Rising Australian artist Willaris. K (aka Jack McAllister) was an electrician working at a power plant by day, but by night, indulged his passion for electronic music, DJing in Brisbane whilst working on writing music. Things started to get serious after the drop of his first EP as Willaris. K, Alchemy in 2017. It’s a concise, mesmerizing body of work, that moves between thick industrial techno cuts and cathartic ambient electronica. The tracks were quick to strike a chord with electronic pioneers, such as Pete Tong on BBC Radio 1.
The trained pianist and producer’s influences stem from experimental tastemakers such as Jon Hopkins, William Basinski, and Brian Eno. This influence shows on his latest slew of left-field techno double releases, “5 O’CLOCK”, and ambient B-side “PAST LIGHT.”
This year has seen Willaris take his trademark punk-influenced shows across the globe. Including his debut set at Coachella, his direct support of RÜFÜS DU SOL on their SOLACE World Tour, playing at leading venues across Europe including their ADE showcase at Scheepsbouwloods, Yolo in Paris and Alexandra Palace in London. Also most recently sets at premier festivals like Voodoo Music + Arts Experience and Escape: Psycho Circus.
We are thrilled to welcome Willaris K. to KCRW for an exclusive guest mix on Metropolis.