Nowsm

Name, where are you from?
Alfie Holloway. I’m from Matlock in Derbyshire.

Describe your style in three words?
Casual, comfortable, subtle.

What’s the best gig you’ve ever been to?
Sub Focus at Nass 2011 (I think?) The audio and visuals blew my mind, it opened my mind as a young ‘un. Also, The Avalanches at the Albert Hall in Manchester after their second album was released. Was just wicked, proper feel good.

If you could be on the line up with any two artists in history?
Gil Scott-Heron, honestly just to hear his voice first-hand and to have a conversation about stuff I probably can’t comprehend. Beastie Boys - So I could see them live. I’m not sure I’ll ever experience a gig that generates that level of energy. I’ve watched their show in Glasgow from 1999 so many times. Jealous.

Which subcultures have influenced you?
Like many electronic producers, British rave culture (especially jungle and drum & bass in my case) has had such a monstrous impact, so much so that you can even hate the music but still be inspired. British skate culture - knocking about the skate park trying to fit in, drinking Relentless, wearing skinny jeans, not for fashion, but so they didn’t get caught in your BMX chain. I was terrible on a BMX but it didn’t matter.

If you could spend an hour with anyone from history?
Tutankhamun (as in the actual pharaoh) - to satisfy a childhood obsession. Musically, probably Ian Curtis.

Of all the venues you’ve been to or played, which is your favourite?
I’ve always loved the Albert Hall in Manchester because of its windows, its subtle grandness and because you feel close even on the balcony.

Your greatest unsung hero or heroine in music?
Arthur Russell - a mate introduced me to him. An amazingly unique musician whose life was cut so short. I recommend the documentary ‘Wild Combination: a Portrait of Arthur Russell’.

Nowsm was picked by Gilles Peterson as one of his Year 6 Future Bubblers. Catch the Future Bubblers performing at The Jazz Cafe, London on 29th July. Find out more here.