British dup-step artists Rusko (Christopher Mercer) has had quite a year. Working with the likes of T.I., Rhianna, and M.I.A. and also releasing his debut album on Mad Decent records entitled O.M.G!, you could say Rusko has made himself a formidable addition to the dub-step genre. O.M.G! is a collection of 14 songs that range from gritty and heavy grinds to playful dance-offs, and even a little low-light moods thrown in for good measure. His live shows are something to be witnessed though. Having seen this first hand at this year’s HARD tour with Crystal Castles, Rusko understands crowd behavior and uses this to his advantage.
You can catch Rusko’s tour dates .
You can also purchase O.M.G! here.
This week we have the man himself answer the famous Kuestionnaire as he mentions a non-musical influence that about 99% of artists can relate to.
_________________________________________________________________________
1. Could you state your name and what you do?
Christopher Mercer aka Rusko Banton. I make bangers and make ravers dance.
2. How would you describe your sound?
Loud,fun,melodic,beeps and bops and wistles and BASSSSSSSSSSSSS
3. Any concerts that blew your mind recently?
Unfortunately I really havent had much time to go see any shows lately. Ive been fortunate to play with some really awesome people though! I saw a youtube video of squarepusher performing, does that count? He always blows my mind!
4. Any non-musical influences you would like to mention?
WEED
5. If your music was to be the theme of a film/TV show, what would it be?
Tim and Eric Awesome show, great job! LOVE THEM
6. What musician/artist would you like to collaborate with for a day?
I grew up admiring squarepusher. His music has been my biggest inspiration and it would be a total honor to get to work with him. I’d be so so nervous!
7. What is the album you listen to on a cold rainy day?
The Field
8. List four songs you would listen to on a roadtrip?
Im actually on tour right now and have spent loads of time on the bus. Ive burned several cds. I just burnt Ceephax’s new album, which is amazing. Ive also burnt some drum and bass, All that jump up goodness like my buddies Original Sin and Heist. What I really like to do on roadtrips like the one ive been in is test out all of my new tunes. Ive been making some new ones on the bus and have been testing those out. Oh! and ive been listening to English comedy podcasts. I highly recommend Adam and Joe.
9. Where do you see yourself in 7 years?
In the studio making beats.
10. What is the last book you read?
A book written by Charlie Brooker. He is so funny, but the name totally escapes me! Ive been racking my brain but I cant think of the title! Anything by him is brilliant though.
11. Is image a factor in music or is it a waste of time?
I suppose for some people it is very much a factor in their music, but not for me. I dont really think about it at all. Im a pretty simple dude, I just like to make music and have fun. Im a creative type, i leave the business to the business people and I just do what feels good. I dont really have a style icon and I dont really think about my career in terms of branding or coming off as something im not. I just like to be me.
12. Any embarrassing moments on stage you would like to share?
NOPE. hahaha I think the worst was when I called out the wrong city at a gig! No one said anything to me about it but when I realized I felt like a bit of a pleb.
13. Any favorite tour locations?
Aw man, honestly there hasnt really been a bad tour location. Dont think I can pick just one. Especially this current tour, every show has been sold out and everyone has been so excited and super pumped! The ravers really make the party not the location. I like cities that have good food haha especially friend chicken. I also really enjoyed playing on a boat in the middle of the ocean in Croatia. That was awesome. Everywhere has really been wicked though
14. Lastly, what is your present state of mind?
Tired! Been touring for the past few weeks. Ive been running on 50% battery all day saving up my energy juice for tonights show.
_________________________________________________________________________
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
[mp3]Rusko – DA CALI ANTHEM from DA CALI ANTHEM – Single (2010)