Every artist has a story and every story is filled with the pieces of an identity. The story of Derek Vincent Smith can’t be told without mention of Corey Eberhad and Michal Menert. Smith, Eberhard and Menert were making music together before global recognition was even a thought.
Their first group, Listen, is a raw look at the roots of their beginnings. You’ll hear Smith and Menert rapping over self-created beats. Derek once said hearing Atmosphere’s “Lucy Ford EP” for the first time was a landmark, and Listen reeks of a similar lyrical justice paired with funky downtempo “in the clouds” groove.
15.) Listen – Swingset
16.) Listen – Magic Penguin Circus
17.) Listen – Fading Sedation
Tweet this: Happy @PrettyLights Appreciation Day – #ThanksPL via @raverrafting & #PLF
Michal Menert and Derek Smith. 2003ish
As things progressed and developed, Michal and Derek began to really dig into production together, inspiring each other’s growth as individuals and artists.
probably the first Pretty Lights track produced back somewhere between 2002-2004. Cool Edit Pro days. live bass and synths. oh, the memories…
The debut Pretty Lights album, Taking Up Your Precious Time, was co-produced by Michal Menert and looking back, acted as Smith’s grand introduction to the world.
Eberhard went on to be Pretty Lights’ live drummer between Fall of 2007 and 2011. They played around the state of Colorado opening for acts like The Disco Biscuits and Widespread Panic before notching a spot on bills at Bonnaroo and EDC.
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