs to people in public. Making money would be great but having fun is the end goal.
Where can listeners find your music?
You can find me on all streaming services! Spotify, Apple Music, etc. I’m also on BandCamp which is a cool one because you can buy my CDs through the app if you’re interested!
Henry Sachs, the creative behind Cass Avier, is an inspiring young musician. At the ripe age of 18, his appreciation for the present moment and dedication to his craft is beyond his years. Henry’s passion for music bled through our interview as he described the meaning behind what he does musically. Listen along as this local artist continues to make a name for himself.
Instagram: @cassavier
KUPS "The Sound" 
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