In the last seven years Opiuo has gone from aspiring bedroom producer to the recipient of five awards at 2013’s UK Glitch-Hop Awards, and winner of Best Electronic Album at the New Zealand Music Awards, establishing himself in the process as one of the world leaders of the highly infectious glitch hop scene.
Now calling Melbourne home, the ex-pat Kiwi has cultivated a sound which has seen his fanbase grown exponentially, and with it comes a new evolution of the project that is Opiuo which for those uninitiated is easily described as ‘funkadelic bass music’ backed by a full live band.
We chatted to the talented producer/ musician about the transition from bedroom producer to full band and the reasons behind it – check out the video below for more info, and if you like what you hear be sure to catch Opiuo when they roll into your city.
Why The Transition
“I like a challenge. I love live music. I want to keep moving forward, and I never do anything the same way twice. I think the music you make and how you perform it is an evolution of who you are, and it’s important for me to keep evolving into something I am constantly proud of. Plus my mates are extremely talented and fucking legends and I wanted to take them on the road with me.”
“From the early days I was always jamming in bands and also with my family. I grew up around festivals and parties, and as a kid always loved jumping on the drums and smashing out a solo haha. Teenage years were filled with rock, punk, ska bands… until I discovered the way of the computer and started making my own music solo. So playing in live bands have been a huge part of my life.”
Was It Always The Intention?
“Not at all. To be honest I didn’t expect Opiuo to be what it is today. It’s be a wild six years of touring and growth. It’s crept up on me into something that’s much bigger than I ever thought possible.I fly off to far off lands for one off shows in countries I only dreamt of visiting.
But in saying all this I played in bands for most of my teenage years, and never lost that love of loosing yourself in the music with a bunch of your close homies on stage, so I do believe a band was always going to become a reality.”
Inspirations For The Current Evolution Of Opiuo
“I’ve watched a bunch of people either adapt into an electronic live show, or build a live electronic band from day one, and I’ve pushed us to take the best of both worlds whilst still maintaining something completely new and fresh.
The likes of Pretty Lights, Shapeshifter, Disclosure, and even SBTRKT have influenced me in some way with their live set ups. I spent four months building and planning this show from what I imagined possible, and what I’ve seen in the years touring. I think this show offers something for everyone.”
Advantages Of Being A Full Band
“The ability to adapt and bend what’s possible inside the music. We jam, we work together, we push the limit of live electronica. Every show is different. Every show is moving forward, and I know in a year’s time we will be even better than we already are.
We cover some Opiuo tracks, and we play brand new Opiuo Band tracks. I’m so stoked all the members of the band are at the top of their game, and add so much to this project.”
And The Disadvantages?
“The cost of touring a band is massive. The amount of equipment essential to the show that we have to lug around the globe. The late, late nights rehearsing (although this is also fucking fun). But the advantages far out way any disadvantage.”
What To Expect From The Upcoming Shows
“A high energy, extremely tight, live show with amazing lighting, visuals and the absolute best quality in sound production. A combination of organic and electronic elements perfectly melded into a constantly flowing set of epic proportions. It’s the most satisfying thing I’ve done in my life ever.”
Upcoming Tour Dates
Friday 24th April – 170 Russell (Billboards), Melbourne
Friday 1st May – The Hi-Fi, Brisbane
Saturday 2nd May – Villa Nightclub, Perth
For tickets and info visit www.opiuo.com.
