Minute Taker: Melancholy, Music and Masculinity
In this episode of In the Key of Q, Dan Hall speaks with Ben McGarvey, who performs as Minute Taker. Ben's music is characterized by a signature blend of retro synth-pop, haunting piano melodies, and emotionally charged lyrics that explore the depth of human experience.
Episode Summary
Ben opens up about the origins of his stage name "Minute Taker" – a reference to his former day job that created an ironic contrast with his artistic identity. He describes it as "simultaneously mundane and otherworldly," reflecting the dual nature of his creative life.
The conversation traverses Ben's musical evolution from a teenager in the 90s who was drawn to 80s synth music to his current work creating atmospheric, emotionally resonant songs. Ben reflects on how living in rural Shropshire as a young gay man shaped his relationship with music as a form of escape and self-expression.
Throughout the episode, Ben courageously discusses his experiences with depression and how this has informed the melancholic quality of his music. Rather than viewing this melancholia as something negative, he explores how it can be "so beautiful" and serves as a connective tissue between artist and listener.
Key Moments
02:59 - Ben discusses his musical influences growing up, including Kate Bush, Pet Shop Boys, Tori Amos, and PJ Harvey
07:47 - Reflections on growing up as a gay child in rural Britain during the Section 28 era
09:35 - Ben shares his early songwriting experiences and how music became a form of escape
16:46 - Discussion about representation and the importance of addressing songs explicitly to men
22:46 - Ben speaks candidly about his experiences with depression and how it manifests
24:44 - The evolution of Ben's work into audiovisual projects, including his concept album exploring gay men's lives throughout history
28:32 - Details about his upcoming album "The Oblivion," inspired by Blade Runner and 80s sounds
34:20 - Information about Ben's subscription service for fans to access exclusive music
Guest Bio
Ben McGarvey is a Manchester-based musician who performs under the name Minute Taker. His work blends retro synth sounds with piano and emotional lyrics to create atmospheric, often melancholic music. Beyond traditional albums, Ben has expanded into audiovisual projects that explore LGBTQ+ experiences throughout history. His most recent album "Wolf Wallflowers" included an accompanying visual narrative, and he's currently finishing his new album "The Oblivion."
Gateway Track
Ben recommends "Lead You Home," the opening track from his album "Wolf Wallflowers," as the perfect introduction to his music. The song encapsulates his recent musical direction with its melancholic, synthy, and atmospheric qualities while remaining catchy. The accompanying music video alternates between scenes set in the 1980s and 1918, telling the story of two World War I soldiers.
Gateway Track
Minute Taker website.
In the Key of Q celebrates queer musicians and their stories. Find us on Twitter, Instagram, or email us at intheKeyofQ@gmail.com.
Theme music by Paul Leonidou at Unstoppable Monsters.
