For all of those who caught our epic Coachella compilation the other day, you may recognize Bristol, UK’s own Julio Bashmore as one of the “fine print” artists to land on the Sunday portion of the lineup. If you’re as excited as we are that he will be in attendance, then do enjoy his funky take on the recent single from Justin Timberlake, “Suit & Tie”.
If you have yet to get your first fix of Julio Bashmore, now is a better time than ever. His signature sound of low-frequency, soulful deep house will leave you feeling ready to glide about your business in rhythm.
Should you wish to get a full dose of what Julio has to offer, be sure to check out his LA appearance at The Boiler Room.
’Justin Timberlake – Suit & Tie (Julio Bashmore Remix)’
AMTRAC is a tricky fellow to categorize, and we have a sneaking suspicion that this is far from unintentional. This “multi-instrumentalist DJ” seemingly transcends genres from project to project, most notably in his most recent release The Scheme EP (Super Music Group).
The EP is an eclectic mix of dance music that weighs heavily on its heavy, energetic beats that feel full of colorful volume and rich, yet simplistic production. Each track is noticeably different from the other, but each comes to the party with a surprising Nu Disco, Deep House feel. Check out each of the tracks below and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments.
The multifaceted, electronic/chill producer Groundislava is at it again with a brand new remix (or should I say “track ID”), following an update from the artist regarding his finishing touches on a forthcoming EP. This remix of “Relics” by Errors is another signature rework by the ’90s-influenced, synth-heavy producer that is sure to be another benchmark in this blooming, unnamed electronic genre.
Take a deeper look into the work of Groundislava on his Soundcloud and be sure to check out his most recent recorded Boilerroom.tv set for more delicious tunes.
A mere couple of weeks after the release of his debut album in Australia, indie electronic producer and DJ, Flume has signed with American label, Mom + Pop Music, to promote his inevitable US release and tour. For those who may be unfamiliar with them, they are an independent label stationed in New York City, touting a lineup of talent including the likeness of Neon Indian, Andrew Bird and Metric.
To commemorate the news, the artist has released “Bring You Down” featuring fellow Aussie songstress, George Maple. The groovy, slow jam tune can be found on Flume’s self-titled debut, a record which we here at The Music Ninja were lucky enough to discuss with the artist himself. Interested in hearing more? Check it out here.
Coming fresh off his first full-length, self-titled debut album, Harley Streten — or Flume as he’s better known — has experienced a meteoric rise catalyzed, largely in part, by his catchy, international viral hit, “Sleepless” (featured below). Although his popularity continued to blossom as a result of a variety of remixes and infectious live performances, Flume has minted himself as a composer with a vast breadth of ingenuity and an eclectic array of sound and style at his disposal.
The Music Ninja had the honor of interviewing him, learning more about the Aussie artist’s influences, songwriting process and thoughts on dance music in general. Check it out below:
TMN: For many, music is a way to invoke nostalgia and is the accompaniment for memories of a time and place in which the listener forms memories. With the release of your debut album, a very diverse compilation of sound and style, how and where did you envision this LP to be heard?
What I wanted is to create an album that could be played at clubs/bars and also at home as something to relax to. I come from a Dance music background and it’s important for me that people are able to dance to my music. Especially at shows, I can’t imagine gigs being nearly as fun if everyone just sat down and listened instead of dancing.
TMN: What are some of the inspirations behind your sound? Is there a theme you find yourself abiding by in your style of music?
I drew a lot of inspiration from travelling round Europe for the first time, soaking up my surroundings and being amongst different cultures. Genre-wise, I’ve been influenced by early 90s Trance music, The ED Banger French Electro movement and then guys like J-Dilla Flying Lotus, M83, Moby.
TMN: Which element, from a sample to an entire genre, do you feel you own as a producer and can be remembered for?
I think I bridge that gap between the underground beatsy electronica scene and mainstream music. I like to think of myself as someone who writes experimental pop music, something thats unique, yet still appeals to a wide audience.
TMN: What is your routine for composing a song and its original elements? With what type of equipment?
I usually start with a beat or a chord progression and then I’ll write a melody over the top of that. Everything’s written on my laptop with a copy of Ableton Live, some synthesizers and a dope set of speakers. I just invested a bit of money into my set up, before it was really basic but now I’m getting some toys for the studio.
TMN: Were you always considered “Flume”? If you had other projects, what aspects of them (personal/creative) have carried into your current music?
Yes, my other project is called What So Not. My roots are in Dance Music and this is my creative outlet for that. I couldn’t do one without the other, I need to write a variety of music to stay sane and keep the creative energy high.
Not much is known about this melodramatic five-piecer from Brooklyn beyond the clever psychedelic-shoegaze genre, in which they categorize themselves and, well, the fact that there are five members in their band. I was lucky enough to stumble across this featured track thanks to Hype Machine Radio’s September guest, YVYNYL. Where upon first listen, it is easy to submerge yourself into the environment Desert Stars immediately creates. “Boys I Like” is a stunning production supported by eerie, yet beautifully ambient vocals, strong percussion and a fluidity that is calming yet curious. I encourage you to take a listen and to keep a watchful eye on this group.
Treasure Island Music Festival has long touted itself as an intimate and authentic experience in San Francisco music and culture. Attendees are rewarded well in advance with a promise from the event’s coordinators that the eclectic lineup will be devoid of all scheduling conflicts between the festivals two main stages, both adjacent to the city’s bay shoreline. Therefore, eliminating any potential for those tough decisions while budgeting your time between favorite bands, food trucks, a silent disco and all other festival amenities one could hope for.
With that being said, the two-day fall music and culture getaway was a delight for all the senses as this Ninja was happy enough to document the best and worst of the weekend in the hopes that Treasure Island will be on your 2013 calendar. Read it all after the jump. However, if you’re in a hurry, take a look at the line up above and a short, “best of” playlist below.
