From Anabatic to DubNoir.
This post is a nice interview with Chris James, Boss of DubNoir and Dj, releasing on his own label but as well on Anabatic.
He was kind enough to give us answers about deep existential questions.
What the first music you've ever listened to?
Reggae, Early 90's RnB, Motown
Why a French Name?
The word "Dub" refers to the idea of Dubplates. The era of vinyl unfortunately had surpassed by the time i started the label, but i wanted to use a name that pays homage really to Vinyl.
"Noir" obviously is the colour Black when translated into English, and again it relates to the usual colour of vinyl. I also think it gave the label quite a sensual name when its pronounced.
What would be the ideal location for you label, if it wasn't in the midlands?
Im not sure that its relevant musically anyway, due to the fact that we have artists from Chile, Mexico, Australia, USA, Hungary, Russia, Canada & More. I think if the label was to put a night on then maybe the midlands isnt the best place to do it, as the music we release is probably more internationally known, more than locally. I have been thinking about working with promoters next year to do a DubNoir night, so hopefully this will come to fruition soon.
Are you afraid of competition?
No, not really, competition is good, as you have to raise the bar with your releases. The market is flooded with labels now, so it has been hard to get noticed. But when you do get noticed for releasing good music, then its a great feeling.
Is working in the music industry suicidal?
Yeh ha, it feels like it sometimes. No i enjoy it, if your in it to make a quick buck and dont care about the music then you will soon be found out. You have to put alot of time and effort in to it. There are times when you think, shall i just get a job and progress in that job so that i can pretend to be happy?, or shall i crack on with the music and put my heart in to it, while i can?
Has electro replaced rock in the heart of the young kids nowadays?
Hmmm, it seems as though kids do like the ravier typed stuff, hence the success of artists in the "electro house scene", i still believe its a phase, albeit a long one. Although i do not appreciate that type of music, it still offers people a choice, and i think once you really understand music, you then can judge what you honestly think is better.
What is the best advice you've received so far?
To keep my head down and keep working at my music until it pays off.
What is the best you've given?
Really listen to other productions, and use tracks that you like as a guideline, i.e breakdown lengths, extra percussion. Dont copy the track, but use it for inspiration if your having a tough time in the studio.
Do you prefer Jurassic Parc or Beethoven(the movie)?
Jurassic Park, Its A Spielberg Classic
What can we do with dog's hairs?
I have no idea
What the secret to recreate dinosaurs?
Dinosaur DNA, if its ever located...
DubNoir Samples:
Thank you very much for your time!
If you want more.
ReplyDeletehttp://stylistberlin.blogspot.com/2011/05/interview-who-is-chris-james.html