The Evolution of Bonobo: A Deep Dive into Simon Green’s Artistry
For the past 26 years, Simon Green, known to the world as Bonobo, has been a pivotal force in shaping British dance music. While contemporaries like Fred again.. and Calvin Harris have opted for a more dazzling and overtly commercial appeal, Green’s artistic journey has charted a quieter yet profoundly impactful course. An independent artist signed to the esteemed Ninja Tune label, Bonobo has garnered Grammy nominations, developed his acclaimed Outlier series of parties, and graced iconic venues such as London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House. Despite his accolades, Green maintains a refreshing humility and focus on the craft.
A Reflective Artist
Speaking from Ibiza, Green reflects on his extensive career with a soft-spoken demeanor. “I sometimes forget we did all that,” he admits in an interview with Billboard U.K. The passage of time and the momentum of continuous creation can often overshadow personal acknowledgment of achievements. “When you’re in those moments, you’re not really acknowledging them,” he explains, likening the experience to a relentless drive for innovation and progress.
As he releases his eighth studio album, Distance in Static, on September 11, 2023, it’s a prime moment for both his fans and Green himself to take stock of his contributions to the genre. This new record encapsulates the hallmarks of Bonobo’s sound: intricate instrumentation, powerful collaborations, and infectious dancefloor anthems. The album is both a celebration of his journey and a fresh chapter, featuring a range of returning themes with a modern twist.
The Essence of Distance in Static
Green describes Distance in Static as not merely retrospective but an exploration of his ever-expanding musical palette. The album succeeds in feeling like a showcase of his career while being filled with entirely new content. He acknowledges the album has elements reminiscent of his past work while allowing for broader experimentation. Although there are nods to his earlier records, Green emphasizes a purposeful avoidance of nostalgia as a hindrance to creativity.
Notably, the lush orchestration present in Distance in Static harkens back to his critically acclaimed 2017 album Migration, a project that not only earned him a Grammy nomination but also elevated his status as a live performer. This current album features guest vocalists such as Joy Crookes, Nilüfer Yanya, and Arooj Aftab, continuing the tradition established in his 2013 release, The North Borders, which included a collaboration with Erykah Badu.
Blending Genres and Styles
The synergy of club-oriented beats with jazz-influenced downtempo sounds draws a parallel to his breakout work, Black Sands (2010), which marked his ascent as a must-see live act. When asked if he views Distance in Static as a quasi-sequel to Black Sands, Green acknowledges the comparison while cautioning that such reflections must not stifle innovation. “[Black Sands] takes me back to a specific time in my life…But when people say, ‘Oh, I want you to make Black Sands again,’ I think what they really mean is: ‘Can you give me that part of my life back?’” Such sentiments resonate deeply, illustrating the emotional connections that music can forge over time.
The Creative Process
Green’s creative process for Distance in Static unfolded following the culmination of a global tour. He began by temporarily relocating to Tokyo, drawing inspiration from the city’s expansive music scene and vibrant culture. This period marked a transition from the routine of touring to a more introspective and exploratory approach to music-making. His time in Tokyo provided a sense of anonymity that fueled his creativity away from established comfort zones.
The core of Green’s artistic output often arises spontaneously, developed in hotel rooms or home studios between DJ gigs. The song “Drift,” for example, emerged instinctively, echoing his experience with past tracks developed effortlessly. “I was sad [“Drift”] was done so quickly because I was having so much fun working on it,” he shares.
Collaborative Spirit
Key tracks from Distance in Static, such as “Fire in Water,” exemplify this blend of spontaneity and collaboration. Featuring Arooj Aftab, the song’s main hook stemmed from an experimental loop, emphasizing the organic nature of the creative process. Joy Crookes describes her collaboration on “Always On Your Side” as equally seamless; her vocal take required no alterations, highlighting the authentic connection between the artists.
Navigating the Modern Music Landscape
Green’s concerns regarding the modern music landscape are palpable. In an age dominated by short-form content and social media marketing, he expresses discomfort with the demands placed on artists to become adept at promoting themselves. He resolves to stay true to his artistic vision, focusing on the music and trusting that listeners will find their way to it.
As Green considers the future of the Bonobo project, he acknowledges the cyclical nature of album promotions and global tours may be approaching a conclusion. “I want to do it in a way that’s a bit more comfortable and sustainable for myself,” he states. This desire for a more harmonious balance invites opportunities beyond the confines of traditional album cycles.
Looking Ahead
Green’s aspirations include exploring new musical styles, perhaps venturing into lo-fi folk or creating projects that exist solely in the studio. His experience scoring for projects like Adult Swim’s upcoming anime series Lazarus has sparked interest in integrating his music into visual narratives.
As he gears up for a high-profile world tour, starting in Austin, Texas, on November 5, 2023, there’s an electric anticipation surrounding the visual aspect of his shows. Collaborating with creative partner Pierre Claude, Bonobo aims to deliver his most immersive live experience to date by focusing on unique lighting techniques and stage architecture rather than merely expanding the scale of production.
Embracing Change
Distance in Static embodies a pivotal moment in Bonobo’s journey—not as a farewell but as an invitation to explore new horizons. As Simon Green embraces changes in his artistic path, he reflects a profound sense of peace and freedom. “I don’t have to keep trying to prove myself internally or to anyone else at this point,” he concludes. It’s a sentiment that transcends music, resonating with anyone seeking creativity and authenticity in their endeavors.
