James Varnish is a Melbourne based singer/producer who proudly describes himself as an “unashamed electro-pop artist”. His debut single Compare is currently pillaging commercial radio and his EP of the same name (available now from iTunes) features moody reworkings from the likes of Murder One, Lifelike and Frenchman Nicolas Chenard. Get to know him better as he discusses his five favourite songs and videos of all time. Take it away James.
Nitzer Ebb – “Control I’m Here”
I discovered this track and bought it at a market when I was at Uni, I had never heard of Nitzer Ebb or the song before but I instantly loved the synth bass line and the experimental attitude.
Berlin – “Sex (I’m A Man)” – Extended Version
First of all this track has such great production. 12″ mixes from this era have been a very important influence on my music because of the arrangements and how each track breaks down. I wish I was in this video clip. Anyone for an oyster?
Tommy Seebach – “Bubble Sex”
One of my co-writers sent this track to me when we were working on some music together. Needless to say I instantly indentified with the bass line, the sexiness and Tommy Seebach’s hair!
Black Strobe – “Me and Madonna”
Output Recordings is such a great label. I love the whole vibe of this track, from the lyrical concept (my favourite line is ‘You’re my silicone love’) to the wonderful accent by the the female vocalist and her too cool attitude.
Op:l Bastards – “Scorpius”
It’s all about the bass line again and those melodic instrumental lines that float on the top of the music. Makes me want to hit a club right now!
