Boysnoize Records stalwart, Strip Steve has returned in full force this summer with his debut album afer a string of singles circa 2006. The new album, named 'Micro Mega' sees cameos from the likes of Californian pop duo Puro Instinct on his single 'Astral Projection' forming the basis of a lush disco track. Here we speak to him about his new direction of broader and how he's retired from just making club-driven sounds alongside an exclusive Summer-themed 'Hazed & Confuzed' mix.

Once I fully embraced the idea and really started working on the thick of it, I started really trusting myself in my workflow, letting things go if you will. It's close to the Fractalist painters way of reasoning in a way

Dazed Digital: What's the story behind 'Micro Mega'?
Strip Steve: I did not plan this album way ahead. This past year I was just working a lot, making beats, and at some point Alex (Boys Noize) told me he thought there was a solid base for an album. Once I fully embraced the idea and really started working on the thick of it, I started really trusting myself in my workflow, letting things go if you will. It's close to the Fractalist painters way of reasoning in a way. I also knew I wanted something that did not go in one unique direction, cause that's just the way I enjoy music every day, and therefore my way of producing.

DD: In what ways does it differ from the previous stuff, if any?
Strip Steve: It's a broader look at my productions. It's more versatile, not at all only club driven. I only released a few EPs before this album, a handful of tracks, and also this format allows more freedom, so I'd say it's the first time people can go deeper into what I do. But it's not fundamentally different from my previous stuff, it's the logical follow up.

DD: You collaborated with Puro Instinct which seems an unexpected mix of sounds, how did that happen and who would be your dream collaborator, alive or dead?
Strip Steve: I've been listening and loving what they did for the past two years or so, and as I was thinking of a vocalist for "Astral Projection" I realised their voices and type of harmonics would actually fit perfectly with the track, and would also add something special to it. It's an unexpected mix of sounds from the first look of it, but I was absolutely convinced it would match. It was also the first track I ever made that featured a singer on it, so I'm very happy about the way it happened, and the result of course.

DD: What's next?
Strip Steve: Working on new stuff, and setting up a live show.

Exclusive Strip Steve Mix by Dazed Digital on Mixcloud