Nightmares On Wax: Mind Elevation

Nightmares On Wax:
Mind Elevation

out 02.09.2002
Warp/RT

George Evelyn, 32, from Leeds in England is the main talent behind Nightmares on Wax (NOW). He works with other musicians, rappers and singers all the time. They come and go. But George is the only one who has been there since 1991, when NOW were selling CDs from the back of a van. Things have changed since then. Today NOW are one of the top electronic bands in the world. They are on tour to promote their fourth album, called "Mind Elevation". And they are in Germany and Switzerland this month. George, who is also known as DJ Ease, talked to us in an exclusive interview.

What is the new album, Mind Elevation, about?

George: It’s about growing up and about social and spiritual issues. I believe that I have been on a great journey all my life. But I’ve only realized that in the last six years. I like to share what I have learnt with people through music. And if my music inspires or makes somebody feel good, I’m doing something right.

Have you always been interested in music?

George: I got caught up in the hip-hop culture from the age of 12. (I) started DJ-ing probably at the age of 15. I wanted to make my own music. And I just went on from there really … I think my ... biggest instrument(s) ... are my ears. I know what I want to hear.

How do you write music?

George: It’s different every time. I don’t really plan anything. Sometimes I just go into my studio and put down a beat and rhythm and try a few different melodies. Other times I write a whole piece and then call my vocalist. I work with a lot of different people. I always say that making music is like opening a present on Christmas day. You don’t know what you’re going to get.

Why don’t you make a new album every year, like other bands do?

George: I don’t agree with flooding the market ... I believe in ... making my music and living with it ... Because once I’ve (made) the album it ... belongs to everybody else. It doesn’t belong to me any more. I like to live with my piece of music because I made that music for me to listen to.

You inspire other people. But who inspires you?

George: I was brought up in a working-class area. This has had a lot of influence over my music. The people I grew up with – my family and friends – inspire me. When I’m not busy, I organize parties for them so they can share in my success.

Nightmares on Wax are coming to Germany this month. Click here to find out when and where they're playing.


Interview: AngieBlack

www.nightmaresonwax.com