Inspired by the beauty of nature, music producer Jake Brown adopted the moniker Verdance. He hopes to help the listener feel connected to the beauty of the great outdoors, even when they are unable to be physically surrounded by lush grass, or feeling a crisp and gentle breeze move around one. The producer recently shared the track ‘Tongue’, which will feature on his forthcoming EP Unison, set for release via Stereofox on the 9th of December. Incorporating fluttery synth textures and infusions of natural life, Verdance’s music calms down the busiest of minds with its breathable soundwaves. This EP will be the second release from Verdance via the Stereofox imprint. The producer has also been noted for his remarkable remixes for Stereofox regulars like Mazoulew and Mozambique. Ahead of the EP release we asked Verdance a few questions about his sound and inspiration.
Sum up your year so far in two words.
Exciting, unpredictable.
Tell us more about how your latest/upcoming release was conceptualized?
Unison was created as a response to the isolation that we all endured to some extent over the past couple of years. My work always reflects the bigger picture, what I’m going through, and how I’m processing it internally. I wanted to create music that was more danceable than my first couple of releases. People really missed out on coming together socially and going out dancing. Clubs closed and concerts stopped, minimizing the opportunities for spending time together and sharing an experience with each other. I wanted the project to be upbeat, euphoric, and generate a feeling of unity.
Describe a typical day in your studio space.
I tend to create more music during the day or in the afternoon, so usually, I get myself set up for studio time with a big mug of tea and usually light some incense. If I don’t have an immediate idea that I’ve been ruminating over, I’ll sit back and listen to new music that’s out there. One of the most important parts of the creative process, I feel, is understanding the context surrounding what I am creating. I draw inspiration from other artists, but a wide range so that my sound doesn’t become derivative. Following that, I’ll begin trialing some sounds to form the basis of what I want to make – it could be a sample that I want to cut up or a synth line that establishes the tone of the piece.
I also chunk up my studio sessions. In some sessions, I’ll start up the basis of three or four different tracks, other sessions would be mixing three or four tracks and fine-tuning them. If I start a track from scratch that I really like, I’ll spend all day, and perhaps the following day, building it up and mixing it.
What are the most important pieces of equipment for you?
By far, my favourite equipment is the Native Instruments Maschine. My previous Maschine got damaged and stopped working, and I spent a few weeks working with just my laptop. I realized then how integral the Maschine was for my process. It helps me program more natural-sounding drums, and scroll through sounds quickly. The more time these processes take, the more likely I am to lose interest in what I’m making, and in turn, stifling my creativity.
Describe what an ideal day would be for you?
I would say starting up with a solid breakfast – vegetarian Full English breakfast or a big mug of tea (common theme right here). Then I would be working on music with friends in a studio. Afterward, I would be having dinner with friends and family, followed up with drinks and lots of music to listen to and geek out about. I think that just about covers everything I would want to do. All very relaxed and fairly low-key.
Do you have a favourite memory of your career so far that you will take with you forever?
In terms of my work, Verdance is still very much in its infancy. However, I was very lucky to have my second project Plunge pressed onto vinyl. I’m proud of the music on it, but to have such beautiful artwork on the front really makes it a special release.
Who is your musical guilty pleasure?
This is a really tough one. If I am being honest, when I’m at a party and there is the option to make a request, I will be asking for anything by The Vengaboys.
What can we expect from you in the near future?
My next project Unison drops on December 9th via Stereofox, as well as an album due for release early next year.
Follow Verdance:
Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Soundcloud / Spotify
