Pharoah, Liondub International Recordings and Origins
Pharoah, aka Jonny Andrews based in Norwich in the East Of England was originally inspired by drum and bass legends Noisia, Bad Company and Matrix. In 2018 he released on Fragmented Recordings then Warfare Recordings which gave him a new sense of momentum. Following this he was signed to the mighty Liondub International out of New York and with a string of releases in the pipeline, we talk to him to find out more.
Thanks for talking to us, first off, how has 2020 been for you so far and how are you finding the quarantine?
It's certainly been interesting one so far thanks. Its definitely given me a chance to build on the releases from the tail end of 2019 and finish my last E.P 'Spells' and my new release 'Origins on Liondub'.
Go back to when it started for you as a youth, what music were you into and what made you get into drum and bass?
As youngster I listened to a variety of things. My parents had a pretty random taste in music so I would listen to anything from Motown to Human League. As I grew up my taste matured and I began to listen hip hop (UK and US)I discovered DnB When I finished school and never looked back!
Was it DJing or producing first?
I started Djing first. A good mate got some 1210's when we were 15!! We were obsessed straight away. I think the production side of things just came naturally after that.
What were your first albums and what albums have inspired you over the years?
There are few!! Hip hop wise, I remember buying 'The Score'!! Such a life changer for me. 'Introducing' by Dj shadow really got into the idea of sampling. As for drum and bass think 'The Creeps' by Ed Rush and Optical and 'Inside the Machine' by Bad Company. They were so ground breaking and influential to where I'm at today!
What are your favourite studio tools?
Well studio set up is fairly modest. I m a huge fan of the CamelPhat plugin!!! Such a beast of a tool, I literally use it on everything. Massive is still great but I'm trying to transition to Serum which is also a beast in it own right!!
Tell us about how you write music, beats or bass first?
A lot of people are really regimented with their process. I tend to scroll through samples for inspiration and then go from there. Funnily enough the beats and the bass are usually last on the agenda.
What advice would you give for mixdowns?
When I started making music I really under appreciated the importance of mixdowns!!! You really have to home it in. Everyone's music is different, some go layer mad and some keep it minimal. Its all about filling and NOT over filling frequencies in your tracks. Some people use visual analyzer's, others just their ears. Its always something Im trying to improve!
How did the link up with Fragmented happen?
I'd heard of Fragmented through Noisia radio and sent them a demo. Really nice lads. Unfortunately they have decided to shut up shop for reason unkown.
What inspired you to write Spells (Fire in the Hole) EP and which is your favourite track?
The 'Spells’ E.P was actually compiled from a mix of older tracks which I'd put together and finished off. Id been following Jump up for a while and the E.P was a result of me dipping my toes in, in a production sense.
So tell us about the Cut Ties EP ?
The 'Cut Ties' release was actually my first. Was a really special moment for me. This E.P showed off the neuro side of my production. Think its still on sale!!
And you have a new EP forthcoming on Liondub International right?
Thats right. 'Origins' is out on the 8th May on Liondub International. Its a bit of a mix bag and there is something for all Dnb heads. Looking forward to seeing it out there!!
Erik aka Liondub is a great guy! Hardworking too huh!
Eric has been great to me!! He sat down with me and we talked about what my aims and goals were as well as his. I really appreciate the time hes put in and really am looking forward to working with him in future!! Big ups Eric!!
Who and what inspires you to make music?
Inspiration is everywhere!! I dont look for any specific things to inspire me. We've been lucky with the weather so that's played a big role!! Lockdown mixes have been so helpful aswell!
If you could collab with anyone, who would it be and why?
There's a few but the main ones I would say are Bou, Dj Limited and Jack the Ripper. All 3 very different but there tracks and output are second to none.
If I gave you £10k right now, what would you do with it and why?
I think I'd have to re-invest in my music. More music equipment would be a must!! If there was any dollar spare It would be put into a epic break away. Always good for the inspiration levels!!
Norwich has a wicked dnb scene. Which are your favourite venues and nights out?
I grew up going to Rumble's at the Waterfront and still consider to be one of the best pure music venues. There were others aswell. Lava and Ignite was a staple club thate held Bounce nights. Currently the best venues around are probably the LCR, Gonzos and Open. Unfortunately Norwich city council dont make it easy for Dnb promoters anymore.
I'd love to play at Rampage for for sure!!! Looks like absolute madness. As for venues Fabric has always been a dream!!!
If you were stuck on a desert island, and only had 1 track to take, what would it be and why?
Wow that's a tough one!!! If we are talking dnb I would say 'The way you Make me Feel' by Marcus Intalex!! Anything else I would have to say 'Runnin' by Pharcyde. Great summer vibes!!
Any up and coming artists that you're watching that we should be looking out for?
There are so many exciting producers out there, but I really like AC13. He's doing great things. Unglued's been about for a little bit but love his production style aswell.
Whats the plans for the next few months?
Currenly Im just building on my back log In the studio. I should have another E.P coming out before the summer. I also want to work on branding myself as a producer. Self promotion has never been my strong point but Im working on that lol
Long term plans?
I should have an album out at the end of the year. I really want to work with some other producers aswell . I would say focusing on gigs but with the current global covid 19 climate its all a bit up in the air at the moment!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to keep active whether its exercise or going out with friends. HoIiday's are certainly a massive part of my spare time and go out to Corfu to see my fairly every year.
Looking forward to your next releases! Thanks for your time, any last shouts or thanks?
Yeah, I want to send a big ups to Eric Wise for giving me the opportunity to put out music out there and Flat T for helping with my masters. Big ups guys!!!
