Behind the Masks: Deymonic and G1braltar Unite to Shake Phoenix’s Bass Scene

 November 29, 2024 | Phoenix, AZ

Written and Photographed by Alex Dehlavi @red_bot_

Certain moments stand out when you think about where some of the biggest names in electronic music first set the stage. Skrillex’s early sets in grungy clubs, Zeds Dead tearing up basements in Toronto, and even legends like Bassnectar electrifying tiny festivals before anyone knew their names—it’s the stuff of history. These weren’t just performances; they were the spark before the wildfire, the prelude to something massive.

Phoenix felt like it had its version of that moment recently, as Chicago-based producer Deymonic made their highly anticipated debut in the desert. From the dark, gritty basslines to the energy that radiated off the masked producer, the night felt special—like witnessing the first chapter of a story destined to be told across bigger stages and wilder crowds.

The night was hosted by local DJ and event curator G1braltar, a force in the Phoenix dubstep scene known for championing local talent and throwing down events that feel more like underground raves than cookie-cutter club nights. Together, these two artists—both masked and enigmatic—set the tone for something raw, immersive, and unforgettable.

Below, we caught up with Deymonic and G1braltar to dig into their artistry, collaboration, and what’s next for both of them.

G1braltar

Your mask is an integral part of your identity. How does it enhance your connection with the audience, and what inspired the design or symbolism behind it?

I feel I connect with the audience through pure curiosity about my brand and mask because it’s unique. People love a good mystery. When people see me play live, I want them to feel like they’re in a futuristic apocalypse. In a world that has an ocean full of DJs, you have to find some way to be unique and stand out. I’ve always loved futuristic, sci-fi, & cyberpunk themes, and integrating that with my DJ brand is something I’ve always wanted to do since I started.

 

As someone putting on local events, how do you balance supporting others in the community while also growing and defining your artistry?

Finding balance is extremely hard with the amount of things I juggle sometimes. However, I’ve found balance by allowing myself 1 to 2 days a week to attend local shows and supporting upcoming DJs by recording videos of them and posting them around.  Another way I support artists - while continuing to grow myself, is by hosting events and allowing DJs to showcase their skills while also giving myself the training to host events. 

What’s a unique aspect of the Phoenix music scene that you think deserves more attention, and how do you incorporate it into your events or sets?

There is a scene here for everyone. I come from Tulsa Oklahoma, where the scene there was very small and after COVID, was basically non-existent. It still blows me away with how much opportunity and room for growth there is in Phoenix if you push yourself hard enough. That being said, my events are mainly centered toward tearout/riddim, but I have done trap, basshouse, and experimental bass events to incorporate other parts of the scene into my events.

If you could sum up Deymonic’s performance energy in one word, what would it be—and how would you compare it to your vibe on stage?

DEMONIC. His sets are filled with very risky doubles/triples and quick transitions that flow perfectly into the next track. He knows how to put on a pure riddim set from start to finish.

When it comes to production, are there specific techniques, tools, or sounds you feel define your signature style, and how do you keep pushing your creativity forward?

My sound is curated by combining high-tech glitches along with heavy tearout/riddim sound. I love long, cinematic intros and breakdowns that make you feel like you’re in another world. Tracks that have a long cinematic intro, and build into a heavy tech-inspired drop are my ideal sounds.

Any lasting comments, or something you’d like to say to your fans and those reading?

I moved to AZ just over 2 years ago. I didn’t know anyone and just got out of a very toxic relationship when I got here. The anxiety and self-doubt took a huge toll on me.

It took months and months of attending shows solo and constantly looking for things to do on social media to finally land my first performance in AZ. After that first show, I doubled down HARD on social media and marketing/branding and that is when things took off for me.

I went from 400 followers to 1K on Instagram in a little over a year after that point. If there is one thing I want to say, it is to never give up on your goals and dreams and lean on others for help if you need it.

Some people like myself love to help others grow. 

Deymonic

The decision to wear a mask and maintain anonymity adds an air of mystery to your performances. How does this choice reflect your artistry?

The mask reflects my artistry in a way that he(the mask), draws the scene into my music, mostly because of the appearance along with the fact of the music I play.

I honestly hated Riddim before so that’s when I got the idea of “how can I have it be different but still sound like Riddim” and that’s when I figured Trench music would be a way better fit for me.

What’s a creative risk you’ve taken recently—whether in sound design, performance, or collaboration—that challenged you but paid off in unexpected ways?

There will always be risks that sometimes you may have to take. For me, it’s been some shows in new areas but how it paid off was the support that the people brought with it along with the energy!

Coming from Chicago, a city with such a rich musical history, how has the local music culture influenced your sound and approach to dubstep production?

I’ve always been a fan of Edm ever since the age of 12, listening to Skrillex, Excision and other really great upcoming names. Chicago will always be home to me because of the amazing different venues I’ve gotten to experience and be able to play at!

G1braltar’s built a reputation for throwing killer events. What’s something about their hustle or vision that makes them stand out as more than just a DJ?

I tend to always try to work with people who have the same passion and dedication for this as I do. I’ve been treated absolutely amazing being here in Arizona and the amount of new people I got to meet and network with has shown.

As you continue to evolve your craft, what can fans expect from you in 2025, both in terms of new music and live performances?

In the year of 2025 you can expect a lot of uploads getting released on SoundCloud, new merch drops(with a full website), and more shows in different states and cities - so hopefully a lot more people will be able to experience the DEYMONIC experience!!

Deymonics Night

The night was as bass-heavy as it was electrifying, showcasing an impressive lineup of local talent and the rising star, Deymonic. Kicking off the night at @thedarksidetfm this Friday were electrifying sets by @daniel.ether, @svntheticart, @heel_luc, and @whysoseriousmusic. The energy hit new heights with a chaotic and unforgettable B2B performance from Deymonic and G1braltar, which was further amplified by a surprise insane set from @lumpy_wood.

Then, @terpkillers took the stage, raising the energy even higher with a high-octane set that set the tone for the rest of the night. The highlight came when G1braltar and Deymonic returned to the decks, taking over Terpkiller’s set for a relentless second B2B session that left the crowd in absolute awe.

The energy at Deymonic’s debut was undeniable, the electric anticipation you rarely see at a first performance. Between their signature sound and G1braltar’s finely tuned curation, the night felt like the start of something bigger than just a show.

This wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment. And if history has taught us anything, it’s that these kinds of moments are only the beginning.

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