Empire is the brains behind Space Cadets, our favourite label of recent times and the outlet for some of the most innovative sounds being created around the 170bpm mark. We asked him to put together something of a Space Cadets showcase mix for us and he’s delivered in fine style, with a supremely tight, hypnotically rythmic mix that displays both the inherent energy and digital beauty in the Microfunk/Space Cadets sound.
We sent him the customary PYC Q+A, so check the answers for tips on how to attain the rank of ‘Space Cadet’ and download the mix by clicking on the picture, tracklisting at the bottom of the page.
Who is Empire?
Empire was a name a fellow astronaut and I used when we made tunes together once upon a time. He’s busy setting up his own label at the moment, and I’ve been setting up Space Cadets. I’ve just kept the name because it’s easier really.
Can you remember which track/group/producer inspired you to start your musical journey?
Maybe it’s a bit cliché, but people like Aphex Twin and Boards of Canada. In terms of 170 it was actually Oak’s Nu:Sunrise that triggered the launch, so it’s great he’s enlisted as a Cadet.
What went into this mix and what did you make it on?
A friend of mine actually lent me a third CDJ for this one so I got a bit carried away, especially towards the end where we enter what appears to be a solar storm.
Do you still produce your own music?
Sadly my production has fallen into a void, HQ is rather small and I don’t really have the capability to make tunes here. For now I just want to concentrate on building this label up, but maybe I’ll get back into it later on down the line.
What is a Space Cadet?
Being a Space Cadet is definitely a state of mind. A Space Cadet is a cosmic explorer who fearlessly seeks out hidden depths.
What qualities must a potential Space Cadet possess?
A rude ability to produce space music, and a tendency to become somewhat drowned in sound.
Name your three desert island discs.
Aphex Twin – Selected Ambent Works 85-92 Boards of Canada – In a Beautiful Place… Radiohead – In Rainbows
Which artists/producers are you particularly liking at the moment?
At 170 I think the Microfunk Crew have it spot on and Sam KDC’s Symbol release was pretty spacey too. Outside of 170 the following tracks new and old have been getting a lot of love: Basic Channel – Quadrant Dub Lukid – Park It Low Zinja Hlungwani – Nwa Gezani My Love Inxec & Droog – Unhinged Shackleton – Fireworks Sandman – No Prisoners Actress – Doggin’
Which is your favourite planet?
Neptune – I couldn’t tell you why. Jupiter is rather big though.
Give us some words of wisdom..
If you like jump-up dnb, chainsaw dubstep or gabber, chances are you’re a goldfish. Don’t be a goldfish.
Empire – PYCMIX006 – Download Link
Consequence – Lost Attack [Free]
ASC – Crowley’s Exit Theme [Space Cadets Dub]
Abstract Elements – Basic Substance [Kosmos]
>>>Microfunk Crew – Scene 3 [Microfunk]
>>>Microfunk Crew – Scene 4 [Microfunk]
Mode – Organica [Mindset Dub]
Oak – Kite [Space Cadets]
>>>Microfunk Crew – Scene 5 [Microfunk]
Stickman – The Klixx [Dub]
>>>Microfunk Crew – Scene 1 [Microfunk]
>>>Microfunk Crew – Scene 2 [Microfunk]
M-zine – Underwater [Dub]
Oak – Nu-Sunrise [Dub]
ASC – Let the Bass Kick [Dub]
nPhonix – 10 Cube [Dub]
ASC – Torque [BLKND]
Nether – Dimensional Space Jazz [DSM]
>>>Consequence – The Hold [Bassweight]
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