David Handler: The Importance of the human spirit and his new album "Life Like Violence" | Interview

I recently sat down with artist David Handler to explore his compelling new album Life Like Violence, a collection that defies easy categorization and invites listeners to live inside the space that he has created for us.

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David Handler - Life like Violence

Handler's musical journey began early, with a childhood immersed in music. His parents, though not professional musicians, filled his early years with music, and Handler's connection to it was evident from a very young age.

He started playing the violin at age three and the drums around seven or eight, eventually leading him to the Manhattan School of Music. There, he initially focused on violin performance before shifting his focus to composition, driven by a desire to create his own music rather than solely performing the works of others. 

"The best way I could describe the album...is that it's the sound of my psyche."  

This diverse musical background is palpable in his new album, which, as Handler describes it, is "the sound of my psyche." The album doesn't shy away from exploring the "inner violence and tumult that goes along with being a human being," resulting in a listening experience that can be challenging yet ultimately rewarding.

Personally, I've recently had a deep appreciation for artists and musicians that can take me in different headspaces from song to song, and to date - Life Like Violence is one of those few special albums that allows, and takes you to these spaces, even if it is an uncomfortable feeling at first.

"It's not easy listening," Handler acknowledges, emphasizing that the album might end up demanding a deeper engagement from the listener. He advocates for this "deep listening," to give the listener an immersive experience that encourages introspection.

The album showcases a rich variety of styles, incorporating electronic, acoustic, and orchestral elements. All of which is mostly played by Handler himself. Dissonance, both in pitch and emotion, plays a significant role, unifying the diverse sonic landscape. Handler also emphasizes the narrative quality of the music, describing how musical ideas "collide," "invade," and "mock" each other, creating a dynamic and almost theatrical experience.   

 "There's a beautiful melody, but then there's this machinery that keeps interrupting it, and that for me is sort of the sound of a spirit under attack."

Several tracks stand out with their unique characteristics. "Lullaby" recontextualizes the traditional lullaby to explore darker emotions and the restlessness of sleep. "Sunbled Sky" features a beautiful melody that is repeatedly interrupted by "machinery," symbolizing a spirit under attack. The title track, "Life Like Violence," is a complex audio collage that delves into themes of love, lust, and inner turmoil. "Solstice" is the album's most expansive piece, featuring two string orchestras and exploring contrasting sounds that eventually converge.

The album is also a collaborative endeavor. Handler created and enlisted the help of others to create short films to accompany each track, demonstrating his vision to combine visual and auditory experiences. He worked with animators, filmmakers, and even wrestlers to bring these visual narratives to life. This ambitious project highlights Handler's creative drive and his ability to bring together diverse talents to realize his artistic vision.   

"I'm really grateful for and learning to trust the open ears and open heart of an audience."

For those eager to experience Handler's multifaceted artistry, his work can be found through his Linktree, which provides access to his vinyl pre-order, music videos, streaming platforms, social media, and mailing list.  

Life Like Violence releases 5/16/25, and can be found on all streaming platforms.

David Handler Interview with PerfectFM