July 19, 2024 |
London-born, Berlin-based DJ, Christian Browne aka Christian AB, has just released the digital version of his debut album The Nu Life, following its vinyl release at the beginning of the month. The record is littered hypnotic sounds with a hint of lightly intertwined dub, topped off with a touch of acid that will keep the crowd on the dancefloor all night long.
Browne’s childhood was a colourful soundscape, as he grew up listening to a range of music from disco to acid house. This early exploration of club music has had a clear impact on the music he produces today, with Nu Life being his most expansive offering to date. Platformed by house and techno label Faith Beat, the twelve-track record is equipped with solid groovers each prepped to provide any underground selector with essential USB fillers. It’s a record for lovers of provocative chords, deep grooves and sounds derived from scenes in Chicago, London, Detroit and New York.
No stranger to commanding dancefloors far and wide, AB has played Boiler Room, Berghain, Glastonbury and Dimensions, captivating audiences with his sonically playful and energetic mixes. Now, with brand new tunes to show off, this summer is set to be a bumper for AB. Ahead of his digital release, we sat down with the artist to chat about all things The Nu Life.
1. What inspired the name for your debut album The Nu Life?
The move to Berlin and transitioning to a full-time music career were big inspirations. New beginnings, new surroundings and new friends brought a fresh perspective. Plus, finally setting up my own studio with some of my dream machines played a huge role. Since moving, I’ve invested most of my DJ fees into gear I couldn’t afford back in the day. I guess all of these changes really inspired the title.
2. Describe your sound in 3 words?
If i had to choose three – unpredictable, emotional, groovy.
3. You said that The Nu Life is inspired by your early days of collecting music, which one artist would you say has had the biggest impact on the music you produce?
Gemini (Spencer Kincy) – a master of working with limitations. Whether playing the keys or sampling and processing live instruments, he creates minimalistic, emotional tracks that hit hard. A favourite of mine is I (Peacefrog Records) – a deeeeep tune. Each one of his releases are simple yet abstract, groovy and futuristic. A driving force in the Chicago scene…his music taught me [that] it’s not what you have, but how you use it.
4. What would you say are the three key ingredients for the perfect house track?
Drums, a strong melody – or sample – and a bassline. When executed well, you need little more. Effects are also key to finding your own colour and ultimately sound. Infectious grooves – less is more. What is the best use of a sample that you have heard used in a house track? Apex Twin‘s ‘Xtal’ exemplifies creative sampling. The vocal hook comes from an eerie 1980s record ‘Evil at Play’ by Steve Jefferies, Mary Carewe and Donald Greig, demonstrating AFX’s unique ability to find and repurpose obscure sounds. A truly distinctive approach to sampling.
5. What does this debut album mean to you and what can listeners learn from about you upon listening?
This record is special – the first of many, I hope. After experimenting with music for nearly a decade, I’ve found a process that works. The Nu Life is a club-focused album showcasing unique sounds from my evolving DIY studio. It’s a nostalgic journey to my early days of record store digging and connecting with like-minded enthusiasts. The album stays true to my soulful roots, capturing early memories. Listeners will sense my musical journey and influences.
6. Favourite post-set hangout?
Audio-In record store or the Cowshed Spa.
7. What album would you say perfectly sums up who you are?
Mr. Fingers Introduction was released in 1992, the year I was born. My father often played this record at home during my childhood. ‘Children at Play’ became a favourite; I called it “the park song” as it evoked memories of outdoor play. It holds lovely memories for me.
8. What’s on your rider?
Gin, tonic, mineral water and cashew nuts.
9. Your debut album inspires visions of the mid-90s, what is it about that era that stands out to you the most?
The approach to music was different then. DJs were respected for their music, not image. People created purely from the heart, without desire for fame – the Underground. Today, it’s difficult to remain truly ‘underground’ with ubiquitous online presence. Yet the internet is a blessing; many of us owe our careers to it. The ability to share work globally at the press of a button is remarkable. I’m forever grateful for the digital age.
10. What can we expect after the drop of your album?
Expect more solo dance projects and vinyl releases of my ambient and experimental works alongside alias projects and collaborations. I may also launch a Bandcamp page to release archived material gradually. Beyond that, I’ll continue touring and look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones.
Photography by Yasmín Antún. Purchase ‘The Nu Life’ here.
