About the Artist
Joel Hoffman & EyeAm are musical collaborators based in Atlanta. Hoffman is a retired doctor, and has formed “Ari Collective” in recent years to foster music production, songwriting and creation with a diverse mix of artists.
About the Episode (Episode 19)
The Atlanta Duo Bridging the Generation Gap with "Unlimited Ideas"
In the latest episode of The Curious Goldfish, host Jason English sits down with Ari Collective, an Atlanta-based duo that proves curiosity is the ultimate bridge between different worlds. Comprising veteran songwriter Joel Hoffman and 20-something R&B artist EyeAM, the group represents a rare cross-generational synergy in a music industry often defined by age-gated silos. Their conversation moves quickly from the logistics of songwriting to the resilience required to chase a festival-sized dream.
Hoffman, who describes himself as having "unlimited ideas," brings a pop-sensibility focused on structure and "sticky" hooks. EyeAM provides the modern edge, utilizing a freestyle-heavy approach to create intricate verses and unique cadences. This partnership, which they call a "match made in heaven," relies on a mutual respect for the other’s specialized talent. As Hoffman puts it, "I’ll take one of the better ideas... often I have the hook... and EyeAM brings this really interesting verse that I never would be able to think of."
Based in the competitive Atlanta music scene, Ari Collective is currently scaling their operation toward major stages, including upcoming performances at New York’s legendary SOB’s and potential slots at fall festivals in Atlanta and Dallas. Their sound—a polished blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop—aims for massive "eyeballs" and ears, backed by the confidence that they have a product ready for the mainstream.
Three Takeaways from the Conversation:
The Alchemy of the "Voice Memo": The duo explains how a simple smartphone recording becomes the foundation for their tracks. It’s a masterclass in low-stakes brainstorming leading to high-production results.
Bridging Different Eras: The episode explores how Hoffman’s traditional songwriting discipline meshes with EyeAM’s fluid, modern R&B sensibilities, creating a sound that appeals across demographics.
The Festival Mindset: Ari Collective discusses the shift from studio creation to the "big stage" mentality, emphasizing that "getting in front of 10,000 people" is the next logical step for their evolving brand.
