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Swiss/Brazilian drum & bass combo Optiv & BTK come with their new EP for Renegade Hardware, ‘Over The Edge’ on February 27th. Bringing something new and slightly unexpected to the iconic label, the duo weave their distinctive sounds around 4 tracks. We caught up with the boys to talk about the new release, and more about their lives and careers.
Could you tell us a little more about the EP, how it came about, and more about the tunes on it?
Renegade Hardware originally contacted us about doing a track for a Remixes EP, but that project never really took off. However, we already had finished the remix of Kontrol’s Forcefield. Then it was decided that we would do an EP for the label and include the remix as part of the package. Over The Edge was the first track we did for the EP and we’re really vibing off it. End Run started as a remix of a Black Sun Empire track that never happened and we decided to make it a better track for Hardware. Insight is a very special track, we just wanted to do something a little bit different than our usual style, something with a bit more feeling, more musical.
Looking back through the years, how did you get started producing music?
We both started producing very young, around the age of 16. Optiv always wanted to be a producer while I wanted to join the Brazilian army. I missed the time to present myself on their headquarters because I couldn’t wake up in time after spending the whole night playing Diablo 2 online.
Who or what were your inspirations when you first started, and now, both inside and outside music?
Everything around inspired us, weather, people we’ve met, electronic music, parties. Future Sound of London, Prodigy, Orbital which probably influenced everyone who started to produce in the 90’s.
What would you say that you particularly bring to the table in the drum & bass scene?
We’re just trying to do our own thing, not trying to be anywhere else. Hopefully we give a fresh perspective and an alternative to what seems to be popular.
What is your studio set up like? Do you use just software, or do you use any outboard equipment as well?
We’re mainly using software and a little bit of hardware, but not much, more for fun. We’re both on PC’s with Intel processors running Cubase.
Can you let us know about your production techniques? Have these changed over time, and through the different guises you have produced in?
That’s constantly changing, we should never stay static. We’re always experimenting with different techniques and trying to get the best results out of it.
Are there any new artists that you think we should watch out for?
Yes of course, Optiv & BTK.
And finally, are there any messages or shouts you would like to give?
Big shouts to everyone who supported us so far, specially Ed Rush & Optical @ Virus, Scott & Ink @ Hardware and Ray Rampage @ RAM HQ.
Bookings for Optiv can be done through Cyber Groove AM
http://www.CyberGrooveAM.com
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