Julian Gomes – The Gift The Curse

“It takes two to make a thing go right, it takes two to make it outta sight”! Which is certainly the case when it comes to Julian Gomes & Atjazz. I interviewed both ahead of their new album release, The Gift The Curse back in October. Julian is a producer and DJ in his own right and has been creating music for a decade, firstly with the G Family Project and then deciding to fly solo in 2012. Since then he has experienced success with his collaboration with Atjazz on the Overshadowed track and more earlier this year he was awarded best video for “Lovesong28″. So what happens when the two people who live across the globe from each other, who both share a passion for music come together? The result The Gift The Curse and this interview.

Q. Growing up in South Africa who were your musical heroes growing up?
A. I was influenced by a lot of music growing up, So its hard to point out one of my heroes when you think of so many musical forms, Especially when you growing up in South Africa. All I can say is that I’m grateful to have come across so much music from a young age.

Q. For all the people who may be unfamiliar with your style, how would you describe your sound?
A. Pure & Honest House Music

Q. There appears to be a special relationship emerging between British and South African artists, producers and DJs why do you think this is? And what if any, impact does this have on the current music scene?
A. I think universally that there are a lot of collaborations happening, I think the internet has helped DJ’s, Producers and general creative & exchange ideas and explore there ideas together, Which is great because Art is universal.

Q. You have collaborated with the likes of Omar, Black Coffee and of course Martin Atjazz. How does working with different artists influence your sound and creativity?
A. I’m Grateful to have collaborated with these artists because I’m a fan of their sound first and foremost. Collaborating is always exciting when the energy is on the same page, You learn a lot of things from each other and at the end of the day its all about putting out good music.

Q. Speaking of collaborations, you have been working together with Martin Atjazz on the new album The Curse The Cure, what can we expect to hear from this album?
A. Yes, The Gift The Curse, Is a project that is close to Martin and Myself. Its been a year and a half in the making. Martin and Myself came together and decided that we wanted to get into studio and write and Organic and Honest album. We happy that is officially available and people are getting to hear ”us on a plate” like martin says.

Q. There are many people who are keen to see you both play together. Will you be touring in the UK to promote the album?
A. I really like the sound of that, Need to talk to Martin about it.

Big love going out to Julian for taking the time.