Daily Inspiration: Meet Nolan Cota

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nolan Cota.

Hi Nolan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
After trials and tribulations of previous failed projects, bands, and collaborations, I sought to try and make a new name for myself as Aeons Encoded. In the past, I have tried doing solo stuff as I am now, but I lacked the gear, the time, and most importantly, the motivation. But ever since early 2020, I have been able to finally start something, acquire everything I need, and have more drive to create.

Since then, I have released two singles (one being a demo track), an album, and most recently, an EP. I specialize in progressive rock with ambient synth elements, and it has been the most fun I’ve ever had making something to call my own. I do everything myself, from the production to the promoting, to the merch, and social media channels. It’s been a lot of work, but so far I think it’s been worth it, and I’m proud to say I’ve done it all on my own.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has, and it hasn’t. When I was first starting, I had very limited knowledge, equipment, and space to create. I did, and still do, make my music in an apartment bedroom. There are many restraints to working in such a space, but at the same time, it’s convenient just because I can do it from my own home. I always find a way to adapt to my working environment, and in the process, have been able to make my own sound.

Another struggle is being heard. I don’t do it for fame and fortune, I do it because I want my music to reach people, and be supported by people, who I hope to become fans of the music I make. It’s a continuous struggle, but I know my time will come where it will soar farther than I ever imagined.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I make music, specifically progressive rock/ambient under the alias Aeons Encoded. I’ve been a songwriter for many years, but it’s only recently I’ve been able to get my work out there. As I stated, I do everything on my own, so there are times when it gets extremely difficult, but it’s one of those “high risk, high reward” situations, at lea that’s how I try to see it.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come, albeit small victories, but ultimately still victories nonetheless. So I guess you could say I’m known for my drive, my perfectionism, and my creativity. I try not to toot my own horn, though. I don’t like to show any kind of ego, but they are things people still tell me to this day. I’m very humbled by it.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Tough question! As mentioned, a lot of people who inquire about this still get very shocked to hear that everything I do, I do on my own. There have only been a couple of occasions where I have had someone else do some work for me, such as making my album art for my debut album, and my good friend mastering my recent EP.

Some have also asked me where and how I make my music, and I always tell them it’s all done in a bedroom with a laptop, instruments, and as much recording gear and cables as I can hold in the space I have.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/aeonsencoded
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aeono1an/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aeonsncoded
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/aeono1an
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCasLx380UjiH82O1TtClf_g
• SoundCloud: https://m.soundcloud.com/aeons-encoded
• Other: https://aeonsencoded.bandcamp.com/

Image Credits
Aeons Encoded “Inspect Element,” Cody Weimar