ISO3 is the performance and production alter ago of Michael Newman. A deep rooted passion for music began at an early age, having inherited a collection of house, funk, jazz and northern soul records which was built upon by collecting vinyl from all genres of electronic music. Italian Deep House, Detroit Techno and the UK Rave scene were all an inspiration to an impressionable youngster making beats armed with his Commodore Amiga, Turbo II, sampler and Roland D-50.
Having an unrelenting desire to perform, Michael gained crucial experience in his home town of Liverpool which led to further bookings in the UK and in destinations including Australia and Ibiza. ISO3 has also featured on radio and podcasts from originators within Europe and the USA.
Fresh off the release of his latest EP, ‘Timed,’ we thought it fitting to catch up with ISO3 to discuss all things People Of The Light, the scene in Liverpool, what’s next for 2025, and more!
WWD:Hi ISO3! Where are you speaking with us from?
I am currently in my home studio, my escape!
WWD: Congratulations on your new EP, ‘Timed!’ Can you tell us a bit about the meaning behind the tracks?
Thank you, I thoroughly enjoyed creating it! ‘Timed’ is a release which expresses the constraints time places on daily life. The vocals of the main track, “no time to stop, no time to wait” were circling my mind so I felt it fitting to build a production around them. ‘Verify’ and ‘Euphonic Transmission’ both vary in style and are still based on the core theme of time. I believe this release demonstrates my varied palette as an artist, each track has its identity whilst all remain cohesive as a collective.
WWD: The EP is your second release on Jay Hill’s People Of The Light label. How did Jay first become aware of your music?
I initially met Jay Hill via mutual friend/artist Jamie S during the collaboration on POTL009, ‘The Educator’ EP. After finalising the project, I knew I would like to work with Jay and POTL on a future release and was mindful of submitting a demo that fitted with the diverse profile of the label. I was pleased to find that Jay was full of praise for the Timed EP.
WWD: Your previous release on People Of The Light, 2022’s ‘The Educator’ EP, was a tribute to the late, great Mike Huckaby. How did Mike Huckaby shape and inspire your sound?
Mike had such a distinctive sound which seamlessly navigates house and techno. From his deep house works including those in conjunction with Delano Smith and Norm Talley to the timeless Tresor track, Mike was someone I could identify with and draw influence from. His work with Youthville Detroit was inspiring, his legacy will live on. I was honoured to be asked to provide a remix on The Educator EP vinyl release.
WWD: Which other artists inspire you?
Dave Angel, Kevin Saunderson, Juan Atkins, Jeff Mills, Robert Hood, Dave Clarke, Christian Smith, Hollen, Mark Broom, Delano Smith, Fred P, Rino Cerrone, Ricky Montanari and Leo Anibaldi are all major contributors and inspiration to my sound.
WWD: What is the techno scene currently like in your hometown of Liverpool and North West England?
The scene in Liverpool has seen some changes recently, there are some great brands and venues which champion an underground following. These include the Arts Club and 24 Kitchen Street; I was involved with an afterhours event which was one of the first to occupy the latter venue back in 2013. Manchester offers a vast choice, I enjoy attending and performing in the city, Stage & Radio and the Whiskey Jar just a couple of my personal highlights. I also have to mention the effervescent Eastern Bloc Records which offers a great selection of vinyl by day and has hosts great events by night.
WWD: What can people expect from you throughout 2025?
More music! I am currently working on a follow up project in conjunction with POTL, finalising new material of my own and working in collaboration with another artist – all will be revealed!
WWD: When you’re not in the studio or touring, how do you like to relax?
It’s all about balance for me, I have my hands full with my two-year-old son Austin and really enjoy taking him to football training. For my own downtime, I enjoy reading, walking and hiking – I find that environment and surroundings inspire me, quite often forming the basis of a new project.
WWD: Sounds perfect! Thanks for the chat 🙂
The ‘Timed’ EP is available here