Usually Lakosa, aka Stef Smith, makes bass-driven, club music. He’s picked up support from the likes of Disclosure and Mary Anne Hobbes, has released on Shifting Peaks, and has material forthcoming on the in-demand Dutch label, Audio Culture, and on Kerri Chandler‘s new imprint, MadTech. For Get Some Introducing, he switches up his style in a soul-laden hiphop track ‘Love For Sale.’ This latest instalment in the series shows of the versatility to the this artists’ production and takes Get Some Introducing in a new non-electronic direction. Check out the interview below, grab the tune, and definitely keep an eye on this guys dance productions. He has some serious talent.
- Can you introduce yourself please. You previously made music under the alias ‘Lo:tek,’ why the name change?
Basically, i noticed a couple of other Lotek’s on the scene which was a shame as i liked that name! When Mary Anne Hobbs approached me asking for an Xfm guest mix i thought it would be the best time to do the switch to Lakosa.
- How would you describe the music you make?
I would like to say soulful, but atm im liking the raw, dusty minimal approach to my production.
- You currently have material coming out on the likes of Audio Culture, Shifting Peaks, MadTech. How different are the separate releases?
These 3 releases are very different from each other for sure.. Audio Culture is more club orientated with ‘Live Wire‘ being very energetic, this will also feature a solo track called ‘Too Cold’ which is very dark and industrial sounding. Shifting Peaks release was from the time when i was writing at around the 130 bpm mark so laced with a Dub Techno/Bass influence.. Finally, the track on Madtech is not that old, this track is kind of on the level where i want to be at dropping the tempo down to 120bpm and rolling out nice chunky drums and warm synths..
- Is your solo material much different to what you produce with iO, for example?
My stuff differs a fair bit tbh, as mentioned i like to keep it raw and moody whereas with iO we connect real easily and make tunes that are more lively and synth driven.
- Why is Audio Culture the right label for ‘Livewire’?
I feel Audio Culture have a good look atm and if you take a look at there back catalogue they are on fire.
- Which artists should we be looking out for, and which already-established one’s are you really feeling right now?
iO, South London Ordnance, Augustus Gloop, Paleman, Thefft, Citizen, Lorca… this list could carry on with all the current influx of new producers brings something new!!
- A few words on the tune you’ve given us?
JDILLA, JAMES YANCEY, JAY DEE….R.I.P
- Finally, please complete the following sentence: Get Some…
Lakosa in your ear