INTERVIEW: Five Minutes With … Caspa
UK bass pioneer and Sub Soldiers label boss CASPA, will be live at Electric Brixton this Friday. The event takes place on June 23rd with headliner The Bloody Beetroots, and supporting acts Crookers, AutoErotique, Oliotronix, Club Cool, Fitzo, Kachina and Prangman.
An ex-pro basketball player turned renowned dubstep DJ, Caspa’s prolific music career has spanned over a decade. More than three studio albums, four mix compilations, 30+ singles and many high-profile remixes including Depeche Mode, The Prodigy, Deadmau5, Kaskade, Swedish House Mafia, Grand Puba, Ludacris, Miike Snow and TC, he has played an iconic role in the worldwide dubstep phenomenon.
Currently focussing on releases through his Sub Soldiers label, his ‘Vibrations’ series has once again cemented his status as an era-defining producer and DJ.
We caught up with him ahead of the event to chat…
Hi there, how are you and what are you up to today?
All good. The weather is lovely and I’m in the studio finishing music. Prepping for the show on Friday.
To those not familiar with you, how would you describe your sound?
Deep, dark, skanky vibes. Its dubstep but the good UK vibes.
What are the 5 albums that have influenced you the most?
I don’t have 5 albums. I have 5 songs:
DJ Narrows – Saved Soul
The Prodigy – Breathe
Snap – Rhythm Is A dancer
Luniz – I got 5 on it
Rusko – Jahova
Which other artists are you into at the moment and why?
Overall I just love whats going on in the UK right now. The whole UK movement is great for everyone. It shows people we are still at the top of our game and we have been for decades from dnb, dubstep to grime.
Are there any key pieces of equipment that you are using to define your sound?
I use all software but I love my UAD sound card. It has all the replica classic studio plugging that costs thousands in a small box you can travel with. It’s a must for me. I use it on all my tunes
What would you say some of the challenges artists face today in the music industry?
I think it’s the need to feel current and accepted. Thats a real shame, but most people just jump to what is cool rather that stick to what they are good at and craft their skill. I’m dubstep through and through, and this is what I do in the good and the not so good times.
Where do you gather songwriting inspiration?
From living in London mostly. I love everything about this place especially the vibes.
I enjoy watching films and getting inspiration through the soundscapes and tracks within them.
Take us through your songwriting process. Are there any particular steps you take when putting your music together?
I’m all about the vibe – I just mess with sounds until I have something I like. Other than that I just start with a sample of a beat idea and build around that.
Music making is never the same process, it’s always different and that’s what I love about it. Keeps it fresh!
What’s the best gig you have ever done and why?
So many to possibly mention a single gig. One in particular was very special. I was playing in South Africa. I literally played on the spot where Nelson Mandela gave his speech 20 years previously, after being released from prison. Very powerful and something that will stay with me for ever.
And the worst?
You got to love the shitters. They are character building and test your love for the music. Honestly I’ve had my fair share but nothing I want to share and diss.
If you weren’t a musician what would you be?
A chef or restaurant owner of some sort. I love my food!
If you could perform alongside any other band or artist, living or dead, who would it be?
I always find this a weird question. I just wanna play for and with minded people. I don’t care who they are and what they’ve done as long as they are up for BASS!
Do you have any particular gigs or festivals that you dream about playing?
Honestly, I don’t care about the big stuff. I would really love to have a London residency that is always jammed. Something small to medium with sweaty ceilings, a big sound system and good people.
Do you have any information regarding upcoming releases, projects or gigs in the pipeline that you would like to tell us about?
Im off to USA in July to do 4 shows and the Boomtown Festival when I get back. You can find out more information at caspaofficial.com.
The Playground is giving away VIP tickets to the event, including backstage passes and a nights stay in five star luxury. Follow our Facebook page for more info. Click here for more details on the event and here to buy tickets.
