Having already cemented himself on the scene with a blistering array of releases these last few years, Boston-based producer MORIS BLAK continues his immersive ascent with the pounding new single 'FERAL'.
Collaborating with NYXX and Static Starlight for this new effort, 'FERAL' brings back more of that bold and dynamic industrial-inspired aesthetic he is known for. With its thunderous basslines, pulsing energy, and dynamic textures layered throughout, this new one will have you pumping your fists from start to finish.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I had short phases through my life with guitar, keyboards, bass, and even some vocals. The first instrument I fell in love with, however, was Serum. That powerful intangible digital instrument has unlocked the music I've always wanted to create.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Growing up in a nowhere corner of Connecticut, I found a lot of comfort in metal music. I always gravitated towards darker and more aggressive styles of music, indulging in black metal, industrial, and grindcore in my most formative years.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I remember owning is Weird Al Yankovich's Running With Scissors, a timeless and essential classic and I refuse to hear otherwise. Some say it's the Citizen Kane of 2000's parody rock, not me, but others definitely would/have.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
The national anthem. The current anthem is middling at best, and has absolutely zero sub bass (weak). We as a nation can do better. Also, I'd include a protection that no one will accuse you of treason for not reciting it.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
My current habits for producing new music include a heavy dosage of cannabis, a mindful session of yoga, a restabilization of my energy through 180+ bpm hardcore and/or drum & bass, and a consistent audibly spoken conversation I have at my ableton project as though it will eventually respond (I haven't ruled it out yet).
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I always like to give some love to Biomechanimal, Mechanical Vein, and the fine bass fusion artists at Hybrid Blak. They are some of the most forward thinking producers in blending the realms of EDM, metal, and industrial music. Lately the music I've been enjoying has been FAST, arguably irresponsibly so. I've been finding myself listening to a lot of Lil Texas, Natte Visstick, and Anderex. When I need to bring my heart rate back to a manageable tempo, I have been exploring the dark side of warehouse techno. Fovos, GRAVEDGR, and Deepfake have been on regular rotation in sets and in my headphones.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Does anyone in the world include anyone in time? I would open up for Alexander Scriabin performing Mysterium, his world ending symphony that was to be performed in the foothills of the Himalayas in the early days of the 20th century. Maybe it would have caused the final days for this pale blue planet, we never got the chance to find out. How sick would it have been to be the opener, though?
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician is creating the sounds you've been trying to hear your whole life. it gives you full control of an art form you could only be a spectator of.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The endless cycle of loving and hating the work you're creating.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Make friends with other musicians. Show them your work. Ask for criticism. Seriously, don't respect them unless they can throw a punch your way (constructively and caringly) . And don't count those musicians' worth by their subscriber count. The best talent in the game often goes undiscovered.
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MORIS BLAK's new single 'FERAL' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.