Metronome #013: Low Steppa

Insomniac’s Metronome series features mixes from some of today’s fastest-rising electronic stars, as well as championed legends. It takes listeners deep across a wide range of genres, movements, cultures, producers, artists and sounds that make up the diverse world of electronic music.

UK house producer Will Bailey has achieved great success by updating and reinventing his sound every few years for the better part of the last decade. His work with Alex Calver as Twocker was, for many, the first taste of his production talent. We’ve been hooked ever since.

His bassline-focused sound has seen him release on Spinnin’ and the legendary Southern Fried. He’s been on remix duty for a broad range of artists from Armand Van Helden to Dillon Francis. His label Simma Black has released a steady stream of fresh and funky work from the likes of Caspa and Shiba San. And via his reputable Low Steppa alias, Bailey remains at the forefront of the bass music scene worldwide. As we look into 2015, and with the first-ever Low Steppa US tour just launched, he shows no signs of slowing down in his aim to push boundaries and move dancers worldwide.

Bailey’s Metronome mix showcases what’s driving house music currently, featuring legends Steve Lawler and Gene Farris alongside newer favorites like Justin Martin and Skapes.

You’ve made music under several aliases. What made you want to pursue the Low Steppa project?
It started out as an escape and something I was really into. Then it became popular, and it soon became my main focus. It’s my passion to do this music, and I think that’s why it’s successful: because it’s totally from the heart.

You’ve already had quite a bit of experience working basslines with Twocker. How do all of your previous side projects play into your current sound?
I feel Twocker could have worked today. I think we were ahead of the time—which was a shame—so the same love that went into that goes into the Low Steppa project. It’s a similar vibe, to be honest; but Low Steppa has more of a vintage feel.

The US has really been grabbing onto the bassline house and garage sound recently. Have you toured the US before as Low Steppa? Any cities that you’re really looking to checking out?
No, this is a first for the Low Steppa project, and I’m really excited about it. Really excited to go back to Los Angeles, but I’m looking forward to every show and every city.

Your Rinse FM radio show always has some stellar music and guest artists. Who have been your favorites?
Yeah, love doing the radio shows. I’ve been over the moon with every guest mix so far, and I’ve got more great artists lined up for the coming months, too. I say no more.

Are you able to find time to work on music while on the road?
The beauty of it is that I mainly work on my laptop anyway, in headphones; so I won’t be missing anything really—other than the kettle.

What else are you listening to that isn’t electronic?
I love all sorts! Lovin’ a bit of Sam Smith, right the way through to Hall & Oates, Fleetwood Mac, Prince, Oasis. I could go on forever, but there is always music playing in our house.

Was there a breakthrough track that put Low Steppa on the map?
I think there have been a few, but probably have to say the remix of Route 94’s “My Love” has been the most popular.

What’s next in the world of Low Steppa?
Lots on the agenda: Simma Black parties; my album, which I’m giving away; and my single “So Real” and the remixes of that. I have an EP out in February on Simma Black—my Squares EP. I have a track forthcoming on Toolroom with Skapes, coming out around March. I have a few collaborations coming out, too, and I’ve been working with Martin Ikin on a few records as well. Basically, there is lots and lots of new music, being as I never sleep!

Track List:: Steve Lawler “House Record”
Mezzo “Need U”
Sirus Hood “Walk 4 Me”
Low Steppa “Take Me Up”
Nick Olivetti and Ali Borem “Da Noyz” (Low Steppa Edit)
Newbie Nerdz “Speechless”
Truth Be Told & Henry St. Social “Jersey Beat”
Josh Butler “Rebirth”
Justin Martin & Ardalan ft. PartyPatty “Function”
Newbie Nerdz “She Wants”
Todd Terry “Something Goin’ On” (Skapes & SPX Refix)
Low Steppa “So Real” (Copy Paste Soul's 2Swords Remix)
Hardrive “Deep Inside” (Low Steppa Remix)
Low Steppa & Skapes “Reactor”
Leftwing & Kody “Like That”
Gene Farris “Move Your Body”
Hot Natured & Ali Love “Benediction” (Low Steppa Old Skool Flex)
Stephan Bodzin & Oliver Huntemann “Rubin”
Low Steppa “Good Old Days”
Icarus “Missing You”