STONEWAX
STONEWAX is an experimental producer/engineer/musician based on the Sunshine Coast who has set the bar high with the first of his many collaborations to be released over the next months. The first, TGHC (THE GREAT HARMONIC CONVERGENCE) features the angsty flow from Meanjin based MC Roman and was produced by STONEWAX himself at him home studio. With a blend of hip hop and psychedelia, STONEWAX is the ultimate convergence of creative exploration. MKA wanted to ask STONEWAX about the unique sound he is developing, the new song and about the collaborations coming.
For those that haven’t heard your music , how do you describe the STONEWAX sound?
Wacky, wonky, and other-wordly.
You have just released 'The Great Harmonic Convergence'. Tell us about your new song? What does the song mean to you?
It’s just a canvas I spread colour on. One of many.
“Roman is a top tier artist and I’m very grateful to create with him.”
'The Great Harmonic Convergence' with MC Roman is the first of a series of collaborations you have made. Do you enjoy the collaborative process? Who's on your wish list to collab with in the future?
I love this process. Especially creating with people who deliver greatness every time. Roman is a top tier artist and I'm very grateful to create with him.
This year you’ll hear drops with Kikagaku Moyo, Lokett, Chris Ah Gee, Buddha Da Great and much more.
What do you hope the fans take away from the new release?
An experience.
“My first musical teachings were that of psych rock. The Doors, Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix. These are the obvious creators that inspired my “calm in the chaos” style”
Psychedelic hip hop is a unique style of music. What drew your interest in such an unusual genre?
My first musical teachings were that of psych rock. The Doors, Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix. These are the obvious creators that inspired my “calm in the chaos” style. Hip hop too breaks rules and tests the norm. I love that!
Is Psychedelic hip hop a genre that can be played in a live environment? Will you be touring with the new material?
I plan to play a show here and there. I’m not too fussed though… I’m happy to be creating and releasing!
You’re a Pioneer for the genre in the industry, especially in Australia. Is this a heavy burden to carry or an exciting honour?
I don’t think I'm a pioneer. I’m just a nerd who’s honoured to have working hands and ears.
What does the writing / creative process look like for you?
I close off the outside world and meditate. Sometimes for 10 mins… sometimes for 10 hours. It’s all about doing the thing.
How did you get your start in music?
It was all a dream.
Who do you credit as your musical influences?
Too many to list.. but the ones at the top right now are:
Ebo Taylor, The Gaslamp Killer, Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin, Led Zeppelin, Nick Hakim, Homewood Sapiens, Kendrick Lamar, Alchemist, Knxwledge, Anderson Paak, Chucho Bruno, Fela Kuti, Kikagaku Moyo, Kaytranada.
What’s been the highlight in your career so far personally? And why?
Everytime I step into the zone. Nothing compares to those journeys.
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is it they do that keeps your world turning?
Paulie B (aka Lord Tanuki Himself) - my sensei and collaborator at Yama-Nui Recording Studio. We make records together and I look forward to our future!
Mica Schettini - Photographer extraordinaire, and downright creative sweetheart. Thank you for your amazing input.
Danny Mann (Bueno Bueno Sounds) - My promoter and a true legend, thank you for your hustle.
Mum - For giving me the confidence to be the weirdo I am.
What's up next for STONEWAX? What do you have planned?
One release a month. Secret shows. Many collaborations. Lots of art!
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia/Music Kingdom Australia
Interview by Michelle Symes
July 2022