As a duo Brighton-based Lee Garrett and James Morpeth have been ploughing a particularly rich furrow of deep, contemplative house music from a few years now, with previous releases landing on Will Sumsuch’s highly thought of Colour & Pitch imprint. Now Garret will be continuing with Latch as a solo project, with Supernova marking the first release of the new era. Starting life as a mid-tempo, chugging deep house cut, Supernova transforms into something truly epic over the course of its running time thanks to gorgeous, soaring vocal layers, glistening synth lines and increasingly urgent percussion. Supernova also marks the launch of Trusted Rhythm Records, which will be releasing music from Latch and other artist throughout 2021 and beyond.
Welcome back to DMC – where in the world do we find you today and how are you doing?
Thank you. Doing good! Brighton has a good buzz about it with easing of lockdown and weather has been IDEAL for a pub garden.
Tell us a little about your background and how you first got into music?
I started collecting House music back in 1998, hogging listening stations at various records shops in Brighton every Saturday without fail. I then managed to save up and buy some 1210’s by doing mobile disco’s…. THEN (on a family holiday…) I walked into Space Ibiza at the age of 15 back in 2001. It was the first club I’d ever entered. Dancing for 12 hours solid with my best mate who was basically asleep on terrace by the end – this experience undoubtably drove my passion for music and DJing harder. Those listening stations got a seeing to that summer!
Were there any artists or scenes in particular that influenced your early work?
Production wise I’d say Jimpster and anyone he’d sign to his Freerange label – this always injected some form of influence. There are also are a ton of DJ’s I’ve supported over the years and I guess I’ve taken a little bit from each of them.
Latch used to be a duo but now it’s your solo project – do you foresee any major changes to the style of music you’ll be putting out?
It did, I can’t see too many major changes at this stage. It was the right decision to split- we both recognised we wanted different things regarding direction & also from a performing aspect. James & I still remain good friends and have some collaborations pending for release which is exciting.
What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of producing solo as opposed to with someone else?
Making a decision as to what works and what doesn’t can be easier working alongside someone, on the flip slide, you can choose a direction with no compromise and maybe take more risks. Risks always pay off right!!?
Now that things are opening up a little in the UK, do you have any upcoming gigs over the next few months?
Yes… finally. The diary is slowly filling up, Once the summer is out and the next few releases land, I think next year will be busier. I’m looking forward to finding a dancefloor myself!!
Was there any particular inspiration behind the latest single Supernova?
Latch’s first release was a track called “Frida” which takes you on a little journey … we wanted to make a more club friendly “Frida” and we were really happy with what was achieved. “Frida” will definitely get a revisit one day too!
Talk us through your studio set up… any particular favourite bits of hard/software?
My studio set up is pretty much software based. I have a converted cabin in my garden. My Focal monitors are a lovely bit of kit & couldn’t live without them!
What else should we be looking out for from Latch this year?
More releases – another signed to Trusted Rhythm Records which I am excited about, It has a strong vocal… Looking forward to sharing in the summer. More studio time… and of corse some DJ sets.
Finally, what’s the best record you’ve heard in 2021 so far and why?
Sorry…I can’t call just a single track, but an act I’m always keeping an eye on is Tibasko. These guys are writing solid material!
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