Digging Deeper with Gary Beck

Gary Beck storms into 2018 with the first BEK Audio release of the year, a killer four-track EP fully loaded with gnarled, mechanical weapons that was released on vinyl this past May 10th, and will see the light of day digitally on May 21st.

Long-time fans of Gary will not be disappointed with this Pneuma EP. It definitely falls into that grimy, stripped back warehouse sound. “Pneuma” is the lead track and its  pulsating synthetic bassline is haunted with a punchy vocal stab. Minimalistic and mechanical elements resonate in “NTX”, whilst “Sythen” has some serious relentless power, it’s apocalyptic synths and jolting high hats make this heads down slammer. “Black Jabba” has the most “groove” of all the tracks, with a rhythmic low end and a chugging bass, it rounds out the tracks in total perfection.

At 6AM we have been following Beck’s career for years now, recognizing him as one of the most respected techno acts to come out of Scotland, and that is saying something considering how prolific the Scots have been with churning out techno talents over the last couple of decades.

While Beck is soon to be a guest on our Global Vibe Radio mix series, we took the opportunity to have a more in-depth chat with him as his latest EP hits record stores and Beatport for pre-order.

Hello mate, how are you doing so far in 2018?

I’m doing well thanks! I’m busy working on my album which should be completed by the summer, so I’m very active in the studio just now.

Got to ask this, as I can’t seem to find an answer online, but do you still live in Scotland?

Yes, I do. I’ve lived in Glasgow all my life and I really couldn’t see myself anywhere else. Everything is great apart from the awful weather!

I’ve been to Glasgow a few times to party, always had a great time as the crowd there really knows how to have fun. Why do you think your city in particular is capable of churning out such a great music scene?

You’re right. There seems to be a huge passion and interest for electronic music here in Glasgow. It could be something to do with the weather. We spend so much time indoors! There’s no sunshine to distract us from working away in the studio. I think there’s also so many young aspiring producers looking to emulate the fantastic artists we have already, so its breeding more and more talent all the time. The crowd are always crazy in Scotland. The fact that most clubs only have a license until 3AM could be a factor. They just go for it!

What’s your favourite party spot in Glasgow?

Sub Club. Best venue in the UK in my opinion. Great sound, great space and great crowd.

How was it growing as a resident DJ there? Was it a cut-throat scene or did you feel like everyone worked together to push the music?

I never really saw it like that. I just developed a massive passion for producing and I didn’t really care too much about what was going on around me. I became successful in Europe before the Glasgow scene took interest. There is a sense of collective support for everyone in the scene here. We are a small country and it’s great to see anyone doing well.

Let’s trace your steps back a bit. Who was Gary Beck before techno? What were your interests and hobbies?

Football/Soccer was my passion and still is! I used to play at a relatively high standard in Scotland until I discovered clubbing. After that music was the main goal, although I do still play twice a week. 

Do you have a defining moment that you feel made you decide that music and techno in particular was to be your career?

Yes, I remember when I was 17, I went to a venue in Glasgow called the Arches. I think John Digweed was playing that night and it was my first introduction into this environment. I completely fell in love with everything about it. I would say this was the moment I decided that music would be my path.

You’ve been around for over a decade and have accomplished so much in this period of time. Did you go through any hardships and difficult times which you feel taught you important lessons about what it takes to succeed in this industry? 

I’ve been through a huge amount of tough times, especially around the beginning. I had constant Demo knock backs and empty club gigs. However, I had something deep down which kept telling me to keep going. I really did believe in myself even though a lot of people around me thought I was crazy. I kept going and going and I guess this is what the lesson is. Never give up if you truly believe in something.

As a producer you’ve gotten to work with some of the industry’s best. Any funny studio stories you can share with us?

Not really unfortunately! Most of the artists I work with are on the other side of the world! Sending files back and forth seem to be the way to collaborate nowadays.

The only person I worked with in the studio was Speedy J in Rotterdam. It was like walking into a spaceship and I have to admit, I did feel a little lost. He is an exceptionally talented guy and it was an honour to see his way of working. I learned a lot.

What makes a great collab partner?

Someone with good ideas and an openness to try things!

You’ve done an Essential Mix, played the Boiler Room, and so many major clubs and festivals around the world. What’s still on your to-do list as a DJ?

I just want to be the best I can be and go with the flow. The things you mention are all very nice, however it’s always good to be kept on your toes! At some point in the next few years I would like to perform a live show with real instruments. This has always appealed to me.

You also run a label, BEK Audio. Do you feel your work and mind-set as an artist changed since you launched the imprint? How so?

I always had an idea of the ‘sound’ I wanted to create and BEK Audio really does expose that. It’s great to have a platform where I can release whatever I want, whenever I want. I don’t have to go through the process of sending away demos all the time. I like the fact that a specific sound has been created with BEK Audio. All the releases have the same key elements. They are energetic, raw tracks with hints of funk.

Congrats on the EP by the way, and on the upcoming LP which I believe is out later in the summer. What’s been your recent inspiration in the studio? 

Thank you! It’s been great to finally get settled in my new studio. The last 2 years have been a little bit difficult as I had to go through a couple of studio changes, along with the birth of my son. He was keeping me really busy, which was great! However now I’m settled and comfortable in my new surroundings. The LP gives me a real drive and focus too. It’s coming along really well and I’m so excited about it.

What can we expect from the album musically? Is it dance floor ready material or suitable for other kind of listening?

There will be solid dance floor tracks in there however I’m also going to be slotting in a few tracks that are a little different and orchestral. I want to expose my musical talents as much as possible, so there will be a few surprises. 12 tracks of only techno really doesn’t appeal to me.

Back to Glasgow and Scotland… what’s your favorite food spot back home?

My favorite place is on the West coast of Scotland in a small town called Prestwick. It’s called Elliots and we love to eat there. The food is delicious, and the vibe is great.

Do Scots regularly eat haggis or is it a myth? 

Personally, I only have it a few times a year. If it’s cooked properly it’s amazing!

The countryside and mountains in Scotland are breath-taking. Did you ever get a chance to do much exploring? Any recommendations for readers who haven’t been? 

Me and my wife have been going to the west coast of Scotland at least 3 times a year. It’s magical and we see it as an escape. It’s so inspiring and I need to be in amongst it. There’s so many incredible places but the Isle of Skye tops them all. The landscape blows my mind and the seafood is just insane!

What’s your drink of choice?

Chardonnay! Although anything alcoholic will do to be honest!

Scotland has long been living an internal and external battle on whether to be a part of the UK or now. What’s your stance on that? 

I’m for independence and I want to stay part of the EU. I could go on all day about it (laughs)! So perhaps we better leave it at that!

The U.S. is also going through some pretty tough political times. Do you plan to tour hear any time soon?  (If you do, I’d love to host you here in LA – make sure you tell Nina)

I’ve been away from the US for too long! My visa ran out and things got very busy around Europe. We are looking into renewing the visa as we speak, and I can’t wait to come back. It would be a pleasure to come to LA and I hope we can make it happen as part of the album tour!

Connect with Gary Beck: Facebook | SoundCloud | BEK Audio FB | BEK Audio SoundCloud