Interview: Metabeats

Metabeats takes some time out to answer some questions about his new album ‘Metaphysical’ and the proto-jazzanova sound.
Metabeats Photo 1

Can you fill us in on your background?

Basically music has always been around me. Not so much musicians, but in my home and being around dj’s around my way. My father had a good range of stuff as well from like Stanley Clarke to Santana, to Marvin to Linton Kwesi Johnson. Not many kids I know were listening to stuff like that.

My bro used to play jungle. He got these homemade style decks built in to one box. He bought them out the free adds. They were fucked. Plus he was a big Wu-Tang fan too. They really turned me on to hip hop like Wu Tang Forever is one of my favourites. I even used to dj Garage music. Real Garage music. Not that Babycakes bullshit, people might be surprised of my background but that’s what i think helps what i bring to the table. I ain’t a purist. i love hip hop but i also love music innit.

Whats life like on Associated minds?

Life’s healthy with them. They see what I do. That’s how it should be. They pulled me on board based on what I do, not so they can mould me into something else. I still got my freedom. I still do my Squid shit. They’re a tight unit… basically the name says it all.

Your new album ‘Metaphysical’ has just been released, what can we expect from it?

Proto-jazzanova-esque dirt that rattles pictures off your t.v.

Talk us through the beat making process.

Post scratchin’ my nuts and foldin’ one up, I might go through some samples. When i find something i like, i get some drums.

I gotta have the drums banging before i get into the beat whether it’s using the keyboard or chopping something up. I get bored of using the same sort of drum sounds often, so after that I chop the samples up. I play around with them over the drums. Make my own melody or something, I’m not really into using breaks too often, only if its tooooo savage and it works right with the track. I usually know when I’m satisfied cos i step a way from the machine (RS7000) and stand on the other side of the room n jus rock my head to it. Then it’s out in the mail….

Is there a signature track which really sums up where you are right now?

Not really, the whole thing does to me. Its something i needed to do. I’ve been making beats for long enough now and felt the time was right to step up with what I’m bringing to the table but if i had to say it would probably be the outro because that’s me plus it feels like that’s leading on for what’s to follow.

Any emcess, on the album or otherwise, to watch out for?

Cervantis he’s killing it now fresh style. He’s a dirty man none the less.

Fair do’s though, everyone killed it on there, Beleaf as well. He’s from Miami. He came with a great concept about his addiction to the chang, but makes out it’s a white girl. Dope shit.

UK Hip-hop probably doesn’t get the respect it deserves from the mainstream, does this bother you?

Hmmmmmmmmmm just a bit.

Who are your favourite producers out there at the moment?

Still Dilla, even now he ain’t around no more. Kev Brown, Madlib, Solid groove, Black Milk, Flying Lotus. Anything with thump or soul.

Further afield; are there any bands, artists, designers etc. around that you are enjoying?

I’m lookin forward to Damon Albarn’s new stuff, Skream, Coki, Benga for that night tune. That’s savage.

I like my fresh shit too. Brands like aNYthing, supreme, tenderloin and this new brand Reason. I got some ordered for next month, I’m on it hard.

If you weren’t a Hip-hop producer what you be doing instead?

Selling shoes at size? spending my money on ten bags of weed and discount kicks oh shit i do that already.

Quick fire, just for fun;

Xbox or Wii?
Wii cos it helps prevent obesity.
Digital or Analogue?
Analogue’s choong.
Laces or Velcro?
Laces. Unless you got locked up.
Llwybr Llaethog or GLC?
The first one.
Pretty or Shitty?
Pretty. I don’t like girls who smell like that.

And finally, whats in store next for Metabeats?

Nothing but new ish! I just wanna push the whole proto-jazzanova sound you know!!

Thanks for taking the time out to answer our questions.

Metabeats ‘Metaphysical’ LP is out now on Associated Minds – Featuring Ralph Rip Shit, Ruffstylz, Mudmowth, Junior Disprol, Optimas Prime, Quiet Poison, Joe Blow, Pergyl and more.

You can pick up a copy from the Associated Minds Online Store.

http://www.myspace.com/metaphysicalish
http://www.associatedminds.com/