Despite being a bit more quiet on the release front this calendar year, Pocket still managed to snag a spot in our Top 50 Songs of 2022 with ‘Heartbreak Engineering,’ and returns today to 4XLA to close out this campaign with a beautiful dual single titled ‘Sapphire/My Love.’

Staying true to his unique style, Pocket shares just over six minutes of pure auditory bliss with his latest set of tracks. ‘Sapphire’ is upbeat and cheery, as the artist layers catchy vocals above a groovy melody and a rhythmic drum pattern. ‘My Love’ follows that same vibe, but boasts a bit more of a melancholic or nostalgic feel in its approach. This second cut plays more on emotions than the first, nicely balancing the tone of the dual single.

‘Sapphire/My Love’ touches on all the right chords, furthering my (and hopefully your) love for Pocket. Dive in below.

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Following the release of ‘Heartbreak Engineering‘ that was first teased in his guest mix for us late last year, the creative now returns with a new single titled ‘Wax’ via Signal >> Supply, an Atlantic Records UK imprint. A common theme in Pocket’s tunes is that one can expect a certain level of groove and rhythm, and the artist always manages to add a certain flair to his tracks to keep them unique. Scoped within that signature sound yet sprinkled with his Midas touch once more, ‘Wax’ is more quintessential Pocket, with minimal garage percussion luring you in before layers of synths, vocals and effects take center-stage. Not too drastic between its highs and its lows yet never growing monotonous as a result of its gradual variability, ‘Wax’ is a tune tailored for summer listening. Don’t miss it below.

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Now, the artist looks to kick off 2022 in high gear with a new single titled ‘Wishing You Well’ via the imprint that has welcomed his sound throughout much of his journey, 4XLA. First teased as an ID in his mix for us, ‘Wishing You Well’ is quintessential Pocket, luring listeners in with catchy vocals before blowing us away with raw, unadulterated passion. In the first half, the skilled creative layers angelic vocals above his scintillating production to create a groovy ballad that will send shivers down your spine. The second half is slightly different, as the intensity takes a back seat to a lighter, vocal-driven section that is equally beautiful and further showcases the genius behind the artist.

Pocket has an uncanny way of making your soul move with his music, and ‘Wishing You Well’ is but another splendid example. Don’t miss it below.

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Today, we have the extreme pleasure of showcasing what a potential Pocket live set would sound like, in addition to diving into the mind of the talented artist. In thirty minutes, Pocket delivers one of the most feels-riddled guest mixes we’ve ever had the pleasure of hosting, while also providing insight into his journey as an artist, his relationship with his home country, his future plans, and much more. Dive in below.

Welcome, Pocket! Let’s get right to it. The dawn of 2021 saw a drastic change in your artistic representation, namely a significant change in sound and the switch from Watgood to Pocket. What was the main motivator behind this alias change?

I had felt myself drifting from wanting to create club orientated tunes for a little while, specifically the more American brand of EDM. It wasn’t a reflection of my views of that scene particularly but personally it became less fun for me having to focus on loudness and sound design as the central motivator of the whole project. Even in my final Watgood EP the sound was changing drastically. When it came to making music as Pocket I found that spark and excitement that I had lost over the years and began revisiting styles of music I had always wanted to pursue but was able to put my own twist on it all.

I’m making music for the listener within myself and it’s been very rewarding.

Almost one year in, how do you feel about this change? Any regrets? Best decision of your life? Somewhere in between?

It was absolutely the best decision I could have made. I’m blessed to have a great manager now that understands what I want to achieve down the line and shares the excitement for discovery that I’ve rekindled with this project. It also just feeds into the idea that people are drawn to authenticity and I’ve felt that more in the last 9 months of Pocket than I ever had before. I’m making music for the listener within myself and it’s been very rewarding.

You were recently in the States, correct? How was your trip? Was it for business or pleasure?

Pleasure mostly. I wanted to get away and spend time around my friends. Sometimes it can be isolated living so far away from the people you surround yourself with. But it was such a great trip and I got to connect with friends and loved ones who I have known for a long time. Americans certainly have a way of making you feel accepted as part of a family, at least in my experience.

Did you play any gigs? Are any gigs planned for you in the future, whether in North America or in the UK/Europe?

I didn’t play any gigs, no, I was visiting on a travel visa so wasn’t allowed to perform or work. But went to plenty of events and fell in love with the energy a little bit. In 2022 we’re going to be putting a lot of emphasis on live performances and seeing where we can take the project in a live music capacity.

There are plenty of people I want to work with but I definitely feel an urge to carve out my own space as an artist and show people what I have to offer before I start associating with different artists and sharing a track.

On social media, you’re quite vocal about not loving Scotland. Why do you feel like you don’t belong in your home country?

To clear this up, I absolutely love being from where I’m from. Scotland is a beautiful country with a lot to offer. What I really mean is, like anywhere, if you spend your life somewhere you also experience the lows of daily life and the trauma of your experiences in that place. I associate Scotland with parts of my life that I’m ready to move past. It’s a two-steps-forwards one-step-back type situation for me being home. I’m at the point in my life where I’m ready to live elsewhere permanently. Some might call that running away from your problems, but I don’t want to feel bogged down somewhere that doesn’t make me happy.

On the other hand, what made you feel so at home when you were in the States?

The people. I met so many incredible people that made my experiences so wonderful. Being around like-minded creatives and somewhere where I felt free of judgment. There is less pessimism in daily life than what I know, and I felt that rubbing off on me which became quite addictive.

We definitely intrinsically revert to creating from a perspective of escapism.

You recently posted an excerpt from a Sam Gellaitry interview that resonated with you. Can you speak to this cultural phenomenon, perhaps relating it back to what you said about Scotland? Do you feel a pressure to create music that counteracts the gloomy surroundings?

Absolutely, and I hadn’t even thought about it in this way until I read the interview. We definitely intrinsically revert to creating from a perspective of escapism. Here in Scotland generally we’re so far removed from these big creative hubs, studio sessions, festivals and the optimism that places like LA and London (to an extent) offer. Most of the time it’s a case of “how can I create an environment in the confinements I’m in that promote the excitement one would get from being less isolated.”

You’re also a vegan, right? When did you make the decision to go vegan? Why did you make this decision?

I’m less strict on this right now. But I was a vegan for over 2 years and plan on cutting back on the extras again soon. I just find I feel my healthiest on a vegan diet, and I also often do feel guilty if I’m not eating vegan considering the moral and environmental impact of consuming meat and, in my case, the occasional bit of dairy.

Aside from your work with Rohaan (which is phenomenal, by the way), 2021 has been a year filled with individual works. Is this a conscious choice? Do you prefer working alone? How does your workflow differ when working with someone else?

Thank you! It hasn’t been too conscious but I think I’m probably quite picky when it comes to collaborators. It also takes a long time for me to land on demos that I feel confident finishing when I work alone. I’m very specific about what I want to put out to the world. There are plenty of people I want to work with but I definitely feel an urge to carve out my own space as an artist and show people what I have to offer before I start associating with different artists and sharing a track. I love collaboration though, it’s so important to invite other people’s workflow and ideas into your space.

What do you have in store for the upcoming year?

We’re working on a lot more releases, remixes and hopefully get on the live circuit in the next year. I’m very excited to switch things up aesthetically after my next couple of singles are out.

Any final words?

Thank you to everyone who is supporting my work. I’ve worked so hard over the years and I am very grateful to have landed on something that makes me this happy. And if you feel how I was feeling when I made the switch to a new project, I really suggest taking a step back to discover what makes you happy. Don’t let uncertainty eat away at your creative process because it’s fragile enough as it is. Love you all.

Tracklist:

Brent Faiyaz – Fuck The World (Huna Edit)
Trampique – Fake Love
ID – ID
Eocene Nine – Chasm
Pocket – Different Ways To Love You
Crematorium – What I Need
Overmono – So U Kno
Pholo – 2WISH
Four Tet x Ariana Grande – Lush/Positions (Gaszia Edit)
Wen – Swerve (El-B Remix) x Odd Mob – Soulja Tool
Volor Flex – 1.12
Direct – Grow Cold (w Brandy – Right Here)
Pale Outsider – Fractured Disparity
ID – ID
Beshken – Like You Do
Four Tet – Killer
Lion – Visage Androgyne
ID – ID
Overmono – If U Ever

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Following up on ‘A Pearl‘ released via the same imprint a couple of months back, ‘Without You Here’ is immediately recognizable as a Pocket track within the first seconds, with the artist setting the stage for the emotional roller coaster that follows with his quintessential glistening textures. Gradually building the energy with crisp percussion and a soothing vocal sample, Pocket pairs a silky melody and a groovy bassline to further pull at your heartstrings. Bridging the first and second drops with a touching section that’s melancholic and introspective, Pocket demonstrates his true mastery of sound in his ability to balance highs and lows throughout the track. Don’t miss ‘Without You Here’ below.

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Pocket and Rohaan aren’t the first producers that one would think of when asked who would be best suited to collaborate with each respective artist, but being under the same management can open doors that one might have never considered in the past. And when it works, it works. Part of bitbird‘s Gouldian Finch 04 set to release on October 15th, ‘idontwannabeafraid’ is an unlikely combination of seemingly unique sounds forming into one incredible, soul-stirring track.

The Gouldian Finch compilations have always showcased rich, meaningful tracks from established and up-and-coming talents, and the latest from Pocket and Rohaan is a perfect fit for this imprint. Following up releases from Duskus, Dot, Tails, Couros, and Slow Magic, the pair of producers contribute an exquisite mix of future garage and drum and bass to the ensemble, with each creative making his mark individually but both flexing an undeniable sonic chemistry. As Pocket’s first official collaboration, ‘idontwannabeafraid’ sets the bar high for his versatility, having already dazzled us with a set of glistening singles. Similarly, Rohaan has been on a hot streak of his own lately, with releases on Sable Valley, Space Yacht and Pilot Records all in the last month.

‘idontwannabeafraid’ oddly combines rave-like rhythms with unmatched emotive riffs, creating exactly what one could imagine from a Pocket and Rohaan teaming, but simultaneously exceeding expectations. It’s intricate and detailed, but easy to listen to. It’s rapid in tempo, but not overwhelming in energy. Pocket and Rohaan balance their individual influences to concoct a piece filled with spine-chilling textures and melodies, without escaping the natural energy found in drum and bass-leaning tracks. It’s extremely difficult to do such a beautiful track justice with words, so we implore you to dive into this one with your eyes closed and heart open – it’s guaranteed to move you. Don’t miss ‘idontwannabeafraid’ below.

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“To me, the song felt like this precious item once I’d completed it. It had a feeling of delicacy and total individuality. I always strive to write melodies and have them be texturally interesting, and this felt like no exception. However to me, there is something more polished and straightforward about ‘A Pearl’, and that’s why I love it so much,” Pocket states about his latest. Building upon his incredibly infectious signature sound in ‘A Pearl,’ Pocket uses simple yet satisfying vocal and synth leads to create spine-chilling rhythms that are equally soothing as they are upbeat. The bassline and percussion carry a natural groove to them that make listeners want to dance the night away, but the pairing with magical effects and crisp vocal sampling keeps the emotions flowing throughout. ‘A Pearl’ is a rich future garage ballad that can be played on repeat for hours on end.

With more releases lined up for the rest of the year, you can expect more from Pocket soon. Until then, dive into ‘A Pearl’ below.

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And now to push the vision and relaxing movement further, they’ve recruited a couple of incredible up-and-coming musicians to help remix notable tracks off the Catching Z’s mixtape! Artists such as IMANU, Quiet Bison, Pocket and even A-BO have all chimed in to take on this beautiful challenge. To evolve as creatives as well as paying homage to Zeds Dead’s life-changing mixes. So prepare to find surprises lurking around every corner. You won’t be expecting what’s to come!

The Catching Z’s (Remixes) is a pleasant fever dream come to life. A calm ocean flowing with bright and brilliant tones and rhythms. But what can fans expect through this soothing journey of sound? First up, Zeds Dead included an acoustic version of their notable track, ‘i think you’re cool’ featuring Jenna Pemkowski. Her light and airy vocals can fill any empty garden with pure flora. Letting off pure peace all around.

Then next up, we receive a truly unexpected collaboration remix. IMANU and Quiet Bison take the stage with their own bonded creation. If you love deep atmospheres and playful sound design, this one is right up your alley. Flipping the original into a glitchy house wonderland was nothing but genius and such a smart route to take. It really shines a light on both artists capabilities through somber tones. A plausible and enticing performance from both icons!

Right after, nonother than Pocket takes a shot at remixing the intoxicating original. But what’s so unique about this one is his flexibility within the spectrum. Taking the arrangement into his own hands, and giving it his own special and iconic flip. From a house-based section bringing trippy emotions to the mind, to a complete switch to a future garage paradise within the second chorus! Really taking you off guard and slapping a complete smile on your face. You’ll feel like you’re floating through the clouds within your own hallucination. Embracing every second of life to the fullest. Bravo on this one.

Finally, to end things on a very high note, A-BO jumps into the mix to bless our ears with his remix of ‘lost birds’ featuring Elliot Moss! With the original being relaxed and laid back, you won’t know what the artist will surprise you with. But hearing just the first second, you already know it’s going to be a good time. Transporting the audience onto an open rooftop looking over a glistening city in the night, the producer hits us with a funky house arrangement, blissful chord creations, and a wavy bass line. Working together to commemorate Zeds Dead’s impact on electronic music as well as his journey through time. It’s a remix you’ll no doubt have on repeat for years to come. Bringing nothing but positive and healing energy to anyone who comes in contact. A perfect way to conclude this EP.

Zeds Dead continue to change and push the scene into higher territories. Recognizing the current talent as well as paying respects to the underground. We’re stoked to hear where everyone goes next! But for now, make sure to go support these hard workers by streaming The Catching Z’s (Remixes) everywhere via Altered States!

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For Pocket, ‘Different Ways To Love You’ “is a dive into a new sonic landscape. With as much of a focus on simplicity as ingenuity, the track brings together delicate vocal cuts and textural layers, taking deep inspiration from 2-step garage and forges new soundscapes around its frame, weaving between soft chords, touching melodies and choppy granular passages.”

Taking sonic inspirations from the likes of Burial and Four Tet, Pocket has crafted a beautiful four-minute piece in ‘Different Ways To Love You,’ using soothing textures in the introduction to create intrigue before adding in the catchy vocals. Without ever cutting the flow of the piece, Pocket gradually builds the energy with crisp, rhythmic percussion, additional melodic layers, and further manipulation of the chorus. The real mastery behind ‘Different Ways To Love You,’ though, is how the artist seamlessly carries the track to its second half, using familiar elements in the bridge before entertaining a soul-stirring switch up in the latter section, with a precise attention to detail that is sure to invoke goosebumps for all.

Pocket is leading the resurgence of future garage and ‘Different Ways To Love You’ is proof. Check it out exclusively here today, and on all streaming platforms tomorrow.

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