San Diego Reader

Justin Stephenson: Beats, DJ, Vocals

Genre: Jazz, Rock

Upcoming Local Shows

Discography

Related Links:

• http://www.soundcloud.com/puppykicker

• Jam Session: "Puppy Kicker Coloures & Memories EP" · Dec. 7, 2011

Synoposis

Background:

Justin “Puppy Kicker” Stephenson’s 2011 Coloures & Memories EP (Rogue Dubs) is firmly rooted in dubstep, but exploring a more ambient, ethereal, often sultry, and markedly jazz-inspired sound.

"These songs were a way for me to deal with emotions,” says Stephenson. “I pictured them as colors.”

The “coloure” tracks (“Yellow,” “Red,” and “Grey to Silver”) exemplify Puppy Kicker’s jazz tip, reminiscent of Clifford Gilberto Rhythm Combination or Squarepusher sans urgent drill and bass beats.

“Basically, I’ve always been super influenced by jazzy stuff,” says Stephenson. “That’s the kind of stuff I’ve always made and I feel like there is a place in dubstep where that sound needs to be heard.”