Having spent his formative years in Wigan, artist Cigarettes and Scratchcards holds a special affinity with the works of George Orwell. His most recent tune, 1984, is a post-punk homage to working-class existence under conservative governance - a consummate depiction of personal challenges and social observations. If you've been affected by years of questionable policies, high living costs, and limited liberties, this is a tune for you.

Cigarettes and Scratchcards 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?

As a child, my father would frequently play albums like A Grand Don't Come For Free by The Streets, The Documentary by The Game, and even indie sounds from The Stone Roses or The Enemy during car journeys. I suppose my love for music began there, but it wasn't until the first COVID lockdown that I realised I wanted to pursue music as a career. As cliche as it sounds, a breakup inspired me to learn how to produce, and the rest, as they say, is history.

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

I believe it is always vital to look back and learn from those who came before you. Mike Skinner is my biggest influence in terms of lyricism, production, and poetry, and I'd argue that his work has influenced me the most, but I take solace from a lot of Wigan artists who have come before me, and knowing that bands like The Verve have come from the same place as me gives me hope. There is also a vibrant music scene in Wigan at the moment, with bands like The Stanleys, The Lathums, and Pink Shirts for Pale People playing parts; witnessing the creativity that is present only encourages me more. Who knows about future collaborations? I'd love to work with artists like Kae Tempest and Sleaford Mods, but my inner producer makes me want to work with Black Josh and Sniff.

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

1984 is the first track off my upcoming EP Post Apocalypse. This project acts as a dual narrative, reflecting my own trials and tribulations, as well as an insight into working class life, and the sociological observations I've gathered on my journey. Creating the track has required a great deal of introspection, it's also served as a cathartic exercise.

Following that, 'La Strada Lo Sanno' is an Italian production that features my beats and Italian rappers.

4. How would you describe your sound?

My music is an encapsulation of dystopia, with real instruments mingling with synthetic rhythm and bass sounds, and heavy spoken word lyrics layered on top. Discussing the state of affairs and the external chaos that governs our life. I don't think I fall into any one genre, however I'm a big fan of post-punk and everything UK rap.

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

We are experiencing it. The buildup to this release has taught me a lot about myself and my craft, and I'm grateful for the feedback I've received from many artists I admire. I'm also proud of myself for being able to combine all of my influences into something new and fresh sounding. I've always been hesitant to release music with my own vocals, and I'm proud of myself for overcoming that fear and creating this single.

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

Be true to yourself. There are far too many people who aren't genuine and are attempting to "play the game" by imitating a known and proven formula; instead, write music that you enjoy and that represents yourself and your message, and keep working hard. Talent is only about 20% of this crazy game - if you don't have a work rate that matches your talent, you won't get very far.

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

G00SE, Nicknames, and U.E.L are some up and coming Wigan artists to keep an eye on. Keep a lookout for Maddra and Shabbz further afield. Honourable mention to Grim Sickers - All Black Forever 3 is on the way, and I'm excited to be a part of it.

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

The art of the album is sacred to me; if an artist has developed a body of work, it should be experienced in chronological order; right now, I'm listening to a lot of Babygang - EP2, Sleaford Mods - UK Grim, and Shabbz - Ambivalence.

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

I enjoy travelling and embracing new cultures. I also enjoy spending time in nature and dedicating time for reflection in our surroundings. It is all too easy to lose sight of where we came from and our place in all of this craziness, especially when you work in the music industry and are surrounded by mayhem.

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

Sorry to any of my family members reading this BUT…

A big bag of the devil’s lettuce to keep me grounded.

Something to distract me, like a book; it's critical to take regular pauses while you're locked into long sessions, you gotta avoid the dreaded ear fatigue.

Coffee; I have a coffee machine in the studio, and it has saved my life countless times!