You may remember the musician Noise Cans from our MCM after-party following our Fashion Media Awards. The DJ/producer, who is known for his artful disguises, has dropped a new EP and is breaking down everything you need to know about it to us.
Tell us about the new EP!
First off, you should download now [Laughs]. Masquerave is a mix of Caribbean vibes, which is always the core of my music, mixed with electronic and modern sound. Coming from Bermuda, I was raised listening to reggae, dancehall and soca, but I would also hear Top 40, soul, classic rock, etc. It sounds cliché but I wanted to bring together all of the sounds that I loved growing up.
How do you describe your sound in general?
If you had to categorize it, I would say electronic dance music but it’s so much more than that as you can tell by the artists I collaborate with. My sound is hard to put in a box and that’s on purpose. The influences of the music I grew up with in Bermuda will always be the core but my sound evolves almost daily as I get exposed and introduced to various things in life, new artists and styles of music. Every artist I work with or see perform inspires me in some way. If you’re not evolving and innovating in this industry, you get stale fast. And I’m just getting started!
Who are some of the people you’ve collaborated with on the tracks?
I wanted a well-rounded mix of artists on this EP that could help shape and bring to life a full body of work in my eyes. I had a vision and brought together a group of artists that I truly admire and it all came together beautifully. I have reggae/dancehall artists: Jesse Royal, I-Octane and Mr. Lexx, ASTR who is one of my favorite alternative artists, and Louise Chantel, who is an amazing upcoming R&B act. I also linked up with my brothers Yellow Claw and Skinto from Amsterdam.
What song are you most excited about on the EP?
I love them all but if I had to choose one I would say “No War” featuring Jesse Royal. The song is so relatable to the times that we are living in.
How hard do people try to get you to take your mask off?
All the time, especially the ladies. I remember being in Miami for Ultra and we were on the Noisey/Vice boat cruise. The amount of women that came up asking for me to take the mask off was unreal. The women were so hot I actually thought about it…[Laughs]. Just kidding.
What would it take to get you to do that?!
I don’t have a price. Not happening.
Your outfits are a big part of your brand. How do you describe your style?
I would say my style is Jamaican rude boy meets Savile Row. I’m a huge fan of classic ’70s Jamaican movies. I think the style from that time was epic so I try to mix it with elements of street style. I move around a lot, so I like to be as comfortable as possible.
Has your style remained constant throughout the years, or has it evolved?
I’ve been constant with a lot of the core things that I’ve liked from an early age and just carried that into my style today. I would say that’s the foundation but then it evolves with adding new designers/ looks to the things that I consider my core style. I’ve really taken an interest in accessories like rings. I get them from all over the world. You can find me scouting for new gems in vintage stores or even the streets of New York. I’m also always looking for suit companies that are doing things with color—it helps me achieve that ’70s Jamaican/rude boy look I love. Adidas tracksuits for me are a staple, as their fun colors let me create the island vibe while still being fly and having that street element. For shoes, I like to keep it simple and classy. I often mix staple trainers and Clark’s depending on my outfit and mood. I believe you don’t have to spend a lot to be stylish. It’s about all about your attitude and willingness to take chances.
What’s something we’d be surprised to learn about you?
I love country music!
