// Exclusive interview with Robsoul cheif Phil Weeks on his recent 'Love Affair' LP //
Mr Phil Week's, the Über busy, Head Honcho of Robsoul Recordings, takes some time out to speak to us about his latest LP release 'Love Affair'
OK, so lets kick off with a tune. . . what’s your favorite track from the album and why? I really love all of them but if I have to pick up one it would be “All Day Every Day” as it was one of the first beats I did with the MPC3000. Also, it was a long time since I wrote some lyrics and recorded some vocals.
'In the Mood' smacks right from the off (nod nod nod). . genius. . . it has a lovely 50's style vocal
swing about it. Where do you get your inspiration from where new productions are concerned?
Most of the time I get inspired by listening to other music. This was the case with the “Friend Of
Distinction” sample I used for “In The Mood” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzyMwkqAR2g)
I first heard this dope sample on a Talib Kweli song that I really love. Then I do my thing with
it…My “House” vision of it. I also have another nice trick to get inspiration but you all know that!!
In a world of 'virtual' studio gear, VST plugin this, virtual synth that, you are know as a 'House Music Purist' lending your preference of production hardware to 606's, 808's, 909's Vintage Keys etc. Discuss. . I like the sound of it (It sounds better) I like the groove of it (it swings better) and it is so much fun! For me it’s important to have fun while doing music…at least to do something cool. In a “virtual” studio, I get bored super fast.
Do you appreciate the timeless stylings of classic French Beret or do you see your self as more of a casual Flat Cap, Beenie hat or even Bandana wearing kind of guy? I’m more into the NEW ERA 59 Fifty hat/cap – U know what I’m saying? I might be old school in the way I produce but I still like fashion and modern shit!
You clearly put a lot of graft into Robsoul Recordings, which is now and has been for some time a front running deep house label. How instrumental has setting up the label been in helping you get where you are today? I don’t know about that, it’s really difficult to say but I guess it helps on something…I never tried to think that way, anyways… my peeps know I don’t think like that. But for sure, Robsoul gives me the option to release my music anytime I want. I would say Robsoul & I grew up together.
Your a busy fella with plenty going on. . what are you doing tomorrow? Extra Busy! Tonight is my night @ the Rex (Get Underground)/Paris. Tomorrow morning I will fly to Firenze/Italy then Sunday in Brussels/Belgium. All for fun times.
The earth is about to explode (could happen), you just about have time to retrieve 3 pieces of prized vinyl and make a sandwich (or Baguette) to take with you in your emergency evacuation vessel. What records would they be and whats in your sarnie? I don’t really eat sandwiches. I usually sit down and eat a real meal, I’m a food lover. If I have to grab 3 vinyls on the Enterprise, it would be J.Dilla’s ” Donuts” album, Mark Farina’s “United Dj’s of America” triple pack & my “Love Affair” album. U feel me?
With Robsoul based out of Paris you are no stranger to manning the the controls at places like Showcase and Rex Club, how do you find the scene in Paris in comparison to other parts of the world? What can we expect from clubbing in Paris and is it cool if we crash at your pad when we come? The scene in Paris is good but always moving, up & down like any other city in the world I would say. I have my night at the Rex “Get Underground” (with partner Didier Allyne) & we have fun every time. About having you crash at my pad, I would suggest you to talk to my agent!
Album Summary, 5 words or less? Love, Soul, Akai MPC, Samples, Goosebumps!
