A Journey Through Sound: Clubby Boy’s Evolution in Dance Music
With a career deeply rooted in the vibrant atmosphere of dancefloors, Clubby Boy has honed a unique sound characterized by instinct, timing, and energy. His extensive experience in the electronic music scene informs every beat and note he produces. Now, with his debut album Clubby Boy, released under his new sub-label BOXX BANGERS, he’s ready to make a bold statement about the direction of his music.
A New Direction: The Birth of BOXX BANGERS
Clubby Boy’s latest work marks a significant pivot from the deep and soulful textures he was previously known for. This new album navigates through the realms of techno, electro, and hard house, tailored for peak-time play in clubs. For him, the release of Clubby Boy feels like a culmination of years spent listening and learning in both the studio and behind the decks.
“Thanks for the invite,” he begins in a conversation about his new project. “I’ve been making deep and classic house for about 15 years at this point, and throughout that entire time, I’ve always made harder music, but never felt like I had a solid identity behind the music until now.”
Crafting a Cohesive Sound Across Genres
One of the standout features of Clubby Boy is its seamless interplay between hard house, electro, and techno—a blend that might seem risky for some artists but comes naturally to him. Clubby Boy shares, “I’ve always wondered if I could make deep or soulful music and also heavy, hard warehouse music. So, it makes sense for me to have two aliases, one for hard music and one for deep music.”
He cites the genius of Paul Johnson as an inspiration, noting how he could effortlessly traverse various house subgenres while still retaining a recognizable sound. Clubby Boy aspires to achieve something similar: a unique identity that resonates through every genre.
The Influence of Early Sparks
Reflecting on his origins, Clubby Boy recalls how his brother’s record collection—marked by artists like Adam X, Kevin Saunderson, and the raw Chicago warehouse sound—ignited his passion for techno and club music. Tracks like Derrick Carter’s ‘Wet Dreams’ and Aaron Carl’s ‘Down’ became formative experiences, shaping his understanding and appreciation of electronic music.
Designed for the Dancefloor
Clubby Boy’s new album reflects the high-energy atmosphere he brings to his DJ sets. He reveals that every track is crafted with specific dancefloor moments in mind. For example, tracks like ‘Bang It’ are tailored for peak-time energy, while ‘Battle Hound’ serves as a dynamic roller to set the mood.
“I love long DJ sets and hitting different sounds throughout,” he explains. “To me, my productions are an extension of that.”
Energy Exchange: The Essence of DJing
Known for his eclectic and engaging DJ sets, Clubby Boy believes that the energy of the crowd significantly influences his music production as well. “DJing is 100% an energy exchange between you and the crowd,” he emphasizes. “It’s something in your subconscious that you form after years behind the decks.”
This energy is pivotal not only in his live performances but also during the creative process in the studio. “In the studio, when it’s right, I don’t think about anything other than what I’m making,” he shares, hinting at a meditative flow that allows him to create without distraction.
Contributing to Techno’s Evolution
As techno evolves rapidly, Clubby Boy’s sound sits in an intriguing space within the genre’s landscape. He acknowledges the eclectic nature of today’s scene, stating, “I’d like to think it is informed by the past while doing something new.” His aim is to blend nostalgia with innovation, ensuring that his music remains relevant while paying homage to its origins.
The Challenges of Crafting a Debut Album
Creating his first full-length album was no small feat. Clubby Boy describes the challenge of focusing on a single sound while experimenting across various musical forms. “I make so much music, so the hardest part was really trying to get my head in one space sound-wise,” he admits.
This meticulous process of refining his craft required him to block out external influences, zeroing in on what felt authentic and resonant with him.
Inspiration Beyond Music
When he’s not deep into production or spinning records, Clubby Boy draws inspiration from diverse experiences. Engaging in activities like skateboarding, motorcycle riding, and traveling fuels his creativity—elements that he brings back into his music.
“You take it all back to the studio and let it out into your music,” he explains, highlighting how life outside music shapes his artistic expression.
The Dream Warehouse Set
Imagining his perfect setting for a warehouse performance takes him to Mexico City, a place he’s yet to visit but hears great things about. His ideal start time? Midnight—when the energy is palpable, and the night is just getting underway.
With the release of Clubby Boy, his listeners are introduced to a fresh chapter in his musical journey, promising to keep the dancefloors moving and energized.
Clubby Boy’s Clubby Boy is out now on BOXX BANGERS. Stream and download here.
Follow Clubby Boy: Website | Spotify | Instagram | Facebook | Soundcloud
