session #078 – Funky Notes

Taking shape from vinyl archives and hailing as one of the swiftest beatmakers from Switzerland, Funky Notes brings along his record crate to our 10yrs anniversary podcast and; be assured that the groovement you’ll be put onto this one-hour gem, is not just a series of coincidences but an intended endeavour by one of our favourite producers.

Funky Notes also gave a thought to top this listening experience with an exclusive giveaway; a track sampled from one of the most soulful Clyde Wilson, a track which was carefully built and which Funky chose to share with the electrocaïne audience.

Tune in and give the first-ear to this set; with latest never-heard works strictly sketched out on an Akai MPC 2000XL and of raw-gear samples used by Funky Notes. Also, don’t forget to grab the bonus giveaway ‘IDONTCARE’ to add up to your collection.

Where, When and How was this mix recorded?

On the 2nd of December at my home studio; using a Roland SP404, an Akai MPC 2000XL and some vinyl-records. Except for the vinyl, it’s all music I did and comes straight from the above samplers. I used Cubase to record the whole set and it was more or less recorded in one take.

How would you describe it to us?

It’s a mix of my newest works, mostly unreleased and raw material. Starting off slow and relaxed, going into the well known “Funkyness” towards the middle and getting a little more chilled again towards the end. It’s a blend of Instrumental music and original samples (of which 2 are included). Since this was my first try in an 1hr podcast, I hope you people will like it.

Your new record is out on Haus & Baum, and wow; that’s a catalogue of beats sure to get anyone grooving… What equipment did you use to produce these pieces? and is there any gear you’re faithful to?

I produced the entire EP on my Akai MPC 2000 XL except for the last track which was produced on an Akai MPC 2500. I also sampled a ton of vinyl, used my SP404 for some effects and also my MicroKorg, for basslines mostly. The 2000 XL is my weapon of choice, as you can tell by the podcast as well. I just really love the sound of this machine and the workflow I have developed on it.

Concerning the title of the record, how did you encounter ‘Les Sapeurs’ culture found in Congo?

I watched a documentary on the whole culture and I was fascinated. So I got more and more into the whole matter and I thought ‘Sapeur’ could be a great name for a release.

Do you remember the first time you got into music production?

I got into music production in particular in 2009, when I wanted to start making beats on an MPC and I couldn’t afford one. So I bought an MPD (which is “only” a controller”) and started using it along Cubase. Later on, I would save up enough cash to buy my first MPC (a 1000) which was at the end of 2010.

What music influences notably pushed you into producing your own music?

Mostly the Rap music I was listening to, prior to 2009 (well, let’s say in between 2000 and 2009). I always loved Rap from the US and also the beats they had, so I wanted to be the guy who lays this ‘foundation’ for rappers. Then through DJing, which I’ve started and still been doing. I knew a lot of artists from that and when it comes to the influences on the beats: J. Dilla, Pete Rock, DJ Premier are just to name a few…! Also after a while the people on Soundcloud were a huge inspiration and support as well.

On Switzerland’s music scene, what are your thoughts and what do you love most about it?

I think that the Swiss music-scene is a nice mix of a lot of talented people in many genres. Sometimes the scene is almost over-crowded, considering this country is really small! What I love most about it is that you get to know a lot of people who love music just as much as you do. Almost my complete surrounding and people are somehow into music (may it be actively or only as supporters / fans / listeners), this is very inspiring and thriving as well.

Bonus Giveaway: Funky Notes – IDONTCARE to add to your crate.