Pugilist announces new EP, ‘Static’

Melbourne-based producer and DJ Pugilist - aka Alex Dickson - has announced their latest EP via Banoffee Pies Records.

You can get it from February 4.

It’ll be the label’s 19th release in their Original Series, foreshadowing their eighth anniversary.

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On the release, Dickson tells Mixmag: "I am not usually one to get overly sentimental about my music however I put together this EP over the last 2 years. A period of uncertainty and a time when motivation was at an all time low for me and many others in the music community, This release is more emotional and nostalgic than what I would usually make, but sometimes you just have to embrace the fromage. I had a lot of fun making these tunes."

"The B side in particular was written towards the start of the pandemic, we were steadfast into lockdown and the isolation was really hitting me, I had no motivation to make music. It wasn't until my girlfriend brought a beacon of light into my life and we connected with the natural world around us on our walks on the often ghostly empty streets in Melbourne that I found a lot more inspiration in the small things. This is reflected through the use of vocals, lush pads and organic dubby soundscapes to create a feeling of connection to others and the natural world around us."

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They go onto explain how the A-side - ‘Déjà Vu’ and ‘Future Retro’ - intends to reconnect lost moments which filled the previous two years with relative isolation and mood changes. "It came to life as events started happening again and there was a glimmer of hope in Melbourne-town, and so I made what I wanted to hear - throwback feel good gurners that bring joy and euphoria in the dance, nothing more, nothing less."

"It is quite a personal EP for me which came together at a time where I needed escapism the most, hopefully that shines through when you listen to it.”

Dickson has been selecting bass infused, UK and dub-tinged music for years now, with ‘Static’ reflecting their sound.

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As a bonus, ‘Static’ also includes a digital exclusive, ‘Illumination’ - an alternative yet low-key 2step, garage tune.

You can pre-order Pugilist - ‘Static’ now - check it out here.

Niamh Ingram is Mixmag’s Weekend Editor, follow her on Twitter