Bad Math Oceans Interview

Bad Math Returns with a Sonically Melodic New Single Titled, Oceans

Alternative hip hop artist Bad Math returns with a sonically melodic new single 'Oceans'.

Showcasing his vast skills, Bad Math takes a more unique approach on this single, using the atmosphere around him to create a spacey, out-of-body experience.

Filled with rich grooves, lush textures and smooth vocals from singer Nina run throughout, 'Oceans' demonstrates his incredible ability for creating undeniable timeless static-driven music.

In the grounds of this incredible musician's haven, Bad Math found tranquillity and inspiration amongst the surrounding oceans and sprawling seaside, harnessing the creative atmosphere that hangs in the ether.

On the single Bad Math said, "This track is an ode to the ocean. It began with lazy, distorted, rhode chords that I thought had a 'surf' quality to them. Right then in the moment I had the title of the track," "Building the rest of the song was such an organic process when I imagined ocean waves crashing against rocks. When I added the tribal percussion everything seemed to fall into place. I knew it needed the sounds of the ocean sampled in strategic places. Dim enough that it subliminally takes you to this place I envisioned,"

The single was mixed and mastered by Oliver Dibley. Bad Math's recent release 'Dead Jokers' featuring Viking N3 sees Bad Math unleash his first batch of new musical offerings. With 'Dead Jokers' receiving love from tastemakers across the globe.

Interview with Bad Math

Question: How would you describe your music?

Bad Math: I change genres so much that I'm not even sure anymore. You'll hear hints of jazz, soul, funk, downtempo, electronic, lofi, but at heart I always have a hip hop foundation.

Everything I make will always have a hip hop base. This is why I "claim" the term "experimental hip hop". I'm not really sure where I am going genre wise and I like it that way.


Question: What message do you hope to spread with your music?

Bad Math: I always had an affinity for the misfit kid sitting in his bedroom listening to music as an escape from the world. I was once that kid. So I hope I'm doing the same for someone out there; music has the power to heal and inspire.

I want people to understand that music doesn't have to be so "on-beat" or "glossy" and imperfections are perfection.

Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

Bad Math: "Celestial" from the mix tape with the same name. I like to watch people process the amount of random glitch sounds and samples that I packed into one track.

I have yet to perform "Dead Jokers" ft. Viking N3, I think with the Viking himself would be epic live!


Question: If you could have anyone, in the world, attend a show, who would it be?

Bad Math: This is such an interesting question and I want to say MF DOOM or J Dilla or some kind of hip hop legend but I'm going to have to say Ariana Grande, I have such a crush on her, I'd take her on an after gig date!


Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Bad Math: I love playing live and feeding off the energy in the crowd there's no feeling like it but I'm going to have to go with recording. I just love the songwriting process especially when you're stuck on something and overcome the writer's block.

I live in my head a lot so when I sit down to a blank canvas. I've got a lot to communicate; it's like some sort of musical therapy session.


Question: What is the story behind the band name?

Bad Math: I honestly couldn't think of a name and thought "I suck at math? What about Bad Math?"

Question: How did the band come together?

Bad Math: I was emceeing a few years ago and almost finished a rap album that I was so sick of. Every time I would get sick of listening to the same tracks over and over. I would take a break and make a random beat.

By the end of the album I was writing I had five beats that were so much better than my rap album. I packaged those beats up into an EP and started sending out to people and that's how I got in touch with my label, Fight Music.


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

Bad Math: Imagery; if I can imagine a particular scenario, for instance my single featuring Nina Nervegna: I imagined the ocean, crashing waves on rocks, extreme swell and tried to translate that to sound.


Question: Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Bad Math: I'm currently digging Rayven Lenae, Jill Scott and Erykah Badu. Super into soul vibes as of late.


Question: What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Bad Math: I was in the music industry as a teen 14-15 years old getting lifts from our parents to crappy gigs on the weekend. But what really made to strive for a career was meeting Tyler the Creator. I met him back in 2012 and he was so cool; he hooked me up with backstage to his Sydney show and just treated me so well. I remember thinking I want to do something like this for a fan when I'm in this position.


Question: If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?
Bad Math: I need a MF DOOM verse! but besides DOOM definitely Erykah Badu or Alicia Keys OR anyone from Goth Boi Clique.


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?

Bad Math: The journey to the top!


Question: Can you share your socials?

Bad Math: All social media you can find me at @badmathsydney but just search Bad Math on Spotify if you like!


Interview by Brooke Hunter