Q&A with Napes By Sam Yates
Originally published on UKF
That quality over quantity approach is central to Napes’ process – often spending months and years on a single tune. He slowly adds new details, progression, switch-ups, icing – and that’s why his sound is particularly unique, and the construction of his tracks is far from formulaic (read: boring). It rewards a full listen – you never know what might come next.
The new lead single is a perfect example. ‘Hit The Corner’ clocks in at six and a half minutes, with drumwork that doesn’t stop evolving – steady rolling, but then fractured, chopped, and screwed up. Layered around it he uses a stabby synth and 8-bit melody, nodding toward the recent SUNANDBASS aesthetic we’ve heard from the likes of Bailey or Trex.
But how did he get here? Twenty-six years young with a well-defined sound, loyal following, and mature artist mindset. UKF caught up with him to trace the pathway – which includes a breakout release on Born On Road, and working with Alix Perez to achieve a dream release on 1985 Music…