Slikback

The terminology “occupying his own lane” couldn’t be more appropriate with regards to chameleon-like Kenyan producer Slikback, a defiant pathfinder inspired by found sounds and everyday interactions with life itself - be it streets, clubs or online musings. “It all melts into one creation. No particular one thing but a collection or intersection of points that continue to shape and influence my sound, I am fascinated by so many different things, spontaneity, chaos, order, sometimes polar opposites. I simply act as the glue” states Slikback. Defying his contemporaries, Fredrick Njau’s ability to rapidly switch fire, yet effortlessly conjoin, oblique African rhythms with grime and bass derivatives is none other than profound. An acutely intelligent writer, composer, producer and DJ, Freddy has been the talking point and editorial poster boy of Unsound, Mutek, Nyege Nyege, Sonar, CTM & Dekmantel. All prestige organisations in the electronic realm whom have recognised Slikbacks unique and demonstrable ability to induce musco-skeletal contortions of other-worldly proportion through freedom of expression. Continuing the regional relationships garnered through prolific output, releases have been through Hakuna Kulala, Nyege Nyege Tapes, SVBKVLT and Bill Kouligas’s outpost PAN. Without losing sight of his Nairobi roots for a singular second, Slikback influences range from South African Gqom, Chinese Avant-Garde underground through Latinx variations of Kuduro, Batida and Soca, albeit subtle influences that are expertly woven into the ever-unpredictable Slikback tapestry. 

“Plenty of contemporary club music, particularly of the “deconstructed” variety favors this kind of crashing, concussive palette, but little of it displays the rhythmic dexterity that Slikback does” - Pitchfork.

Currently available for Film Scores, Bespoke Composition, Audio Branding, Sound Design and Commissions…