Yoni Ben Ari isn't just a bassist; he's a musical architect, weaving intricate grooves and melodic tapestries into expansive and innovative soundscapes. A vital voice in contemporary music, his work extends from leading his own ensembles on prestigious jazz stages to sharing festival slots with pop and soul sensation Charley, and of course, blending jazz and indie with his band SWIMS.

Yoni's musical journey is one of constant exploration. Now, with his genre-fluid trio SWIMS gaining traction with their bold and textural singles, we were lucky enough to catch up with Yoni to learn more about his musical origins, the deeply personal inspiration behind SWIM’s latest release, ‘Sometime’, and the evolution of his distinctive sound.

It's great to chat with you today, Yoni. We’ll dig into your band’s new single in a moment, but first, where did your journey into music start? How did it all come about?

“I first started making music at a very young age. Growing up, I was always drawn to rhythm and melody, and I began playing bass in my early teens. I was inspired by a wide range of musical styles, from jazz to rock, and I found the bass to be the perfect instrument to express both the groove and harmony of the music I loved.”

“My musical journey really began when I started listening to jazz — artists like Charles Mingus and Paul Chambers inspired me to dive deeper into improvisation and composition. I was fascinated by how they could build entire musical worlds with just a few notes, and that idea of musical storytelling became something I’ve carried with me throughout my career. Over time, I started leading my own projects, experimenting with both jazz and indie. and that’s where my band SWIMS was born. My goal has always been to create music that resonates emotionally, no matter the genre, and to connect with listeners on a deeper level.”

SWIMS has been steadily making ground, and the new single is a huge release for for the band. Can you tell us a bit about it?

“My latest release, ‘Sometime’, with my band SWIMS, holds a special place in my heart. It's the culmination of a lot of hard work and creative energy from all of us. The process of making 'Sometime' was deeply personal—it’s a song about navigating uncertainty and finding moments of clarity in the midst of chaos.”

“Lyrically, it explores the idea of embracing the unknown and trusting that things will unfold in their own time. Along with the song, I also wrote the concept for the music video. It was important for me to visually represent the emotional layers of the song, and working on the video was a way to expand on that feeling. The whole project is very much about growth, vulnerability, and letting go of the need to have everything figured out. Sometime is a reflection of where I am as an artist and as a person, and I’m excited to share it with the world.”

How would you describe the sound on your latest release? Has there been a change or evolution in style since you first began?

“The sound of ‘Sometime’ is a blend of jazz and indie rock, with an emphasis on atmosphere and emotion. There’s a lot of space in the track, allowing each instrument to breathe and creating a sense of openness, which is something I’ve been really drawn to in my music lately. The production style incorporates lush textures and layered sounds, giving it a dreamy, immersive quality, but with the rhythmic drive and groove that comes from jazz and rock.”

“In terms of evolution, I’d say there’s definitely been a shift toward a more expansive sound. Over time, my music has become more about blending genres and pushing boundaries, moving away from traditional jazz forms and exploring more eclectic, modern influences. ‘Sometime’ is a good example of this—there’s a much bigger focus on sonic texture and mood, which has become a bigger part of my sound as I’ve continued to grow as an artist. It’s about capturing a feeling and a vibe rather than just sticking to one specific genre, and that’s been a significant shift in my approach to music over the years.”

Is there a central message or theme you were trying to convey in your latest release? Is there a moment in the release that really captures that idea?

“The central theme of ‘Sometime’ revolves around the uncertainty and the passage of time. It’s about the moments when we find ourselves in between, unsure of what comes next, yet trusting that everything will unfold in its own time. The message is ultimately one of acceptance and letting go of the pressure to have everything figured out right now. It’s a reminder to be patient with ourselves and trust in the journey, even when we can’t see the full picture.”

“One moment in the release that really captures this idea is the bridge of the song, where the music shifts and opens up. It’s a space where the uncertainty is felt most clearly, but it also creates an emotional release that reflects the sense of hope and clarity that can emerge from those moments of doubt. That part of the song really embodies the feeling of transition—of moving through a difficult moment and coming out stronger on the other side.”

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations as an artist? Where do you see yourself in the next few years, both musically and personally?

“Looking ahead, my primary aspiration as an artist is to continue to evolve and expand my musical expression, pushing boundaries while maintaining a strong emotional and artistic core. I aim to explore new genres, blend diverse influences, and create music that resonates on a global scale.”

“The goal is to develop a unique sound that blends my background in jazz and indie rock while incorporating innovative production techniques and new forms of expression. In the coming years, I see myself continuing to lead SWIMS and expanding our reach, both in the studio and on international stages.”

“I’m focused on releasing additional singles, and I aspire to record a full-length album that reflects both the depth and evolution of my sound. Collaborating with new and diverse artists will be a central part of my journey, as I continue to refine my voice and contribute meaningfully to the international music scene. Personally, I aim to further my growth as both a composer and performer, refining my craft and establishing deeper connections with global audiences. I am committed to maintaining a forward-thinking approach to my music and am excited about the opportunities ahead to collaborate, innovate, and make a lasting impact in the world of music.”

From his early inspirations to the intricate soundscapes of his current work with SWIMS, Yoni's dedication to musical storytelling shines through. He offers a fascinating insight into the creation of ‘Sometime’, a track brimming with vulnerability and a message of embracing the unknown.

With a commitment to innovation and a deep-seated passion for his craft, Yoni Ben Ari is undoubtedly an artist whose journey will continue to captivate and inspire. For more from Yoni and his band, be sure to check out SWIMS on Instagram and YouTube.