Lion’s Drums: The ‘Ransom Note’ Mix

Music

Lion’s Drums‘ name is an apt description of the Marseille producer’s sound.

Rhythm and heavy percussion are at the centre of his work — once you’ve heard one of his tracks, you’ll be hard pressed not to recognise the rest of his musical endeavours.

Beyond these core components, Lion’s Drums – real name Harold Boué – draws inspiration from his surroundings. In his own words, it’s ‘a bit rough, luminous though’, just like external perceptions of Marseille. But perhaps most discernibly, it pays tribute to the diversity of the city, taking cues from Mediterranean, African and Northern European culture and tradition.

It’s under his other moniker though that he first began making music all the way back in 2005. As Abstraxion Harold released several EPs and LPs, including outings on Nicolas Jaar’s Other People, Jennifer Cardini’s label Dischi Autunno and Biologic Records – the label he co-runs with Brussels producer DC Salas. It’s been a home for a wealth of exciting artists since launching, including but not limited to Matisa, ڭليثرGlitter٥٥ and Malcolm, and the label bosses themselves.

More recently Harold’s had his edit hat firmly on. Two hypnotic drum workouts of Manos Tsangaris came out last autumn on Cocktail d’Amor, one of which was premiered here on R$N, and these were quickly followed by long player, La Batterie, which consisted of edits, remixes and original works, all focused on the potential of the drum.

Of course, with Harold there’s no rest for the wicked so expect plenty more in store under both his aliases this year. But first, we invited him to record our mix for our main series, and here it is in all its mutating rhythmic glory…

Ransom Note · Lion's Drums: The 'Ransom Note' Mix

Please introduce yourself… Who are you, where are you and what are you

My name is Harold, I’m a musician & DJ as Lion’s Drums & Abstraxion, based in Marseille.

What does your music sound like?

My music sounds like my city Marseille, a bit rough, luminous though and influenced by elements of Mediterranean, African and Northern European cultures. This has translated into a heavily percussive sound.

Where was the mix recorded?

In my recording studio, near the sea.

What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?

Any setting works, as long as it sounds good for you. Ideally you could be outside on a sunny day with good friends to share a glass of wine (or pastis if it’s late).

What should we be wearing?

Something that makes you feel good. It’s not all techno so you don’t need to be dressed all in black.

What would be your dream setting to record a mix: Location/system/format?

Normally at home but in a dream setting I’ll be with all my friends for exemple at Encore Encore festival, a small festival in Correns south of France, that we organize in July surrounded by good organic food & wine, playing a football match as soon as my set is finished.

Which track in the mix is your current favourite?

First one is an upcoming track from Caïn Muchi on Biologic records. I also really enjoy all the sound textures as well as all the rhythmical elements from DJ JM & Amor Satyr tracks.

What’s your favourite recorded mix of all time?

I don’t have a favourite one but I love Shyboi’s vibe

also LSDXOXO

If you could go back to back with any DJ from throughout history, who would it be and why?

It’s hard to choose but it would be between Daphni, James Murphy & Larry Levan. Definitively have to be one of my biggest inspirations.

What was your first DJ set up at home and what is it now?

I started with CDJ100 and DJM600 and 2 Gemini turntables in 2005. Now I have CDJ 2000 Nexus / Xone 92 / Technics SL1200 MK5

What’s more important, the track you start on or the track you end on?

Both or none, I’m not sure.

What were the first and last records you bought?

The first record I bought in 1995 when I was 9 is Sister Queen – Let Me Be A Drag Queen. And the last one from Space Drum Meditation SDM004.

If this mix was an edible thing, what would it taste like?

A pizza “Capucine” (tomato sauce, salads w/ olive oil and fresh lemon juice dressing, artichoke, fresh bush, parmesan an the top) or a pineapple, but not mixed.

If it was an animal what would it be?

A lion or a rat

One record in your collection that is impossible to mix into anything?

Probably some concrete music from Manos Tsangaris.

Upcoming in the world of Lion’s Drums…

I’ve just released an album, La Batterie, on Cocktail d’Amore Music and an EP of edits that I’ve made of Sandy B’s classic EP Amajovi Jovi. Finishing the mixdown of my next album as Abstraxion and a compilation to be released in July with artists from Marseille and Brussels.