Evans

Dan Prince·
DMC WorldFeatures

Evans is most certainly making an inspiring impact on the scene. Having discovered his passion for electronic music at an early age, it was 2012 when he signed his first EP to Supernature and launched his own Dilate Records label – an exiting and growing hotbed of talent to this day. Having recently enjoyed critically acclaimed releases on Berlin’s innovative Stil Vor Talent label and Sasha’s respected LNOE imprint, Evans has just unveiled his finest work to date for his debut on John Digweed’s legendary Bedrock label. Evans’ uniquely enticing brand of dancefloor-driven, organic, experimental Techno is a joy to behold, so we thought it a perfect moment to have an in-depth chat with this immensely talented, electrifying young DJ/Producer from Sheffield…

Evans, a huge welcome to DMCWORLD and congratulations on the release of your ‘Futurism’ EP debut on John Digweed’s Bedrock label. The first thing we want to ask is what makes this label so special?

Firstly, I would like to say a big thank you for inviting me to do the interview for DMC. Bedrock is mega special, for me it’s a perfect example of what you can achieve musically if you stick to doing what you feel is right. I think John Digweed has put so much time and effort into Bedrock and it really shows in the music they release.

For anyone not already familiar with your music, how would you describe your style? Can you put your finger on the elements of your music that makes it so engaging and distinctive?

I would describe my style as, not necessarily on trend or alike to many artists but hopefully, something unique and timeless that can be appreciated just as much as current trending music. One of my focuses when producing music is to engage listeners by creating productions to the top-quality standards. Movement and progressions are key in all the music I create, the journey is important to keep things interesting.

Talk us through the EP tracks… How does the creative process work when you’re producing music in your studio?

All of the tracks created for the EP went through a similar writing process, each leading to different avenues of Techno. I like to explore options with various chord progressions and movements to get a good picture of what musical paths I can create. I then add this to a synth, which I can then use to develop the main sound. Once I’m happy with this I start working on an interesting drum rhythm to fit the piece I’m working on. I can then look for different reverb settings and delay times to compliment the music. I like to keep a constant workflow in the studio by using a sequencer with my drum machines and synths. Then when I’m 100% happy I will start editing the layout in my DAW.

What piece of studio equipment could you not live without?

Great question, every piece of equipment I’ve got creates my musical magic so I need them all…sorry!

Do you find it easy to express your emotions in your music, or is this something that finds an outlet only in certain, special tracks?

I’m constantly expressing my emotions within my music, its what make it so individual and special to me. The connection keeps me engaged wanting to write more and more.

Great music is often described as being “timeless” – is this a concept that you can relate to?

Totally, it’s great just searching through old music, finding tracks that sound as amazing now as they did when I first listened to them.

Let’s rewind for a moment, what are your earliest musical memories?

My earliest musical memories are going through my mum’s vinyl collection, discovering artists such as Depeche Mode, Kraftwerk and Joy Division. They were a massive inspiration to me when I first started to produce music.

How did your musical tastes develop? When did dance music come into your life?

My home city Sheffield had a massive influence on me musically, it’s the home of Warp Records, who opened the doors to dance music for me and has had some of the best warehouse parties on this planet. This really got me interested in electronic music and underground Techno.

At what point did you get into producing and DJing? Who/what have been big influences in your music career so far?

I got into music production around 10 years ago and then decided to take things further by studying at Sheffield College of Music. I’ve been influenced by many artists, starting from when I first discovered my mum’s vinyl collection of electronic music to more recent artists such as Tale of Us, Adriatique, Gardens of God and labels like Kompakt, Innervisions and Exit Strategy.

Tell us about your Dilate Records label?

Dilate Records was set up 4 years ago as a platform to release a more diverse side of electronic music. It’s a really great label you should check it out! I’ve had lots of friends in the music industry do EPs and remixes for me to help it grow. The artists on the label include Few nolder, PHK, Moosefly, Raxon, Iain Howie, HearThuG and many other talented artists. Check it out.

Your home city (Sheffield) played a key roll the in evolution of the electronic club scene in the UK. What’s the situation like now? Which exciting new artists are rising up there?

Sheffield is still a really great city for fresh music. As for artists I would recommend Kidnap Kid, Leiam O’shea and my good friend Nyra, who I went to music college with.

From an insider’s point of view, what places in Sheffield should a visiting electronic music fan check out?

Hope Works would be my choice, just because of the strict underground music policy and super cool warehouse style atmosphere.

If you could play for a whole night with any DJ (ever), who would be at the top of your wish list?

Hmmmmm…I’d say, DJ Tennis. He seems like a really cool laid-back kind of guy, I think we would get on well. His Afterlife label is dope and also one of my favourites!!

If you could remix any track by any artist (ever) what would be at the top of your wish list?

It’s got to be something from Bonobo or Maribou State, I love their music and think I could do something really special!

What plans have you got for 2020?

It’s my year – 2020 – I’ve got a great feeling about it. I’m at a great place with my music and have lots of fresh material for licensing. So, positivity all around!

And finally, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Dreams remain dreams until you decide to take action!

Thanks for your time here – much appreciated!

It’s been an absolute pleasure.

Evans – Futurism EP

Evans Info:

https://www.facebook.com/djdanielevans
https://twitter.com/djdanielevans
https://soundcloud.com/djdanielevans
https://www.instagram.com/djdanielevans