Gardna - Time & Space (Album) + 10 Questions

Bristol artist Gardna has unveiled his long-awaited new album Time & Space, out today.

His largest body of work to date, Time & Space is a star-studded, sonically diverse LP that draws on countless UK sounds. Kicking things off is the show-stopping ‘The Sequel’, which contrasts Gardna’s trademark rapid-fire bars with the spoken word of British musical legend Don Letts - who he recently toured the US alongside.

Next up are the groove-laden, disco-inspired vibes of ‘Summer Of Love’ and deft-yet-heavyweight sounds of ‘R.A.V.E.A.S.A.P’ featuring cult Manchester MC DRS - the first and second of five singles that are included across the album.

Further singles come in the form of ‘Light It Up’, which enlists more British MC royalty in the form of Dynamite MC and Fox, bass-and-breaks romp ‘Every Time That I Land’, and LP closer ‘On That’ with DRS, a track glowingly described by Resident Advisor as “an energetic fusion of UK bass music styles enhanced by the charismatic vocals of one of Bristol's hottest MCs”.

Elsewhere, neo-soul talent Eva Lazarus lends her enchanting vocal range to the slick vibes of ‘New Beginnings’, UK musical legend Omar’s soaring vocals punctuate ‘Different Gravy’ and London-based dancehall artist Doktor drops effortless bars amidst the bass wobbles of ‘City Slicker’. North London upcomer Catching Cairo also makes two appearances on the LP, on the soulful breaks of ‘Shining’ and introspective ‘Mary Jane’ respectively.

Gardna sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I think the first time I realised that I actually loved writing lyrics and making music was probably around the age of 12. A group of local boys and girls would link up and spit 16’s down the skate park and outside our the shop whilst we waited to get served our 2 litres of cider and cigs. We’d be mainly cussing each other at that age but then after a while I actually was just like you know what, let’s get in the studio, never stopped going after that.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Mate. I always find this question so hard to answer as I draw influence from just about everything that I like. Be that music, people, art, books, words, experiences, literally anything in life Meaning I’m not particularly influenced by any one thing, I take influence by everything, if something’s dope, I want to try and put my stamp and my twist on whatever that is, you know?

3.  What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

My Time & Space the album drops today, I couldn’t be anymore gassed for you to listen to it. Go and check it out right now. It’s got some heavy features from the likes of DRS, Fox, Dynamite MC, Eva Lazarus, Omar, Catching Cairo.

4. How would you describe your sound?

I would definitely say at the root of what I do is a sound system music, I choose my beats from a wide pallet of sounds within that and then pepper them with the UK style and flavour.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

I’ve had a few mad moments. I think my proudest moments are in my touring schedules, I’m lucky to have travelled the world with my music, I’ve played gigs in Asia, America, Australia and NZ, all over Europe. I’ve been at it man, I’m very proud about my show this year at Glastonbury too!

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Just got for it, and keep going for it everyday. I wrote dead tunes for years until I found my flavour. When you find your niche, run with it.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

You know what, you all need to listen to Catching Cairo, stunning voice and smashed being support on the Time & Space tour.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Check out the Gardna x SWU FM playlist on Spotify, it’s all in there. I’m sure you’ll be surprised about half the stuff I listen too and play on the radio. I listen to all sorts man, I hope you like it.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I like being in my city here in Bristol, walking around town, linking mates, I love going to eat, I love going to the pub, I love spending time with my girl, I like buying trainers, music is my life so it’s the simple things I appreciate when I have a rare day off.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Brad Baloo, Kreed, Diet Coke.