Pherns, a Pacific Northwest-based DJ and producer, has recently debuted opening for Potions and Player Dave at the North Warehouse in Portland. We had the chance to ask pherns some questions and learn more about what his plans are, and how he got started.
DMNW: Can you tell me a little bit about how you got started?
pherns: I was a photographer for local punk bands in my late teens/early 20s, which was fun, but not want I wanted in the long term. One night, a friend brought over his DJ controller and I had that “aha moment” people talk about. After that, I immediately switched focus.
DMNW: What is at the core of why you create music, and specifically electronic music?
pherns: I have an incessant need to create, and there’s something satisfying about music as an art form. I make electronic music because it’s what I grew up on, and the live aspect is completely irreplaceable.
Credit: pherns
DMNW: Is there a specific story you are trying to tell with pherns?
pherns: Honestly, not really. If there is a story, it’s just that I’m a boy from the PNW that makes beats and likes plants.
DMNW: Who are some of your biggest inspirations?
pherns: Digital Ethos, Slang Dogs, Sully, Swarm, Rome in Silver & lots more.
DMNW: What can we expect from pherns in 2023 and beyond?
pherns: Quality content. We have a lot of video/skits we want to do this year. I would love to play more shows outside the PNW, and of course release more music!
DMNW: How has being based in the Pacific Northwest impacted your artistry?
pherns: It’s impacted me in a huge way. You have a different appreciation for the earth, growing up here. There really is a massive benefit to being connected with nature, and having the convenience of having so many parks nearby.
DMNW: What are some of the little things that have been keeping you going?
pherns: Having friends who share the same artist struggle helps massively. It’s SO easy to get down on yourself/your project and it’s only natural to have lows & highs. Believe in yourself and hype up those around you.
DMNW: What have been some of the most exciting moments of your career thus far?
pherns: So many. I had a project before this and had one weekend where I played with Funtcase in Seattle, & the next night did direct support for Habstrakt in Portland. It was an absolutely insane weekend for me.
Credit: pherns
DMNW: How would you describe your music?
pherns: Experimental Bass with a 90s-era hip-hop twist. I try to include boom-bap-style drums in most of my tracks if you listen for it.
DMNW: What can we expect from your debut pherns show?
pherns: Lots of my released tracks and a bunch of IDs I’ve been working on. You can certainly expect to hear some throwbacks and other non-edm elements in my set as well.
DMNW: Is there anything else that you want to mention?
pherns: You are loved, talented & accepted. Always talk to your friends and reach out to someone if you ever need help.
Be sure to stream pherns, keep an eye out for future releases, and follow him on Instagram and facebook!
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