We interview Xhosa Nostre (Simiato Matik) to chat about his latest release Beat_Ape.
The album has a great impact and control in its storytelling. Can you explain the writing process behind Beat_Ape?
I’m constantly creating new music without any real intention as to where it should go. With ‘Beat_Ape’, I made a conscious decision to create a body of work that was adhesive and would serve as a clear indication of the state of my mind at that time.
The ‘Intro’ shares an excerpt about not drinking anymore. Is this something you can relate to? Why did you feel the need to start the album this way?
The ‘Intro’ is definitely relative. I’d been on a ‘cleanse’ when I started working on the project and the effects were incredibly positive yet, I’d never truly quit/ stopped. I chose that sample as the beginning simply because that was how I felt at the time.
I notice you took samples from different sources within different tracks. How do you feel it aids to the narrative of the album?
The narrative is guided by the samples in a very direct manner. I feel it makes the songs almost literal in their translation rather than depending on the instrumentals alone to carry the messages I intended to communicate.
The tempo shifts from smoother soulful beats to eclectic hip hop bass lines. Is it important for a producer to showcase an array of influences to create their own voice (sounds)?
I feel like any producer’s influences are always bound to surface within their creations. I find it extremely important for the work to be honest, all else is relative.
Tell us about your production name: Xhosa Nostre. How long have you been playing under the name, how does it resonate with you?
Since I started making music in 2003, Xhosa Nostre has always been the moniker. I was part of a collective at the time and came up with the name as to present us as a musical Mafia, in a sense.
Does culture, language, people and your surroundings impact the way you interact with music?
Every single human experience I have had, impacts the music I make directly. If it wasn’t for those experiences, I believe that there is many a song I would have never been able to create.
Are your sharing your beats live? If so, where and how can we find you?
I have been seriously slacking when it comes to exhibiting my music. A lot of it sits on several of my computers with only myself as the audience.
What local producers are on your radar at the moment?
Johnny Filter, Cush Solomon, Mananz, Beatology, Planet Earth and Sketchy Bongo are some of the cats that come to mind right now.
Beat_Ape was released three months ago. Are you working on any new material?
Currently, I’m finalising the work on my EP ‘VELA’. ShortFilters V2 is almost done and my crew FAMPACK have something incredible in the pipeline.
I would have to say my favourite track is ‘Bone Us- Litey’. Tell me about your mood on this particular track.
That song still surprises me in it’s appeal. I was cleaning the flat, listening to some hi-life when I heard that chant I ended up using for the hook and I just had to run to my computer and cut the sample. It’s very rare that I make ‘feel good’ music so, I’m especially proud of that one.
