UK-based DJ and producer BEADS is carving out a space in the contemporary hardgroove and techno scene with a sound built around infectious grooves, driving percussion and high-impact rave energy. Drawing on the rhythmic sensibilities of R&B and Hip Hop alongside old-school house and techno, his productions have earned support across the international underground, with releases including ‘ESCOLA DE SAMBA’, ‘Say Something’ with Behne, ‘STRAIGHT FROM THE HOOD’ and ‘TAKETHAT’ with DJ SWISHERMAN.
Having taken his sets across the UK, Europe and Australia, we caught up with him to discuss his expanding sound, catalogue, upcoming releases, and collaborations.
Listen to BEAD’s mix on PLAYY. Music whilst reading the interview below:
How would you describe your musical style and the genres or subcultures that most influence your sound?
A mixture of R&B and Hip Hop with a groovy house beat. R&B and old school house, and techno were a massive influence for me. Picking up on how important the groove is from producers like Chad Hugo and taking bits from my favourite old-school house and techno producers
Music Creation: Describe the primary setting or environment where your music is conceived. Is it a chaotic, overstimulating studio, a minimalist digital space, a rehearsal room, or a more isolated location?
Most of my music is created in my home studio alone. Listening to TV and radio during the day gives me ideas to create when I get home. Also, for collabs, I have my favourite producers and friends come in so we can create together, like in my upcoming tracks with Ocean and Kule
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
The sound itself always for me. I will hear something randomly, and it will give me an idea
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
Software I use in every track is Serato Sample, Serum, and zenology. Has everyone you need to get the basics down at least. For hardware, I use the Behringer Model D, mostly for basslines and pair that with the Ableton Push and keyboard.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
Can’t say some of them currently, but have some ready to release with some of my favourite producers, Ocean and Kule
Any side projects you’re working on?
Working on putting out a new project under my alias Backhand. Just a mixture of more relaxing music, not really meant for the club.
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
Oscar Wallyn is one of my favourites right now. Some of the best sampling I’ve heard, and his tracks have such a feel-good vibe. For something outside of house music, Kas Rizvi- so much talent, and every track is incredible
What role does ‘rebellion’ or ‘counterculture’ play in your music? Are you aiming to challenge commercial norms, sonic structures, or societal expectations?
None really; I just enjoy making music and love seeing people enjoy it as well
Who is one non-musical artist (e.g., fashion designer, visual artist, film director) whose work feels sonically synonymous with your sound?
Liam Walsh. Love his visual work
What aspects of your artistry feel most important to you, for example your sound, visuals, storytelling, or live performance style?
Probably a bit of everything. Especially these days, there are so many amazing artists. It’s important to give everyone the best experience you can.
The Future: What is the most exciting and the most terrifying technological development impacting the music industry right now (e.g., AI composition, NFTs, digital distribution models)?
AI has got to be up there. Not sure if it’s damaging or could be a good thing in the future. But currently looking like it’s having a negative effect on music.
How would you describe the live music environments you feel most connected to? For example, are you drawn more to the energy of massive festival stages, the intimacy of underground warehouse parties or DIY venues, or a mix of both?
I personally like a good mix. At some of the underground parties, you’ll hear some of the best DJ sets you’ve ever heard, and you can get inspiration from that, but also it’s nice to hear some of the bigger artists and listen to more of a relaxing set
Famous last words?
Working on a bunch of new stuff and look to be releasing lots of music soon. Had a short break recently to get organised and recover from burnout, but excited to share new projects with everyone
