Though guitar and electronic music generally occupy separate spheres, Scott Booth masterfully bridges the divide. Utilising his guitar to create electronic music, Scott artfully combines strumming and finger-picking techniques, generates percussion reminiscent of a Tabla drum, and employs an array of pedals to unlock dynamic effects.
Here Scott Booth gives the back story on his innovative new album ‘Atavistic’ on OutYerBox Records…
Can you tell me what you are most renowned for with regards to your productions?
Well, people mostly know me as a guitarist, but my heart has always been equally invested in electronic music. This mix of interests led me to create a unique style that straddles these two worlds. My production style is essentially about exploiting limitations, embracing unexpected outcomes, and constantly seeking new, creative paths.
What would you consider the biggest viral moment your music has created for you?
Just before lockdown, I posted a video showcasing a guitar performance that was my first attempt at generating electronic music entirely with a guitar, no loops or backing tracks involved. The video caught the attention of big channels like UNILAD and Techno TV, and the response was overwhelming.
What can you tell me about your technique?
My technique is a cocktail of composition and improvisation. I started playing the guitar with a Celtic and Flamenco influence. Then as a teenager, I stumbled upon a group of acoustic guitar players who created percussion with one hand on the body of the guitar, while using the other hand to create melodies. This completely grabbed my interest and I spent countless hours honing this technique.
You have a new album out ‘Atavistic’ – what does that mean and what is the story behind it?
‘Atavistic’ refers to something that reverts back to an ancient or ancestral state. With this album, I wanted to combine my roots, represented by the guitar, with a modern sound. The idea was to explore the potential of transforming every sound the guitar makes, stretching the limits of this single instrument. There are a very small number of non-guitar sounds in the album as well, some drum machine sounds which are a nod to the music I grew up on. I originally considered making the album strictly 100% guitar, but I felt these elements added richness and served the music better. After all, music should always come first, beyond any perfectionist vision.
What gave you the idea to create dance music with a guitar usually reserved for indie bands?
The fusion of dance music with the guitar was a natural progression for me, facilitated significantly by one of my close mates, Steve Mac, a well-respected producer. As we began working together, I found myself learning immensely from him about the intricacies of music production in a studio setting. Our countless hours of experimentation and collaboration greatly influenced my understanding of electronic music and helped develop my creative intuition. I’ve always seen the guitar not just as a rock or indie instrument, but as a versatile tool capable of a wide array of sounds. This exploration is about breaking boundaries and challenging preconceived notions of what a guitar can do.
What is the ultimate plan and goal for Scott Booth, where would you love to perform?
My current goal is to keep exploring, innovating, and pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with a guitar. However, I’m keen to keep my creative direction wide open. Post the album campaign, I plan to spend time trying different things, collaborating, and traveling in my campervan around the UK and Europe to work with traditional musicians from other countries.
You can listen to Atavistic here: STREAM/BUY HERE
See Scott perform his skills HERE
