Laughing Buddha talks to Mushroom Mag below about futuristic Psy Trance, being an ambassador for cosmic consciousness, and what being part of the Nano family means to him.
“I don’t know if they’ll be calling it Psytrance by then, but whatever it’s called I’ll be playing it!”
You are a veteran of the Psytrance scene. Have you ever had a proper job?
A couple, but that seems like another me in another life in a parallel universe by now!!! I never would have believed 20 years ago that I could make a career out of psychedelic dance music, but happily I have.
You laugh a lot, but are you a Buddhist?
Hahaha, om mane padme hum.
If you were a spiritual leader what would be your most important message to your followers?
You don’t need to follow anybody. You’re all individuals!
Do you still see yourself travelling the world playing Psytrance in another ten years time?
I don’t know if they’ll be calling it Psytrance by then, but whatever it’s called I’ll be playing it!
What is it about Psytrance in your opinion that sets it apart from others dance music genres?
Psytrance is not only a form of entertainment. It also serves a different purpose. Whilst it is highly entertaining and can be enjoyed on that level, it can also act as a portal to attain different states of consciousness through its mantra like repetition, abstract sounds, and strong energy. I call it the sonic mandala.
What is your role in the Psytrance community?
I’m an ambassador for cosmic consciousness!
What do you like the most about your job? And the least?
The most rewarding part is the indescribable thrill of hearing a new track unfold in the studio and bearing witness to the creative process. The travelling can be pretty exhausting, but there’s not really much to dislike about this job!
After the success of your last album what do you have planned in the way of releases?
I’m just putting the finishing touches on an absolute banger of a collaboration album. I have had the privilege of working with some of the most amazing musicians in the scene including Tristan, Eat Static, Dick Trevor, Avalon, Space Tribe, and Electric Universe. I’m also working on a track for a new album being compiled by Tristan for Nano Records.
What does being part of the Nano family mean to you?
Nano is far more than just a record label. It is a global community of amazing, switched on people. It is an honour to be a part of that.
What state of mind are you trying to facilitate for your audiences during your show?
I hope that people will get what they need from my performances. Some people are just looking for a good time, and that’s fine. But some people may be looking for a full out of body transcendental mind warp, and I hope they can get that too!
Do you love the music and music-making process as much as ever?
Absolutely. The music is always evolving. There is always more to learn and discover and it’s infinitely rewarding.
What is the meaning of life?
There is no meaning there is only life!