The Refrain Interview: UNIITY

UNIITY is the new, genre-warping, Avant-punk brainchild of Raven Clark, a Philadelphia-raised artist currently based in Cleveland, OH. Her mission and legacy is the unification of the emerging scene of independent, LGBTQ+, POC women in punk. Raw, gritty, and experimental- UNIITY pushes the boundaries of what is considered punk music, pulling as much influence from hip-hop and techno as from black metal or hardcore. Distorted electronic beats and massive ambient guitars support gut-punching vocals that can range from hissing to singing to unclean screams that seem impossible for her small stature.

We had the chance to ask UNIITY a couple questions. Check it out below.

Refrain Music Blog: Thanks for taking the time to do this interview. You have a new single out. What’s it called?

UNIITY: One-Step (Closer to the Edge)

RMB: What’s the single about?

UNIITY: One-Step (Closer to the Edge) is about the underlying anger many women and musicians of color face while navigating life in the music industry. It’s about the clear and blatant sexism, racism, and ignorance that I (and many other POC) continue to deal with while trying to make a living doing what we love most. My friends and loved ones are not exempt from the lyrics in this song, the people that I’ve worked with in the past and possibly in the future are not exempt from this song.

RMB: What’s the story on how it was recorded?

UNIITY: This song was recorded by Shay Magleby ( “Sickboy”), myself, and Joshua Hall (“Phyuture Phyx”). It was recorded at my music studio, Antiphon Sound, located in Cleveland, Ohio. Compared to my previous release, One-Step (Closer to the Edge) is very stripped back and a lot more easier to follow sonically.

RMB: Is it part of a larger album?

UNIITY: One-Step is the first single to be released from my larger debut album, HER TEETH, set to be released March 10, 2023. This album draws inspiration from numerous artist and genres such as IBM (Industrial Body Music), EBM (Electronic Body Music), Hardcore Punk, Gabber, and many more genres.

RMB: How does this single differ from your previous work?

UNIITY: This single differs from my previous EP, HIIVES, in all aspects. I was very young, had a different mindset, and had an extremely different perception about the world (and people) around me. Although One-Step (Closer to the Edge) is more simplistic in terms of production, the main focus is shifted to my lyrics and how it drives the entire song.

RMB: Tell us a little bit about yourself. When did you start pursuing music?

UNIITY: Music, Dance, and any form of creative expression is spirit. I started taking music more seriously after I understood the resources that were available to me. I started out coordinating events and festivals before performing; simply because I had no music to perform. I helped cultivate somewhat of a scene for independent “alternative” musicians of color and I provided a small platform for them to do what they loved best. I didn’t have much-but I shared whatever I had. Once I had a solid discography, I started to book myself until I started to get other opportunities and offers. From beginning my music career as a promoter, It helped me understand music venues and booking agents a bit better. Therefore, it made things like booking my first tour at the age of 18 (turning 19) a lot easier.

RMB: Who are some of your biggest musical influences?

UNIITY: Although I have many, some of my biggest musical influences include Michael Jackson, N8NOFACE, SALEM, Skunk Anansie, and Tina Bell.

RMB: What’s the one thing you are most proud of in your career so far?

UNIITY: I’m the most proud of myself for my determination and discipline. From being a black woman in the music industry, I’ve mastered how to code switch along with choosing my battles. Unfortunately, ignorance runs deep in the music industry.

RMB: If you had to pitch your music to a potential fan in less than 10 seconds, what would you say?

UNIITY: I would say, ” If the system we have in place has fucked you over in some way and your angry about it, you’ll enjoy my music”

RMB: If you could go back in time, what’s a piece of advice you would give to a younger you?

UNIITY: Although you may live in poverty, go to a shitty school, and live with the constant fear of dying in your neighborhood- you’ll learn strength and how to love.

RMB: What’s coming up next for your musical project?

UNIITY: For my next musical project, you’ll have to stay tuned to find out.

RMB: Will you be releasing a music video?

UNIITY: Absolutely!