Earlier this year, Los Angeles-based musicians and producers Austin Love and Matt “Niko” dropped their debut single under the moniker of BOSSMACHINE. As the duo experimented with deep bass, trap beats, and pop melodies, it was clear that ‘Hypnotic’ was a tune I would be returning to often. Since then, the pair have gone on to release 13 more singles as well as their debut album ‘Untitled’.
Intrigued to discover more about the duo, I was amped when they agreed to an interview. Chatting with us about the reasons behind ‘Hypnotic’ being their very first release, how they came up with their name, and which records they’d take with them to a deserted island, please give a big welcome to our friends Austin and Niko of BOSSMACHINE!
Hello and welcome Austin and Niko! I’m so excited to introduce you to our loving and ever-growing audience! Before we get into the nitty-gritty, tell us a little bit about your musical journeys and what has led you two to where you are today.
Hey there! And thanks for that introduction. It’s been a wild ride! Niko and I were friends before ever working with each other. It wasn’t until the pandemic that our sonic adventures collided. The rest is basically history in the making. We’re on the hunt for the perfect groove.
My love affair with your sound began when I heard ‘Hypnotic‘ and, if I’m not mistaken, it was the very first tune you released. What made you pick the song as the very first to introduce yourselves to the world?
During the writing process, ‘Hypnotic’ felt like the first time we hit a cohesive balance in fusing genres. It’s dynamic enough to keep the attention of a goldfish (you know how it is) and so it became our musical calling card. We thought, “Why not start with something that makes them tap their feet and do a little happy dance?”
You are undoubtedly one of the most prolific acts I’ve ever come across! Since ‘Hypnotic’, you’ve released 13 more singles and an entire full-length album! Does the entire “song-making process” come very naturally to you?
We treat the studio like a creative dojo with a side hustle in music. Making a song is a bit like painting the perfect picture – you need the right palette of sounds, a balanced stroke of frequencies, and the audacity to drop it when everyone’s thirsty for a masterpiece.
Speaking of your brand new album…It’s simply superb! Is there an overarching theme to the record or is each tune meant to stand on its own?
Thanks for the kind words! Our album is like a curated playlist with different moods, emotions, and vibes. We wanted every song to stand independently, yet be part of an overarching adventure. Each track is a chapter, and you can binge-listen or enjoy them on their own.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
We’re just here not trying to be the equivalent of dad jokes at a house party.
I’m a sucker for having to know the origins of a band’s name. I just can’t help myself! How exactly did BOSSMACHINE come about, and why all caps as well?
In a hungover stupor, the two of us started spitballing ideas with the album playing in the background. I believe we considered Liquid Crush, Deep Pocket Squad, and Money Flight. Luckily, none of them stuck. Why all caps? Because lowercase letters couldn’t contain our awesomeness.
OK, you two – desert island time! You’re each allowed to grab 3 albums before being stranded on an island. Which do you choose?
Austin – If we’re stuck on a desert island, I’m grabbing ‘Dookie’ by Green Day for the existential vibes. Then ‘The Bones of What You Believe’ by Chvrches to dance in the sand to. And finally ‘Kid A’ by Radiohead to keep me grounded.
Niko – If stranded, I would have to have ‘Songs in the Key of Life’ By Stevie Wonder for motivation, ‘Settle’ by Disclosure of course for something to dance along with, and ‘Bustin out on L Seven’ by Rick James because I love the classics.
Thanks so much for chatting with us you two! It’s been great getting to know you better. Before we let you go, what comes next for the project?
We are about to take on the party scene as a concept. We’re cooking up a surprise and the beats will be spicy! All we can say is buckle up, buckaroos. Be well.
