As this writer began putting together questions for an e-mail interview with British dubstep producer/DJ Rusko, his 2010 debut album, “O.M.G.!,” was queued up for some relevant background sound. Unfortunately, the headphone volume was not adjusted for this particular experience, and the opening electronic squeal of “Woo Boost” very nearly obliterated everything between the two ear pads.
Its creator, upon hearing of this incident, seemed to have one thought in mind: “Mission accomplished.” “Ha ha ha! That makes me feel great!” replied an enthusiastic Rusko from his Los Angeles home. “That’s exactly the reaction I hoped for.”
The electronic dance-music genre known as dubstep had its earliest rumblings in 1998. Christopher Mercer, otherwise known as Rusko, became interested in the music while a college student in Leeds, and moved to London following his graduation to get directly involved. Beginning with production on the track “SNES Dub” in 2006, Rusko has released new music every year since, emerging as an upbeat dubstep presence.
The producer/DJ’s latest single, “Somebody To Love,” dropped last month, and his next album, “Songs,” is due in late March. “For my first album, I knocked them out as they came along, but on this upcoming album I set aside a few weeks to create the tracks,” explained Rusko. “Rather than making tracks on the road, which I usually do, I made 14 songs in 8 weeks. I just stayed in the same headspace and vibe, working out of my studio spot in the Hollywood Hills.”
With so many prominent and emerging figures in dubstep these days, Rusko is conscious of ensuring that his sound, which he sees as distinguishable by its heavy bass, chords and melodies, maintains a unique presence.
“There’s always pressure for me, not because of what other people doing necessarily, but only because I’m so hard on myself! Like any artist, I strive to be original, and naturally that should keep what I make sounding like Rusko. Even if it progresses to something further than what I’ve made in the past.”
Along with the upcoming release of “Songs” and a collaboration with Cypress Hill, Rusko plans to exploit his talents on multiple fronts over the coming months. “Doing a ton of shows (see ruskoonfire.com/tour) and maybe improving my baking skills! I make a wicked cake.”
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