Meet the Artists: Raspber
As we continue to explore the talented artists featured on Disciples of Distortion Vol. 3, we’re excited to introduce Raspber. Known for his versatile approach to drum and bass, Raspber brings a dancefloor-ready track to this year’s compilation with “Don’t Give It To You.” His journey from classical music roots to the neurofunk scene is as unique as his sound.
Disciples of Distortion Vol 3 | Out Now: https://cygnusmusic.link/bn4lgyq
Meet Raspber
Can you share a brief background about yourself as an artist? How did you get started in music, and what are some of your influences?
Well, this is a bit of a long story, which has already been described in detail by James Clarke in my artist spotlight on Stonx Music. To give you a quick overview, I started with a flute in music academy and played in a female flute choir—quite a different start compared to where I am now in drum and bass production! This classical background gave me a solid base in music theory, which has been incredibly useful in my production journey. I’ve always been influenced by a wide range of genres because I spent a long time searching for my place in music. I tried many styles, from electro house to dubstep, before discovering the power of broken beats. Now, I’m not strictly a neurofunk producer—I’ve drawn influence from all the styles I’ve explored along the way.
(Related: Check out Raspber’s previous releases on Stonx Music to hear how his sound has evolved)
What was the inspiration behind your track on this compilation? Can you walk us through your creative process for “Don’t Give It To You”?
It’s rare that I have an idea before starting a new project, and this track was no different. I just wanted to make something that people could dance to. Picture a great rave with your friends, and that’s the vibe I was aiming for. The creative process itself was pretty straightforward—no fancy granulator synthesis or brutal saturation processing here! I focused on keeping it simple and effective. Sometimes, simplicity is key.
Are there any specific production techniques or tools you used in this track that you’d like to highlight?
Definitely! This was the first time I used my own voice in a track. I found a sample of it in an old library from 2020, and I used it because it doesn’t sound like me at all! It was a fun experiment.
Did you face any challenges while creating this track? How did you overcome them?
Honestly, there weren’t any significant challenges with this one. It’s a simple dance track without any complicated structures or sound design. Sometimes, less is more, and DJs often prefer simpler tracks for easier blending.
Is there a personal story or meaning behind this track that you’d like to share?
Yes, there is, but I’d rather let listeners draw their own conclusions from the track’s title. The phrase “Don’t Give It To You” can mean different things to different people. For me, it’s about knowing when to say “no” to protect your time, energy, and love. This year, I made some tough decisions, like quitting smoking after 15 years and focusing more on my mental and physical health. I want to give all my time and energy to the things that truly make me happy and better.
The Track
Raspber – Don’t Give It To You
Raspber returns to Stonx Music with “Don’t Give It To You,” a quintessential stabby, groovy 1/8 note chugger that keeps the dancefloor moving. Centered around a catchy vocal sample and a chuggy bassline, this track embraces the “less is more” philosophy. As Raspber puts it, this track is all about simplicity—just close your eyes and imagine a good rave with friends. With its straightforward structure and simple, effective sound design, “Don’t Give It To You” is perfect for creating smooth transitions and maintaining the groove in any set.
How do you view the community of artists involved in Disciples of Distortion Vol. 3? Have you collaborated with any of the other artists on the compilation before?
The Stonx Music community is full of amazing, friendly, and supportive people. I’ve been in contact with most of the artists on DOD3, and I hope to meet the rest soon. Unfortunately, I haven’t collaborated with any of the artists from Stonx Music yet, which is a shame, but I’m a pretty introverted producer. I’ve only done a few collaborations in my career, but I’m working on changing that. Skorpion and I started something last year, and while we haven’t found the right way to finish it yet, I’m optimistic we will. I’ve also reached out to some other guys in the community, and I’m really looking forward to those collaborations!
What can your fans expect from you in the near future? Are there any upcoming projects or releases you’d like to mention?
I’m working hard on my next EP, which will be full of dancefloor neurofunk—something I’ve really leaned into over the last two years. It’s also going to include some deep, techy tracks. I’m not rushing it, so we’ll see when it’s ready for takeoff. I’m also working on two remixes.
Sometimes a less is more and DJs prefer simple tracks more for easier blending.
Raspber
What advice would you give to up-and-coming artists who are trying to make a name for themselves in the electronic music scene?
Personally, I wasted a lot of time in the beginning because I didn’t know if I wanted to make music just for myself and a few friends, or for the public. I also didn’t let anyone help me, so I learned most things on my own. My advice is simple: music is about community. Share your tracks with friends and producers who can give you feedback, because that’s crucial. You’ll never learn properly or improve your sound until you train your ears to listen correctly. Feedback saves time and helps you progress faster.
Are there any other projects, labels, or events you’d like to promote? Feel free to give a shoutout!
Definitely! Big shoutout to Ollie and the entire Stonx Music team—they’ve supported me almost from the start of my time in the UK. They work incredibly hard! I also want to shout out to the Liverpool gang, especially Chugz for SETI box, and my favorite B2B DJs B33ba and 7ph_8ts. Big up to Brainrave for my debut show in the UK, and all the crews, DJs, streamers, fans, and labels pushing and supporting neurofunk on the UK scene—like Neuroheadz, VTO Recordings, 1More Thing, and many more!
I can’t forget my roots, so big love to the Czech Republic as well. It’s impossible to list everyone who influenced my music journey there, but they know who they are.
What do you hope listeners take away from your music and this release?
I hope listeners take away a good vibe from it. It’s tough to maintain a good vibe during challenging times, but after bad times, good times always come.
Where can fans connect with you online?
Raspber:
https://raspber.bandzoogle.com
For more updates, keep an eye on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages.
Disciples of Distortion Vol 3 | Out Now: https://cygnusmusic.link/bn4lgyq
Words by STONX and Stonx Music Co – Founder Ollie Barron
