John: I normally start new tracks with a Digitakt 2 as I can dial in loops and counter rhythms more organically than with a DAW,where I get a bit bogged down sample hopping. I also use the m8 tracker to start tracks and this is so liberating as you can write anywhere. Very recently, for the first time ever I’ve moved from PC to a Mac mini and spent months re-installing all our plugins. It’s incredible how small, powerful and inexpensive that thing is. For the first time in my lifetime computing power is an irrelevance. Dean: There is no set formula. Generally we'll both write and play around with ideas. I'll sort the lyrics and vocals, whilst John is the engineer and technical wizard. Your lyrics often explore dark and thought-provoking themes. What draws you to these topics? John: Living in England every decade has been a mixture of depression, detritus, dark humour and grey, it’s hard to be honest and not reflect this. Our music - 9 - isn’t trying to be escapism it’s trying to pull you down with us. Dean: I don't deliberately set out to be dark but I do make an effort to keep them interesting, if only for my own satisfaction. There is an element of anger with some of the shit that goes on in the world, but I'll avoid any political rants. Themes of decay often surface, maybe it's age related..ha ha. Being early adopters of samplers and other electronic gear, how has technological advancement impacted your approach to creating music? Are there any tools or trends in electronic music today that excite you? John:: Probably covered this in a previous answer. I still get inspired by lumps of electronics. I prefer the more consumer friendly samplers and groove boxes. No interest in keyboards or synths really. I like the thought of modular but then it’s too niche and seems to be an exclusive club.Anything that can distort, twist www.peek-a-boo-magazine.be
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