We catch up with Physmatics and chat about music, life, influences… oh yes and a massive new forthcoming album!! Read on…

Hey John, so the big question is, why get back into production after such a hiatus? Why now?

Well without sounding too bold & egotistical, (that’s just not me). I founded Physmatics in early 2011 after giving up on production. I was at a stage in my life where the technology seemed to be evolving faster than I could keep up with, especially having young children. With that, I bowed out & began the label. Killer is my Debut LP as an artist; almost a decade in the making & the platform is my own.

How did you get into music production? What were the initial steps?

I graduated from The Scottish School of Popular Music & Technology in 1999. During that time I promoted events in Edinburgh before moving to The States. I will say this; you don’t need a college education. We are fortunate to live in a time where technologically we can create music without being a classically trained musician. As long as you have rhythm, soul, coordination & the will, nothing can stop you!

How would you describe your production style?

Unorthodox, yet effective. Drum & Bass Jeet Kune Do, for lack of a better term.

What was your first experience of Drum & Bass music and how did you get into the sound?

I grew up as a Hip Hop boy, beginning with the UK sounds of Hijack, Silvah Bullet, MC Duke, Stereo Mc’s, Bomb the Bass, Rebel Mc, Mc Tunes etc. That then led to the U.S hardcore styles of NWA, Public Enemy, BDP, EPMD & Ice T. It wasn’t just the highly political content of the lyrics, it was the beats! Next came Reggae, the bass! I did my High School work experience in Doncaster at ‘Regal Records’. The historical, musical

I did my High School work experience in Doncaster at ‘Regal Records’. The historical, musical annuals that played a big part in that town & my introduction to reggae music were integral. During this period the Prodigy had dropped their first album – Experience & it must have been the structure of the track we all know & love, ‘Ruff in the Jungle’. It was that tune that opened my mind and ears up to the likes of Goldie & Bukem. From then on it was a whirlwind, everything I already had in Hip Hop & Reggae, just faster & harder!

Tell us a few of your all time and current favourite producers?

Ray Pablo Falconer (UB40) RIP. Massive Attack, Bjork, Dr. Dre, Sly & Robbie, Pink Floyd & DJ Fresh.

Are there any unfulfilled goals or aspirations of yours musically?

Only that I aspire for my own Artist’s & to bypass one Decade with Physmatics, not too long to go now!

Could you offer a bit of advice for an up and coming producer?

Don’t give up! Learn to accept constructive criticism, perfect your craft. If you are persistent in all that you do, things will begin to happen.
Who’s supporting you on the DJ circuit?

Let me see if I can get them all in without forgetting anyone? Apologies beforehand if I do… Nicky Blackmarket, Ray Keith, Sappo, Brockie, Mampi Swift, Kenny Ken, Optiv, C4C, John B, Basic Forces, Gappa G, Sikka, Firesyne, L3GION, Si Smith, A Sides, Fabio & Grooverider, Joe Nebula, XTC, Bailey, Nimzz, G Mac & The Manga Massive, Papa G, Bunter, Section, Voltage, AnnGree, Shortee & Dieselboy.

Of all the tunes you’ve made, which is your favourite?

It has to be the Professional which was a real, ‘Labour of Love’, and took an evolution of ten years! It also tells a story, my story. Just as Hip Hop had for me in the years passed.

You’ve collaborated with a lot of big artists on this project such as Dapz & Section, who did you enjoy working with the most and who would you like to work with in the Future?

All of them! We truly are one big happy family at Physmatics. Nice work FAM! Dapz & I are working on another collab at the moment, so look out for that in the New Year. It’s sounding Large!

Who are your major influences in Drum & Bass?

Goldie, Digital, ]EIB[, Calyx, Trace, Muffler, Ed Rush & Optical, C4C, Konflict, Trace, Andy C, Aphrodite & Mickey Finn, Brockie & Ed Solo, Undercover Agent, John B, Matrix, Si Smith, Rhyme Tyme, Kenny, Nicky, Ray & Sappo.

When would you say was your breakout moment, when heads turned to your music?

As a Label, 2011/12 with two UK Number ones already under our belt & East Star by Silent Code going to EA Games. As an artist, now it’s my time to shine.

What is it about the current wave of Drum & Bass music that appeals to you?

Simply stated, it has to be the diverse nature of the art

What made you choose D&B as a genre?

At the core, it’s history within my very soul.

If you could work on a track with anyone from now or way back when, who would it be?

I’ve been asked this a few times & the answer still remains the same, Trace – Midtown Method. Open to offers!!!

What are the vital elements to making a tune that come into play when you’re in the studio?

I’m very methodical & have a mathematical and meticulous approach to writing a track or collaborating on one. I start in a sixteen bar loop. Once I have all of my elements I balance the mix, and then start my arrangement. I’m probably quite annoying to work with?! Ask the lads! Lol!

Tell us a few of your favourite tunes?

OK, none genre specific:

1: Freddie McGregor – Seek & You Will Find
2: UB40 – All I Want To Do
3: Beats International – Dub Be Good To Me
4: Massive Attack – Be Thankful (For What You’ve Got)
5: Pink Floyd – Any Colour You Like
6: Pointer Sisters – Automatic
7: Depeche Mode – It’s Called A Heart
8: The Prodigy – Ruff In The Jungle Biznizz
9: NWA – Straight Outta Compton
10: ]EIB[ – The Nine

What would you say is the Physmatics Label ethos?

A continuing policy of diversity & a quality repertoire to back it up, staying true & keeping it FRESH!

Any final words and shout outs?

To my Son Mason for keeping me smiling, my Daughter Baelii for continuing to test me, Levii my forever love, My Parents & all siblings! Dapz, Physmatics Family past & present. Nicky Blackmarket (Fo Rizzle!), Ray Keith, Ally Dagless, Mikey Moore, The General, Markie, George Mac, Peter, Ian & BZ, Ed Holmes, Stu Sikka, Parly B, Joe Nebula, Vince at Never Summer, Ewen at Mixmag. All DJ & Airplay support Worldwide! The Doncaster, Edinburgh & Colorado Massive! Media & Press Support, my friends, peers & mentors. Finally and always most importantly, the fans! 

So before we hit play on your debut release ‘KILLER’, can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind it?

This album spans and transcends all genres. It’s the digital book of my life in audio format, my DNA. My only hope is that you enjoy it & that it inspires others. 

www.physmaticsmusic.co.uk

Physmatics Interview + New LP