Part 3

Music and the accompanying artwork are often closely related. Can you talk about this a little bit for your current project and the relationship that images and sounds have for you in general?

I tend to gravitate towards abstract imagery for most of my projects, especially because of the underground nature of the music I make. I want the listener — whether they're in a club or simply enjoying the track at home — to create their own visual interpretation of the sounds they’re hearing. I think there’s something powerful in allowing that space for personal imagination; the music should evoke different emotions and imagery in each person, and I like to think that the artwork plays a role in sparking that personal connection.

If I had access to a larger budget, it would definitely be exciting to collaborate more with graphic artists, photographers, and visual creatives to produce more high-end, conceptual artwork to complement the music. Ideally, I would want the visual element to mirror the essence of the music — to create a cohesive atmosphere where the sound and the image work in tandem.

But that said, I still prefer to keep things relatively minimal and open to interpretation. The abstract aesthetic, whether it’s a geometric design or a simple, cryptic image, fits the music better for me, allowing the listener to dive deeper into their own subconscious while listening.

In some ways, the artwork is an extension of the music, but I don’t see it as a literal representation of the track. Rather, it’s more like a companion piece — something that complements the vibe and atmosphere of the music but leaves enough room for individual interpretation. The relationship between sound and image, for me, is all about feeling and mood. I try to keep the visuals evocative and mysterious, without boxing the listener into a single interpretation.

The sounds themselves are often abstract or experimental, so the visual representation should align with that sense of openness and exploration.

After finishing a piece or album and releasing something into the world, there can be a sense of emptiness. Can you relate to this – and how do you return to the state of creativity after experiencing it?

Personally, I don’t really experience that sense of emptiness after a release. I’m usually already onto the next lot of music production before the last record even comes out. The process of creating and finishing a track or album is so immersive that once it’s done, I tend to move forward quickly.

That said, there is definitely an emotional build-up during the creative process — the excitement, the frustrations, and the final push to get everything completed. It’s incredibly satisfying when you can finally call a project finished and put it out into the world. There’s a real sense of accomplishment in completing something that’s been in the works for months or even years.

Each track or album feels like a journey, and once it’s released, it’s almost like you’ve sent one of your ‘children’ off into the world. It’s a strange feeling of detachment, but also pride, knowing that it no longer needs your attention.

But instead of feeling empty, I find that there’s a sense of clarity that comes with finishing a project. The final stages of production can be quite intense — mixing, mastering, and refining the small details — so moving back into the creative flow of starting something new is almost a relief. It’s like a reset for me.

The beauty of music creation is that there’s always something new to explore. It’s not just about finishing one project and then feeling empty; it’s about continually chasing that spark of inspiration. I find that jumping back into the studio and playing around with new ideas, new sounds, or just experimenting in a more loose, unstructured way is the perfect way to return to a state of creativity.

There’s always a new idea just waiting to be discovered. That constant flow of creativity is what drives me forward, and each new track feels like an opportunity to build on everything I’ve learned and experienced before.

I would love to know a little about the feedback you've received from listeners or critics about what they thought some of your songs are about or the impact it had on them – have there been "misunderstandings" or did you perhaps even gain new "insights"?

I’ve never really encountered any misunderstandings when it comes to how my music is perceived especially as most of my records are instrumental so they don't convey a vocal story. I think it’s one of those things where people either resonate with the style and ethos of my sound, or they don’t — and that’s absolutely fine.

I don’t take offence if someone doesn’t like or understand what I’m doing. There’s a whole world of music out there, with millions of different styles, producers, and labels for listeners, DJs, and collectors to explore. If someone finds their way into my little corner of it, that feels special to me. If they connect with my sound, that’s amazing; if not, they’re free to keep searching for what speaks to them. There’s no shortage of options, and I respect that people gravitate toward what aligns with their own tastes.

Having worked within this particular house and techno style for so many years, I’m genuinely content with the direction I’ve carved for myself. I make the music I love and create what I feel, rather than trying to please any specific audience or follow trends. Of course, I sometimes tweak elements to make my music fit within certain conventions or frameworks, but I always try to push those boundaries, to blur those lines in a way that feels fresh and exciting.

Social media has made a huge difference in terms of connecting with listeners and receiving direct feedback. In the past, it might’ve been a bit harder to gauge how people were responding to your music, but now, with platforms like Instagram and Facebook, fans can reach out directly.

I often receive messages from people telling me how much they love my music, how it has had an impact on them, or that it’s their absolute favourite. Those messages never fail to move me, and I appreciate them more than I can express. It’s not about inflating my ego — in fact, it keeps me grounded — but knowing that the work I've poured so much energy into over the years is being recognised, felt, and valued, really does mean the world to me. I always try to respond and thank people for their support, because they’ve played a part in my journey.

When it comes to feedback from other DJs and producers, particularly those I’ve admired for years, it’s always incredibly gratifying. Hearing from respected figures in the scene, or getting support from a new generation of selectors, is hugely encouraging. It’s exciting to be in a place where these same artists are reaching out for remixes, collaborations, and to express their appreciation for what I’m doing. That kind of validation, especially from peers, really pushes me to keep evolving and to keep creating.

So, yes, the feedback I’ve received — whether from fans, critics, or fellow artists — has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s kept me motivated to keep pushing the envelope and looking forward to what’s next.

Creativity can reach many different corners of our lives. Do you personally feel as though writing a piece of music is inherently different from something like making a great cup of coffee? What do you express through music that you couldn't or wouldn't in more 'mundane' tasks?

Honestly, I don’t think there’s a huge difference between writing music and making a good cup of coffee. Both are about being present in the moment, giving them your full attention, and feeling your way through the process.

When I’m working on a track, I’m as focused on getting the right vibe as I am when I’m brewing a coffee — it’s all about balance and flow, whether it’s the sounds or the brew. It’s a process, really.

But with music, it goes a bit deeper. Music is where I can express things I might not be able to in everyday life or through something like making coffee. It’s the place where I can tap into emotions, ideas, or head - spaces that feel too abstract or intense to put into words. Music is most certainly my release — it allows me to say things I just can’t articulate otherwise.

Coffee is a small ritual for me, something I do out of habit and enjoyment. But making music? That’s where I can truly dig into my feelings, let go of what’s inside, and just create. It’s not always perfect, and that’s fine — but it’s always real.

And for me, that’s the key difference. Music is where I can be honest with myself, and that’s something I don’t get from more 'mundane' tasks.

Please recommend one thing to visit in your hometown or the city you're currently living in.

I'm a South Londoner through and through but through family ties I have now been living in Yorkshire since 2013, Hence I’ve got to give a big shoutout to Plant & Deck in Leeds. It’s a fantastic little boutique record shop, now located on the top floor of The Doghouse (93 Kirkgate, Leeds LS2 7DJ). They stock a great mix of both brand new and pre-loved vinyl records, alongside a handpicked selection of funky houseplants.

Recently, we were invited to host an in-store takeover for my Evasive label, and it was an absolute pleasure. Phil, Roya, and the rest of the team are incredibly approachable, friendly, and know their stuff when it comes to records. They are true champions of digging, the art of vinyl, and the entire underground scene. It’s always a treat for me to pop in, chat with them, and browse through their collection — always finding something new to add to my own.

Plant & Deck have been massively supportive of my music, and they’ve also introduced me to a whole network of DJs, producers, and creatives. In a world that’s gone digital, it’s so important to have physical spaces like this where people can connect and share ideas. Having record stores like Plant & Deck thriving again is vital, not only for music culture but also for creating a sense of community.

Honorary mentions must also go to Tribe Records, a Leeds institution run by the legendary Simon Scott, which is literally right opposite Plant & Deck. If you're in Leeds, these are two spots you definitely need to visit — both are essential stops for anyone into vinyl, house music, or just good vibes in general.

Do you have things that you are really passionate about but rarely get to talk about? Please tell me about them.

I tend to keep my personal beliefs and political views separate from my music.

It’s not that I don’t have strong feelings or opinions on the world — I absolutely do. But I’ve always felt that my music isn’t the place for me to push those messages. I’m not downplaying the significance of what’s going on in the world, I’m just not the type of artist who feels the need to combine my personal political stance with the tracks I create.

For me, it’s about keeping the focus on the music itself — underground house and techno that people can connect with, dance to, and enjoy. There are artists out there who feel compelled to integrate their personal views and political agendas into their music, and I think that’s valid if it resonates with them. I respect their right to do that, but it’s just not where my head’s at. I don’t want to lose sight of what I’m here to do, which is make tracks that function in the DJ world, tracks that top DJs — the ones I respect — find useful in their sets.

That said, I am deeply passionate about things like social justice, equality, and the welfare of others, particularly when it comes to my family and close friends. These are causes I care about deeply, but I prefer to channel that energy into action in my personal life rather than using my music as a platform for those messages.