With releases on Madtech and Local Action, we asked eclectic UK producer Ryan Bonfield to introduce himself.
Who are you?
I’m Artifact, I’ve been releasing music for the past few years across various different labels. During this time, I’ve been lucky enough to play from Latvia to Ibiza, experience all different forms of electronic music, and watch the scene grow and change in the way that only the UK scene can.
What do you sound like?
My sound has constantly been changing and evolving over the years. It’s almost always had a techno edge to it though. Something about the darkness and complexity of techno has always called me. I’ve released broken beat on labels such as Deadplate and even a ‘footwork’ album on Local Action. The last 10 months or so I have been working on developing this even further for 2016, and my forthcoming Halocyan release is a sum of the parts of this.
Why should we listen to you?
I strive to create something interesting and my own and always have done. If you listen to my past releases you will see almost a path as the sound develops and twists as my own musical taste expands. I always felt that my music should be a representation of my self and not follow what the scene dictates, and I hope this comes across.
What have you released so far? What else have you got coming out in the near future?
As I mentioned, I’ve released broken beat on smaller labels such as Deadplate and Local Action, to tech house on Rebirth and Madtech. I released a “pay what you like” footwork LP on Local Action which was a collection of music I created whilst I spent time on placement in Cologne, Germany. I have my next EP on Halocyan coming this month – which takes an even darker, harder edge – as well as a slightly more joyful remix for the Soul Divide guys coming out in the next few months.
What song sums you up? Why?
‘Sowing Season’ by Brand New. It’s not an electronic song as such, but the lyrics talk about losing and refinding and that’s how I sometimes have felt as I chase my own sound. Also it’s one of my turn-to travel songs, and always keeps me relaxed, which is pretty important in this day and age. It’s great to step back from dance music and have a breather.
What or who is your biggest influence and why?
This is too tough a question to answer. I draw inspiration from my past as well as my present, which includes everything from death metal to harder techno like Alan Fitzpatrick. I also find the work of my friends hugely inspirational. Watching guys like Ben Pearce and Citizenn transcend boundaries and create some truly amazing and thoughtful music really pushes you to try and bring something to the table.
Where can we hear your music?
You can head to my SoundCloud for a selection of my music, or there is always Spotify which I believe has the full lot.
Where will you be in five years’ time?
Hopefully still crafting my sound, and keeping the love for the music.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.
I used to play Laser Quest competitively. Maybe I should bring this back.
Artifact’s Cry EP is out now on Halocyan. Find him on Facebook, Twitter and SoundCloud.