Blessed by an abundance of talent in the local area, In The Middle has set its sights on uncovering some of the finest unsigned and small-label artists in Yorkshire and beyond, in a showcase of the acts we’re looking forward to seeing grow over the next few years.
Currently a student at Leeds College of Music, Will Lowe caught our ear with his immersive, murky tracks, fit for late-night head-bobbing. The 21 year old started experimenting with music production at 17 and two years later, aged 19, he began to cut his teeth behind the decks too. “I didn’t really know what I was doing, neither did I make any decent tunes until I was about 19, when I began DJing.”
Despite stating his house and techno orientation, Lowe likes to play with a range of genres, as is evident from the range of styles on his soundcloud.
Highlight of the collection is ‘Open To Interp’, which begins with an air of eerie uncertainty, gradually falling into place above a prominent kick. As the beat builds, anticipation for the full groove amounts until the track finally gives way to a techno-tinged swing. As sweeping synths grow over the distorting beat, the track creates ever more tension; a slow-burner which we can hear transporting the dancefloor into darker cuts.
https://soundcloud.com/itswillowe/willowe-open-to-interpretation-320-kbps
However ‘Plastic’, one of two demo tracks, is completely different. Still conveying the electronic melancholy of ‘Open To Interp’, the pads keep the track rolling, while the hi-hats retain pace.
https://soundcloud.com/itswillowe/plastic
‘Shift’ however demonstrates a lighter side to Willowe’s production. The rattling synth, it’s mesmirising bounce reminiscent of deep house cuts like Rau’s ‘Lost In Brooklyn’, accompanied by its shuffling rhythm creates a more house-orientated feel.
https://soundcloud.com/itswillowe/shift-demo
We caught up with Will to gain a little insight to his own music taste. He chose three tracks that had either influenced his productions or were particular favourites to play:
Equation – Palms Trax [Lobster Theremin]
“My favourite song off Lobster Theremin and perhaps one of my all time favourite tracks. It’s so simple yet an incredibly powerful tune and has probably influenced my production a lot more than I realise.”
Perro – Anthony Naples [The Trilogy Tapes]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9eUxHFbXIo
“Anthony Naples is a fantastic producer. I’m a big fan of a lot of his records but Perro on (his) Zipacon EP is one that really stands out to me. I always try to sneak this one in a mix.”
Stupid Things I Do (New School Mix) – Randomer [Clone Basement Series]
“This one is just absolutely ridiculous. Goes off every time. Never have I ever heard a kick drum that good. Big up Randomer.”
Head to Willowe’s soundcloud to hear his productions and a fantastic recorded mix entitled ‘April’.
For bookings, please contact: willowemusic@gmail.com
Conor Fuller.