A Q&A with Lost Dogs of Ultimo
Experimental Punk Reggae with a splash of Beats and loops from Melbourne…
What’s the title of your latest release, and what does it mean to you?
The latest release is ‘Police and Thieves’ and I love this song. When I first heard it by The Clash I loved how they fused the Punk and Reggae vibe. I then went on and listened to the original and other versions and just fell in love with the groove of the structure. The lyrics are quite strong too which also resonate with me.
What was the hardest part about putting this release together, and why?
Well as much as I love The Clash version I wanted it to be different and slightly quirky from its arrangement. I had been exploring loops and beats with multiple bass tracks and then wanted to have an extended intro, taking the listener on a journey thinking its an instrumental with some great beats. But then slide in the lyrics halfway through the track.
Who produced the release – what did they bring to it? If you produced it yourselves what do enjoy most about producing your own material?
I did most of the sound production in my studio then I realised it needed to be beefed up and pushed a little more. So, I went to Bounce Recording Studios in Melbourne where I have worked with Michael Basaranowicz on a few other releases in 2022. We really gel together in the studio, especially on the bass sounds Im trying to create.
What do you want the listener to take away from listening to your music?
I like the Idea people connecting to some of the themes I have covered Surf Skate culture Street Art Cultural challenges in society, Death and Mental Health these are all things that are in all our lives.
“I would like to get back to the UK”
How does a track normally come together? Can you tell us something about the process?
My processes are basic. I’m not a trained musician or technically proficient in the studio so I start with mixing drum beats and combining some styles together find the tempo. Then add some bass guitar tracks, finding a few samples. All this happens as I’ve been thinking of a theme or reading a great book. Something that’s triggered a vibe. If someone else is around to collaborate, I will pull them in get their bits down then start shuffling the mix up thats it.
What band/artists have influenced you the most since you started this project, and why?
Since I started the Lost Dogs Of Ultimo, I’ve really got my head into Alan Vega and Suicide. I’m also really enjoying Flip That Groove, a Melbourne Experimental Funk Techno group.
What countries would you like to tour? Are there any standout venues you’d like to play in?
I would like to get back to the UK. I did spend some time there as a teenager and I think one of the smaller summer festivals would be nice.
“Insight into my expression”
If you could pick one track for our readers to listen to in order to get a taste of your music, what would you pick, and why?
I’m sure most artists, including myself, like their current track. So, for me it’s ‘Police and Thieves’. I’m always excited when I share my art or music to the world the listener gets an insight into my expression and what Im influenced by in that work. This is beats and loops, and my respect of Junior Murvin and The Clash.
What ambitions do you have for the band/your career?
I’m trying to develop a collaborative mix of a moving visual street art project, and bring the live music to a stage as an interactive show, engaging the audience in the creative process.
Finally, as you leave the stage, what are your parting words?
Stay happy. Stay healthy. Respect each other
Check out the Lost Dogs of Ultimo on Facebook, and on Spotify.
