Characterised by the sounds of a 2016 Soundcloud, post-IDM landscape, Stereo Cube draws inspiration from the producers and artists that shaped his early years. Notes of Mr. Bill, Tennyson, Koan Sound, and Virtual Riot seep through in each production, with a fresh take on the sounds that have inspired him since the project’s inception a decade ago. As his new ‘Overlord’ EP lands on Duckland, DMCWorld goes Back To Mine with Stereo Cube.
Flying Lotus – Heaven
Arguably my favorite Flying Lotus tune. His sampling techniques and atmospheres are exceptional in this one. I draw a lot of inspiration from his scattergun approach to production—ordered chaos, you could call it.
Machinedrum – Wait 4 U (feat. Jesse Boykins III)
This track was on heavy rotation when I was working on the project back in 2019. I love this style of drum and bass—constantly introducing new, interesting elements that keep you engaged. The ethereal vocal ties everything together beautifully.
Infinity Frequencies – Lost Dreams
I was deeply into the vaporwave trend back in 2016, and it still influences my work today. This short but poignant track from Infinity Frequencies perfectly captures that artificial nostalgia feeling I love.
Sam Gellaitry – Phosphorus
Sam Gellaitry has been an inspiration for as long as I can remember. “Phosphorus” is a standout track that I admire for its sample manipulation and intricate ‘ear candy.’ He’s been a production role model for me for years.
Tennyson – Melonpan
“Melonpan” has a noticeable influence on the overall sound of “Overlord.” It’s more laid-back compared to the tracks on the project, but you can definitely pick out the drum sampling inspiration. I love its satisfying, on-grid feel. I listened to “Different Water” religiously when it came out in 2019—probably the album I played most while making the EP.
Client_03 – Hope Repeater
This track is just pure intensity. Client_03’s use of acid basses here is unbeatable. It’s a prime example of a track that sounds complex but, upon closer listening, reveals itself as a few key elements working together seamlessly.
Mr. Bill – Crowd Sourced Data
I learned to use Ableton by watching Mr. Bill’s tutorials on YouTube. It’s joked that the Stereo Cube project became a budget version of Mr. Bill’s work, which always makes me laugh. I consider him one of the best producers, known for his precision and extensive discography. “Crowd Sourced Data” is the first track in his 24-part ‘Corrective Scene Surgery’ project, filled with incredible songs. I remember playing this track on repeat during a family holiday in Greece when I was 15.
Huerco S. – ‘lińzhiid:
This track captures that artificial nostalgia, much like “Lost Dreams” does. My friend and fellow artist Glimji introduced me to this tune ages ago—I think he discovered it from an essential tracklist put together by Toro y Moi. It’s stayed with me ever since.
Sorrow – Reverie
I absolutely love Sorrow. “Reverie” was my go-to track when I first moved to London and was heading home from a night out at 4 a.m. The atmospheres and soundscapes combined with that driving bassline make it perfect for late-night listening.
Lapalux – Jaw Jackin’
Lapalux is another major influence on the Stereo Cube project. “Jaw Jackin’” is a perfect example of ordered chaos and intricate ‘ear candy.’ There’s always something unexpected happening, whether it’s a rogue synth, glitched-out drums, or that brilliantly manipulated vocal sample.
Stereo Cube ‘Overlord’ is out now on Duckland.
https://duckland.bandcamp.com/album/overlord