The sonic world of British polymath Fredwave encompasses you. It wraps you in his perspective; a visceral and spellbinding elegance that battles against a core of raw grit.
The producer and singer-songwriter has built a fierce reputation since his artistic inception in the mid 10s, impressing with collaborations with some of the UK’s best alternative talent, the likes of Jeshi, KAM-BU and p-rallel. We’ve been waiting somewhat patiently for the follow up to his acclaimed ’17 debut, “Failure”, and now we have finally been blessed with a new body of work that sees Fredwave enter a new, more assured and explorative chapter of his artistic progression.
“GOODNIGHT June” is a glitchy, consuming trip into the inner workings of the mind of an imperfect narrator. Stylistically diverse, Fred plucks from a variety of electronic sub-sounds to immerse the listener within his palettes. The production is abrupt yet hazy, dynamic yet elusive. Key single “LA LA” remains a standout, but there is no weakness among the five tracks, upholding cohesion across each aspect of the work.
To celebrate the release, we caught up with the rising multi-disciplinarian, discussing creative endeavours, collaborations, his production style, and the new EP.
Listen to “GOODNIGHT June”…
Read the exclusive interview…
Who and what influences you to create?
It’s a bit cliche but life generally plays a big part in my creative process, I always have to remind myself that everything I wanted when I was 17 I have, and that’s a blessing! It’s about keeping that hunger now.
What are your musical origins?
My parents are from the Carribean and I was born and raised in London so you I couldn’t really escape being a bit musical even if I tried! Also my dad was a guitarist so that helped me guide me.
How did you first immerse yourself in the world of production?
FL studio four demo given to me by my sisters boyfriend when I was in year eight – I clicked buttons and sent the songs around my class via Bluetooth. It wasn’t until 2013 when I really sat down with that program though, I’m on Ableton now but FL will always have a place in my heart.
You’ve worked with and produced for some of the UK alternative’s most essential names – what about that scene is it that excites you?
Everything about it, I always try to envision how an artist makes a song, and a good song for me is when I don’t know what they used or how they used it. I also hate boxes so that’s probably why i’m in this scene.
Why is pushing boundaries a pinnacle part of your artistry?
Because it’s a disservice to artistry if I have the skills and don’t! You don’t want the same thing for dinner every night, do you?
To you, what are the key characteristics for a successful producer?
A good ear, no over production, harmonics, great decision making and vibes.
What made you make the move from production-centric to releasing solo material?
I always did both from the beginning of my career – I did find it hard to release my own stuff at one point but I’m over that now.
How have you find the transition?
There was no transition, just more money and a clear head.
How did you find yourself intwined with composing for the likes of Louis Vuitton and Corteiz?
Walid Ladbri! RIP Virgil Abloh 1/1.
Congratulations on your new EP, “GOODNIGHT June”! How did you find the creative process?
Very difficult to be honest, I had to scrap a project I had before, because I couldn’t clear verses and the same thing happened with “GOODNIGHT June” but I luckily saved it. I finished this music around a year and a half ago and I’m just happy it’s finally coming out! I’m in a totally different space now I just want to make something sexy and new.
What are you trying to convey within the EP?
I wanted to make undeniable songs and I think I did that. Also I want the listener to interpret my lyrics and make up their own minds on what my art is about.
What can listeners expect from the EP sonically?
This project sounds like the end of the world in a good way, the sounds are cute and dangerous like me.
How does the EP reflect within your wider discography?
I mean it’s only my second body of work, so you can hear the progression in my vocals, production and that’s the beautiful thing about progress – I look back and smile at what I’ve achieved.
What are your career goals?
Live, laugh and love! Maybe a Grammy or two.