After Being a Leading Force in Dance for Decades, Bonobo’s Switching Things Up for His New Album: ‘I Don’t Have to Keep Trying to Prove Myself’
British producer Simon Green talks about his stunning new LP Distance in Static , turning 50, and how he’s considering a major change for the project.
For the past 26 years, Bonobo – the moniker for artist, producer and DJ Simon Green – has quietly shaped the sound of British dance music. His journey, marked by Grammy nominations, popular Outlier parties and performances at venues like London's Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House, has been achieved while remaining signed to an independent label, Ninja Tune.
When speaking to Billboard U.K. from Ibiza, Green expresses a sense of understated humility, "I sometimes forget we did all that," he says, reflecting on his 2000 debut Animal Magic. He adds, "When you're in those moments, you're not really acknowledging them: you just think of the next gig or record." Reflection is rare for an artist who has repeatedly innovated their sound, but his eighth LP Distance in Static, released Sept.
11, provides an opportunity to take stock. This record, rich with thoughtful instrumentation, striking guest vocalists and dancefloor bangers, mirrors the ambitious style of Green's previous works, such as 2017's Migration and 2013's The North Borders. The latter featured a spot from Erykah Badu, a track that earned Green a Grammy nomination in the best dance/electronic category.
The blend of club-ready sounds and jazz-infused, downtempo beats on Distance in Static feels reminiscent of Green's 2010 classic Black Sands, a record that saw him become a must-see live act. Green's journey to Distance in Static began with inspiration during a global tour culminating in Tokyo, where he split his time between Tokyo, London and L.A.
The sprawling city's diverse music offerings acted as a springboard for ideas and creativity. Green works alone, sketching ideas in various locations, and the process often sparks serendipitous moments, as seen in the creation of "Drift" and Joy Crookes' vocal turn on "Always On Your Side." As Green looks towards the future, he hints at a potential shift from the current cycle of album releases, tours, and promotion.
He hopes that this change will allow him to work in a more comfortable and sustainable manner, prioritizing his own terms and well-being.
Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
