
Rarebit Records proudly presents Joey Rich's 'Selecta EP', the label's fourth release and the artist's first solo project.
We have had the pleasure of interviewing Joey and this has been the result.
For those who don’t know you or your music, how would you describe your sound?
I’d describe my sound as just pure energy. Anything which will get you moving is what I’m all about. I’d say I take influences from speed garage predominantly, but, I’m not particularly aiming to make one specific genre. If it’s fast and makes you move then I’ll make it haha.
You’re from Wales, a country with an affinity for house and garage. What can you tell us about the local electronic music scene?
Yeah the local scene is really starting to have a resurgence as of late. About ten years ago the scene was unbelievable when we were all young kids, clubs would be sold out on a Wednesday night it was unreal! it did take a slight dip for a few years, but with events like Shangri-la and now district nightclub pushing the best artists in house, garage and everything inbetween, it’s really developing a wicked culture and scene and it’s only getting better.
You have a new single coming on Lucas Alexander’s Rarebit label, what can you tell us about the record and the writing process?
In my mind I wanted to create something that would appeal to old, current and new ravers alike. I wanted the song to translate between the three by incorporating some classic house and garage influences, but trying to give it a bit of a modern twist and make it my own. It’s always hard trying to make something that everyone enjoys, but I believe that the both tracks on the EP bring something for everyone, and I hope people enjoy them as much as I do.
The record features a collaboration with MC Fernquest, what can you tell us about that?
Originally when I was working on the song, I actually had a sample of a different MC I found online, but the lyrics just didn’t fit, but I liked the idea. Fernquest was actually coming down to use my studio that day, so I showed him the tune and he was loving it. Just as I was about to pack up for the day I said to him, “fancy just laying a down a few bars quickly see if it fits over this track?” So he jumped on, wrote the lyrics literally on the spot, recorded it in one take, and that is now what you hear on the track today! All done in less than ten minutes haha.
Who are the old school acts that have inspired you and who do you see as exciting amongst the new breed of producers?
I’d probably say Jeremy Sylvester, MJ Cole and Big Ang are the top 3 old school acts that I’d draw majority of my inspiration from when making a tune. All of them bring something different to the table, and have made some of my favourite tracks over the years. And I’d say my top 3 favourite up and coming producers currently are Lucas Alexander (maybe I’m a bit biased as he’s one of my best mates, but he’s probably the best producer I know, and can make absolutely anything and his tunes are always unbelievable haha) Teddy Walker who’s a DJ/ producer based out of Leeds (Very big fan of his productions, always play at least one of his tracks in one of my sets) and GIGGSTA (only recently just discovered this artist, but every single song of his I’ve listened to has instantly got me moving and all his tracks are right up my street. Excited to see what else he’s got coming out in the future).
What keeps you happy and entertained?
As long as I’ve got music on, I’m really not bothered what’s happening haha, but I do enjoy a pint with the my mates down the pub, watching the football (I’m a big Newcastle United fan) and spending time with my family. Quite simple things but they bring me a lot of joy.
What do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?
Well I’m expecting my first child very soon which is very exciting, so it’s going to be all hands on deck for the next few months whilst I try to learn how to be a Dad and navigate through this world in a different way than before. But you can expect a lot more music coming from me here and there over the summer, but the majority of my work will be out towards the Autumn months I’d imagine.
Comments