The world of bass music is constantly evolving and changing, bringing forth new waves of incredible bass producers and amazing music along with it. One such artists that continues to bring himself to the forefront of the freeform bass scene, ST4RFOX, has returned to bring us an huge 10 track LP, The Nexus to start our month off right. Each of the tracks on this compilation bring new and exciting side to the project that have never before been heard, alongside the tradition soundscapes we have come to love from thus far. Our premiere of The Nexus, “Welcome to Existence” makes listeners question their own reality with is psychedelic synths and driving wubby bass lines. This track is definitely a do-not-miss, with is full spectrum sound and infectious melody. We know we will definitely be keeping this whole album on repeat for the foreseeable future. Let’s take a deeper dive into why we are calling “Welcome to Existence” and the rest of The Nexus album, a certified bop.

“Scanning the radio waves, an outer-realm cassette tape from an alternate timeline appears and slaps into the stereo. Full-Spectrum, psychedelic sounds saturate the air, echoing the chaos of an overstimulated and hyper-sexualized world. “Welcome to Existence”, now what will you do with your time?”

Diving Deep w/ ST4RFOX

1. How did you decide to get into music? Was there a certain event in your childhood/life that made you stop and realize that you wanted to pursue a career in music?

At 9 years old I knew I had to play sax after watching Lisa Simpson, and the SNL sax player, Lenny Picket shred on tv. I also am grateful for my mom, who toured in Europe playing trumpet, and sang to me since I was in the womb, so melody was always around me. She bought me my first sax and was a big supporter at all my concerts. In 2004, I was a freshman in college for Biochemistry, at UCDavis, when I had a huge calling to make music my career. I was studying for midterms, while listening to music, and the Berlin Philharmonic came on, playing one of my all time favorite songs, Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber. I got instant chills, over and over, just melting to their brilliant intonation and the resonance of the chords and powerful, dynamic, emotional playing that reverberated through me. I knew at this moment I had to make music my life, full time. So I switched majors and never looked back. 

2. What has been the biggest difference you’ve noticed when first starting off as an artist vs now after experience playing events, doing releases etc?

The biggest difference between when I started my solo project, and now, is my super talented community of producer friends I have to bounce ideas off of, my built up folders of self made sample packs/sound design and the more focused direction of each studio session. 

3. It can be very hard sometimes separating music from day to day life when it’s a huge part of your life. How do you personally separate your artist life from your everyday life, and have you faced any challenges doing so?

Yoga, meditation, nature, hikes, videogames, cooking, reading and watching comedians live and on tv, are my escapes. Comedy especially is a favorite, because it’s an art form that despite me dissecting it, I don’t over analyze like music, which after decades of building a discerning ear, sometimes makes music difficult to enjoy purely. The mindfulness, and healthy activities above keep me balanced, while tasty food is always rewarding. Favorite Books: The Alchemist, The Four Agreements, Be Here Now and The Hitchhikers Guide to The Galaxy. Favorite Food: Pho, Pizza and Gnocchi. Favorite Comedians: Mitch Hedburg, Bill Hicks, Dave Chapelle, Duncan Trussel.

4. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned since you started making music? Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring producers hoping to follow in your footsteps?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned since making music, is to stay true to what’s in my heart and soul. To really dive into who I am, where I’ve been, and connect on a deep level. Each time I do, the music holds up as a mirror, showing me truth. When I feel that deeply, it resonates with others and we all can feel it. Words of advice to upcoming producers would be to build consistency, collaborate as often as you can, try to view things from many ways, experiment like Bob Ross mixed with Miles Davis, and always put your emotions into the songs, they will mean soo much more to you and everyone else.