INTERVIEW: New single and remix from Marcoussimo

Marcoussimo is an artist who refuses to be boxed into any one genre or style. A producer, DJ and musician with a love for all music from film soundtracks to grime, country, indie and electronic music, his sonic fabric draws from a vast mix of influences, including The Chemical Brothers, Johnny Cash, Radiohead, Beck and Fatboy Slim. Originally hailing from North West London, he now resides in a remote village, where his artistic vision continues to develop.

His music career began with a band that landed a publishing deal with BMG, leading to years of studio sessions, touring and gaining an insider’s perspective on the music industry. When the band eventually split, Marcoussimo transitioned into DJing, holding a residency in Camden Town, where he crossed paths with producer Ian Rossiter. The two formed Oscar The Punk, collaborating with major artists like Robyn, Gwen Stefani, Moby and MIA, further confirming Marcoussimo’s status as an in-demand creative figure.

Now stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, Marcoussimo is set to release his debut EP, Country Electro, this May, with a follow-up, Country Electro 2, arriving soon after. The records explore themes of loneliness, addiction and the dual nature of social media, cutting between styles of dance, indie, pop, grime and country music.

Kicking off this exciting new chapter, he unveils his debut single titled “Phone Life In Las Vegas”, a track that captures the chaotic, neon-drenched atmosphere of Las Vegas while reflecting on modern digital obsession. Inspired by his 2024 trip to the city of excess, Marcoussimo paints a sonic picture of a world where flashing lights and endless scrolling dominate, making real human connection feel more distant than ever. “While walking through the streets of Vegas, I was struck by the mix of spectacle, excess, and the constant pull of phones. The city felt alive, yet disconnected in many ways, and that paradox inspired the track,” he explains.

The track channels the uptempo electronic energy of acts like The Chemical Brothers and Fatboy Slim, blending dancefloor-ready grooves with cinematic atmosphere and indie rock undertones. Set up by hushed percussive shots, the steady punch of a kick brings in a spacey blend of buzzy synths and pulsing rhythms, forming a grooving experimental electronic jam packed full of danceable energy and colourful instrumentation. Cut with spliced vocal samples, slick rapped flows and bouncy piano chords, it’s a super showcase of Marcoussimo’s originality and sound design flair.

Accompanied by the Crazy Horse Remix and available both on streaming platforms and as a limited-edition 7” vinyl, the single offers a thrilling introduction to Marcoussimo’s genre-blurring world. With his bold, avant-garde approach and a knack for crafting thought-provoking, energising tracks, Marcoussimo is set to make a lasting impact in 2025 and beyond.

We caught up with Marcoussimo to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “Phone Life In Las Vegas” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Marcoussimo below.

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

There was always a piano and church organ in our house growing up. My earliest memory of making music was when my Mum got me a Spanish guitar for Christmas when I was around ten. From that moment, I became completely obsessed with playing, first learning other people’s songs and eventually starting to write my own.

I grew up in a small town in Essex called Harlow. I was lucky to have been part of a vibrant music scene, thanks to a fantastic venue called The Square (which has since been demolished and replaced with apartments). It was more than just a live music venue—it had a recording studio and a bar downstairs with a pool table and an incredible jukebox.

The Square played a pivotal role in the beginning of my musical journey. Many local bands performed there, and it also drew in touring acts. I remember seeing bands like Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine, Blur (when they were still called Seymour), Slowdive, and, most memorably, Pavement on their first UK tour.

For me, the real spark came during my first-ever recording session at The Square with my band, Bambino. Hearing our music come together on ¼-inch tape felt like stepping into a whole new world. It wasn’t just about making songs anymore—it was about chasing the thrill of bringing something to life.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?

Anything and everything!

There are so many influences that shape my sound. While Phone Life In Las Vegas is a fun, Big Beat dance track, I still see myself at heart as a songwriter rather than a purist dance producer.

I’ve always been fascinated by film soundtracks and sounds; people like Brian Eno, Hans Zimmer, and John Williams massively inspire me.

Acts like The Chemical Brothers, The Streets, Fatboy Slim, and Beck, whose ability to blend genres, push boundaries, and tell stories in unexpected ways, have always been a massive influence; that likely is why my music is hard to pigeonhole.

I am inspired by Fred Again and Joy Anonymous, who bring dance music to life in a way that feels both connected, authentic and beautiful.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

I keep a diary where I jot down thoughts, phrases, and ideas, and ideas and concepts for songs often start from there. Inspiration can strike in many ways—whether it’s from a film I watch, an experience I’ve had that day, or a feeling I’m processing. Sometimes, the melody or song comes first, and other times, it’s a concept or emotion that sparks the music.

I spend time between Manchester, where I live, and do a lot of travelling to different places. A lot of my musical inspiration comes from traveling and meeting people—those chance encounters often lead to new ideas or shifts in perspective. LA and Vegas, in particular, had a significant influence on many of the songs I wrote for my first EP.

What was your highlight of the year for 2024?

2024 was a pretty tough year for me, with lots of changes. I had lost a bit of confidence and wasn’t sure where to take things with my music.

However, I built my dedicated studio and then started writing and recording with some amazing artists, which was a fantastic feeling.

I also finishing the first five tracks to be included on my Country Electro EP.

I met a guy called Gareth Timmins by chance at Glastonbury Festival; he is a best-selling author and ex-marine.

We spent a lot of time talking, and he challenged, motivated, and inspired me to think differently about myself, putting myself out there, believing in myself and being authentic.

That’s how Marcoussimo got off the ground really – between Gareth and my wife Jen, they helped me to believe in myself as an artist and make things happen!

I also met Swedish DJ Glenn Forrestgate from Snow ‘n’ Stuff whilst staying in Berlin. This has led to back-to-back remixes.

What do you love about the Manchester music scene?

What’s not to love (apart from the weather!).

I moved here to be inspired. I have always been drawn to acts like Joy Division, New Order, The Smiths, Audioweb, Doves, Happy Mondays and the Stone Roses.

Manchester also has a rich dance musical heritage – The Hacienda nightclub, mega DJs like Mike Pickering, Sacha, Greg Wilson and Mr Scruff.

Manchester’s music scene is amazing. I love venues like Mayfield Depot, Yes, Band on the Wall, The Deaf Institute, The Eagle Inn and Wax and Beans. Smaller independent venues are thriving and continue to offer acts the space to hone their craft.

The city has a vibrant underground music scene, with many emerging artists playing in smaller venues.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

My sound works for nightclubs, gym workouts, driving through the city at night, and defo works for a post-night-out after party in your kitchen.

I guess the perfect setting to experience my sound would be at the legendary Freddie’s at Pikes in Ibiza—a small nightclub with an incredible vibe. Dancing the night away with all your friends. It’s vibrant and colourful, a place that reminds me of how parties and nightclubs used to feel.

How have your style and sound evolved since you started?

I started as a guitarist in a band playing indie surf guitar music, and over the years, my love for different genres has helped refine my writing and production skills. My sound has since evolved into dance/electronica, and although it took time to perfect my studio techniques, I still always make room for some atmospheric surf guitars when writing.

I think my biggest evolution as an artist is embracing the “less is more” approach. I used to pack four songs into one, making them complex and clunky, but now I focus on trying to ensure each track flows naturally and makes sense.

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

I met Damon Albarn backstage at the Glastonbury festival last year, he’s from the same part of Essex as me.

His range of influences and unique approach to songwriting are incredibly inspiring, I would love the opportunity to collaborate on some new material.

How did you find making your debut single “Phone Life In Las Vegas”?

I loved the process of making Phone Life In Las Vegas; Inspiration came from messy trips to LA and Vegas; I had the concept in my head for a song inspired by Vegas and our relationships to our phones and social media – mass overconsumption.

The music and the hook then came. Like most of my projects, the main hook and parts come quickly, and then I go through many versions (sometimes over 50!) and add and take our melodies, sounds and beats until I find the perfect structure and mix.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

Put down your phones!! Dance, let yourself go; life is beautiful and short.

Start living in the real world more, have more real online experiences and connections and find beauty in the simple things.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Artists I am currently listening to:

Boys Noize – Overthrow
EOB – Olympik
Big Special – Trees
Kneecap – Harrow Road
Nightjar – Blood Red Dead
Snow ‘n’ Stuff – Rude Boy

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

To feel something, to be transported, to move.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

I haven’t gone out live as Marcoussimo yet;that will come later this year – very excited.

I have hosted parties all over the place. When you are DJ’ing a small room and everyone is dancing, having a good time and moving, that is the best feeling you can have.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival?

The Prodigy on Friday Night

Saturday’s headliner would be Chemical Brothers

Sunday to finish Daft Punk

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of the year?

Writing and recording new music and collaborating with other artists.

After Phone Life In Las Vegas, I will be releasing music every six weeks throughout the year. As I am an independent artist, it’s pretty much full-on but great fun putting each release together.

I am also working in partnership with Nick @ The Label Machine, who is brilliant and is helping to ensure the process and mechanics for each release are followed, and I communicate effectively as my fanbase grows.

I will also start DJing all over the place later this year.

Listen to Phone Life In Las Vegas below