In this interview, we have the unique opportunity to dive into the enigmatic world of B.Y.O.L.S.D., a creative outlet that's far from your average band. While their music is often described in a labyrinth of genres, including "techno-punk-avant-garde-cHIPsHOP-pop," the band itself shies away from any labels. Represented here by their legal team, we’re given a glimpse into their unconventional approach to music, performance, and their relationship with the media. From their latest track to their decision to pull music from Spotify, this conversation takes us through an intricate maze of legal speak, artistic deflection, and a commitment to one goal: making people dance. Let’s unpack this fascinating and highly elusive entity known as B.Y.O.L.S.D.

Your bio describes your music as “techno-punk-avant-garde-cHIPsHOP-pop.” How did you land on such a diverse mix of genres?
First of all hello, no need to skip the pleasantries, as a representative of the BYOLSD’s legal team I will be addressing the questions put forth by you about my client. Just to be clear, none of these genres were intentional or are recognised by BYOLSD. BYOLSD is simply a creative outlet who produce music intended to make the user dance. Any preconceived notion of genre is purely coincidental and under the UK laws no infringement has taken place.
Your latest track is out now—what inspired it, and what message are you hoping to convey?
BYOLSD would like to make it clear that no inspirations, be they musical or lyrical, have any bearing or responsibility on the message of any BYOLSD track, the message of all of the music remains the sole purpose of conspiracy to inspire dance.
Having said this, BYOLSD have recently made the decision to remove music from the Spotify platform for legal reasons, including, but not limited to: suspected copyright infringement, violations of community guidelines, and suspicious activity. BYOLSD will no longer be releasing music on said platform. This decision will be marked by a record deletion event on 25th January at The Victoria in Dalston.
Jasper Valentine, as a multi-instrumentalist with an “acid tongue,” how do you balance your biting social commentary with music people can dance to?
My client is unavailable for comment at this time and frankly, these inflammatory statements are nothing more than cheap scare tactics in lieu of a proper medical diagnosis.
DJ Pleasure Cruiser, where do you find inspiration for your “righteous baselines”? Any unexpected influences?
DJ Pleasure Cruiser is a trademarked and protected contractor under the umbrella BYOLSD. As such, all baselines are considered to be the property of BYOLSD, and therefore cannot be commented on by DJ Pleasure Cruiser or any subsidiary parties.
Your tagline says, “Punk’s not dead, it just smells that way.” How do you see punk evolving, and how does your music fit into that evolution?
I believe this to be a simple miscommunication. Punk is a genre of music that, while not recognised by BYOLSD or any of its sister companies, could be attributed to some of their products. As such in this instance “punk” as referenced in the quote does not reference any person or persons but simply the concept of a musical genre having been sullied over a long period of time, that it now smells like death. Does that make things clearer?
How does irony play a role in your music and lyrics? Do you find it connects with your audience or challenges them?
Ok, I guess you’re not going to answer my questions and just continue asking more of your own. It is my belief that this would go a lot more smoothly if you were open to a dialogue but for the sake my client, I will continue with your line of questioning. In answer to this one… yes.

The fusion of punk and techno is pretty unique—how do you approach blending these sounds in your production process?
I have answered this question already, my client simply makes music designed to make people dance and any use of genres blended or otherwise is not recognised by BYOLSD. Stop playing games.
You’re not shy about calling your art danceable. What role does movement or live performance play in your creative vision?
BYOLSD would like to point out at this time that art is subjective and the use of which to describe their output is purely coincidental. It should also be made very clear that at no point in time has BYOLSD ever tried to campaign to have other forms of creative output such as painting OR sculpture declassified as art.
Who are some artists or bands that have influenced your sound, even if it’s just to rebel against them? (Aside from “Fuck OASIS,” of course!)
Ok, we are circling back to the same thing again here. BYOLSD takes no influence from any parties without prearranged permission. Any other similarities are purely coincidence.
What’s the story behind the band’s name, B.Y.O.L.S.D? Is it a play on words, or is there a deeper meaning?
BYOLSD is drawn from the initials of the board members for the company.

Your music makes bold social statements. What are some of the themes or issues you’re most passionate about addressing?
BYOLSD
How do you want people to feel after experiencing a B.Y.O.L.S.D track—or better yet, a live show?
BYOLSD would like to dispel any rumours that any feeling tampering has taken place during any of their music or any live productions. Any change in mood or emotion experienced during this time is responsibility of the feeler and not BYOLSD
What’s been the biggest challenge of creating a sound that’s so genre-defying? Do you ever worry about being too outside the box?
BYOLSD object to any use of the term box to mean anything other than a physical place of storage.
Can you give us a sneak peek into what’s next for B.Y.O.L.S.D? Any new tracks, collaborations, or projects on the horizon?
Not at this time.
Finally, what’s one thing you’d like your audience to take away from your music—beyond just having a good time?
BYOLSD would like to take this opportunity to remind you that the only intention with their music is for dance. Nothing should be taken from the band, venue or other patrons unless specifically authorised by parties involved.

By the REAL Editorial Team | January 20, 2025