Boundary Brighton Festival is back this Saturday, September 28th, 2024, bringing its most extensive lineup ever to the iconic Stanmer Park. From House to Drum & Bass, Jungle to Garage, the one-day festival promises to deliver a sonic journey across four stages hosted by Brighton’s finest collectives. Heavyweights like Wilkinson, Hedex, Denis Sulta, and Eliza Rose are set to take the crowd on a ride, with thrilling extras like funfair rides, food trucks, and pop-up bars adding to the festival atmosphere.
Amidst this incredible lineup, we’re excited to sit down with IMANU—an artist whose unique fusion of Drum & Bass, experimental beats, and electronic soundscapes has made him one of the most innovative names today. Known for pushing boundaries, IMANU is gearing up to deliver an unforgettable performance at Boundary Brighton. Ahead of his set, we catch up with him to talk about his musical evolution and what he’s got in store for the festival and dig a little deeper into the life and times of one of the scene’s most intriguing talents.
What’s the story behind your stage name, IMANU?
It comes from my middle name, Immanuel! I wanted it to sound and feel more personal than a moniker.
You used to release music under the name Signal. How has your musical journey evolved since transitioning to IMANU, and what inspired the shift in your artistic direction and sound?
I feel like I’ve let go of many boundaries, and found a sound more true to myself. I was inspired by many artists who just do not seem to care about what genre or sound they’re perceived as because everything they make is them.
How do you balance maintaining your signature sound while pushing boundaries in electronic music?
Pushing boundaries is my signature sound.
You’re performing at Boundary Brighton Festival this weekend. What can fans expect from your set?
As it’s a B2B with The Caracal Project, a lot of our music, collaborations we’ve done, and a bit of fun stuff! Our B2B sets are usually a bit less serious than our solo performances.
You’ve produced a lot of music with The Caracal Project and played shows together in recent years. Tell us a bit about your relationship.
Someone I met through the internet, like honestly most of my current friends! Good friendship leads to good studio sessions, and thus we created good music.
Your productions cover many different genres. One of the genres you’re best known for is DnB. How do you see the Drum and Bass scene evolving, and where do you fit into that landscape?
I don’t really feel like I fit in the scene as it is right now, but I’m very okay with that.
What’s the most challenging aspect of producing electronic music for you?
I’m not very good at mixing vocals, so I just have someone else do that for me instead 😀
How do you stay inspired and avoid creative burnout?
I listen to a ton of varied music, and watch videos on music theory very often. Experimenting with the things I’m taught in the realms of the stuff I listen to often leads to me coming up with ideas to use in my own.
What advice would you give aspiring producers looking to make their mark in the electronic music scene?
Be different.
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or releases you’re excited about?
I’ve got a big string of music coming out soon! Very excited for it 🙂
You can catch IMANU at Boundary Brighton Festival this weekend alongside a heavyweight lineup of dance music’s finest names. For set times and more info, follow Boundary Brighton on social media or visit https://www.boundarybrighton.com
