Your first album "The Essence of J. Rawls" was basically pure hip-hop while the second one was more soul and R&B. Do you feel more like a hip-hop producer, or do you actually prefer to create music influenced by more styles, like on your second album?
I just make the music that comes out of me. I dont really set out to make something. I just makes what feels good.
Your last project was a collaboration album with songstress Middle Child, who was already featured on "The Essence of Soul". You also did an album with Declaime. Are you more comfortable with this format – making beats for just one artist? Or do you prefer more variety and working with more guests at the same time?
I enjoy making albums with an artist because we have time to make a masterpiece just for us. We make music that only we can make together. The album i did with Declaime would never have sounded like that with J Sands. That is why i like doing albums with individual artists. I have albums coming with John Robinson, El da Sensei, and Count Bass D! All on the way.
Although the album with Middle Child received mainly positive reviews, I’ve noticed a little criticism about Middle Child’s lyrics. Do you usually consult the lyrics with the artists you work with, or do you give them complete freedom in this aspect?
I give them freedom. Middle is a dope lyricist and she didnt need any guidance in the lab. She is incredible.
Middle Child also talks about "saving the music". Do you think that today’s music is in a bad state? Is it due to the fact that it’s controlled by major labels and media that don’t care about the quality?
That has something to do with it. Music isnt in a bad state, its just not like it was when I grew up. And that is not a bad thing. I just still miss hip hop from the 90’s. Thats what I like….
Can independent artists like you make a good living off making music?
Not really. it is kind of hard to do. You only see checks every so often. The money is not steady.
Your production is based on sampling. Can you imagine making an album without using a single sample? What do you think about some people’s opinion that sampling is just a robbery?
Its their opinion. sampling is what hip hop is. Hip hop without it is not the same and I do make music without samples, check for the Liquid Crystal project.
Sampling is linked to crate digging and buying old vinyls, but the production of vinyls has been reduced lately. As someone who grew up on vinyl, does it make you feel sad to see this format dying?
Yes it does. Its hard to let vinyl go, but its a fact that we have to deal with.
Independent artists often claim to get more recognition in Europe than in the States. Do you feel the same way? What do you think is the reason for that?
People in Europe seem to really dig for the music. They enjoy searching for other things other that the norm. I think thats great.
You have worked with Talib Kweli, who is one of the hottest MC’s today. Are you still in contact with him? Do you think you will do something together again?
I am not sure. Yes we are still in contact. but he stays on tour.
What’s up with Lone Catalysts? J. Sands previewed a new track on his MySpace and there has also been an alleged leak of your new album. Can you reveal some info about the album?
Square Binizz is the new album. Yes it was leaked. However, we have done some new songs for the official release and trust me, you want the new songs! they are hot.
What words come to your mind first when you hear these names:
Middle Child – secret weapn
K-Otix – family
J Dilla– the best, forever
Mos Def– talented
Talib Kweli– fam
Isaac Heyes– will be missed
Now the last question – Columbus Crew or Columbus Blue Jackets?
Blue Jackets
