Sometimes on Disco Droppings, I create relationships with producers I’ve never met in person. We develop this connection that carries on long after a feature is written. This interview on the other hand is with a very close friend of mine. Max Taylor and I have played a bunch of shows together in Bellingham and Seattle, Washington. I can say that in addition to being a gifted producer, he’s an admirable human being. I’m excited to give him the spotlight. His now self-released Into The Deep EP is so good, I wish I released it myself on 7 Deadly Records. But don’t fear, you may see him on my label in a big way soon! Now, onto our conversation about his mindset, the EP, his recent shows and plans for the near future..
DD How did your productions sound in the first stages. and how has it evolved to today? I’ve noticed a big evolution into more of a distinct style pretty quickly.
MT Well, when I started producing I was only sixteen and at that time I was still taking piano lessons. This is significant because, at the time, my first productions seemed so formulaic. I ended up discontinuing the lessons because I felt that, in a way, I wanted to be close to my music but at the same time as far away as possible; it’s the way I approach my music right now. Like, I would rather be focused on making music without feeling pressure to make it dance-y, or anything. I just want it to happen. Escaping those external forces has been a big part of my evolution, but not all of it.
DD We talked somewhat recently while I was visiting your area of Bellingham, Washington. It was after a show we played together, and I think I mentioned creating sets and productions exactly the way you want, represent what you love the most, not necessarily what you think people want to hear…and that eventually that energy will attract like minded people. You seem to be running with that now.
MT Absolutely, I remember having that talk. I want to create an emotion, a mood, a feeling. Each sound, synth, chord, percussion has its place in the mix; my live set up right now enables me to individually trigger each piece, so if I feel like jamming on the same minor chord for longer I can. It’s exciting, and that’s what keeps me interested.
DD I’ve been hearing great things about your recent shows..
MT They’ve been going well, I’m glad you’ve heard good things! Where more variables are present, I guess.. there’s more room for failure. So it presents challenges at times. For example at a recent show, I couldn’t figure out why the Rhodes was feeding back so much! Luckily the problem was solved, but it just goes to show that anything can happen… and I really like that in music. I think, that spontaneity, has made my sets more musical. Generally people have told me they like my sets.
DD This Into The Deep EP is incredibly smooth. The use of space and reverb creates a vast and soulful feel. Feels like drifting slow motion through life. The editing of this release as well is perfect I’d say; no filler, diversity and a definite statement. A complete idea. What was your mindset about this specific release? Any influences musical or not that you’d like to mention?
MT I wanted to go as deep as I could into something I don’t exactly know how to describe. I’m not even sure if I know what that thing is. I wanted to set a mood with the music, and honestly I feel like it was a little more diverse than I had anticipated. I think in the future my tracks will be much less composed, if you know what I mean? I tend to love tracks more than artists across the board, like “93 Days in China” by Omma, the klar and pf mix of “Only This Moment”, I really like what Darkside has been doing. Before I sold my technics I used to play “Shake it Mama” by Jupiterjazz in every single set… almost.
DD We’ve been friends for a little while now. I remember meeting you at Q for the first time in Seattle (the above picture is from the first night we met at said club aww), and feeling an instant connection, a kindred spirit in a way. Knowing your personality and energy, I can feel it coming out in your newest productions crystal clear. Do you feel more vulnerable in a way with this new music of yours, does it feel more personal?
MT It does, it is also a tough pill to swallow for some people, as opposed to playing tracks I already know are great and loved. As a DJ, I always felt like a great selector, it’s a different situation to test previously untested material. I guess that’s where I come in and trust myself in the studio.
DD What’s next for you? The EP’s out now and your working on the live show?
MT Yes, I’ve been working with a friend who’s playing electric guitar and the Moog, and it’s just been so fun. I mean, just making the most intense noise that fills every space in a venue; you just can’t do that with just ableton and a midi controller. What’s next is just finding time..turns out working at hospital takes up a lot of that, and energy, but somehow I manage to have reserve left over.
Artwork credit: Sensebellum
Max Taylor – Soundcloud Facebook
– Jimi Jaxon
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