So, first things first…how awesome does it feel to have your tune “Machine Gun” used for “Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon”? How did that come about, who approached you, how did they come across your tune?

Fucking sick, I saw it in my hotel room while touring the East Coast a few weeks ago and was like rahhhh. And we weren’t approached cos its a remix so all that stuff goes through the original artist/publisher. They get all the yummy moneys.

Eddie and Jason, you guys have only been together for 3 years, what were you doing before 16bit came about?

I [Jason] was working in a sausage factory and Eddie was painting eggs and selling them at trade fairs.

You won ‘Best Mix’ at the 2010 Dubstep Forum Awards for your ‘Milky Pie Mix’ and came 2nd in the Best Producer category, quite impressive to say the least. Is there anyone in particular that was very influential in your development as DJ’s and producers? Also, what do you look for in DJ’s, what do you think makes a good DJ great?

The second show we ever played was supporting Rusko in Paris and we were using Ableton Live with a USB mixer at that point, when I saw Rusko playing with CDJs, the energy, and the physical interaction with the tunes I knew that was what I wanted to do, so we kept Ableton for the studio and I learnt how to mix

Can you describe what the production process is like for you two? Do you sit down together and write tunes, do each of you have your own specialty you work on, etc…?

It varies. Sometimes we sit down together, get fucked up and work on tunes. Sometime we work seperate. It just depends on what else is going on at the time. We both get involved in all elements of the tunes.

You guys have really created, as what some people would say, a sub-genre for the “aggressive” side of dubstep. What this something that was pre-meditated, or was it just that the sounds you were creating took you in that direction?

Exactly, that just happened to be the mood we were in when making those tunes.

How many production years do you two have behind you, and what is your
studio setup like?

We’ve both been messing around with producing since we were kids. In different ways and styles.
Studio setup: PC, midi keyboard 2x Mackie HR824 (i think that’s what they are), Access Virus TI, Focusrite saffire 24, a shit ton of VSTs.

What’s your take on drumstep? Do you guys have any tunes that may be coming out at the tempo anytime soon?

We don’t worry ourselves with tempos or sub-genres that popup. We just make tunes, and we looove bassssss.

Which tune are you most proud of?

All of the album stuff we’re working on atm. Some of these tunes were made over a year ago and saved for the album, and still do it every time i listen/work on them.

Some people say dubstep is a fad, that it won’t be around forever, what direction do you think the genre is moving in?

Every day, genres are becoming more and more irrelevant. Its just Bass music and dub step is a part of that, drum n bass is a part of that, moombahton etc..
I see it growing into what hip hop is today, A huge collection of artists all doing what they love. Diversity is the one.

Which city has gone the absolute fucking craziest for you guys?

Manchester

Got any advice for the upcoming producers?

Make tunes you like and don’t try to just copy whats popular at the time. And if you’re doing it cos you wanna make some pea. don’t bother, become an accountant or something, you’re gonna make a hell of a lot more, a hell of a lot quicker.

What can we expect from you in the next few months and what can you
tell us about your album for 2012?

Our next release on MTA records is coming out in a few weeks, Dinosaurs/Boston Cream. We’ve got a guy working on the sickest animated video for that right now. Its a madness. AS for the album, that’s all top secret atm, sorryx

Lastly you have the floor, anything you wanna hype up, shout out, or set straight?

Go get Bjork’s album when it comes out, we worked with her on stuff for that.
Check out Professor Green ‘At Your Inconvenience’ produced by us.
Keep an eye out for other productions we’ve been doing too.
Couple new remixes on the way.

Antiserum – The Swarm *clip by Antiserum

So we all know you just came off tour with Excision and Downlink… fill us in! How was it, what cities raged the hardest?

The Subsonic Tour was life changing. Some of the greatest experiences of my entire life in fact. Living on a bus with Excision and Downlink was actually really fun and we all got along quite well. Our crew and bus driver were some of the nicest dudes I’ve ever met. Our schedule was really tight – constantly performing, traveling and sleeping – so there wasn’t a whole lot of downtime for us to explore, but we had a blast. My favorite cities would have to be Denver, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Covington, Los Angeles, Knoxville, Detroit, and of course San Francisco. Every show was amazing but those cities stick out the most to me. Traveling with the PK sound system was seriously spoiling. The way I hear & experience sound in a live setting will never be the same!

In 2008 you exploded onto the scene and it seems like there’s no sign of you slowing down. Describe what the last few years have been like for you… was it everything you thought it would be?

It’s been totally surreal, man. Honestly, my initial goal was to just get my music out on vinyl. I never thought I’d be traveling and playing music for huge crowds. The music keeps getting bigger and bigger. I feel like 2011 has been the craziest year yet and I hope it continues to go well. I am so grateful for being able to be a part of this whole movement.

One of your latest collaborations was with Ill-Esha for a song called Zephyr. How did that collaboration come about and what was the production process like?

I randomly stumbled across Elysha’s myspace a couple years back and sent her a message letting her know I liked her style. Before long we were in my studio putting together the Zephyr tune and it was such a natural and fun process. I feel like it just happened without any stress. Elysha is super talented and fun to work with. We have a few more collabs that I’ve been playing in my sets that might see release this year.

“The Swarm” and “Nazca” are two of my favorite tunes from you, both on The Swarm EP… why call it “The Swarm”? Have you seen the Nazca lines yourself? I took a trip to Peru a couple years ago so you kinda peaked my interest…

Thank you sir! The Swarm was named by Ivy Something. It felt like the right fit for the tune due to the takeover effect it has on the listener. I’ve never actually seen the Nazca lines but I am going to look into it after I finish this interview!

What is your studio setup like? (hardware/software)

My Studio has been constantly changing for the past few years. Right now I have a Mac pro tower running Logic 9. I have so many plugins I can’t even keep track of them! For monitoring, I have the Adam p11a monitors and an Adam sub 8. I also have a set of Yamaha hs50m monitors. My favorite piece is my white Virus TI Polar which I use quite a bit. I also just picked up a new ADDA converter, the Crane Song HEDD192. It has a tape emulation effect that sounds lovely.

When is the best time for you to produce tracks, are you working ’til the break of dawn or gettin’ up nice and early?

It’s been hard to find time lately to produce. I’ve had to move quite a bit in the last year and I’m on the road a lot so it’s been tough. I just moved into a new place and it’s perfect for production. I even got the landlord to put that I can produce at 100db from 9-5 in my lease. I’m sure I’ll be getting plenty of work done from this point forward. I prefer working early in the morning with a strong cup of coffee.

Aside from the obvious, is there anything in particular you like to have when you produce?

Yes! Plenty of caffeine and sugar. Without those things I am useless. I also am a cereal addict. Gotta have my bowl gotta have my cereal!!! Hahahaha.

What do you like to do when you’re not melting faces or making tunes?

I like movies and snuggling my girlfriend. I also enjoy ghost hunting, tornado chasing, and extreme cleaning.

Name one city/place/venue you’d really like to play… why?

I have always wanted to play the famous Fabric club in the UK. It has so much history. I also would love to play in Russia.

It seems like a lot of producers I’ve talked to are jumping on the drumstep bandwagon, can we expect any tunes from you comin’ out at 175?

I am definitely feeling a lot of drumsteppy stuff but I have yet to produce any. You might hear something from me before the year is over.

Can you give some advice to the up ‘n coming dubstep producers out there?

Be original. Constantly try new things. Make music that’s memorable.

What can the fans expect from you this summer?

I have tons of shows lined up in the USA through August. I think I will be heading back out to Australia and New Zealand for my second tour there in September. Everything is still in the works though.

Lastly you have the floor, anything you’d like to hype up, shout out, or set straight?

First, I want to thank everyone that supports me and comes out to my shows! I’ve got some new collabs in the works with Noah D, Truth, 12th Planet, Vinja, ill-esha, Triage and Chewie, so keep an ear out for those. And if you haven’t already, please grab my sexy Dub Police release with ill-esha and 12th planet!

How did you and Phil meet, how long have you known each other, and what made you guys want to form Trowa when you both have strong production backgrounds of your own?

We originally met through our mutual friend Wiskey Pete down in San Diego on a fishing trip , and that was about 2 or 3 years ago. We started working on the Metric – Gold Guns Girls remix for fun , and people wanted more from us. After a few months we both felt really inspired to create bigger n better sounds, so it turned into a serious production project. We both came from strong production and dj backgrounds in drum’n'bass, house, garage , breaks, and had been doing that for about 10 years.

- What were your musical backgrounds before you got into making dubstep?

We share many musical influences, both groing up on the west coast in the 90′s. Phil is a Guitarist , and I’m a Drummer and Keyboardist . A large part of our approach to making music is influenced by our background playing live instruments , and we’ve both spend a great deal of time recording and engineering. In our earlier years we were into Punk rock , Hiphop , Reggae, and Dancehall . Later when we got into Electronic music we were into Jungle, House, and Breakbeats. We both love World music. North Indian , Bulgarian Wedding Music, and Javanese Gamelan.

- For each of you, what is the track that you are most proud of creating and why?

Well we don’t have a favorite , although dropping our Warrior remix at a show is always heavy vibes and when we get people singing along that’s pretty epic.

- The Evanescence remix is one of my favorite tunes from you guys, are we going to hear anymore drumstep from you two in the near future?

Yes! We’ve been working with Armanni Reign on a few new Drumstep flaves. We love that tempo .

- Got any advice for the upcoming producers reading this?

Eat your Broccoli and keep your nose clean.

- What’s the craziest thing you’ve experienced on the road so far?

Dry Vomit towels in the stratosphere, Flood walls at the lip of the Mississippi at 8 am in STL, Police raided after party in San Diego , Post-Party road trips from Milwaukee to Chicago, Kansas City to STL, and of course our epic encounter at Burning Man with the Desert Pirates, Ganesh the Elephant , and our time travel into the year 3000 at Basscamp. Good times.

- Name TWO producers you think we should look out for, and why?

Run-DMT is a sick duo out of Austin TX, we’re really feeling their sound, we play several of their tunes in every set. And , Sexual Chi Symphony.

- Lastly, you have the floor, anything you’d like to hype up, shout out or set straight?

We have several releases coming up in the next 2 months, mostly Dubstep although we have a bit of Drumstep, and Moombahcore in the works . So far there’s A Play Me EP with 4 originals , Collabs w Armanni Reign on Westbay Music , a remix ft. Whiskey Pete and Sporty-o on Illeven:Eleven , our Villains collab on Dim Mak, a Run-DMT collab on P-5 Records, and a remix we did of Liberty ft. Whiskey Pete on Solfege Records. We would also like to mention Trowa only has 2 members, Metaphase and Philthy B. , and it is pronounced TROW-UH. Thanks Dubliminal !

RUN DMT – Midnight (Trowa Remix) [Forthcoming P5 Records] by TROWA

I heard you were an electro-house producer first, what made you make the switch?

I made a couple dubstep songs for fun, and my friends told me they were really good. So I sent them to labels and got signed. Didn’t look back after that.

Having been to Minneapolis myself to witness the dubstep scene first hand, I can say you guys have a pretty strong group of hardcore heads up there, can you describe a city you’ve been to that has just blown your mind in terms of people really havin’ it to dubstep?

Every show and city is unique, and people always have a good time. I think the times that ive been more or less blown away is when im not expecting anything. When you play a city like LA or Baltimore, you know that its a big city and that there is a big scene, so you expect a lot from the crowd as far as size and involvement. When I play smaller cities, it can be really hit or miss, and If I’m not familiar with the city, I assume its going to be a small laid back show. When cities i’m not familiar with are really really good shows, I always get really excited and have the time of my life, even if the show isnt as big as an event in LA, its still better then im expecting so I get blown away. Its all about the attitude you have going into it that will make or break the experience. A show along the lines of what I was just describing was when I played Covington, KY back in December. The crowd was nuts, and there were way more people there then I was expecting. Experiences like that are what its all about.

How do you feel your production has evolved since having your first
tunes signed to Rottun?

I feel it has evolved in virtually every way. The more I produce, the more I learn.

What are your feelings about collaborations with other producers?

I’m a lone ranger when it comes to collabs. I don’t even know how many times ive tried and then it didn’t work out. The only really successful collab was with Downlink, which will come out on rottun sometime this year.

What is your studio setup like? Hardware/software?

I run Adam a7x’s and a Yamaha sub in an acoustically treated room. I have a generic midi keyboard and a Bluebird microphone. Other then that its just my computer and lots of vsts.

It seems like every producer I talk to always has their eye on a new
piece of gear… what do you have your eye on right now?

Honestly, I have everything I need for producing right now. I’d really like more time, or something to replace sleep, but thats about it

What setup do you prefer to DJ on?

Two Pioneer CDJ’s and a mixer. I keep it simple for traveling.

Who are some producers that you’re really feeling at the moment?

Downlink, Ajapai, and F3tch all have some crazy cool sounds right now.

What has been your biggest challenge so far this year?

Staying in my right mind with all the touring and partying.

Tell all your fans what you’ve got planned for ‘em this year!

Something big. Can’t announce yet, but something thats new and involves a lot of music.

Lastly, you have the floor. Anything/one you’d like to shout out, or hype up?

To all the aspiring producers: There is no secret to finding success in the music business, its just plain hard work like everything else

BOKATOR – Cockney Disko Cash (Bootleggers Delight) by DUBliminalCOM

Bokator – Soap Box by DUBliminalCOM

Name/Age/Location

David Cartwright, AKA: Bokator, 22, Austin

Did you start out as a DJ or producer first? How long have to been producing for?

I guess I started out as a DJ. When I was about 16 or so I was slowing down and chopping up dirty south hip-hop on a free DJ software. I’d burn off CD’s and go sell them at my school for $5 a pop. I was dabbling in production at the same time, but it was slow going. I was basically limited to free software and samples, so everything was super generic and simple, but it opened my eyes and started to help me wrap my head around the concept of producing. I’d say I’ve been serious about production for a few years now.

Is dubstep the first genre you started producing?

Nah, I started a while before I had heard of dubstep. Originally, I was attempting hip-hop. Then I went to my first rave, heard good electro, and decided that I wanted to head in that direction. A year or so later, after I had started playing at a few clubs, and releasing a few electro tunes here and there, I heard dubstep for the first time. Needless to say, I’ve been doing that since.

Why dubstep?

It was a natural progression for me. Hearing it for the first time, I instantly knew I had found my niche. Like I said, I started in hip-hop, then moved to electro, so the combination of hip-hop beats and electronic bass was exactly what I wanted to be producing and playing out.

What hardware/software are you using?

Everything is made in FL Studio, with a few plugins and a ton of samples. I’ve got an Akia MPD26 for MIDI control, and a set of KRK ST6 studio monitors. That’s really all I feel that I need for now, but I’d definitely like to look into some hard synths in the near future.

Can you describe the scene in Austin?

I could definitely describe the scene in Austin, but my explanation would be completely bias. I’ll say that there are a lot of talented people here, but there is also an over-saturation. But that’s just my opinion, and I can completely understand if anyone else from Austin doesn’t agree.

What do you think of US dubstep compared to UK dubstep?

That’s a tough one. There are tons of awesome producers on both ends, but there are also a lot of kids making stuff that I have no capacity for. As far as the states go, I’m really feeling a bunch of the stuff coming from the bay area. A lot of sick producers out there, putting out vibes, and tunes with emotion. That’s the kind of thing that will have shelf value, and that’s the kind of thing I’m in to, wherever it’s coming from.

Great producers always have that sound, their sound. How would you describe yours?

I don’t know if I can. Production is a constant learning process, so I feel that my sound changes from tune to tune. I can say though, as I get more comfortable with my capabilities, I find myself wanting to be more melodic, and less noisy.

What has been your biggest challenge as a producer so far?

I’d say my biggest challenge so far has been a lack of releases. I work on a ton of stuff, but hardly any of it makes it off of my computer. I get bored easily, and I’m super critical of my music. All in all, I think it’s a good thing. I don’t want to put out anything other than stuff that I’m really feeling, and I especially don’t want to be known for anything other than what I feel really represents me as an artist, or a person. I feel that people loose interest in producers relatively fast if they’re not constantly pushing out tunes, but I’m letting that concept take a back seat. I want to be the guy putting out a few solid tunes every now and again, not the guy putting out a new, generic sounding, mediocre tune every week.

Do you have any special routine or things you always do before you play a show?

Drink a couple beers to take the edge off

Do you have any advice for the up ‘n coming dubstep producer?

Anyone that’s just starting, if you’re reading this, PLEASE do yourself and everyone else a favor: Wait until you’re truly happy with your tunes before you start pushing them out. And please, don’t try to sound like anyone else. That’s all.

What can we expect to see from Bokator this year?

Hopefully, a lot. I’ve got my 3rd release out on Dub Cartel on April 5th, and I’m talking with a few different labels about a few different tunes. There will definitely be a few bootleg remixes that I’ll give away as well. I’ll also be playing some shows around the states. Just sealed the deal to play at big festival in the bay area in May, and I’ve got a few things in the mid-west in June. I’m looking for the frequency of my bookings to increase after this EP drops in April, so hopefully I’ll be playing out in more places, and more often this year.

Lastly you have the floor, anything/one you want to hype up, shout out?

Biggup all the artists, labels, agencies, promoters, and listeners. You guys are pretty much the shit, and without all of you, none of us would be able to do this.

Robokop – Anthem (Forthcoming on One for All Recordings) by Robokop

Alright, so Robokop, dope name… how’d you decide on it?

Well i used to make hip-hop beats with Distrikt and another dude who started calling me Robocop and i was lookin for an artist name so I took it
and since im dutch kop means head so robohead.

That works, always good when the name is given to you by your peers. So you started producing hip hop? Why the move to dubstep?

Well I was tired of the hip-hop image i guess.. I used to rap as well but the whole “I’m better then the rest thing… I’m not like that and I actually didnt like dubstep at the start then I heard Jehova and Cockney Thug and Drumstick by Giant
and that got me hooked and i thought I’m going to make epic beats actually the tune from Chase and Status- Eastern Jam inspired me for that.

So… how long have you been producing dubstep for now?

A bit longer then 1 year.

What software/hardware are you using?

Fruityloops, Massive, and Edirol.

Are you mastering your own tunes?

Well normally yeah. I use Izotope for that. But the last EP’s have been mastered by someone else.

What’s been your biggest challenge as a producer so far?

Good question…to make something new and exciting every single time. I try to put a lot of Soul and Melody’s in my track.

How long does it normally take you to put out a tune?

Uhm depends… anywhere from 2 days to a month.

Do you have any special routine or specific thing you always do before you play a show?

Well i want to be at my show like an hour before to take a look around… mostly nerves I reckon.

So… what can we expect from Robokop this year?

You can expect a lot… Turn Up the Bassman EP with Affe Maria on Scum, the
We Move at Midnight EP  ft Julia on vinyl with an SPL remix, plus digital as well.
Tunes being supported by downlink on tour already… and the Anthem EP on One For All Records with a Cyberoptix and Sinister Souls Remix. On top of that, the FIRE EP with Distrikt , a Tim Ismag Remix , Sinister Souls, and Bong remixes

Do you have any advice for the up ‘n coming producer?

My quote would be dont make plain filth.

Couldn’t have said it better myself, NO PLAIN FILTH! Ya hear that???

I hate that

Alright Robo-head, haha, thanks for your time man much appreciated, anything/anyone you’d like to hype up or shout out?

Ya man a shout out go’s out to the MWM Crew! and Marcel Warnas
the Dutchbass Crew…watch out for the dutch in 2011!

Robokop – Giggles FREE DOWNLOAD! by Robokop

Robokop – We move at midnight preview ( FORTHCOMING ON MWM recordings) by Robokop

Rewest Ego – Anaesthetic /Robokop remix OUT NOW!!!!! by Robokop

BARE- GEESIX RMX (PLAY ME TOO PROMO) by Play Me Records

Sean Rodela
Age 27
LA

1. I have been following you for a good while now, and you keep putting out banger after banger after banger, how long have you been producing for?

- Thanks man Just having fun with it! I’ve been making music for almost 9 – 10 years give or take. Was in bands, did hip hop, dnb and now dubstep (I’ve only now been doing dubstep for 1 year and a month)

2. Did you start out producing or DJ’n first? Which do you like better?

- Naturally like most, I started out as a DJ first. For about a month or so, then I wanted to make my own sounds. I like both equally. Production gives me the outlet I need to get all these sounds in my head out for everyone to listen to. DJ’n lets me get my fun, very crowd interactive performance on. I like to have fun on both ends, so they both go hand in hand really nicely

3. Why dubstep?

- The first ever genre I started out with was dnb. From there I went to hip hop, n from there to dub. Dubstep does it for me on every level. It has the bass of the past dnb days that i love with the tempo and swag of hip hop I also love. add some face melting n what not, n u got some very fun dubstep

4. All the heads want to know what your studio setup is like, hardware/software?

- I do my main work in FL8. I run through a Lexicon Ionix external soundcard for now. Got a standard M-Audio controller. PC driven. My bass is mainly all in massive. I bounce out and mixdown in Adobe Audition. I also use a few other vst’s, but lets keep those secret

5. What’s been your biggest challenge as a producer so far?

- My biggest challenge I think is staying current. Always looking for that new sound on every new song. I make sure that I have diff. drums as well as new bass patches rocking in every new song.

6. The facebook pics show you’re traveling your ass off, what is your favorite city you have played in so far, why?

- I don’t have just one favorite. Every city I have played so far has been amazing in they’re own way. From smaller shows to bigger insanely packed shows. Each show has a place in my heart that I will never forget.

Image design courtesy of Steven Luros Holliday

7. Do you have anything in particular that you always make sure you
do before you play a show?

- Shower, change into show clothes, n get hyphy

8. Describe the feeling of what it’s like to see kids going absolutely
apeshit to your tunes?

- Incredibly unreal. I used to be one of those kids going nuts to tunes. Now to be the one that they’re going nuts to.. wow… It’s all you can even imagine it would be, and then some!

9. What track of yours are you most proud of? Why?

- Released – Banshee – It was a transitional period for my sound, and I really stepped it up n took it next level with that joint. Unreleased – Synthetic – Yet another transitional period with my sound. but this one wow…. It played in Borgore’s mix on Radio One BBC nearly a week or less after it was made. That one has me all smiles

10. What artists are you looking forward to hearing from in 2011?

- Skism, Skrillex, Mark Instinct, Antiserum, Downlink, Muffler, Trowa, Numbernin6, Persist, Vaski… to name a few

11. What can we expect from Bare this year?

- Lots of new tunes… Forthcoming big ones on Subhuman (year round) also a big Ep for Buygore.. As far as shows goes, tons across north america.. Keep an eye out for some merch. coming sometime soon this year as well. Lotta big things in the works for my fans!

12. A lot of the readers out there want to be in your shoes one day, got any advice for ‘em?

- The best advice I could ever give anyone is this.. Always believe in yourself. Be about yourself, and your sound. The second you start showing confidence in your sound is the second things will go places. People take notice to a confident big sound. Also… from the start, get your music to as many ears possible. You def. need to create a big buzz with the dub community and get ppl talking!

13. Lastly you have the floor, anyone/anything you wanna shout out?

- Big ups 2 —-> Subhuman, Damian, Steve G., Circle Management, Mike Puliz, Buygore, Ultragore, Play me, Joe & Cassie @ Hyperaudio LV, Moms & Pops, Vital Mindz, My boo Jen, Mark Instinct, Antiserum, Datsik, Downlink, and last but not least….. My fans (which I like to call my cubs)… without you guys I am nothing. Keep listening and I’ll keep making!!!!!!!

Keep up with him on:

FACEBOOK
MYSPACE
SOUNDCLOUD

Bare – Shot Me Down by SMASH GORDON – SUBHUMAN

Bare – Rukkuz (SubHuman) by SMASH GORDON – SUBHUMAN

Bare – Upper Decker (SubHuman) – FREE 320 – DOWNLOAD by SMASH GORDON – SUBHUMAN

Name/Age/Location:

SKisM / 28 / London

So… what came first? Shitty rave music or the drugs?

Definitely the drugs, after that my music got shittier and shittier.

Your “Down with the Kids” video was fucking awesome. How did that idea come about?

Well, a film maker called Tom Paton discovered the original banned EP in a street market in North Korea. Apparently it changed his life so he contacted me and asked for the opportunity to tell the world my story.

What ‘s your favorite track on the EP?

Probably ‘Elixir’ It’s probably the one track on the EP that shows my sensitive side.

Why did you start producing dubstep? How long have you been at it?

My First dubstep release ‘The Blank’ was in 2009, I was just having a laugh with it, but Kimmy J and the NK crew persuaded me to stick at it, and here we are.

What hardware/software are you using?

I don’t use any software, Everything in my tunes is organic, and mostly from my body.

What has been your biggest challenge this year?

Dealing with my Mum after her artwork for the EP got banned. And Rehab.

What do you think separates a good dj from a great dj?

Being Able to Mix two records together without it sounding like two Dustbins Fucking Each Other.

Got any advice for the up and coming producers out there?

Buy My EP, it will get your snare drums phatter.

What’s next for SKisM?

Lots of remixes, Collabs with the Likes of Flux Pavilion, Freq Nasty, ShockOne & Phetsta, and of course lots of Gigs.

Lastly, you have the floor. Anything you want to shout out, promote, hype up, bitch about, or set straight?

Big Shout to everyone at the Label, and everyone supporting. Make sure to get your Never Say Die Goodies at

Diesel – Randajad by DUBliminalCOM

Diesel – Panic Attack clip by DUBliminalCOM

Name/Age/Location?

Daniel Hogg / 25 / Hinckley, Leicestershire

So as most of my readers know, you’ve been one of my favorite dubstep producers for a while now, I remember checking out your myspace when you had 1,300 views. The first track I heard was “Full Metal” and my head nearly exploded, so much so that I named it my favorite track of 2009. You have a very unique sound, fill us in on how you got started making dubstep and how long you’ve been at it?

One of my m8s back in 2007 showed me a dubstep track and at first I was sceptical. It sounded bland, and kinda uninteresting to me what with just its sub bass and minimal drums, so I didn’t really take much notice until a few months later when I heard some of Caspa and Rusko’s tracks back in 2008, “Hammertime” “Where’s My Money” and “Cockney Thug” did interest me. At this time I was producing Hip Hop for a guy called MC Beads and a guy called Dap-C, so I didn’t have time or was even interested in making any dubstep tracks. It wasn’t until I started listening to the heavier sound of dubstep that I wanted to create tracks myself. Artists like Trolley Snatcha with “We Rock the Forest” and “The Future” pushed the genre even further in my opinion and showed people that dubstep really doesn’t have any limits. I wasn’t really sure where to start at first, specially going about making the right sounds for a dubstep track, so I just winged it an made a track for a laugh, not really thinking much of it and posted it up on the Dubstep forum “Jeremy Kyle Shut Your Mouth”. Rusko messaged me the day after saying he played it out through youtube on the fabric sound system. I can only imagine how shit that must have sounded though hahaha. After people like Rusko recognising the track and ideas I had, I thought i may as well carry on making more stuff but keep pushing the sound further.

What do you use to create your sound? (Gear/software/ you don’t have to get into plugins but I know the readers are curious)

I use Cubase and Reason. Reason mainly to create synths, drum kits etc, and Cubase to arrange, automate and record midi, as well as record vocals with a vocal mic I’ve got propped up in the corner along with all the Stella cans. Most of my sounds are created in the Malstrom or Thor Synthesizers, sometimes ill load a preset patch in one of them and mess around until I find a sound I like or ill make a sound from scratch. Hook up one of theses to the Scream 4 Unit and the sound instantly turns into a monster. I have a vocal micropone hooked up through a mixer to my Audiophile soundcard, where Ill put different effects on. The only other important peice of kit ive got is my Yamaha Keyboard, which I use to play everything, even down to the drum patterns. Its very rare that I draw midi notes in.

What music did you grow up on?

Well Firstly I grew up playing the piano, cello, drums and guitar and did all my grades on the piano, as well as doing music theory, so I learned to play quite a mixed bad of styles. I enjoyed playing in orchestras and doing concerts when I was a kid, I still listen to classical/jazz/blues music now. When I was growing up I had a passion for Hard House/Trance/Garage music. The energy and vibe I got from it was euphoric, you might notice some of my tracks taking on the “dance” vibe, I think it bodes well for the dance floor. Saying all that, I also used to listen a lot of rock bands like Greenday, Muse, Oasis and even Marilyn Manson. So yer, a mixed bag of music to be honest, I find every style of music has a certain value. I started composing music in my early teens but just on the piano, I didn’t get into producing music properly till I was about 18. I tought myself how to use Cubase and Reason round about 2002 then left producing music for about 4 years to go onto chasing girls and getting twated out my face! Its only in the last year or so that ive got back into it.

How did you decide to call yourself “Diesel”?

Goes way back. My mates used to call me dirty Diesel because I always said such grimey things.

Do you have a certain method you use when you go about producing a track?

Not really. Ill be messing around creating synths and bash away at my keyboard making melodies and rhythms and most of the time something will just pop in my head and ill roll with it. If I think about things for too long it end up being a mind fuck and a trip to the pub.

Some producers spend weeks producing a track, others can polish them off in several hours… how about yourself? Do you spend a lot of time on your tracks or are you able to figure out how you want a track to sound fairly quickly?

I’ll have the initial feeling and sound for the whole track in my head once ive got an idea rolling. Sometimes it can only take me a few hours to get a track done before mixing and mastering (which I absolutely hate doing) Sometimes though it can be a week before a track is done from start to finish.

Chronos is evolving into a really filthy bunch, how does it feel to be part of such a sick roster of artists?

Ya know what, the Chronos guys are good lads and really easy to get along with. They were quick to recognise artists such as Dayn, Dr.Philh, Vermin, Mister Six, all with their own unique sound. Obviously I’m glad to be alongside those! Hopefully big things for all of us in the future.

Where do you see dubstep going this year? In the States about 9 out of 10 people have never heard of the genre, I can only assume it’s bigger in the UK?

Well with it originating in the UK, you could assume that yeah. From what I’ve seen and heard, the US scene is definitely more about the harder sound of dubstep where as the UK scene has more of a mix of dubstep styles. I’ve also noticed that radio 1 have been playing a lot more dubstep in the past 6 months, I can assume that it will grow ever more popular. I don’t think it will ever come out from underground and hit the mainstream though, most of the general public wouldn’t be able to handle it

What is your favourite track that you have produced so far?

To be honest I don’t really have a favourite track of my own. Usually once ive made a track, i get sick of hearing it a week later, although Full Metal and Butcher still get me pumped up after a few bevies.

What artists are you currently listening to?

Im gonna give a shout out to these artists that have caught my attention with their tracks in the past couple of months!
Bar 9, Downlink, Datsik, Reso, Banana Bomber, Davr, Dr.Philth, Ashburner, Devnik, OddBoy, Vista, Widelows, Tomba, Bare Noize, Borgore, Liquid Stranger, Eptic.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Absolutely everything from ethnic vibes, classical, pop music. Its not often ill listen to another dubstep or drum & bass track and try to draw inspiration from that. I’m gonna keep it as unique as I can, even if I’m getting inspiration from my microwave, its all good.

If you could pick one show/city to play, which one would it be?

Would love to play Fabric one day but Id love to go to the states as well and rock it out over there. I’ve had so many people asking me when or if I’m playing out in the States, but unfortunately its not happened yet.

What do you have your mind set on accomplishing this year?

I’m just gonna keep rolling out the tunes and see where I end up haha. You’ll be seeing a lot more releases from me as I’ve got a 14 track album being released this summer on a new label called Skank Low Records along with tracks on Chronos Records obviously. Join my fan page on facebook and ill keep everyone updated on release dates etc.

Can you give some advice for the up and coming dubstep producers?

Just keep doing your thing! If you have a drive and a passion, I’m sure you’ll achieve what you want.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Yer man, Big Ups for the interview and be sure to check out my latest mix!

Cheers m8.

May the 4th Be With You (Diesel May Mix 2010) by DanDiesel

1. Sidney Samson ft. Lady Bee – Shut Up & Let It Go (Bar 9 Remix)
2. Bare Noize – Plant Food
3. Dayn – Bone Breaker
4. Widelows – Worms (Blobby VIP)
5. Reso – Techinetium
6. Mister Six – They Will Destroy Us (VIP)
7. Diesel – Skipping Arab
8. Downlink – The Night
9. Davr – FMJ
10. Bukez Finezt & Mr. Boogie – Ill Vibe
11. Diesel – Brrrap
12. Downlink – Ghost (Bukez Finezt Remix)
13. Diesel – Love & Hate (ft. MC Beads)
14. Banana Bomber & Dexx – Gorilla Funk
15. Liquid Stranger – Breakfast
16. Diesel – Its Dark At Night (ft. MC Beads)
17. Diesel – Dark Side
18. Bar 9 – 1983
19. Widelows – Broken Glass
20. Diesel – Slippery Nipple
21. Diesel – Full Metal
22. Excision & Datsik – Swagga (Downlink Remix)
23. Widelows – Ultra Violence

Acid Thoughts by Goojah

Transform (Preview) by Goojah

Leg Of Lamb by Goojah

> Name/Age/Location?

Joshua Arthur George Goudge!! 22 years of age, Birmingham/Kernow UK

> Where did you first hear dubstep, what track was it, and what was
your reaction?

The first time I really thought anything good about Dubstep was when someone did a guest mix on the Zinc podcast I guess around 2006ish (I can’t remember who it was). I heard it a lot before but never really got into it… I was a Drum & Bass boy before you see and those slow beats didn’t quite cut it for me! But yeah that podcast got me instantly hooked!

> How long have you been producing Dubstep and what did you produce before
dubstep came along (if anything)?

I guess I’ve been producing Dubstep for about three years but only semi seriously in the last two. Before that I used to mess about with bass sounds trying to make Drum & Bass but could never really make anything good! I also studied Sound Engineering at college and had to make loads of different stuff like kids tv soundtracks and that (if that counts)… Haha, they were terrible.

> What is your current setup (gear/software)?

I’m running Cubase 5 on PC, I mainly use Massive (far too standard) also quite a bit of Kontact and V station for little things … I don’t play around with other synths enough to be honest… something I’m going to start doing – I think Dubstep is in desperate need of new sounds!

Studio-wise I’ve got an mbox 2, one Alesis M1 Mrk2 monitor speaker (the other one is blown up and somewhere in Bristol!) and my good old trusty Beyerdynamic DT770 headphones which are getting old and in desperate need of a new jack plug- they only work in certain positions! Oh and my melodica (which I record through my headphones!) .

> Do you have a certain process you go through when making a track?

It depends on what I’m making… If I’m going to make something heavy I’ll start with making the beats first then some horrible Bass noises then go on to FX and layering. If I’m going to make something nice I it’s usually because I’ve come across a nice sample or a melody that I like and will usually build the rest around that.

Whatever sort of track I make I pretty much always start at the drop… It instantly gets my adrenalin going and makes me not want to stop until I’m finished. I always leave the intro till last… Hence why most of mine are really really terrible I think I lose interest by then – something I need to change.

> Did you start of DJing or producing first?

I started DJing first from quite a young age… I used to get my granddad to take me record shopping when we went to visit relatives in Bristol and then take them home and try and mix on my belt drive Soundlab turntables!

To be honest I’ve not really been mixing much in the last few years – I had to sell my turntables for rent etc and got quite bored of playing other peoples records… (I recently have been doing sets of completely my own music but future gigs I’m going to play stuff by different people as well- too much good music out there!).

> How would you describe your sound?

Hmm… Massive wobble horribleness niceness silliness messiness ridiculousness.

> Who are your influences?

I don’t really know who my influences are… I guess just everyone I hear that I like or sounds that I hear that I like and want to recreate, too many to mention!

> What artists are you currently listening to?

To be honest I don’t really listen to Dubstep or dance music at all… I listen to lots of Broken Social Scene, Atlas Sound, Animal Collective, American Analogue set, Circulatory System, 13th Floor Elevators, The Seeds, Grizzly Bear, A Hawk and A Hacksaw, Cocorosie, The Most Serene Republic… That sort of thing! – I’m a massive soppy boy at heart!

Dubstepwise Vistas doing some amazing stuff at the mo. Keep an eye out for Infrasound and a guy called Article from Norton he’s going to be big whidden! On the DnB tip look out for a producer called Slaine… massive massive things coming from him…

> Where do you see dubstep going in 2010?

Who knows! The moon and beyond!

> 1 goal you must accomplish for 2010?

To get a job, get out of debt, stop the bailiffs constantly getting in touch with my mum and pay her back all the money she’s lent me (which I’m very grateful for!). Ahh that’s four things… whoops.

> Plans for the future, IE releases, mixes, projects?

I’ve not got any releases in the pipeline… Keep getting offers from Digi labels but really want to get some more releases on vinyl (any vinyl labels reading this get in touch ). On the project front I’ve been working with and will be working a lot more with a good friend of mine called Infrasound… Keep an eye out for him in the future he’s an absolute beast on the old buttons. Hmm I always forget to do mixes… I might do that soon!

> Advice for up and coming dubstep producers?

Keep at it, watch youtube, sell yourself (something I never but should do!), be nice and smile!

> Anything you’d like to add?

Umm just a good old thanks to anyone who’s brought my records or came to see me play… To any girls that would like to discuss Dubstep or anything else with me , or any guys that want to discuss Dubstep with me find me at www.myspace.com/goojahdubs.

Cheeeerrrrss now,

Goojah.

Goojah- Wickerman by DUBliminalCOM

Goojah- My Funny Valentine by DUBliminalCOM

Goojah- Jealousey by DUBliminalCOM