SIBZ’s music is fluid, contaminated by diametrically opposed genres, yet feels surprisingly coherent and authentic. Whether SIBZ decides to explore the realms of underground trap, hyper-pop, or futuristic hip hop, he does so with mastery and confidence, taking his listeners on a mystic journey through uncharted sonic territories.

Exploring themes of spirituality, altered states of consciousness, and non-binary struggles, SIBZ alternates hard beats with mind-expanding soundscapes while their hypnotic lyrics showcase their versatility and talent as an up-and-coming lyricist.

A stepping stone for the next stage in their career, MIF Sounds will support SIBZ in creating a collective audio-visual story together with other Manchester-based artists.

What is the biggest risk you’ve had to take since pursuing your musical career?

Honestly, I'd say I've been playing it too safe. When I listen to most of the music I have released, I get the feeling that I've held back so much. There are parts of me that I don't share and sounds that I haven't been ready to release into the world yet. In a way, that is the risk; I've catered to the mindset of "play it safe", or "don't release that, it's too abstract.”

While it was necessary to experience that, it's now of the utmost importance to me to unlearn those limitations and let myself unfold and open up…in order to do that, I first need to dedicate some time to solitude, a spirit quest of sorts… 

The pandemic really posed a challenge for creatives who depended on live events and tours to further their career. How has the pandemic affected your work and process? What’s the biggest lesson you’re taking away from that experience?

I have this vivid memory from not long after one of the first lockdown announcements: I was speeding around London in the rain on my bicycle with the streets completely empty, illuminated by streetlights singing along to "Somebody Else" by Fatima. The hook hypnotically repeats, "I could be somebody else.” I was in a dream-like trance, envisioning what I might do with my time here on the planet.

Lockdown allowed all the noise to settle; the parties, the festivals, and all the drugs, drama, and distractions that came with that. What was important to me became very clear, and I had all the space and time in the world to put my mind to work on it. 

I released my first song during the pandemic around a year ago. April 2021.  

How does it feel to be included in the second round of MIF Sounds artists? What do you hope to achieve with their support?

It still doesn't quite seem real. A few months ago, I barely had any experience as a performing artist, and now MIF is investing in my development. Last year I was working at the bar at Manchester International Festival, dreaming of being on stage. I told one of my co-workers that next time I'm here, I'll be on that stage – they laughed, and so did I! But for different reasons. 

One of the most valuable things for me is to have that belief from others. Belief in oneself is paramount, though when others give you access to their resources and demonstrate their faith in you – that's when opportunity and preparation have aligned, and you can really do what you're here to do.

How did you find your sound? What was that journey like?

I'm very much still on that journey. There's this episode of Adventure Time where Finn is deep in the forest playing his flute in the river, just vibing out. Huntress Princess hears him and tries to get him to play that song again but to summon the Spirit of The Forest…I think because they're trying to force it, it doesn't quite work the way Huntress Wizard intended, but by the end of the episode, they figure out that the secret is to play the flute for the sake of love rather than trying to force it.

I talked a little about this before: I feel like I'm in the process of purifying my art, deprogramming myself from inhibiting influences, though I do channel this process into my writing. It's a work in progress, but what isn't?

Besides music, are there other sounds that inspire you?

Do you know that high-pitched sound that appears at random times? A ringing that seems to come from nowhere and everywhere? I feel inspired by that.

Why?

Because I perceive it as a kind of a reminder to check myself; am I on track right now? Is what I'm doing important to me? How can I make the most of this day?

In your experience, what has been the biggest barrier as an emerging creative?

The temptation to over-prioritise following trends and to focus on social media rather than refining my artistry.

How do you personally discover new music or artists? Are there any local artists, events, or trends that you want to share with everyone?

I discovered one of my current fave artists, Catnapp, whilst watching the Netflix show Orthodox. Catnapp was performing in a club in a super tense moment of the show, and I was hooked – kind of like how we can attract what we're seeking when we're least looking for it. Another artist I'd like to mention is Fozza, whom I met whilst performing at SPOT Festival in Denmark.

Here's one of some sounds that I’m currently feeling moved by:

What excites you the most about The Factory opening in Manchester?

The community and relationships that'll be birthed and established there. I'm also very excited to experience some theatre productions there!

What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to the next generation of emerging artists?

Music is subjective; what sounds dissonant to one person could be the piece of music that saves another person’s life. Where one application gets rejected, the same application could be accepted elsewhere. It’s important not to take feedback too personally – just keep developing yourself and your craft.

Also, practice, practice, practice. Someone once told me that if I want music to be my full-time vocation, I must invest my time into it accordingly.

Tell us about what you've got in store this year.

First EP! Coming Spring 2023.

Rising Sounds: in a collaborative series between Sound of Life and Manchester International Festival, we’re visiting MIF Sounds: an incubation programme for some of the UK’s most promising emerging creatives. Join us as we explore the unbound creativity of Manchester – sometimes hidden, sometimes on the fringes ­– from corners brought to the light by MIF Sounds.

Cover Credits: Manchester International Festival & wacomka/Shutterstock

Writer | Marco Sebastiano Alessi

Marco is an Italian music producer, composer and writer. He’s the founder of Naviar Records, a music community and record label exploring the connection between experimental electronic music and traditional Japanese poetry.