Friday, April 08, 2011

Interview #10 - Speed Dial 7

CREATES A THERAPEUTIC ATMOSPHERE

There are artists who do not only do their best to promote their own music, but who also work hard to let other people get heard. Speed Dial 7 from Belgium is one of them. In 2 weeks time he's about to release his second solo album. He also happens to be a really nice guy.


Tell us who Speed Dial 7 is?

You know it, I know it, it’s me, Tom De Geeter. It’s the alias I hide under for my solo efforts. It’s my attempt of making what I’ve been making for the last 12 years but then by myself with no compromise and lots of energy…. I like to call it Rap Music.

What is your intension with the music and lyrics?

Atmosphere and therapy. Those are the 2 keywords for my music. I started solo as some sort of therapy. The message in my music is just shit that’s on my mind... That’s all it is... and sometimes what’s on my mind can be so absurd that you probably can’t make anything out of it. Doesn’t matter because in the end of the day people listen to the package: energy, vibe and what you personally make of it. Also sex.

How did you come up with the idea behind Marathon of Dope, and would you mind telling us the history of the label.

I didn’t come up with it; Pat/Pip Skid did... It made a lot of sense to me because the whole physical industry was/is collapsing and the climate for change was/is there. That was 2008, when we first meet here in Belgium. We build and build over the last years, went on tours in Europe and Canada and meet other interesting artists who felt the same. Better come out as a strong collective with an idea, then all work separate… That’s my view on it.

You’re from Belgium. What is the scene like there?

There’s hardly a rap scene but we do have a strong alternative scene. We benefit from that. I got a lot of support from friends and family over the years and that’s most important. A small, strong fan base can get you far.

I’ve heard that we can expect a new album with Zucchini Drive this year ending a 4 year long silence. Any particular reason behind the delay, and what can we expect of the album?

Holy! Man, that album will blow your mind. It’s amazing. We have been working so long and hard on it. 4 years seems a bit exaggerated... We been to Japan, the states and toured Europe and actually released Shotgun Rules in 2009 if I recall right. We also work with Dirty Pete and DJ Mich now... The whole process seems so much more natural because we create the music and do vocals nowadays... Marcus and I are in touch on a daily basis and for sure we are talking about the right move at the right time.

You’re also a part of the groups Gunporn, Cavemen Speak and Nuccini. What’s the status of these groups today?

Who knows...? I know as much as you know. I talk to bleubird every few months and I still see the homies Nomad and Danzil a lot but we don’t have plans right now... The future is open.

You’re about to release your new album 11. That’s your second album in a year. Can you tell us what you think sets them apart?

My first album Short Rich Apocalypse was created over a 2 year span. It’s an album I thought about long and hard. It’s a lot more experimental then 11, the album dropping now... 11 was 70% created on the road and sounds more impulsive, energetic and definitely more rap-minded. I really like both in different ways.

What inspires you in your creative process?

For 11 my inspiration came from 90’s rap bass lines, touring Europe and Canada with Pip Skid (who is featured on 5 songs), a crazy psychedelic record collection from my friend Albi, hang-outs, road trips, Brugal, Grey Goose and a daily dosis of Prozac.

Any last thoughts? 

I’m gonna have to go out and buy toilet paper... very necessary. Also some drinks because Belgium is playing Azerbeidzjan tonight. Good stuff. Yo! Check my free music out at www.marathonofdope.com! Oh and check my new video Run for Cover: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ba2c6AECNNo&feature=channel_video_title

http://www.speeddial7.com/
http://www.marathonofdope.com/
http://www.twitter.com/marathonofdope

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