I was first introduced to DXXXY at the 2014 BUKU Music + Arts Project in New Orleans a few weeks back. I was really just trying to figure out the layout of the festival and see what the whole thing was about.

I heard some incredibly ratchet set happening and started to pick up the pace. Before I knew it I was snapping pictures and dancing my ass off (or as best as a white guy can) to DXXXY’s set.

Afterwards we got to talking and I soon realized that this kid was going to be one of the next biggest names in electronic music. The passion he had about his music, producing, and even designing his own name and brand were all of interest to me.

I checked out more of his music once I got back from NO and found even more goodies. We were fortunate enough to get him on the site for our newest artist spotlight.

JNTM: How did you start producing? What is your background in music?

DXXXY: I started producing by making chopped-n-screwed remixes of New Orleans rap tunes.
However, I played music from a very young age starting with being classically trained in guitar.
I taught myself bass, drums, and keyboard while playing in various bands in New Orleans up until college.

JNTM: What genre, if any, do you like to produce the most? Trap?

DXXXY: I enjoy Trap and bounce/twerk because of the energy and being raised in New Orleans (because of the Cash Money//No Limit influence).

I like making house too (though they’re unreleased) because of the melodies/harmonies I can explore.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/127738917″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: How would you describe your production style?

DXXXY: Heavy…Dark…Melodic

JNTM: Where does the name DXXXY come from?

DXXXY: It stands for “DEITY” with the middle letters X’d out to pay homage to my metalcore/hardcore days/peeps.

People automatically think that I think I am a God by donning that name, but the name isn’t about that at all.

I was really into Greek mythology at one point, and became fascinated with the idea of Aphrodite. Being into fashion, models, and haute couture I liked how that goddess represented female elegance//beauty//sensuality. So, the name DEITY stands for that.

JNTM: Who are your favorite artists right now? EDM or not

DXXXY: DJ Snake, Ben Khan, Tchami, Jack Novak, Junkie Kid, Samo Sound Boy, Blonde, Oliver Heldens

JNTM: For you, what’s the most difficult thing about being an up-and-comer? And with that, what’s the most important part about being an independent artist on the rise? Do you have a mantra for yourself to stay motivated?

DXXXY: Getting your name out and standing out amongst all the other people trying to do the same thing.

I think one of the most important things is setting goals for yourself, staying focused, and accomplishing those set goals.

My mantra is that NO one is going to do your work for you. I can’t be lazy and expect to get anywhere. Also, I’m doing something that I LOVE to do.

JNTM: What is the New Orleans EDM scene like? Is it any more easy or difficult to make a name for yourself out in the Big Easy?

DXXXY: It’s new and growing. It’s easy to get a start here in New Orleans, but the feel of the Big Easy is more traditionally laidback.

One really has to motivate themselves and stay focused to make a name that not only grabs attention here but outside the city.

JNTM: How involved are you in the design aspects of your brand?

DXXXY: Heavily! I make all of the flyers for my monthly dance parties. I make all of my own artwork for mixes//tracks.

I had a specific idea for my brand from the very beginning, and I make sure I stay on top of that.
I sat with a photographer//artist friend of mine to come up with my logo too.

All of my graphic “skills” (I’m not the best…I just know what look I want to accomplish) are self-taught.

JNTM: What hand did you have in the music video for Kate Moss?

DXXXY: I brought all the ideas of my brand and the feel of the track to director Tyler Yee.
It was a collaboration of ideas to bring together the finished product. He found an amazing team of people to bring on board as far as makeup (Jenny Sauceda), shooting, and styling (Christina Flannery) goes to bring ideas to the melting pot as well.

Even my model friends who were a part of it brought ideas to the table that went with our original treatment.

DXXXY – Kate Moss [Music Video]

JNTM: What can we expect in the near future for DXXXY? Tour? EP? New video?

DXXXY: I would love to get a tour going!!! Right now, I’m focusing on getting more of my production out there for 2014.

An EP is in the works, but can’t reveal much more about that right now. A new video will definitely be in the works from the great Tyler Yee. Also, some new material from my production duo Ritual as well as other collaborative projects!

JNTM: A question we always like to ask: if you could have any job in the world besides DJing/Producing, what would it be and why?

DXXXY: Hmm that’s tough because music is my life, but probably something in the fashion industry. Styling…modeling…helping to design something.

Stay tuned later this week for an exclusive mix from DXXXY, only on JNTM! 

DXXXY

Facebook // Twitter // SoundCloud

The post Artist Spotlight: DXXXY appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Argonaut&Wasp – In The Drown

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/100370863″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: What is it like to combine live instrumentation with electronic music? How do you guys pull it off?

Argonaut&Wasp: By having the live musicianship combined with electronic elements we are able to design a show that has the effect of an electronic music performance (akin to a dj set – think disclosure) with the live instrumentation of a rock set (think the strokes). It is the best of both worlds.

We utilize ableton live to trigger electronic samples (drums, pads, synths, and FX) combined with live drums, guitar (kevin the guitar guy), bass (Alec Peanut Donkin), and vocals . Through sending a click track (metronome) to our drummer, (Willoughby the Shark) our songs are able to be tight, but have the live element that every band should employ and exercise.

JNTM: Your biography says that you two come from very different musical backgrounds. How so? How did these interests blend to create your sound?

Trey: Radiohead, I am obsessed with Radiohead. Some other large influences are the Strokes, Animal Collective, Modest Mouse, The Rolling Stones, and Kanye West.

Theo: James Brown, Wilco That said – we both use modern technology and the use of electronic production to enhance our sound to blend a mix of socially contrived “genres”.

JNTM: What new music are you listening to at the moment?

A&W: It seems like we are both really digging Charles Bradley, Lee Fields, Sharon Jones (Soul)- and the whole contemporary resurgence of the UK Garage scene.

JNTM: What’s next for you musically?

A&W: We are planning on the release of our brand new Single “Pistol Pump Funk” with a new music video in about a month. Stay tuned.

JNTM: What’s your favorite movie?

A&W: Hard to say – Trey and myself both thoroughly enjoyed the documentary Muscle Shoals (The legendary recording studio(s) in Alabama) – but we also always down for Shrek.

We’ll definitely be watching these guys through the next year as they grow — As for right now, We’re huge fans.

Argonaut&Wasp: An inside look 2014 HD

Argonaut&Wasp

Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // Soundcloud

The post Artist Spotlight: Argonaut&Wasp appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

After doing some more digging, I found that Banginclude had been featured on Mad Decent and had some incredible remixes of DJ Snake, LOUDPVCK, and Nadastrom.

I was able to ask Banginclude some questions about his background, taste in music, and his thoughts on EDM. What I got in return was an extensive look inside what I think will be one of the biggest new artists behind one the biggest new genres of the year.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/124979592″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Just Noise To Me: Who was the first electronic artist that you listened to that made you want to start producing/DJing? Who still inspires you to this day?

Banginclude: Oddly enough it was a band that inspired me to start making music — Yo La Tengo. They made some of the most beautiful and passionate music and did it for the love of their craft, not to get rich or anything like that. Listening to them really made me understand how powerful it is to make music. So i started making it.

Today, I’m all over the place. Moombahton is definitely my favorite. I’m into anything that has a ton of groove and has a party feel to it. Lovin’ Zouk Bass as well. Zouk Bass has really opened me up to a lot of  different styles from Portugal and Africa. One guy that I’ve really been feeling is Nigga Fox.

Also, DZC is a crew from Portugal, they make some really good music, very sexy stuff. On the American side of things, Champion Rocka is killin’ it in the Moombah scene. Grandtheft is consistently puttin’ out fire. Dunno, so much good stuff comin out. Been listenin’ to a lot of hip hop. That Cali Hyphy and Jerk stuff… too fun not to listen to.

JNTM: Give us some background on yourself and your history working in music.

B: I don’t play any instruments. Growing up a lot of my friends were in bands so I was always around music and going to shows and stuff. I started off making music on the computer. I was always good with computers so it seemed a natural fit.

For work these days I work at a DJ and production school. Along with working and making music, I’m studying how to infiltrate this music scene

JNTM: What do you think the hardest thing is about getting started/getting your name out there, etc?

B: There’s so much music out there… and a ton of great music. It’s crazy, you dig through SoundCloud and you hear amazing next level tracks that have only a few plays.

Its upsetting at times seeing this, but the thing is nowadays, part of being an artist is getting your name out there for yourself. We have to spend time figuring out ways to get people to listen to our music and more than that, get the right people listening.

Luckily a lot of the right people are on social media, so it’s pretty easy to figure out what they’re looking for.

JNTM: Describe what Zouk/Zouk Bass is. How did you get into producing this genre of music and where do you think it’s going? Do you think Zouk will have a big year in 2014?

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/83413395″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

B: Zouk Bass seems to be loosely based on the down tempo flavors of Zouk: Tarraxo, Tarrachina, Kizomba. Usually Zouk Bass tracks fall in the 85-100 BPM range.

In most dance genres, there is a specific beat that somewhat dictates the genre. For example with Moombahton, you have the dembow, with Dubstep you have the dub or reggea rhythm… Zouk Bass has a few since there are many flavors of Zouk.

One of the strengths of ZB is that most of the artists producing Zouk have an original sound to their productions. I never thought about it before but you could actually make sub genres  for each artist putting out ZB tracks.

For instance, you have someone like Insane Fennel whose stuff is super soundtrack-esque, JSTJR, whose stuff has this laid back, grind feel to it. DJ Riots stuff whose stuff is just crazy, but slays the dance floor…

Me, for the most part I try to focus on the groove and make something that will fit in at parties I play.

As for success for the genre in 2014, I think it will keep evolving nicely. There are a couple big projects that I am aware of that which in which Zouk Bass is the lead role.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/113350636″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: What’s one of the biggest moments you had in 2013? What do you look forward to in 2014?

B: Ill say just as a whole I’m into small goals, so things like working with different artists that i respect, hearing from people that enjoy my music, being part of compilations…

A bunch of up and coming producers and myself started a crew (Globetrotters Crew)  and put together and released a pretty darn good compilation,( Global Bass Allstars vol 1). That was pretty awesome.

Just this past month myself and a bunch of other NYC artists started a collective, Tempo NYC. We plan on promoting local and like-minded artists as well as pushing global bass here in NY. Our first event is coming up soon. Just gotta keep things fresh.

JNTM: Who are some of your favorite artists right now? EDM or not.

B: I listen to a lot of different music these days. Been really into a lot of the stuff comin’ out of Africa, E.L. is nuts, Sarkodie is a pretty sick MC w a real nasty flow, love most of the stuff that Principe Disco puts out. Ckrono and Slesh are always puttin’ out next level stuff on the global front. Ape Drums is super nasty. The Pack, they’re broken up but still great stuff and is super relevant now. So much great stuff out there.

JNTM: The EDM culture as a whole has been growing exponentially over the past few years — what are your thoughts on that? Do you think it’s a good thing or potentially a bad thing?

B: There’s good and bad to everything. One good is that there is more of an audience for these styles. That means more opportunity. Bad is that its being monetized, anytime lots of money is involved intentions shift a bit in favor of money and art suffers.

JNTM: What do your parents think of you being a producer/DJ? Are they caught up on the culture and do they understand/support what you’re doing?

B: I got real lucky in that I have amazing parents who support me with anything I do. I could play my mother me burping with a beat behind it and she would tell me its the best song in the world. My dad is cool with it as well. He sees that I love doing this and that is all he can ask for.

JNTM: If you could have any other profession other than producing/djing what would it be and why?

B: Maybe porn? Prob wouldnt do it if it came down to it but thats really the only thing I can think of right now. Def something where I’m not in an office or driving.

For more on Banginclude, and all of his many upcoming projects, check him out of Facebook, Twitter, and SoundCloud

The post Artist Spotlight: Banginclude appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

After releasing remixes for DCup, Wave Racer, and Oso Gato, Slumberjack spent their first year together showcasing their DJing talents at Australian festivals like Wonderland, Club Paradiso, and Stereosonic, and will continue into the next year with shows all across their native country.

We were able to ask Morgan and Fletcher some questions regarding the origins of this project, being an independent artist on the rise, and what it’s like being one of the front runners of the Australian EDM movement.

JNTM: What got you both into producing? Was there a particular artist, album, or event that made you interested in producing/djing?

Slumberjack: Fletch: I got into electronic music when I first heard the Boys Noize track Lava Lava. I went and bought a copy of Sony Acid and started making my first (extremely hacky) tracks. It took me almost 6 years of jumping around different genres to find the sound that I really wanted to produce.

Morgan: My musical journey started when I begged my parents to let me pick up the classical piano. With that said, I was also always drawn towards mainstream pop and hip-hop production. Not long after I heard what the guys like The Neptunes and Timbaland did on Justin Timberlake’s “Justified” album, I got myself a copy of Sony Acid as well!

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/116967697″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: How did you two meet?

Slumberjack: We met at the Perth Dance Music Awards last year. We both won the Into The Limelite DJ Competition consecutively (Fletch in 2011 and Morgan in 2012) so we decided to suss each other out. We got in the studio a couple of times and with just a couple of tracks under our belt decided to make it an official project.

JNTM: How has being friends helped with the production process? Is it any easier or harder than producing alone?

Slumberjack: When there are two brains in the studio, tracks tend to get completed a lot faster. When you’re by yourself, you often hit a wall with a track and it’ll end up sitting on your hard drive and never get finished.

Now though, if we hit a wall, we’ll just flick the project over to the other person and they can keep working and maybe add those few little bits that open a new direction for the track so we can keep working.

JNTM: Who are some of your favorite artists right now, EDM or not?

Slumberjack: We really love Ludovico Einaudi, a pianist and composer. We study up on his chord progressions and melodies and have even sampled one of his pieces for the title track of our forthcoming EP.

On the electronic side of things, we’re loving the gritty sounds of What So Not and Mr Carmack as well as the smooth vibes coming from guys like Renz and Sable.

JNTM: There is this incredible thing happening right now with Australian artists becoming more and more popular in the US. Artists like Flume/What So Not, Wave Racer, and yourselves are getting tons more recognition out here. What’s going on down there that we should know about? Describe this movement as best as you can.

Slumberjack: Not going to lie, it’s pretty wicked! Being from Perth, there is significant physical separation between us and all the acts over on the East Coast but it’s definitely a “we’re in this together” kind of vibe and we all keep in touch via the wonder of the internet.

Each city has their own handful of acts which we were stoked to be able to meet when we flew over to Sydney for the Electronic Music Conference at the start of December.

JNTM: With that, it seems as though all of the previously mentioned artists pull from the same style — almost this “Love Trap” style pulling from slowed down almost hip hop beats with HUGE airy synths. If you could, describe this genre that’s beginning to show from Australian artists.

Slumberjack: It’s pretty hard to put it in words really. In its very essence, we see it as a lovechild of a multitude of genres all thrown into a musical cocktail.

Unlike most “EDM” genres where the main focus is a club-oriented “drop”, we think the producers of this new wave of music tend to produce without any preconceived notions on the direction of the finished record.  They tend to write much like any other conventional musician would and without sounding too cheesy, they let it flow from within.

JNTM: How would you describe your music in your own words?

Slumberjack: A mixture of future garage and hip-hop with a touch of jazz thrown in.

JNTM: What do you think the biggest differences are between the ‘EDM’ scene in Australia and the US?

Slumberjack: There’s no doubt that EDM is exploding all over the world but to be honest, we haven’t seen enough yet to make a judgment. It would definitely be cool if we could do a few shows in the US to get a vibe of the scene there.

JNTM: What’s the most important part about being independent producers on the rise? What are some challenges you’ve faced? What’s the most enjoyable? Is there anything you try to tell yourselves as you work towards bigger things?
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/110183871″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Slumberjack: We reckon the most important part about being independent producers is setting realistic goals.  For example, we have to accept the fact that many labels won’t reply to emails and there will be blogs that won’t like our material enough to push it.

We also constantly remind ourselves that we need to stick with own sound despite being tempted to do what’s popular. Having said that, when label’s do reply with positive feedback and the blogs do feature our tracks on their platforms, we feel a sense of accomplishment and pride.

We prepare for the worst and hope for the best!

JNTM: With that, what ‘bigger things’ do you both strive to accomplish?

Slumberjack: We’re definitely working towards expanding our fan base to the other side of the country so we can take our live show on a full Australian tour. We’re also pretty keen on the idea of eventually doing an album, but that is quite some time into the future.

JNTM: What advice would you give to someone(s) that wants to be doing what you guys are doing? What advice would you give yourselves if you could go back in time?

Don’t ever doubt yourself! If we could go back in time, we’d tell past Fletcher and Morgan the same.

JNTM: What’s coming up for Slumberjack? Any upcoming mixes, tracks, or tour dates?

Slumberjack: We’ve got quite a bit coming up! We’re taking on a summer residency at Sydney’s FBi Radio along with a few other Australian acts and are playing a hoard of shows around Western Australia over the new year break (details on our Facebook page).

We’re also working on our first EP which will be out early next year along with a few collaborations with really talented guys we’ve met over the months.

JNTM: When can we expect to see you guys in the US?

Slumberjack: Soon hopefully – we’d like to expand to the rest of Australia first and then move outwards and upwards! Like we mentioned above, it would be a hell of an experience to travel to the US for shows.

JNTM: A question we always ask: If you guys could have any profession in the world besides producing/djing, what would it be and why?

Slumberjack: Morgan:  I’d be a professional sessionist. I probably wouldn’t pick anything not related to music. I just simply cannot imagine life without it!

Fletch: I’d definitely be an astronaut. I know it’s kind of a kiddy dream, but floating in space, come on!

Slumberjack: Facebook // Twitter // SoundCloud

The post Artist Spotlight: Slumberjack appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

While cruising around the interwebs earlier last week, we stumbled upon monster label OWSLA‘s SoundCloud account which was promoting it’s newest release from British duo Icarus — a group we had never heard of. We listened to the EP, entitled Steal the Sun, and immediately did an album review.

To our surprise, the group had only 200 likes on Facebook and about 250 followers on SoundCloud. Surely this had to be a mistake. How could a group that released it’s first official EP on such a giant label have less than 1000 likes and followers?

Truth be told these guys have only just now broken on to the scene but are by far and away the most promising group to have been released from OWLSA this year.

Needless to say we knew our next Artist Spotlight would have to be on this brother duo who have already proven themselves to be the next big thing. We were able to talk with Tom about the group and where they’re headed.

Just Noise to Me: What got you into producing? Was there one song or artist that made you want to start producing?

Icarus: Well, we both grew up playing musical instruments and through our teens played in several original and covers bands.

I (Tom) moved into a house full of DJs when I started studying music at uni and became hooked on mixing vinyl. From there it was just a natural progression into starting to write and produce dance music.

Ian started a couple of years later, so after we were both finished at uni it seemed like a good idea to put our heads together and see if we could write anything decent!

JNTM: Who are you favorite artist right now? EDM or not.

Icarus: We’re into a lot of different styles of music but if we had to name 3 in ‘dance music’ then it would be Kry Wolf, Clean Bandit and Maribou State at the moment.

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/114896117″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: The new EP seems to start at one end of the electronic music spectrum and completely shifts to another. It almost seems to go from radio-friendly pop to some really deep house/booty house… Describe that transition and where you find inspiration when working on Steal The Sun.

Icarus: We like ‘song writing’ as much as we enjoy writing for clubs so we wanted to try and include some different styles into the EP, without any tune sounding out of place.

We think we’ve achieved a diverse EP at the same time as being able to tell each track is from Icarus. We hope there’s something for everyone in there!

JNTM: How has being brothers helped the production process? Is it any easier or harder than producing alone?

Icarus: We find it pretty easy working together, which is lucky! We’ve never had any major fallouts over anything. It’s good having two people working on a track because if you get stuck or hit a brick wall inspiration wise then hopefully the other person can step in with an idea.

JNTM: How does it feel to have your first official release on OWSLA?

Icarus: Fantastic! It’s an honour to be involved with such a prestigious label. The guys are great to work with and we’re stoked that they want to promote our music!

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/114896067″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
JNTM: We recently listened to your BBC1 Radio One mix for Monki and loved it. What’s your general aim or goal when making a mix like that or playing live?

Icarus: Thanks! Well with that mix we only had half an hour so it was a case of picking favourites and getting as many tunes in as possible!

When playing live we want to keep people dancing so we tend to pick more dance floor orientated music. If we were doing a mix for a CD or Podcast or something like that then we’d more than likely vary the type of stuff we play.

JNTM: What do you think the biggest differences are between the EDM scene in the UK and the US?

Icarus: Well it’s hard to comment on that considering we’ve never been to the U.S. Here in the U.K though things seem to move pretty quickly.

There’s such a highly concentrated amount of talent here and we’re excited to be a part of it. We’d love to get over to the U.S in 2014 though so watch this space!

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/114895806″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: What’s in store for Icarus in the future? Tours? Remixes? Can we expect to see you on the upcoming OWSLA tour?

Icarus: We’re working on our 2nd EP right now so we hope to get that released in early 2014. We’ve done a remix of Bastille’s single “Of The Night” which should be out fairly soon.

We’ve also got another original tune coming in November on a compilation but you’ll have to watch our social media for info on that!

We’ve done a remix for an OWSLA artist too which we’re super excited about. Again though, eyes on our social media for details of that!

As for touring, that’s something we want to start doing ASAP so promoters should get in touch with us now!

JNTM: A question we always ask: If you could have any other profession, what would it be?

Icarus: Tom: Spy // Ian: Zoo Keeper

For more on Icarus, like them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter and SoundCloud.

The post Artist Spotlight: Icarus appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

JNTM: I understand your mom got you started with music by making you take piano lessons. Did you ever think those lessons would lead you into a DJ/producing career? 

BRAZZABELLE: My mom was always trying to keep my sister and I busy so we were in lots of after school programs like sports and music lessons. At the time I didn’t really like it because I was only learning to play sheet music of songs I had no connection with which was boring.

I am a very practical person so I realized growing up that the chances of ever becoming a professional musician were slim to none so no, I never really thought my life would turn out this way!

JNTM: Who was the first electronic artist that you listened to that made you want to start producing/DJing? Who still inspires you to this day? 

BB: Some of my early inspirations were ATB, Darude, Modjo, Zombie Nation, Moby, Azzido Da Bass, Michael Woods, Fatboy Slim, Timo Mass, and Bob Sinclair to name a few.

I am still inspired by a lot of these producers, especially the ones who have been successful by evolving their sound to keep relevant and continually delivering hits songs that make people dance today.

JNTM: What do you think the hardest thing is about getting started/getting your name out there? 

BB: Everything is a hurdle in the beginning. Especially now more than ever because of how popular dance music has become — there are so many producers sending out promos that it is easier than ever to get lost in a sea of promo emails.

JNTM: Women in music have always had a strong presence, but now even more so in electronic music. How do female artists like Nervo, J. Phlip, Maya Jane Coles, and others inspire you? Do you have a favorite female DJ/producer right now? 

JNTM: You’ve had a lot of great success this year! You just played at EDC Puerto Rico, Electric Zoo, and HARD Summer, you’ve opened for Martin Solveig, you just did a collaboration with gLAdiators… How do you stay focused and grounded during all of this? Do you have a mantra or anything to keep yourself humbled or do you just embrace the craziness!? 

BB: I feel the same as I did last year to be honest. It’s kind of like when something so crazy is happening that you literally can’t believe it.

All the performances and accomplishments have just felt like a dream and I guess it hasn’t really hit me yet.

I am very proud of where I  am right now but at the same time I still know there is a long road ahead of me and the journey has just begun so all these accomplishments just motivate me more and more to grow as an artist and work even harder.

JNTM: What can we expect for Brazzabelle going forward? Any new collaborations, tours, singles, mixes, remixes? 

BB: SO MUCH! Since I quit my day job the end of July I have been dedicating myself to producing full time.

My SoundCloud is filled to the brim with new material that is for the time being set to private but I am really excited to share all the new tracks with everyone.

I have several new original tracks coming up, some bootleg remixes for fun, and I have a remix for Crystal Fighters coming out on Big Beat Records in December.

JNTM: Just for fun, if you weren’t a producer, what would be your dream job? 

BB: I just quit my other dream job which was working in fashion merchandising. I loved it but am ready for a new challenge!

Also, check out her newest remix for Crystal Fighters:

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/users/275133″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

The post Artist Spotlight: BRAZZABELLE appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Miny: I started a death metal band with my sister when I was 13. We thought it was hilarious because we were two girls playing this terrifying music. The metal band went on for 8 years and I felt like I wanted to branch out and start writing in the genres that I was primarily listening to; rap and pop.

It’s as if the universe began accepting different kinds of female rappers the moment my love for rap took a complete hold on me and I wanted to be a part of it. The freedom of expression as a female in rap is very appealing to me — and the more I do it, the more freeing and fun it gets!

Miny: I think it’s important to accept and free all of the things I feel instead of trying to fit one particular genre. My music tends to be kind of bipolar, and I would describe it as genre skipping indie pop/rap. I set out to make each song different from the next to express whatever I’m feeling.

Miny: I’m inspired by artists, songs, feelings, conversations, relationships, or thoughts that strike me as potent and authentic. I try to tap into a place of expression without filter which can be challenging. Growing up in the 90’s also really inspires me because it was all about being proud of your quirkiness.

Miny: Getting started and being independent is artistically freeing, but financially straining which is probably the hardest part.

Music costs money and to cut down costs- I end up doing a lot myself. I’m typically multitasking with directing/editing/ producing my music videos, writing, mixing, mastering, social networking, graphic design, etc.

The plus side is that I end up learning a lot, and have control over what’s released because I’m personally involved in all of it.

JNTM: Women in music, specifically rap, are becoming a more dominant force. What do you think that says about our generation and where music is heading? Have you ever had any problems with performing because of your gender? 

Miny: I think it’s great that fellow females are trying to make it in rap, but we have a long way to go before we’re respected. Being a female in metal and now in rap can be really challenging and I’ve definitely encountered difficulties in both due to my gender.

It often feels like people want to test my skill or fit me into some sort of category when music should be the focus- not gender. I understand why things are that way because a lot of females continue to send us backwards with gimmicks instead of being innovative and it makes people skeptical.

I’m hopeful that with time people will get used to seeing females in powerful positions in music and that gender can be less of a focus.

Miny: Affording an artistic passion really comes down to taking advantage of resources you have available, staying networked with like minded creators, and being educated. A lot of my music videos were done before I graduated from ASU in the film and media production program. My school provided film equipment, and I edit the videos using a mixture of programs which I learned in High School.

I work closely with film friends from ASU who dedicate a lot of time and energy into helping me. Right now I record at a studio that I built this summer where I record, mix, and master songs using Pro Tools. I’m basically working on no budget and have to get super creative and maximize my productive time to get things done.

Miny: I love social media, without it independent artists wouldn’t be anywhere. I think it’s challenging because people constantly crave new information but it keeps me on my toes. Social media helps me grow because I immediately get to see what people like or dislike in order to gain perspective.

I think every artist faces difficulties in terms of loosing face to face connections, and dealing with online harassment- that’s really the only detractor with social networking and it’s not really that negative because I personally get a kick out of it.

Miny: The most important part of being an independent artist is putting out authentic music while you can. The Biggest challenges include cost, time, and energy. The most enjoyable aspects are having control of my music, getting to personally interact with my audience, and making every song and video exactly how I want.

I stay focused by being inspired by new music and dedicating my efforts to my sister Desiree who passed away in 2007. I like making music/ videos that she would have enjoyed. I would advise other artists that if you keep on going- you’ll get where you want to be. Don’t let anything slow you down!

Miny: I started rapping during the summer of 2012. I was living in LA and had seen several articles spring up on female rappers, and it just got to a point where I had to start. Rapping has been something that I’ve wanted to do for so long and I feel like since the moment I’ve started- things have constantly been changing.

My dreams, ambitions, personal style, musical influences, and branding are constantly changing as I’m growing within the genre. I’ve started to feel less like an outsider trying to fit into a genre, and more like an artist trying to celebrate their individuality in a genre that embraces that.

JNTM: What advice would you give to someone who wants to do what you’re doing? 

You just have to do it, and don’t stop. Do whatever you can to get yourself out there- make some recordings, indie music videos, play as many shows as possible and get going. With enough time and effort- you’ll get where you want to be. 

JNTM: What’s in the future for Miny? Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years? 

Minymusic.com

The post Artist Spotlight: Miny appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Sowed by the occult hand of the dead city, Phuture Doom arose devoid of all but the curse.

In fact, everything about Phuture Doom is a bit strange. Looking at their website could force one into a seizure. Their music videos are haunting and their advertising/marketing strategies almost try to deny their audience of any information — awesome.

The most recent Facebook campaign included a picture (below) with this as the caption:  “Tom̨orr̡o͏w͠ Be̛g̷ińs҉ ́The H̀un͘t For T͟rut͡h͟.”

(Tomorrow Begins The Hunt For Truth)

After a bit of research, we were able to determine that the photo is an edited version of one found on the Wikepdia page for Frigg — a goddess of Norse paganism whose name is the origin of the word “Friday.” She was said to have had the power of prophecy but never revealed what she knew…

A day later, Phuture Doom posted this picture:

With the caption:

“F̢́͘o̴rb̸̨i̢͢͝ḑ̷d̶͏e͡n̸͞ ͏̶Kn̵͘o̕͠wl̷̡͏e̷͟d̛͘͜g̷̨̢e͠ ̷̀͢L͢͢įès̡ ̴͜W̸̨ít̢̕͝h̵͡i͞n҉. ̶A̷̴ ̴̢C͝oįl͟e̛d ̢͟͝L̶̛̀a҉b́yr̴ì̴̛ņ͠t͠h R̛͝id̵d́͘le҉́s͏ T͢h̵̀é ̵̷͞F̡͢u̢t͟͜u͞ŕe͞.̷̡ ̛͟L҉o͏̡ơk̡͝ ͠C͡l͜͏͜o̴s͜e̕͞ĺ͡y̷͏ ̀́Y͡oư̢ ͢M̸͞a̛͢y ̢F̵i̸̛͡n͘d҉̧ ͘͡A̡ ̡́K̀e͘y͝͡”

(Forbidden Knowledge Lies Within A Coiled Labyrinth Riddles The Future. Look Closely. You May Find A Key)

Take a closer look. On the bottom left corner is a QR code which leads you to this site with the cryptic message reading, “Frigg Sees The Future Of All Men But Never Reveals… Except On Her Holly Day.”

We’re no detectives here at Just Noise to Me, but if we had to guess we’d say you can expect a new EP from Phuture Doom tomorrow, August 2, 2013.

UPDATE: 

The group has now released this INSANE video which appears to be a mashup of their possible new EP “Error Activate”…? Throughout the video there are symbols and nonsense for subtitles, until a barely readable title appears. Ones we caught were “Mach 100,” “Black Acid Reign,” and “Burn the Knowledge.” Two of those songs already appear on the Nightfall EP, so we’re still not exactly sure what this video is for…

UPDATED UPDATE:

Yet another video has been released on Phuture Doom’s Facebook page. Much like our last update, this video is another string of songs we can only assume will be released all together on a new EP…? Again, this is all in question as the group continues to dazzle us with their mysterious background and all around purpose!

Nightfall EP Out Now on OWSLA
Full Stream: http://snd.sc/18xzYI6
Beatport: http://beatport.com/release/nightfall/1119192
iTunes: http://smarturl.it/NightfallEP

http://phuturedoom.com/

Have any inside information on who the heck these guys are? We wanna know! Tell us on our Facebook page. 

http://twitter.com/phvtvredoom
http://youtube.com/phuturedoomofficial

The post Who is Phuture Doom? appeared first on Just Noise To Me.