Fire Through The Window Interview

Q:Band names are quite obviously an essential part of any band, and without a doubt, possibly a band's biggest marketing tool (apart from their music off course). Tell us a bit about The Band name and where it comes from?
A:
Sinead read the phrase in play while she was studying drama a while back. She loved it and it kinda stuck. I was re-naming my old band at the time and suggested it to my bandmates but they said no, so Sinead was like 'Fine! If I ever start a band that's what I'm gonna call it!' - and she did :)

Q:
Durban has been a major hot spot for some of the greatest bands to ever come out of South Africa, easily equaling Johannesburg and Cape Town's effort. What is it about Durban and KZN in general that produces such amazing talent?

A:
Ummm I dunno, I guess it's all the Durban Poison? It's weird though, Durban is pretty isolated from the rest of the country in terms of 'the scene' and sometimes that plays in our favour, producing some bands that are fresh and exciting, making music no one else is doing in the country. Sometimes it doesn't work though and bands can be irrelevant to what's going on nationally. I guess it's just hit and miss.

Q:
Even though most of the industry will tell you that music sales are way down, there is no doubt that South Africa, now more than ever is supporting the local alternative scene on a major scale, thanx to channels like MK who have created a stage for just about everyone with a band, which is obviously great for up and coming talent... But, do you think this has flooded the industry and created unnecessary competition for true talents like yourselves, or do you think this has made everyone step up their game just a little?

A:
Oh definitely the latter, bands and the industry in general have stepped up their game by leaps and bounds in the last 5 years or so. And that is no doubt largely due to MK. The only problem is like you said, over saturation. Seems like ANYONE with a guitar, a garage and a handy-cam is making a music video nowadays. That's great and all, but MK needs to be a little more picky in terms of what videos they playlist. There needs to be a standard. I'm sure in time to come when quality content abounds it'll sort itself out though.
Q:
You guys are about to release the first part, of a brand new 2 part EP, called "Live Long" to be followed towards the end of the year by "prosper"... What's the idea behind the titles? Do we have a couple of star trek fans in the band or am I getting it all wrong?

A:
Nope. You are 100% correct. Star Trek for the win! Although we sure do love Star Wars too. Ha ha. We were looking for a title that works together or on it's own. When I thought of that I just couldn't resist.

Q:
What can we expect from the EP's musically? Good old constant FTTW brilliance, or some surprises?

A:
Well, it's a little more serious at times and a little more edgy/alternative but that being said, it's still us. We still sang with smiles on our faces :) We also recorded with a new producer, Jacques 'Jambo' du Plessis, who is crazy talented. The production a whole lot better too. Guess you'll just have to wait and see, oh no you don't cos it's all up to listen to on our soundcloud! www.soundcloud.com/firethroughthewindow

Q:
I always find it incredibly fascinating, how people in a band find one goal creatively between so many people... Are there ever times that you guys struggle to find one common goal, or do you all basically have the same musical influences and ideas?
A:
I think we all like similar music, but the main thing is we all like a LOT of different kinds of music. From country to hardcore to pop to electronica and everything in between we dig it all. So maybe some of us like hardcore more than others, some of us will then like country more than others. Whatever, it all gels together in the end and I think it's important to draw your influences from more than just the genre you play. If not it can end up a little copycat at times. You know, cast a wide net and see what you catch.

Q:
Any hidden talents or hobbies among the members of the band?
A:
Well, Sinead is in marketing and is currently part of the team launching the Mr Price online store, Wok is a graphic designer in CT, keags is in architecture and I run a design company called Milkbox that mainly does web design. I love that we all do other stuff besides the band, I know for me anyway I need loads of stuff going on all the time or I'd lose my mind. Maybe I'll chill out when I'm older but now is the time to get shit done!

Q:
You're quite well known for playing a good number of festival's around the country, what have your best and worse experiences been on stage?
A:
Ah, that's a tough one, worst experiences include mics smashing into faces, bloody noses, throwing up on stage, passing out from heat on stage, crazy stalker fans attacking, amps exploding, guitars breaking, voices cracking and disappearing. Best experiences? Same ones.

Top 10 tracks among the members of the band at the moment?

A:
1.Bug - Wavves
2.Microphone - Coconut Records
3.Traveling Song - The Avett Brothers
4.You See Me - Childish Gambino
5.It Don't Matter - Anchors Up
6.Goodbye - Best Coast
7.Jen Is Bringin' The Drugs - Margot and the Nuclear So and So's
8.Palomino - Mates of State
9.Volunteers - Megafaun
10.Middle brother - Middle Brother



Q:
What can we expect from FTTW in the near and distant future?
A:
Well we're doing some more launch shows for LIVE LONG around the country, we have two more music videos coming along that will be released in the near future, Sinead and I are getting married in June and off to the states (disney!) for our honeymoon, and then it's back into studio in August to record PROSPER. Then it's more touring, more videos, more launches etc etc etc. AMPED!!

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Tritonal's "Piercing The Quiet" Extended Mixes Out April 9

Tritonal's "Piercing The Quiet" Extended Mixes Out April 9, Pre-orders Available Now on iTunes


Written by Erin Osovets // March 30, 2012 // Press Release // Tritonal

MARCH 30, 2012--Since the unstoppable Tritonal released their debut artist album "Piercing the Quiet" in May 2011, it's produced eight top 20 Beatport trance singles, including four that held the #1 position. Now the duo consisting of Chad Cisneros and Dave Reed are set to release "Piercing The Quiet – The Extended Mixes" on April 9 and fans will finally be able to get their hands on the full-length versions of each track from this critically acclaimed LP.

'Piercing The Quiet' was the culmination of two years of intense studio work, a period that saw Tritonal push every angle of their inimitable sound to the next level. Opening with the film-score stylings of 'Poem of Angels', the album ranges out across 15 tracks, taking in the full realm of trance music's sub-genres. With songwriting being a key asset of their partnership, Tritonal teamed up with long-term vocal muse, Cristina Soto to craft four magnificent tracks. Included among them are the beautiful down-tempo 'Everafter' and 'Still With Me', as well as a stunning update to their breakout record 'Piercing Quiet'.

Further collaborations see Winter Kill's singer Meredith Call on the gorgeous 'Broken Down'; U.S. songstress Fisher add lyrics and vox to the upbeat 'Slave; and relative newcomers Jeza, Bethany and Jenry R. all provide outstanding vocal performances. The album is completed with peak-time, main-room floor-stormers, 'Ziziki', 'Retake' and 'Murakami' which continue to rip roofs off nightclubs and uproot festival tent-pegs.

With their 7-days-a-week approach to trance music, Tritonal have released an incredible 100+ original productions and remixes, toured around the globe playing major clubs and festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival, Ultra Music Festival and Creamfields and have firmly cemented their position as America's foremost trance DJ duo.

"Piercing The Quiet – The Extended Mixes" will be released on April 9 2012, with the much-anticipated Remixed Album landing this summer worldwide. Preorders are available now on iTunes.

1 Poem of Angels View In iTunes
2 Can't Keep It In (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Jeza] View In iTunes
3 Ziziki (Extended Original Mix) View In iTunes
4 Broken Down (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Meredith Call] View In iTunes
5 Retake (Extended Original Mix) View In iTunes
6 Piercing Quiet (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Cristina Soto] View In iTunes
7 Sometimes I Wish (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Bethany] View In iTunes
8 Something New (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Jenry R] View In iTunes
9 Everafter (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Cristina Soto] View In iTunes
10 I Can Breathe (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Jeza] View In iTunes
11 Lifted (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Cristina Soto] View In iTunes
12 Murakami (Extended Original Mix) View In iTunes
13 Slave (Extended Original Mix) [feat. Fisher] View In iTunes
14 Shapes Revolve (Extended Original Mix) View In iTunes
15 Still With Me [feat. Cristina Soto] View In iTunes


For more information on Tritonal, visit their:

Website: www.tritonalmusic.com
Facebook: facebook.com/tritonalmusic
Twitter: twitter.com/Tritonal
YouTube: youtube.com/tritonalTV

To request an interview, please contact Erin Osovets at erin@theory-x.com.

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Kyau & Albert Interview

In the world of Electronic Dance Music, there are 2 magic words, that fill dance floors, top charts and win awards... want to know what they are? 

simple...KYAU & ALBERT!!! 

Q:

Tell us a bit about how you guys got together, and started making the music that's been getting crowds excited for more than 15 years?

A:

Ralph Kyau: We met in 1994 as teenagers, introduced by a friend we both knew. 

Steven Albert: I heard that Ralph was working with synthesizers and I also did music on a computer. After meeting a few times we founded a 2-man-band and two years later we released the first Kyau & Albert record.

Q:

In the last 15 years, the sound of melodic dance music, has changed quite a bit, from innovations in both hardware and software to the merging of various sub-genres... including an evolution from Kyau vs. Albert to Kyau & Albert, what brought on this change?

A:Steven Albert: In 2006 we changed from Kyau vs. Albert to easier form Kyau & Albert. In many non-english speaking countries, we were asked again and again what versus means or questions like...why do you choose versus. Are you always fighting? 

Ralph Kyau: When we started our band, we were simply choosing the versus, cos it just looked good and fresh for us. With the single 'Are You Fine?' we changed to Kyau & Albert. But it's interesting how many people still know about the versus. 

Q:

You have an amazing trademark sound, that has managed to stay fresh and change with the times, what is your production process? and has it changed at all through the years?

A:

Steven Albert: We like to experiement and also love try new things out.

Ralph Kyau: In general we do a ton of demos and rough ideas. Then we pick out the best ones and produce proper tracks. We often play these demos to friends to get a feedback.
Q:

Your label Euphonic, is home to some of Dance Music's biggest breakthrough artists, including incredible acts like Ronski Speed, Stoneface & Terminal and Mirco De Govia. How do you decide what's right for the label?

A:

Ralph Kyau: It depends on if we have a release slot and of course if we simply like the track.Honestly a lot of demos we get are not very unique, some are simply horrible.
Q:

Another major part of Euphonic, is the collaboration with Anjunabeats, how did this come about?

A:

Steven Albert: We know the guys since 2002 or so. In the vinyl days we swapped releases, which meant Above & Beyond singles on Euphonic for the German market and Kyau & Albert on Anjunabeats. So we released their 'Tri-State' album in Germany and they did our 'Worldvibe' CD in the UK plus exports. We're always in contact with someone from Anjunbeats office.

Q:

You're about to release the "15 years of Kyau & Albert" album, a collection of some of your biggest hits, remixed by some great acts including Arty, Ronski Speed,Sun Jellie and Tritonal, how did you decide who would be included on the album, was there something specific about each remixer that stood out for you about them, in the context of each song?

A:

Ralph Kyau: We contacted the remixers and told about the 15 years project. They had quite free hand in picking the songs they wanted to remix.

Steven Albert: The whole project took a lot of time. It was over a year from the first idea till holding the CD in our hands, but it was worth it and the sales are great.

Q:

The album also includes some new original material, What are the chances of seeing a new Kyau & Albert artist album any time soon?

A:

Ralph Kyau: Yeah, we also put new tracks like 'A Night Like This' and 'On The Way' to the album, cos they were big hits in 2011. Additionally we created one brand new track called 'This Love'.

Steven Albert: There's definitively coming a new artist album, we hope in the next 10-12 months. Already working on it.
Q:

What don't we know about Kyau & Albert? any hidden talents or hobbies?

A:

Steven Albert: Possibly no real hidden talent, but we love beer alot and tried so many out in the almost 50 countries we already travlled to.

Ralph Kyau: We also brew our own a few times a year. It's big fun! I have a few hop plants in my garden too.

Q:

What's playing on your IPOD/Mp3 player/Car Radio at the moment?

A:

Ralph Kyau: We're listening to a lot of music, mostly EDM. I sometims listen to classical music. I love to cross the channels on my car radio.

Steven Albert: As we get a lot of promos and demos, I sometimes just enjoy silence, for example when spending time in my garden or while making sports.

Q:

What can we expect from Kyau & Albert in the near and distant future?

A:

Steven Albert: We just finished a remix for our Euphonic label mate Ronski Speed and tnext days also a collab with Marc Marberg. Both get promoted in the next few weeks.

Ralph Kyau: Also check out our collab with Paul van Dyk, which gets released on Paul's label Vandit soon.
Check out some amazing new work from the amazing duo!

Get '15 Years - The Album' on iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/album/15-years-the-album/id503821524 

Get signed album CDs directly from the Euphonic headquarters: www.shop.euphonic.de

www.kyauandalbert.com

www.facebook.com/kyauandalbertofficial

https://twitter.com/kyauandalbert

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Tritonal Interview

Chad Cisneros and Dave Reed have become a formidable team among the EDM faithful, through their incredible work as TRITONAL


A name that has become synonymous with the cutting edge of Electronic Dance Music

Q:Tell us a bit more about the name, what it means, and how you came up with it?

A:Hi guys, cheers for having us. :) Just awoke in Sweden after a massive weekend of touring. Tritonal is derived from "Tritone" which is a specific interval or chord in music. It has a very unique quality, and the word Tritonal is an actual explosive, 80% of which is TNT. We liked the idea of an explosive musical quality.

Q: The term “hit after hit” is something that’s been thrown around by various people in the music industry, without much thought, but in your case… this actually seems to be a tried and tested formula, achieving great success time after time… how do you keep releasing music at the pace you do, and still make sure it’s of such a high quality?

A:Thanks for the compliment, love hearing amazing reactions!! There's no magic secret to be honest, just a couple of guys who wake up every day and work hard. We've taken a 6-day-a-week, full time approach to producing and have worked very hard to finish the amount of tunes we have. It's hard work, consistency and a dedication to quality.

Q: You have a long standing collaborative effort, with the amazing Cristina Soto, a vocalist who’s unique voice has meant a great deal to the Tritonal sound, tell us a bit about how you guys met up with Cristina, and for that matter how the meeting between “Chad & Dave” came about?

A:Loaded question, eh?! Ha. Well Dave and I met online through a Virus TI online forum discussing production & sound design. We became friends there first and established a production partnership. Cristina was introduced to me before I met Dave through a friend, and she had a very unique sound and characteristic to her voice. Once Dave and I started Tritonal, the 3 of us really hit it off and a sorta instant synergy emerged.

Q: Over the years a lot of DJ’s and Producers have had aliases or pseudonyms that show a different side to the artist… and while it’s not a pseudonym, you guys almost always accompany your original mixes, with a slightly more aggressive “Air up there” remix, which coincidentally is the name of your label, tell us a bit more about both the more aggressive side of Tritonal as well as the label, and what the ultimate goal is for Tritonal?

A:Well, Air Up There represents melodic emotion, which should leave the listener feeling effervescent. Regardless of how aggressive or tough our beats are, they are always based upon a catchy, fun and usually uplifting chord progression, melody or vocal hook. We originally were using our Air Up There Remixes to represent the uplifting side of Tritonal. Being as our sound has become much techier, clubbier and focused on massive bass grooves and wicked percussion - almost all of the latest remixes from Piercing The Quiet are 'Club Mixes' built for our DJ sets. Our ultimate goal is to make massive hits, there's no secret about that. We produce the types of tracks that we feel will rock a floor or festival and center those big beats around solid melodies. 

Q: Dance music has seen it’s fair share of phases, both underground and commercial, and Dance music today is bigger than it’s ever been… where do you see Dance music, and in particular Trance, going from here on?

A;It's going as you just said, commercial. Don't think it's ever had a "phase" like this historically, nor do I agree that it's a phase. EDM is quickly becoming a mainstream established genre, and like Hip Hop did in the early 90's, EDM is doing now. It's here to stay. Hip Hop, Rap, RnB, and Pop music have adopted EDM as the new king pin of style in the US, and it's evident from guys like LMFAO, Skrillex, Guetta, Afrokack and more. North America is exploding in EDM and we LOVE IT!! All of the old stigmas are being shed, styles are cross pollinating and the game is changing. The USA is taking over the Globe as the absolute best place to play, and we've seen this evidence from touring. The venues are amazing, the fees paid are generally larger, and the festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival are rivaled by no one. Trance has been and continues to borrow styles from electro, house and techno. It's evolving at rate faster then ever and it's a great time to be unique and creative. We've always tried to continue to be creative, unique and different and will continue to. Trance isn't going anywhere, but the old days and old sound are behind us. 138bpm slamming uplifting trance is dated, and doesn't work well in the US. Trance is changing and we think it's healthy and love it - we're changing too :)

Q: “Chad & Dave” sounds like it could be a great name for among other things, a Restaurant or even a hair salon, have you guys ever considered going into a different game? Any hidden talents or hobbies?

A;Haha!! Well, I've got quite decent skills playing Basketball and did in High School. Not able to play as much as I'd like these days. Dave is pretty kick ass at video editing. We'd love to open a Production school at some point down the line, and are both keen on film scoring as well. :)

Q: From it’s earliest days Dance music had it’s roots in American cities, like Chicago, New York and Miami… but no one would have imagined that one of it’s biggest names would come out of a state better known for Cowboy boots, Country music and Ten Gallon hats… how did dance music cross your path?

A;I learned about dance music early on from underground raves, which were massive in Texas. Guys like Josh Wink, Chemical Brothers and more were bringing a sound never heard before early on. Fell in love with it, and have pursued it passionately since. 

Q: What’s playing on your IPOD/MP3 Player/Car Radio right now

A;Adele - She's friggin smashing it!! Coldplay's new Mylo Xyloto as well, we're both avid Coldplay fans!!

Q: What or who are your biggest influences musically as well as in your lives in general?

A;Chad EDM wise it's - Sasha, Oakenfold & Sander Kleinenberg early on, but later Gareth Emery, Andy Moor and Kyau & Albert.

Q;10: What can we expect from TRITONAL in the near and distant future?

A;Lots of releases and touring in 2012!! ASOT 550 in Den Bosch & Ultra Music Festival, Creamfields 2012 Tour, Tomorrowland in Belgium and many more. Piercing The Quiet (Extended, Club & Remixes) are all set to release in 2012 and we've been little worker ants in the studio and have so many new things to share. :)

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Matt Lange Interview

Matt Lange is a name that without fail, is associated with some of the most intricate production I have ever heard, so much so, that the original master of detail (Brian Transeau aka BT). Got you involved on what is arguably his best work.

Q:How did the meeting with BT come about?

A:That connection came out of Berklee College of Music, where I went to college. BT has been mentored by Dr. Richard Boulanger for a number of years now, and Dr. B was my faculty advisor during my senior thesis. Shortly after I graduated, BT was looking for a new engineer to come work for him, and Dr. B recommended me.

Q: Have you ever been confused with legendary pop/rock producer " Mutt Lange" ?

A:Maybe once or twice, but it’s pretty rare actually. I’m frequently mixed up with a certain trance producer, however. It used to be annoying, now he and I joke about it on Twitter.

Q:Apart from being an extraordinary EDM producer, you have also been in a boys' choir and played lead guitar in a metal band, which comes through to a certain degree in some of your work, including your beautiful Avalon/Griffith Park EP which features an amazing fusion of organic elements and electronica. Is this something you purposefully do, or does it come by chance?
A:It’s absolutely on purpose. I grew up performing music, playing instruments, learning music theory. Consequently, I connect far more with acoustic instruments and sounds, than I do with synthesizers. I actually get very bored by the more traditional synthesizer type sounds. I write nearly everything on either guitar or sometimes piano. I think it’s so important to learn to play an instrument, especially now when the human element is so easily lost in these days of technology being able to do everything for you. Dave Grohl seemed to get a lot of flack for what he said at the Grammys about music not being about perfection or all the capabilities within a computer. As indebted as I am to modern technology, I agree with that 100%. A computer will never write something soulful. If music doesn’t stimulate a reaction in the heart, or in the head, then what’s the point?

Q: Dance music has become bigger than it's ever been, producing at least 2 sides to the scene. An extremely commercial side (a necessary evil to quote a DJ I recently interviewed) as well as a much more underground scene, really putting some effort into what they do, be it on the production side of things or as a live act... don't get me wrong, there are some commercial with great live acts as well. What do you think the future of Dance music is? A greater fusion of genres? Starting again from the roots? An Apocalypse?
A:Yeah I think we’ll see a lot more fusion in the next year or so. I think it’s awesome that the mainstream has gotten more interested in the electronic music world. I can say first hand that because of artists like Skrillex and Deadmau5 hitting the mainstream that I’ve personally been given opportunities that wouldn’t have existed otherwise. I don’t really think it’s a “necessary evil,” so to speak, I think it’s wonderful.

Q: Your latest collaboration with Andrew Bayer and Kerry Leva, "In & Out of Phase" is an incredible piece of music, crossing genres effortlessly and almost telling a story, if that makes sense? As someone with an incredibly creative mind, how easy is it for you to collaborate with another artist's creative ideas, and make them work together?
A:Thanks! I’m very very picky when it comes to choosing my collaborations, and I tend to only collaborate with either my friends or other artists I look up or am inspired by (none of which are mutually exclusive by any means!) Andrew and I had been planning on doing something together for a few years, and it just had never materialized until last year. Kerry and I have done a ton of collaborations, and it’s always been very easy for us to get in a studio and hammer out ideas quite fluently. This was a really easy collab in the sense that we all knew each other very well, there wasn’t really any push and pull, we all shared a similar vision of what we wanted the piece to be, and it was just a matter of executing it in a manner that everyone was happy with.
Q:Anyone you would love to work with in future?
A:Imogen Heap, because I love her. Maynard James Keenan, as he’s my favorite singer and lyricist. Animals As Leaders/Tosin Abasi, because they just absolutely inspire me. Noisia because they kick so much ass.
Q:What is your process when it comes to making music, any specific software or hardware that you never leave home without, just in case a great idea comes along?
A: Well my hardware’s quite heavy, so it would be pretty hard to take with me! I have a hard time writing when I’m traveling, I much prefer to be in a studio, locked away from outside distractions. That said, I always bring a field recorder and a microphone with me as you never know when you hear that one random sound that you may never hear again, and if you can capture it, all the better.
Q:You obviously have quite a wide taste in music, what are your top5 favorite acts of all time? be it a band, DJ, Solo Artist, Singer or Songwriter?
A: That’s a really tough one, but off the top of my head, and not necessarily completely accurate... Tool, Telefon Tel Aviv, Steve Reich, Burial, Opeth.
Q:What don't we know about Matt Lange, Any Hidden Talents or Hobbies?
A:My life’s pretty public these days, so I wouldn’t say anything is too hidden! I spend the majority of my free time when I’m home practicing guitar, coercing myself to go to the gym, and hanging out with my dog. I also watch a lot of movies and I love buying seasons of tv shows on dvd so that I can go start to finish through then entire thing without having to wait week after week! Current favorites are Damages and The Shield.
Q:What can we expect from Matt Lange in the near and distant future?
A:There’s a lot going on that I can’t talk about just yet, but I can say a number of cool collaborations are coming. In & Out of Phase comes out this week with some absolutely killer remixes, one of them notably from drum and bass legends Calyx & Teebee. They’ve been huge influences of mine for years, and I’m so honored they agreed to remix it! I’ll also be rereleasing an album called “The Answer To The Question You Forgot To Ask,” on IsoRhythm in March. I wrote it between 2006-2007, and it’s more along the downtempo, glitchy idm style I was writing at that time. I finally have the rights back from the label that originally released it in 08, and I’m very pleased to be able to give it a second life, along with a couple unreleased tracks as well that weren’t on the original release.

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Jason 47 Interview

We catch up with Jason47,
And chat to him about what the future of Cape Town's Dance scene holds,
Where Dance music is heading in general, and the fact that he's a Jean-Claude van Damme fan.





Q:Jason47 has been an integral yet underrated part of the South African Dance scene for well over a decade, rolling with the punches of an ever changing scene, yet sticking to what he loves, tell us a bit more about how dance music came across your path and who you were you before that?

A:Well I have pretty much been into the music since I was in school. Spending nights listening to guys like Derek the Bandit on 5FM and being really inspired by the uplifting vibey music he used to promote. In high school remember going to my first Pharcyde “rave” and that was it from there. I fell in love with the culture, the music and the night life. I started DJing in 1999 and within 6 weeks landed residencies at The Gallery, Pure and another club called C2K.

Q:So there's Jason 47, Jason Rockwell and Psyfour 7... explain each name, and what they represent?

A:Its always been really difficult for me to stick to one style of music. A habit I picked up from an old friend, DJ Kenn. First came Jason47, then Rockwell and most recently Psyfour 7. Jason47 is pretty much my main alias known for my hard dance and uplifting trance sets. Rockwell came along when I was getting as many bookings for house clubs as I was for hard dance and trance clubs and because people associate the Jason47 name with harder music, Rockwell was born to appease the more trendy conscious clubbers who didn’t enjoy the more ravey clubs. Psyfour 7 came about a year ago because of my love for psytrance. Id actually almost completely stopped DJ’ing because I had started my own business, so I thought if I was going to do gigs, id want it to be psytrance as that’s the music I’ve been completely overcome by since about 2006.
Even as Jason47 now, my music is more focused on the day time psytrance sound and Psyfour 7 would be the dirty night time dark and melodic vibes. Im starting to think I have developed multiple personality syndrome!

Q:Over the years, Dance music has seen it's fair share of trending genres, with some staying, some going, and some evolving... anything out there you wouldn't mind seeing make a comeback?
A:To be honest I really loved hard dance music and that lumo influenced rave scene but its all part of the musical evolution process. You can never get it back. You have to keep moving forward otherwise you get left behind. Trance fortunately has its cycles and the euro trance scene keeps re-inventing itself. I miss that old ‘System F – Out of the blue’ sound though.
Q: Any style you hope never makes a comeback?
A:There are some people that will hate me for saying this but Happy Hardcore and Hardstyle are my two pet hates. There are loads of people out there who still love it though so you have to respect that. My theory is “if you don’t like it, don’t listen to it”
Q:The Dance scene in South Africa and the world for that matter is bigger than it's ever been, with promoters making a bigger effort than ever before to get on the bandwagon and get the world's biggest Dj's , Artists and acts over to our shores on a more constant basis, and while some do an excellent job at it. Others, be it by being unexperienced, total disregard or purely "bad luck" make a complete mockery of what a lot of South African's follow religiously. Do you think there are enough SA "ravers" to keep the industry booming to spite this?
A:I think the euro trance scene is always big and the psytrance scene at the moment is definitely at its biggest ever. Even electro and dubstep are massive so there are quite a few club genres that are sharing the spotlight right now which is great. You would think that with all these genres having so much support that there would be more clubs! As for big artists coming down, I think after the recent Paul van Dyk scenario promoters will be scared to bring down big internationals. The thought of having to refund every clubber who wasn’t happy is just too scarey. Ive been in this industry a long time and things go wrong which are often out of your control as a promoter so with the new consumer protection acts its more risky than ever. There are definitely enough clubbers and party goers to go around. The question is, are there enough promoters around now willing to risk bringing big names out again? On a positive note this is good for the local acts and DJ’s.
Q:A lot of dance music has made it's way into the charts with an overwhelming sense of pop and "cheese" and while I think this has opened a lot of people's minds towards dance music, and possibly made the scene grow... some harm might have been done to Dance's reputation, luckily it seems because of this the "underground" seems to be stepping up their game, with acts like Sibot, truely showcasing the fact that electronica isn't just a dude pressing play on a cd player. What are your views on the new up and coming underground scene in SA, and especially Cape Town?
A:Club music in general has again become very mainstream. Music like psytrance and dubstep which are very much underground sounds are now found on national radio stations like 5FM. I think its great because it creates more interest, more DJ’s, more producers, more competition. A lot of people always moan because they want the music to stay underground. I say share the love J A DJ or producers ultimate goal is to reach as wide an audience as possible. Music connects people and brings us all together. That’s the whole point. The ‘cheese’ is like the bridge that helps people to transition from radio music to club music. It’s a “necessary evil”.
I saw Sibot for the first time at the Gatecrasher event and I was very impressed. Its great to see artists like this come through and there are more just like him. He creates a great persona and stage presence and in my opinion, nothing beats a live act. As for other new DJ’s there are good and there are bad. I come from the old school vinyl generation so to me its depressing when I meet a DJ who plays off his lap top and has never beatmixed a track by ear because of the Sync feature on his software. The flipside of that coin is, the old school DJ’s need to accept the new technology as well. Its there, people are going to make use of it. The definition of the term DJ is not what it used to be. Times have changed. You need to move with the times or you will get left behind.
Q:What's playing on your IPOD/Mp3 player/Car radio at the moment?
A:My set at Gatecrasher before Paul van Dyk is currently in my car CD player. Which for those interested can download here… http://www.mediafire.com/?qkk6hyx178gpy61
Q: What don't we know about Jason47? any hiden talents or hobbies?
A:Umm.. lets see. When you come to my parties, I make the décor myself. I like to be able to do everything! I love watching anime and am obsessed with superhero movies! I am also a great fan of Jean-Claude van Damme. (don’t laugh)
Q:What are the chances of seeing Jason47 up north in Joburg any time soon?
A:I used to play in JHB quite often but since I started taking DJing more seriously again I’ve been so busy that the thought never even crossed my mind to get gigs up there. The sound im playing now would go down nicely there in my opinion. Im also a big fan of DJ Speedy from JHB. All round nice guy and awesome DJ to listen to. Maybe I should give him a call.
Q: What can we expect from you in the near and distant future?
A:Im very lazy when it comes to music production but realistically that’s the only way forward for me now. I would love to get something going in terms of a live performance but locking down one style of music to stick to is the difficult part. Hopefully lots more gigs in the trance scene as that’s my passion at the moment.

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Mr.Sakitumi Interview

We chat to Mr. Sakitumi about his magic 8 ball, his favorite "Grrrl" and I get wrapped over the knuckles.

Q:

Whether you say “Sakitumi”, “Sock it to me” or Sean Ou Tim, one thing is sure, as a multi-instrumentalist technical genius, this is a name that’s on everyone’s lips… tell us a bit about yourself, where does the name come from, how you got it and why you decided that this would be how you represent yourself?

A:
I'm not too tall and I'm not too short either, although the hat does add some extra height. I can blend in amongst a group of Asian tourists, although easy to spot, as I will be the one without a camera.
You can't see me in the darkness, well, you can't see anyone in the darkness.
I play various instruments, using them with electronic music and vice versa.
The name actually came out of joking around. I started doing beats on my sampler (electronic music device) and began moonlighting here and there, til one day I got booked to play a gig.
i was told i needed a name, so i jokingly came up with 'Mr Sakitumi', which seems to have stuck around;)
It's a play on how it sounds, puts a smile on people's faces. Sometimes when I'm greeted, it gets pronounced in many ways and accents, which is pretty cool.



Q:

You’re style of music seems to merge sounds both old and new, to create something that consistently stays fresh, tell us a bit about your process, what inspires your production, and what are your biggest influences?

A:

I'm fortunate, in that being a multi-instrumentalist, i'm able to approach writing my tracks from a different angle (instrument) each time. it does help me to realize some of the bits of melodies i hear in my head.
most of my ideas come out when i'm away from my studio, my phone being the first device i hum/sing (pretty badly) into.
when i'm back in my studio, i'll play through a list of recordings and see what grabs me to take it further.
then there are those obvious days of jamming around in the studio, where something might come up.
i've actually taken the time to list my influences on my myspace page....does it still exist, i hope so? i wrote down quite a lot.
there are also amazing producers locally, who inspire me to keep at it.

Q:

Your distinctive sound has graced many a dance floor, as Mr.Sakitumi and what a lot of people might not now, as a founding member of the pioneering “Max Normal TV”, with Waddy Jones, better known by some as “Ninja” from the highly controversial “Die Antwoord” do you still have a lot of contact with Waddy, and what are your thoughts on “Die Antwoord”?

A:

Correction, it was just 'max normal', here's a short chronology for those who don't know:
in order leading up to today:
the original evergreen => watkin tudor jones jnr=> max normal (waddy, sibot, mark buchanan and myself) => constructus=> the fantastic kill=> maxnormal.tv => die antwoord
the thing about ninjas, is that they are so sneakily stealthy, that it's not easy to see them when they are around;)
die antwoord has captured the imagination of the world and that has been fascinating to see. the way they broke out of the country also deserves kudos.
i personally don't think their ideas will dry up, so i'm interested to see how they evolve and what will be next. one thing is for sure, it'll be extreme and pg rated ;)

Q:

Thanx to organizers, like the amazing people over at “Griet”, underground electronic music, is getting a major platform in South Africa, and people are opening up to styles and genres much more. Where do you see electronic music in South Africa and the world going in the near and distant future?
A:

So many organizers (like griet, sshadoworkss) and sponsors (like redbull studios cape town) have worked hard to build the scene here, i mean, i feel fortunate to be able to do what i do in south africa.
there has been amazing growth to the point where some of our guys headline electronic parties, stages and festivals locally as well as abroad.
wrt the second part of the question, i asked my magic 8 ball and it said... "ask again in the near and distant future"

Q:

Your debut album “Secret Asian Man”, is an incredible piece of musical art… and seems to catch a true glimpse into who Mr. Sakitumi is, up to and including the title… “Secret Asian Man”… what don’t we know about Mr.Sakitumi? any hidden talents or hobbies?
A:

Thanks,I appreciate the appreciation.
I can write cursive backwards quite fluidly, suppose boredom in class led to it, but one day, that great purpose will be revealed....where's my magic 8 ball?

Q:

I recently read somewhere, that your wife is in the Industry as well… Do you ever worry about her getting a lot of unwanted attention from fans, or is it the other way around?
A:

In the industry? is she? really? where? ;) she's her own person and handles herself really well.
check out www,facebook.com/thegrrrl

Q:

You’ve collaborated with a vast array of impressive and diverse artists including Goldfish and Johnny Clegg, is there anyone specific you’d love to work with in future?
A:

Shirley bassey (she sang a bunch of the old classic james bond themes)

Q:

What’s playing on your IPOD/Mp3 player/Car radio at the moment?
A:

The new lark album stuff, we're playing again soon and i need to refresh the songs in my mind.

Q:

You work with an arsenal of instruments and hardware, which you use to their fullest potential… is there any software that makes it into the mix… and is there any one instrument or piece of hardware that you still really want to get and use in your work?
A:

Softwarewise, i use abelton live + maxforlive + native intruments + mspinky for all of my stuff.instrumentwise, funny you should ask, i've just started cello.

Q:

What can we expect from Mr. Sakitumi in the near and distant future?
A:

2nd album, music video, more collaborations.
as well as a mr sakitumi with a better magic 8 ball? (it does tell me this article will be out in the near future)
thanks for the interview:)

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Jes Interview

We chat to the beautiful, ultra-talented, phenomenon that is Jes Brieden (JES), about her various

projects, what inspires her and what the future holds for this incredible artist.

Q:
It's one thing reading up on someone on Wikipedia or even their own Biog... It's quite a different matter... Getting the info from the actual person... Tell us a bit about "JES" before tracks like "As the rush comes" and "star children" brought you to our attention...?

A:
I was born and raised in Manhattan. I always loved N.Y.C and never really wanted to live anywhere else but as my career developed I found myself living in Los Angeles and that’s where my dance music career took off. I had always been obsessed with music from an early age and threw myself into any chance to make music I could find. While I was still at school I answered an advert in the village voice for a session singer and on hearing my voice played back in a professional studio I was truly hooked. After that day I just kept developing my voice and music. I worked in the pop-rock field and wrote music with as many different people as possible. While I was working as an engineer in a studio in Los Angeles I met some musicians and producers from the more progressive dance world, which was completely new to me. Being from NYC, I mostly listened to house music in the clubs but this a whole new flavor. I started writing songs with some of them and one of the first songs I wrote was “Starchildren”. It was a bit of a domino effect after that, writing one song after another. I still have my studio in LA, but I try to work and record in both places. It gives me a nice balance. The two cities are very different and I tend to write very different songs in each place and I just need to get back to N.Y.C as often as I can.

Q:
You've worked with some of the world's top DJ's and Producers... From Gabriel n Dresden to BT, and Tiesto... Do you feel you've learned anything from them and might want to have a go at either DJ'ing or Producing yourself?

A:
It’s funny you ask that because I actually mixed my latest album release “Unleash The Beat” (Magik Muzik / Ultra Records - http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/unleash-the-beat/id446244369) and I also make my own podcasts that you can check out on mix cloud (http://www.mixcloud.com/planetjes/), so I have been DJ’ing for a while now in my studio. I have a big hand in the production of my three other studio albums “Disconnect” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/disconnect-bonus-track-version/id260803258), “High Glow” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/high-glow-bonus-track-version/id359911201) and “Into The Dawn” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/into-dawn-the-hits-disconnected/id273122601 ) . I co-produce with my producer Richard Robson, I think it is very important for the artist to have some control over the direction and the sound of the track. I have 3 different studio setups so I can track vocals on the road, at my home and also at my studio. Working with BT was a great experience, he is like a mad scientist in the studio and I had a lot of fun working with Gabriel and Dresden. Tiesto is a fantastic producer to work with and really helps you to give your best for a song. Collaborating is a great way to learn more about production, everyone has a different approach and I have learnt something from every collaboration. I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to work with so many talented people.

Q:
Anyone you would like to work with in future?

A:

I try not to get too involved in that way of thinking. I’d love to work with many of the big songwriters out there like Ryan Tender, Bruno Mars and there are incredible writers from Rihanna’s camp. I like to stay open to all possibilities. Most importantly, I look for that spark of inspiration when I meet other writers and producers. I also try not to limit myself with one style of music. I have found that the best collaborations come with other artists that I am friends with. There’s a more organic feeling to working this way for me. Many of my collaborators I have met at a show or an event and had an instant connection. When you get along naturally good music will come out of it. There’s so many inspiring and talented people out there and I look forward to meeting and working with as many of them as I can. 

Q:
 You've got quite a trademark "rock chick" look, do you spend a lot of time preparing your look, and how important is "image" to you?

A:
For me fashion and music are very much connected. The music always comes first, but the image has to be something that supports the music and who I am as an artist. I do love fashion and I love getting dressed up. I’m naturally drawn to the tougher, edgier side of style so I feel much more comfortable with the dramatic rock look. It’s very me!

Q:
I saw you live, in Johannesburg a few years back for Tiesto's "Elements of life" Tour... And I was absolutely blown away... Tiesto has obviously helped build your brand and career quite a bit... What is the next huge career defining "moment" for "JES"?

A:
That was an incredible time and I was very blessed to have the support of Tiesto on that tour. It was a huge challenge and very exciting be playing shows of that size so often. I already had a big track out (As The Rush Comes http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/as-the-rush-comes/id341431624) with Motorcycle, but getting the exposure of that tour really helped me to establish my own brand and launch my first solo album “Disconnect”. Developing your career is about a continual everyday push, the big events help a lot but you have to follow up with your fans regularly and never give up. So much of it is up to the artist these days and while every event counts, it really comes down to what you put into it yourself. You can check out my most recent collaboration with Tiesto, “Show Me The Way” Tiesto presents Allure ft. JES here, (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/show-me-the-way-feat.-jes/id437042701) and we shot a beautiful video which you can check out on you tube, (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EK_QZj5meqA). Everyday brings a new challenge and I think it’s constantly changing and growing into something new. I feel I have so much more to do to define myself. The work is just beginning.

Q:
Out of all the tracks you've written or sang on, which means the most to you and why?

A:
That is a tough question, I write or co-write all the songs that I perform so I am very attached to all of them. Every song takes me back to a particular time and place in my life, it’s like a scrapbook of my memories. If I have to pick a few of the recent songs then one would be my single from earlier this year “Awaken” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/awaken-remixes-pt.-2/id416243409) It has certainly played an interesting role. Apart from having enjoyed phenomenal radio success it also spurred me to launch my “Awaken Campaign” (http://awakencampaign.com/). The two songs I wrote with BT for his Grammy nominated album “These Hopeful Machines” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/these-hopeful-machines/id395309491) have also proved very popular. Both “Every Other Way” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/every-other-way/id344788244) and “The Light In Things” (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/unleash-the-beat/id446244369) were really rewarding to work on and it was a lot of fun to go to BT’s studio and work with him together. “As The Rush Comes” has a special place in my heart as it’s where so many things started, but once I get going I find so many of them are special to me. I also really like “Show me the way” because it was a beautiful piano ballad and I think that still comes across as a tender song even its EDM form. 

Q:

Through the years there have been a couple of vocalists that represented the "voice" of dance music... People like Tiff Lacey, Kirsty Hawkshaw, Jan Johnston and in recent years yourself of course... Who, if anyone would you consider to be someone to look out for in future?

A:
I really like John Martin who sang on the Swedish House Mafia song “Save the World”. He seems to keep a low profile, but I loved his work on that track . He has a raw identifiable voice and I look forward to see what he does next.

Q:What inspires your lyrics... Is there a certain process you go through?

A:
Every song comes differently; there isn’t a standard process for me. I’m always writing ideas and a lot of the time it’s abstract observations that grow into lyrical connections. I like to emote in my home studio over an idea and let the music take me, often the melodies will suggest words and that will trigger my thought process. Inspiration can come anywhere so I keep some type of recorder with me most of the time, often I record my initial ideas for melodies or lyrics into my iphone. Some times I will dream a whole song idea. When I wake up I have to record it quickly so I don’t forget it. Mainly the lyrics come from my own experiences and feelings, I went through a very long breakup that is the basis for many of my songs. I’m over that now so its other people’s lives and my friends situation s that I look at and things I see and hear everyday. I always have my ears open. I guess most of my songs are a bit autobiographical on some level but the goal is always to find that melody and lyric that makes the connection. We all feel the same things at times and I want to find that and bond with the listener.
Q:
What do you like to do when you're not writing or singing? Any hidden talents?

A:
Being on the road is pretty demanding so I like to stay in shape. I love working out, but my favorite sport is probably skiing. I’m a good horse rider and used to ride competitively, I also trained to be a ballet dancer as a teenager. I’m a pretty good photographer, you can check out some of my photos of New York in this short movie (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFMYRkoB0sg). Since I’ve been making video’s I’ve kind of gotten into shooting too, the whole production process is so much fun and I’m quickly becoming a video editor. I can also professionally wire a recording studio, which comes in handy quite often in my line of work.


Q:
What can we expect from Jes in the near and distant future?

A:
Right now I have a single out called “It’s Too Late” (MagikMuzik/Ultra Records http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/its-too-late-remixes/id455678506) which is just starting to climb the charts in the US. The First State Remix is proving particularly popular (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/its-too-late-single-first/id476632865). I’m also putting the finishing touches to the video for my new collaboration with Ronski Speed “Can’t Stop” (http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/cant-stop-remixes/id474035288) which will be out world wide before the end of the year.” Can’t Stop” is the first single from my mix album “Unleash The Beat” (Magik Muzik / Ultra Records) and since I mixed that I really got the DJ bug and I’m starting to incorporate that into my shows more. I also have a whole new electronic band that is like nothing you ever saw before and I’m working hard to get that out on the road in the coming year. We’ve done a few amazing shows here in California and I can’t wait for my fans to see it. I have a new collaboration with Robbie Rivera called “Turn It Around” coming out very soon that’s a massive Miami party tune and I’m really excited about that one. I’m starting to shape my next artist album right now and I also have a down tempo very moody project that I’m trying to find some time for early in the New Year.



Most of all I love to hear from my fans. They are the real inspiration for me and everyday I look forward to reading their notes to me. They inspire me to keep rockin.

I hope you will all come and find me at

http://www.planetjes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/jespage

https://www.twitter.com/official_jes

https://www.youtube.com/planetjes

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Yesterday's Pupil Interview

We chat to Peach from yesterday's pupil, about his amazing new album, what he's been up to and a love for photography.

Q:

Ok, let’s start with the basics… you’re involved with various bands and acts and known by many names… including P.H, Pierre-Henri and more affectionately as Peach, tell us a bit about “Yesterday’s Pupil” though, where the name comes from and how you started making the music you do.

A:

I started making my own music in 2004 when music production was one of my subjects when I studied music. In 2007 I started playing live as YP and things started happening from there. "Today is yesterday's pupil" is a famous quote by Thomas Fuller. I really like it, I see it like this though: You know they saying "we may be through with the past but the past aint through with us" in that sense it is almost like Yesterday's PUPIL is always watching us. Everything we do and have done will have some kind of effect on our lives in the future....deep yo!

Q:

Apart from being a powerhouse in your own right, many people might not know that you come from quite a famous family , including some of SA’s favorite actors… did this have any influence on your path into the industry? And have you ever considered going into acting yourself?

A:

I studied acting at high-school and my plan was always to act, I still love it! But my love for music took over at some point or stage and that is what I am happy doing. My parents being actors hasn't affected my music career at all, if anything it helped because I grew up around stages and sets with cameras etc...

Q:

 The first time I ever came to know about “Peach Van Pletzen”, was a few years back, watching probably the best piece of theatre I’ve ever seen, at the KKNK… a show called “2-21”, featuring yourself and Francois van Coke in animal suites, since then you’ve produced some amazing music with Francois, both as Oorlog Frankenstein and behind the scenes “Van Coke Kartel’s” genre defying “Skop,Skiet en Donner” Album… how did the meeting with Francois come about ?

A:

I have met Francois once or twice before and we knew one another from the industry. But then when we were put together by a company called "The President" to create music for this play we really started to get to know one another, we had lots of fun writing the music in the day and doing a bit of partying in the night. I wrote this electro piece of music and told him to sing on it and it just worked. He also loved our chemistry and he asked me to produce their next full length album Skop, Skiet en Donner. Then I really got to know those crazy bastards!

Q:

Since your first album “Errors Of Enthusiasm” came out, you’ve slowly but surely become a major player in South Africa’s cross over market, and built up quite a fan base, yet to spite this increase in followers, you’ve recently made a revolutionary move, by making your brand new album available as a totally free download… tell us a bit more about the album, in terms of style, marketing plan and how the decision was made to “give it away”.

A:

Music is free in one way or another. I decided I would prefer the fans to get the music directly from the source in a decent quality and format as opposed to some crappy youtube rip or something. IT also connects you more with the fans. The position I was in I basically had to choose between some money or more fans and I chose the fans. This album is much much better in terms of song writing and production, I feel as though I have- or I am closer to finding my sound.

The album will be released in five sequential parts with a two to three month interval in between. Each part will consist of two brand new original tracks accompanied by an artwork for each track as well as the lyrics and artist notes.

Q:

Styles and trends, in music are constantly changing, what is small today might end up being huge 10 years from now. As is the case with electronic music, which is bigger now, than it’s ever been… do you feel this had a big impact on you as an artist, and do where do you see music in South Africa and globally going in the future?

A:

It probably had some impact, I don't really follow any scene or trend to be honest. I learn from it and I will borrow whatever I want from it but I will never become it or let it become me. As technology grows music will try to keep up with it, who knows where it is going next... new and interesting sounds are being made and created every day by new plug-ins and apps and software/hardware etc... but all of it doesn't mean anything if there isn't a song at the core. Songs are timeless, the latest sounds... not so much.

Q:

. Another band you play a major role in, which seems to be doing extremely well at the moment, is the incredible “Bittereinder”, tell us a bit more about your role in the band, as well as the idea behind the name etc.

A:

Jaco came up with the name and he will have a better explanation. I am involved mainly in the production side of things, Louis and I write most of the music, although Jaco has also been known to bring some sweet musical elements to the table. I produce and mix the stuff and do a bit of vocals.

Q:

You’ve been collaborating with various artists for quite some time now, is there someone you would love to work with in future?

A:

Mmmm.

Q:

Besides the plethora of talents you’re known for, is there anything we don’t know about? Maybe a secret hidden passion or hobby?

A:

Haha, I really love taking photo's... that is my one solid hobby, I take pictures everywhere I go and keep them well organized. There are a few winning moments in the archives. I truly love it!

Q:

What’s playing on your IPOD/MP3 Player or Car radio right now?

A:

New rough work for Bittereinder that Louis and Jaco have been working on. New Trentemoller, New M83, New Elbow, New Sufjan Stevens and Queen!

Q:

 What can we expect from you in the near and distant future?

A:

Much more music :)

Watch the official music video for Too Tired To Disco here:

http://bit.ly/tzwwf9

Download SINGULARITY for FREE on the new YESTERDAY’S PUPIL website here:

http://www.yesterdayspupil.com/

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Bassive Interview

We chat to Bassive, about the future of Electro, some trade secrets and Dance music in Dubai...

Q:

Quite an interesting name you’ve chosen to release your music under, tell us a bit about how you came up with it?

A:

I kind of just played around with words, Bassive stands for ‘Massive Bass’ and I guess that is how I describe my style, it is how I feel about music and it defines this very deep sounding bass that I use.

Q:

France has pioneered some of EDM’s most noted DJ’s and producers, and has become world famous for that well known French House sound, as a French DJ yourself, how did the move to Dubai come about, and how would you compare the scene in the middle east, to back home?

A:

There has been a lot of cool events lately in Dubai with the participation of international DJ/Producers but the field is still growing and there is plenty of space to be occupied, Electro House is still not very popular only for the exception of a few annual concerts but it is on the right path even though it might take some time.

There is also a 21+ restriction for DJ’s that blocks young talent from showcasing their skills and I think that is a huge mistake.

The scene in France is much better considering that some of the biggest acts in EDM such as Daft Punk and recently Madeon have raised from there, people have more knowledge about music and there is some kind of movement going on with Electro House and recently Dubstep in Parisian clubs, raves and concerts wich is not ready to end at any time.

Q:

You’re productions really seem to have an immense impact on dance floors around the world, do you use hardware or software or a combination of both to get that incredible sound?

A:

I have always used FL Studio, it’s a great software, my set-up is pretty simple, computer, keyboard and some big speakers (my neighbors hate me)

Q:

You’ve remixed some of the greatest names in Electro, is there a track you’ve always wanted to remix, but you feel it might be a bit intimidating because of how huge it is?

A:

I'd love to see how good I can do with Fleguk – Bassive, and it would be funny to have a track named Felguk – Bassive (Bassive Remix)

Q:

Electro has gone through it’s fair share of changes since the early days, with a massive revival a few years back, and now heading towards a harder slightly more underground sound, where do you see electro and dance music in general going in the near and distant future?

A:

Minds are more open to new genres and sub genres, with game changers such as Porter Robinson, Zedd, Skrillex and Wolfgang Gartner, younger creative talents that are open to new styles and possibilities, Electro will always have a new and better sound that will most likely be appreciated, I can only see it going bigger just like Rock and Roll since the introduction of the electric guitar, DJ’s are the new rockstars.

Q:

Tell us a bit more about “Bad Family Recordings”, how you’re involved and what the mission is behind the label?

A:

I originally created Bad Family Recordings to sign some of my good producer friends who are incredibly talented and needed a place where they could publish their work and get noticed on Beatport, also for having more flexibility and control over my work.

It is Dubai’s first and only Electronic music record label focused on publishing ‘Bass Music’ from both local and international artists.

Q:

Each year brings new up & coming DJ’s and producers to the forefront, Who would you consider someone to look out for next year?

A:

I have recently signed this fresh talent from Switzerland who goes by the name of Luckner, watch out for his EP dropping on Bad Family Recordings pretty soon, its bangin!

Q:

What’s playing on your IPOD/MP3 Player/ Car Radio at the moment?

A:

My latest EP http://www.beatport.com/release/felguk-ep/832330

Q:

Having DJ’d in some of the world’s greatest clubbing cities, what is the weirdest or most wonderful experience you’ve had?

A:

Urban Desert Festival when I played at Akon’s after party with his DJ Benny D and later chillin with Akon and Fat Joe Backstage, SWAGG.

Q:

What can we expect from Bassive in the future?

A:

Will perform at the World Top DJ Festival on the 3rd of December then spend some time in Paris, hit Washington DC for some time and then get back to Dubai for working on my next EP, a few interesting collabs and lots of remixes.

checkout Bassive's brand new release, available right now... http://www.beatport.com/release/felguk-ep/832330

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