Phonat

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Phonat

Phonat is a humble man, preferring instead to let his music do the talking, as it has for a few years now until his latest sterling effort the ‘Never’ EP out on OWSLA through ONELOVE and a recent remix for Skrillex that has pushed his name forward as a go-to for unique and complex productions.

Real name Michele Balduzzi now calls London home after a move from his birthplace in Italy that boasts a number of high-profile names such as Crookers, The Bloody Beetroots and more.

Locking him down for a one-on-one interview, we further yanked out insightful bits and pieces touching on the importance of The Young Punx, London’s seemingly unlimited source of talent, an email from Skrillex and Australia’s role within the dance and electronic music world.

SR: A few names spring to mind representing Italy – Crookers, Bot, The Bloody Beetroots, Giorgio Moroder, Alexander Robotnik. What role do think your country has played in the dance and electronic world?
P: Italo-disco definitely had an influence in the international scene in the late 70’s / early 80’s. But that’s before I was born. In more recent times despite a few great acts emerging I think the role of Italy in the electronic music world has been the follower/spectator. And not just in the electronic music world.

SR: Can you explain who the The Young Punx are and their importance?
P: The Young Punx are a London act that produces all sort of electronic (and non) music. They also run Mofo HiFi and Heavy Disco record labels. I started working with them in 2006, both releasing music on their labels and doing some production for their own tracks. They are the reason why I moved to London basically and we’ve collaborated on countless projects ever since. Hal played many instruments and wrote and recorded vocals on many of my tracks. He’s one of the most talented and skilful musicians I know.

SR: Your new home of London seems like a real melting pot of electronic music with Chart #1’s from Duke Dumont, Disclosure and Route 94. Why do you think the scene exploding there right now?
P: To me it’s quite straightforward. London always had a very strong tradition of great underground and innovative music, and in parallel (or as a consequence) it’s also one of the leading places for business in the music industry. When a great new record gets in the right and capable business hands it’s gonna be a winner!

SR: It’s not everyday you have Skrillex and OWSLA management knocking on your door for a remix. What were your initial feelings when it happened? What has it led to?
P: I couldn’t believe it, I was shocked! It’s been such an honour to be able to work with him and to be part of the Owsla family. Measuring myself with all the amazing artists that they have on their rooster definitely gives me all the motivation I need to constantly push my limits, always demand more from myself and constantly improve.

SR: Your music breaks the mould of both the typical big room/festival stuff or strictly 4/4 deep house. Why the approach? Was this a natural occurance or something you intended to do?
P: It was pretty much natural. My approach is very simple: try to have fun. I hardly ever plan what to do or what direction to take, it’s just what comes out in the moment. I think it has to do with the fact that when I grew up there wasn’t much of an electronic/dance scene around me.. actually there wasn’t much of a musical culture at all! So I had to dig for records and inspirations by myself and I came across many different things I liked but never something I felt I really fit into. Or maybe I just get bored really quickly!

SR: Is there anything in the dance scene right now that frustrates you?
P: People tend to take themselves too seriously!

SR: Alternatively, what are some of the positives taken from the dance scene right now?
P: Although money still rules the world it’s as democratic as it’s ever been.

SR: Lastly, where do you think Australia stands in terms of relevance to the electronic and dance music scene globally?
P: I think now more than ever people are paying attention to what’s coming out of Australia. And well deservedly so in my opinion, you guys are delivering some of the freshest sounds! Flume has already taken over the world and artists like Ta-ku, Waveracer and Cosmos Midnight are well on their way. I am a massive fan of all of these guys!

Get the ‘Never’ EP out now on ONELOVE here.

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