One Empty Toybox Turns a Digital Threat Into Creative Energy With “Cyberstalking”

One Empty Toybox takes on the darker side of modern online life with “Cyberstalking,” an imaginative track that approaches a serious subject with an unexpected sense of levity.

Created by longtime collaborators Rob Dreyer and Nicholas “Nick” Viltrakis, the song began with Nick building its instrumental framework of drums, bass, synth and rhythm guitars. Rob later wrote the lyrics while Nick was away on a business trip in Chicago. Vocals, lead guitars and spontaneous solos were then added, following the improvisational approach that has shaped the pair’s creative partnership since 1995.

Behind its playful character, “Cyberstalking” addresses the dangers of technology-assisted stalking and the growing difficulty of trusting the online world. The release also carries a meaningful purpose, with 100% of its profits being donated to Stop Stalking Us.

Recorded in Nick’s basement in Cincinnati, Ohio, “Cyberstalking” captures One Empty Toybox’s love of experimentation, friendship and spontaneous creativity while using music to bring attention to an important contemporary issue.