Motiv

Motiv is a Manchester-based drum and bass producer whose music moves between soulful liquid and heavier, rolling tracks. Originally from Carlisle, he moved to Manchester in 2016, becoming part of a city whose producers and club nights gave him plenty to work with. His early interest in darker rollers and jungle eventually made room for a more melodic sound.

That change was gradual. Liquid began as something he made alongside his heavier material, then became music he wanted to release in its own right. Working with Co-Lab Recordings and its co-owner Benny helped him develop that side of his writing, including releases through the label's Calypso Music and Liquid Lab imprints.

His debut album, Meraki Music, arrived in 2021. Guests helped give its tracks distinct personalities: Collette Warren sang on Cloak & Dagger, while collaborations with Dunk and Teej connected the album to his weightier roots. Halcyon, with Anya Asia, allowed its introduction to unfold over 64 bars before the drums arrived.

Speaking about the album, Motiv described trying to make each track earn its place rather than collecting tunes that happened to be ready. That patience suits an artist who enjoys both the detail of a song and the pressure of a club track. The different sides of his production have room to coexist.