What is your names?
Paul Ross (XPERiMENTAL)
What is your genre of music?
I’m diving into a dynamic mix of music genres, but lately, my passion has been ignited by Techno, especially the electrifying world of Acid Techno!
Give us a little bio about you.
I came of age during the late 80s and early 90s amidst the Acid House revolution. The impact it had on me back then was profound. Serving in the military in the UK, stationed near Loughborough in Leicestershire, I found kindred spirits who shared my passion for this genre. We’d hit up local clubs, decked out in fluorescent gear with glow sticks in hand, fully immersed in the vibrant Acid House scene. It was an exhilarating period, marked by the unparalleled sense of love and acceptance on the dancefloor. Raves were a haven where everyone came together solely for the music and to unleash their inhibitions. We’d embark on epic journeys, covering miles and hours to discover events and hunt down vinyls and cassettes loaded with infectious Acid House tracks. Sadly, my cherished vinyl collection fell victim to a theft at my home in 2012, leaving me utterly devastated.
What made you go into music?
My lifelong passion for music took a DJ-centric turn when I hit the golden age of 50! In search of a new skill to mark this milestone, I finally decided to explore the world of DJing, a dream that had lingered for decades. The spark ignited back in the day when my cousin, armed with a pair of Technics, would spin tracks he loved within the confines of his bedroom. The infectious sounds and the emotions it stirred in me lingered. Fast forward another three decades, and I took the plunge. I invested in an online course from the “Club Ready DJ School,” led by the dynamic Andrew Duffield, complemented by a Pioneer SB3. Andrew’s teaching style is nothing short of contagious – his unparalleled enthusiasm for the art of DJing created the perfect launching pad for my long-awaited journey.
In terms of influences, Andrew Duffield holds a significant place in my DJ journey, as mentioned earlier. His teaching approach and genuine love for the art of DJing continue to be the driving force behind my ongoing exploration in the DJing realm. I consistently revisit his course content to refine my skills and offer assistance to anyone else keen on delving into this craft. Turning to musical influences, it’s a challenging choice. During my school days, the sounds of Michael Jackson and Madonna were a constant presence on my trusty cassette deck. However, more recently, a handful of producer/DJs have left an indelible mark on my musical journey. As a devoted fan of Above & Beyond, their emotionally resonant productions have deeply touched my soul. Catching their live performances in Australia twice has been a remarkable experience, with “Blue Sky Action” featuring Alex Vargus securing a spot among my all-time favorite tracks. Within the Techno landscape, artists such as Maddix, Lilly Palmer, Marie Vaunt, and Kai Tracid consistently make appearances in my playlists and find their way into my DJ sets. Their influence extends beyond just listening; I use their tracks as reference points to shape my ideas and guide my evolution as a newcomer to the production scene in this genre. Reflecting on the Acid House era of the ’90s, iconic track by D-Mob still resonates ‘We Call it ACIEED” – this track is a personal anthem of the time and of course – “Open Your Mind” by USURA. “Expand Your Mind” is an adaptation of this early 90’s track.
Are you a signed?
No, I am an independent Artist
You released your single Acid Rave Misbehave, tell us more about the single and the meaning behind the single.
“ACID RAVE MISBEHAVE serves as a homage to the vibrant and influential era of the 90s, a period that left an indelible mark not only in the UK but across the globe. The single is a musical tribute to the spirit of the time, acknowledging the profound impact it had on the cultural landscape. For me, ‘Rave’ is more than just an event; it’s a sanctuary where individuals can authentically express themselves, immersed in a non-judgmental atmosphere. It’s a gathering of like-minded souls brought together by a shared passion for music and a celebration of life itself. The term ‘Acid House’ transcended mere music; it evolved into a cultural movement. People were drawn to it, traversing great distances, spending hours in pursuit of the next revelry, whether it unfolded in a club, a warehouse, or a sprawling field. ACID RAVE MISBEHAVE captures the essence of those euphoric moments, embodying the freedom, energy, and camaraderie that defined the Acid House movement. It’s not just a song; it’s a sonic journey, an ode to a time when music became the heartbeat of a cultural revolution.”
Describe the track in two words.
Nostalgic Energy
What was the writing and recording process like?
Embarking on the production journey for this track was both exciting and, at times, a bit challenging! The vision was clear from the beginning – I aimed to encapsulate the soulful essence of 90’s Acid House, complete with the iconic 303 vibes, while seamlessly infusing a contemporary Techno feel. The process unfolded gradually on the digital audio workstation (DAW), with a sense of frustration lingering as I strived to translate my vision into tangible sonic elements. The turning point emerged when the distinctive “303” synth and bassline took shape, laying the foundation for the track’s character. From there, the focus shifted towards crafting the beat and kick drum, a crucial step in capturing the unmistakable essence of Techno. Delving into the heart of the track, the breakdown serves as a subtle homage to my affinity for trance music. This influence becomes even more pronounced in the extended version of the track, where the connection to the emotive and atmospheric elements of trance takes center stage. The synergy of these elements represents not only a musical journey but also a deliberate blend of nostalgia and innovation, harmonizing the timeless spirit of Acid House with the contemporary vibes of Techno.
Do you have any live shows coming up?
Currently, there are no confirmed bookings as my focus has been solely on music production. However, as we approach the end of 2024, live sets will make a comeback. You can find me showcasing live sets on the Techno Nights of the UK-based radio station, Dance Freex. While there are no fixed timings or schedules for my sets, you can tune in on a Friday evening (UK time). Simply download the app, and you’re ready to go. Boom!
What else can we expect in 2024?
Certainly, anticipate more compelling productions. Presently, I’m immersed in crafting a raw and dark techno track, aiming for a release within the next 6-8 weeks. Looking ahead to the latter part of 2024, the spotlight will be on live sets at festivals, primarily in Queensland, Australia, where I currently reside. There’s even the exciting prospect of extending performances to interstate venues.
Where do you see yourself now in 5 Years?
A state of contentment, both mentally and physically, with a continued stream of released productions resonating with audiences. Festival stages will still be a familiar ground, and the journey ahead is one marked by happiness, health, and a persistent passion for creating and sharing music.
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
For me, it’s all about KGB, a mantra that’s been my steadfast companion since the early days of my DJing journey. Born as “KGBEATS,” the acronym KGB encapsulates the philosophy of “Keep Getting Better.” It’s not just a name; it’s a principle deeply woven into my musical pursuit. In essence, KGB signifies the commitment to continual improvement. It’s a reminder to apply oneself consistently, with the aim of gradually moving the needle forward. The underlying philosophy isn’t rooted in the pursuit of perfection but rather in the dedication to becoming slightly better with each endeavor. It’s a reminder that growth is a journey, and the journey itself is the destination.
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
- Friends – The Camp of Good Vibes: Life’s an adventure, and it’s undeniably better when shared with my close-knit group of festival friends. We’re the dynamic squad that will yell out “Legends Everywhere”!!
- USB Sticks – The DJ’s Trusty Sidekick: Every aspiring DJ knows the indispensable value of having those trusty USB sticks ready in the pocket.
- They’re like the secret weapons of the DJ trade, ensuring the beats keep flowing seamlessly.
- HOTEL WES! – Our Mobile Festival Oasis: Forget hotels; we’ve got a RAV 4 named HOTEL WES! It’s a festival nomad’s dream – back seats down, a king mattress in, and we’re road-trip ready. Perfect for a few nights of festival living, though I wouldn’t dare extend the stay longer than that!
- Bumbag – The Mighty Convenience: A festival essential, the bumbag is the unsung hero of practicality. It’s like having a personal assistant strapped around my waist – holding essentials and ensuring I’m hands-free for maximum dancefloor enjoyment.
- Unicorn Onesie – Because Why Not!: Yes, you read it right – a magical unicorn onesie! It’s not just an outfit; it’s a statement. Wore it during my liveset at the Spring Campout 2023, and let’s just say, the crowd loved the whimsical vibe. After all, who wouldn’t want to party with a DJ in a unicorn onesie? It’s a guaranteed mood-lifter and an instant hit!
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
Absolutely –
Spotify
Insta
Facebook
Soundcloud
