With a new release alongside Pan-Pot landing on his own label Arcane, Eli Brown steps into our Q&A at a moment where his sound feels sharper and more dominant than ever.
Eli Brown has built a reputation on keeping things direct. Big records, no overthinking, and a clear sense of what works when it matters. Through Arcane, that same approach carries into a wider platform that backs impact over hype, while his latest collaboration with Pan-Pot on ‘Coming In Heavy’, marking the label’s 100th release, lands as another functional, no-nonsense addition to his catalogue.
But this isn’t about breaking down kick drums or studio process. With a new release in motion, it felt like the right time to put Brown through our Q&A and get into the stuff that doesn’t usually make the press shots. The habits, opinions, and off-the-cuff takes that sit behind the artist, not just the records.
What’s your greatest fear?
Heights. I’ve never been a fan…don’t ask me to DJ on top of a skyscraper!
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Hard work and tenacity.
If you weren’t making or playing music, what would you be doing?
Well, I used to work in finance, so I guess I’d still be doing that. Thankfully, music paid off!
What was your most embarrassing moment?
I’m too cool to be embarrassed.
What would your superpower be?
Time travel. I’d love to see the future.
[quote align=right text=”I tend to make a monthly folder of new music and file my sets chronologically”]
If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?
Caramac. If you don’t know, get to know.
Must visit record store or studio?
I visited Tower Records in Tokyo the other day and that was dope. The vinyl floor was amazing, and I picked up a classic Dave Clarke album.
How do you like to finish your sets?
Generally with something that evokes a certain emotion. That can be a classic track or something super euphoric. The feeling I’m trying to create is that sense of not wanting to leave the party and wanting to hug your mates because the night has been so epic.
If not yourself, who would you most like to be?
Valentino Rossi. He’s my favourite motorcycle rider and I’m a big MotoGP fan. He’s someone I truly admire, and I know he likes a good rave.
When’s the last time you changed your mind about something significant?
Well, I just agreed to getting a dog, something I never thought I’d do. I’m not really an animal person, but I guess that’s about to change.
What sparks your creativity?
Being inspired. Hearing something that catches my ear and makes me want to run to the studio. That inspiration can come from anywhere: TV, being at a gig, listening to an album. You just have to stumble across it.
Who’s the next name everyone should know?
Tao Andra, my favourite producer right now!
Best moment in a club or studio?
Space in Ibiza, watching Jeff Mills and Carl Cox drop Strings of Life… game changer!
Who taught or helped you the most?
I’m self-taught, but I’ve picked up nuggets of information along the way. Andy C taught me a lot from my drum and bass days.
Worst job you’ve ever had?
Putting letters in envelopes for eight hours a day. Pretty dull!
Which track do you wish you’d made?
Anything by The Chemical Brothers.
What’s the worst track or set you’ve ever done?
Too many to say, but I’ve learned something from every mistake, so it’s not all bad.
How do you organise your music collection for your sets?
I tend to make a monthly folder of new music and file my sets chronologically.
Recommend a film.
The Usual Suspects, a classic in my eyes!
Recommend a book.
I’ve just read Mark Ronson’s Night People book. It’s worth a read for sure!
Favourite internet clip of all time, music or otherwise?
I like watching cats react to cakes that look like cats getting cut in half… their reaction is too funny.
Who or what deserves more credit?
My wife.
What gets too much hype?
Afro house… boring.
What can’t you stop doing?
Talking about my health kick. I won’t shut up about it… sorry!
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I love Michael Jackson. He’s probably my favourite musician of all time, but he’s a little shrouded in controversy, which makes it a guilty pleasure, I guess.
What’s your biggest frustration in the music world?
That it’s not about the music a lot of the time.
Favourite label and why?
Arcane, because I choose the music that comes out on it!
What’s the hardest thing about making or playing music?
Making music: the hardest thing is finding time around hectic travel.
DJing, it’s being away from home and family, and the amount of time you’re actually travelling.
Find Eli Brown on Instagram and TikTok. “Coming in Heavy” is out now. Listen on Spotify.
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