Interview with Feint.
Written and interviewed by Laury Verdoux
Diving into the dynamic world of Drum & Bass, we find an artist whose name is synonymous with innovation and sonic exploration – Feint. Hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of the United Kingdom, Feint's journey has been an inspiring testament to his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound. His recent masterpiece, "Treading Water (feat. HYLIA)", has secured a spot of distinction within Ophelia Records' eagerly awaited 'Advent - Drum & Bass' compilation, curated in collaboration with the visionary Italian artist Mazare. We got to chat with the artist around this opportunity.
Congratulations on having your track "Treading Water (feat. HYLIA)" featured in Ophelia Records' 'Advent - Drum & Bass' compilation. How does it feel to be part of such a prominent release in the Drum & Bass scene?
It feels great! I haven’t released with Ophelia before but I’m happy to have been involved with such a great project alongside so many talented producers!
Could you tell us more about the inspiration behind "Treading Water"? What were the creative influences that shaped this track?
The instrumental has a very positive feeling to it, and in terms of colour, sounds quite ocean-blue to me. I’m sure that HYLIA picked up on the same feeling and wrote around it, bringing her own wistful and positive inspirations into it.
Ophelia Records is known for its eclectic dance music. How did the collaboration with the label come about, and what does it mean to you to be included in this compilation?
I was asked by Mazare if I wanted to take part in the compilation project and so of course I couldn’t refuse a chance to work with such a great label! It’s of course quite an honour and I appreciate being able to offer something I’m proud of like this track to the project.
You're often recognized as a stalwart in the Drum & Bass realm. How do you approach each release to keep pushing the boundaries of your artistry while staying true to your signature style?
To be honest, I simply try not to overthink it - I think that’s why since I started I have never been affiliated exclusively to a single camp, but I enjoy the freedom of being able to express my influences and feelings through dnb without too much external pressure. I think therefore no matter where I go with my sound, it always does (I hope) retain a sound that’s quite unique to me.
Your trajectory within the music industry, from your debut in Monstercat's 001 compilation to your current stature, has been remarkable. How do you perceive your growth and evolution as an artist over the years?
I honestly don’t really think about it too much - I’ve always just been more interested in the day-to-day or week-to-week micro-gains in my skill or knowledge, which over a long period of time of course add up to considerable growth if you’re consistent! Then again, it’s hard to be objective about “growth” when it comes to creativity - I often get messages on my tracks that people prefer my older stuff but I chalk that down to nostalgia etc. I personally think my technical production skill and writing skills have improved a lot every year!
What's next for Feint? Are there any upcoming projects, collaborations, or goals that you'd like to share with us?
Too many to list! I’m currently on-and-off working on my first ever album in between other singles, remixes and collaborations. As I said before in terms of goals, I’m just focussed on doing the best I can and improving the most I can in the present, and I trust that’ll take care of my long term milestones too!