Matthew Brewer, the Manchester, England-based DJ, producer and multi-instrumentalist known as Frameworks, has composed deeply ruminative dance music for the past decade. But only recently did he discover a crucial piece to his production puzzle: his inner child.
“That was a major theme for [April album Reflections], just trying to get out of my own head and be playful,” says Brewer, who will play an intimate set at the Wall at Area 15 on June 16. “The moment I sit down, I’ve got too much of an idea of where I want to take things. But what you’re doing is neglecting the element of surprise and creation. So many things happen when you’re just playing.”
On his fourth LP, Brewer unshackles himself from the restraints of routine. “Cold,” one of the producer’s favorite tracks, toes into trip-hop territory. On “Blue Light,” he unleashes sumptuous bass, sleek synths and hints of lightly applied percussion. Paired with vocals from Australia’s Cleopold, the music on Reflections beams with a vulnerability that has only recently been realized.
“The things that I would have shied away from 10 years ago, I’m now more than happy to own,” Brewer says. “Age has been a big part of that for me and the ability to just be myself. I don’t want to hide behind a genre.”
Frameworks’ meditative melodies have entranced fans on the U.S. festival circuit, with performances at Coachella, Electric Forest and Shambhala propelling the DJ up the rungs of respected artistry. His live set has also earned merit as one few to include live percussion.
“I started off as a drummer and I was in and out of live bands, so I came from that world before I delved into electronic music,” Brewer explains. “My first call is always drums. It felt like a natural thing to have. It makes me feel comfortable.”
Frameworks has played Las Vegas once before, but you could say the memory is a bit … fried. “It was very hot,” he laughs. “Where I am it’s gray and raining 90% of the time, so it was a bit of a culture shock. But it was great.”
He says he generally builds his sets around the time of day. Since the Wall is an indoor venue, he’s excited to set the mood and encourage people to “cut loose.”
“I hate the idea of someone being self-conscious at a show,” he says. “I like to have the dancefloor as unlit as possible, just so people can lose their inhibitions a little bit and feel free.”
FRAMEWORKS With Murge, J. Handel. June 16, 9:30 p.m., $23. The Wall at Area15, area15.com.
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