In 2016, Moby introduced his Void Pacific Choir project and has released two albums: These Systems are Failing and More Fast Songs About the Apocalypse. The aim of these albums was to address the current political climate in the U.S. and elsewhere in a very Moby way, which is to say by getting to the emotional heart of the issue through music. The albums are gorgeous and evocative and vocally driven. On December 1st he will be releasing a remix album called More Fast Remixes of the Apocalypse, which will feature remixes from a number of artists from all genres, including Hybris, Prolix and our interview and premiere subject, Nickbee, from the bass music camp.
Nickbee remixed the track “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye” in a really interesting halftime style which gave a lot of space to the vocals but also introduced some heavy DnB elements which will make it work in a number of genres. Your EDM was interested to find out how Nickbee connected with Moby and what his thoughts were in remixing such a technically complicated track.
How did you come to be involved with Moby’s remix project?
I think it was in the spring or summer time when I got a message from Patrick, managing Moby. I was really surprised and impressed by the opportunity.
What did you find unique about “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye” that made you want to remix it?
I chose this track because I like the vibe, vocal transitions and deep lyrics. It gave some good ideas about the remix as well. In my opinion, all the tracks by Moby are unique and he is not a person which will make a normal song.
What was your aim when you got the stems in terms of how you wanted to make the remix sound?
Once I got the stems, I was thinking about the idea of remix, because it had to be special one. First thing I rejected in my head is a classic DnB remix. Not many people know, but I do not only make DnB music. There are plenty of experimental tunes which I have made. I really like to make deep house or techno, but of course the main genre is Drum& Bass. So, after a while I finally decided to make a halftime remix and started to play some ideas on my MIDI keyboard.
You seem to be all over the board stylistically, working in everything from neuro to jump up. Were there any unique challenges working with a Moby track in terms of how it’s constructed versus a DnB tune?
I was having a little problem with vocal, because I had to change a BPM, but everything went pretty well thanks to Cubase.
The Void Pacific Choir project is politically motivated. Did that influence your decision to get involved with it?
To be honest Ididn’t know about that before this question, but that definitely isn’tan influence for me, my influence is always just music, it’s my passion. I’m trying to be apoliticalnowadays, sometimes it makes me too sad and creates unwantedeffects like temporary writers block.
Your remix seems to have a number of sections and is definitely screwed together like a DnB or halftime tune, and there’s some unmistakable DnB and specifically Nickbee elements in there, like the warped sub bass. How did you manage to wedge all that in there?
The aim was to keep the main idea of the original. The sub bass and other elements are just details.I would say that the hardest thing was to make the melodic synth which plays the touching top line melody. I think it’s the best way to underline the lyrics.
Will you be working with Moby on any future projects?
It is yet to be seen. I would be proud to work more with Moby in the future, it’s been a big pleasure.
Any new releases coming up?
Of course! I’m planning a 6 track EP for Invisible, Noisia’s label. Two collabs on a French label called Vandal records, and two on Kosen with The Clamps.
Any shows, specifically a U.S. tour?
Sure, 2.12 – Karlsruhe, 31.12 – Brugge and 20.01 – Sofia. Unfortunately I have never been to the U.S. yet, but I would love to show my music there.
More Fast Remixes About the Apocalypse is out Friday, December 1. Check Moby’s website for purchase and streaming options.
