Around The World with WEISS: Los Angeles, Ibiza, and Barbados

After emerging onto the scene in 2013, WEISS has ascended through the dance music ranks at an impressive rate, receiving support from a host of legends ranging from Armand van Helden, Eats Everything and Carl Cox to Elton John along the way. His 2018 hit single ‘Feel My Needs’ took the world by storm, reaching #1 in both the BBC Radio 1 Dance Chart and ARIA Club Chart (also being voted the #1 track for the year), and winning ‘Best Track’ at the DJ Mag ‘Best of British’ awards.

WEISS has circled the globe countless times to complete tours worldwide, in the latter part of 2019 he embarked on his biggest ever tours of North America and Oceania covering 30 dates across 7 weeks. It is this connection that brings WEISS and his experiences to CULTR. We present, WEISS’ Around The World.

Los Angeles

California

The mad thing is I wasn’t originally the biggest fan of LA but I’ve fallen in love with it more and more over the years. The restaurants are incredible and if you’re lucky & get an offer to party at someone’s house in the hills, then take it!! 

Ibiza

Spain

It’s always a No.1 go to place for me to party with my friends during the summer. Not only is the nightlife amazing but Old Town is a real mix of old & new with a chilled atmosphere and beautiful restaurants. 

Barbados

Carribbean

Barbados has a special place in my heart: I went there as a kid and love the beaches & crystal clear water. Waking up in the morning and finding yourself surrounded by red crabs and swiminning with the turtles is a memory I’ll never forget.

Exclusive: OTR Breaks Down Debut Album “Lost At Midnight” Track by Track

OTR has just embarked on his most fulfilling venture in his young career thus far. With the release of his debut album “Lost At Midnight” via Astralwerks, it is exciting to see the artist’s vision finally coming to fruition. Featuring artists like Panama, Shallou, Vancouver Sleep Clinic, Au/Ra, and more, the 12-track LP serves as a digital embodiment of the talent rooted in the 26-year old aerospace engineer-turned-producer.

The captivating project will throw you into a whirlwind of emotions as you are captured by the records alluring atmosphere. Offering enchanting soundscapes, melancholic chord progressions, and catchy toplines along the way, “Lost At Midnight” evidently reaches the peak of electro-pop. Pulling you by the heartstrings, OTR effortlessly transports the listener into a pit of vulnerability which is the very essence as to why the album is incredibly addictive to listen to in the first place. Finally showcasing his genius to the world, we can safely declare that this is OTR’s moment.

“Writing the album over the last two years was an incredible experience. Now that it’s out, I’m happy to see people empathize with the raw emotion I put into each track, signifying different points in my life.” – OTR

With all that being said, what better way to pinpoint the significance of this album than to hear it from the artist himself. Hear the story of how he put this all together in the track-by-track breakdown below.

Stream/Download

Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello’s “Senorita” Breaks Record On Spotify

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Shawn Mendes and Cuban born Camila Cabello released their joint single, “Señorita,” last week via Island Records. The song achieved instantaneous success worldwide rocketing to #1 on Spotify’s Global chart as the biggest single-day debut of a male/female duet ever. The video garnered 50 million YouTube streams in the first 48 hours of release while trending #1 around the globe. Other notable chart #1s include Spotify US Chart, iTunes, Apple Music Pop and Apple Music’s Top Videos.

GRAMMY nominated Toronto born multi-platinum singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes released his highly anticipated self-titled third album in May 2018. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 album chart as well as multiple additional worldwide markets, including Australia, Canada, Mexico, Belgium, Holland & more and shot to #1 on iTunes in more than 80 countries immediately upon release. The album became one of the top best-selling album debuts of 2018 and made Shawn the third youngest solo artist to ever have three consecutive #1 albums.

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Multi Grammy nominated Cuban born singer/songwriter Camila Cabello (Epic Records / SYCO) released her debut solo album, CAMILA in January 2018 to rave reviews. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart at the same time as her single “Havana” Reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Camila the first solo artist in nearly 15 years to reach the #1 spot on the Hot 100, Billboard 200 and Artist 100 charts in the same week. The RIAA platinum-certified album, CAMILA, launched its debut at #1 on 110 iTunes charts around the world, breaking the record for most #1 positions for a debut album in iTunes history. Camila also became the #1 artist on global Spotify.

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senorita.lnk.to/OutNow

Ferry Corsten Releases The Latest UNITY Collaboration with BT on ‘1997’

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Ferry Corsten is back with his latest ‘Unity’ collaboration, after releasing the last one with Ilan Bluestone back in December – Ferry has teamed up with BT for a special collaboration in ‘1997‘.

Ferry Corsten has been busy with solo music in the first half of 2019, releasing ‘Freefall‘ – which feels like a more commercially viable release. He also returned to his Gouryella alias with ‘Surga‘.

Ferry Corsten has brought in another big name into the Unity project, with the legend that is BT. After remixing BT’s track ‘Suddenly’ in 2010, the pair are familiar with each other’s prowess in the studio, and that united vision is showcased in abundance. The team-up sees both artists strengths utilised to their best potential to create a track that is greater than the sum of its parts. As it should, the production leans heavily on the killer uplifting melody – which is a prominent throughout the entire track. The mix of each artist’s styles is present and concludes in an epic collaboration.

Ferry launched the UNITY project in 2018 with his collaboration alongside Paul Oakenfold titled ‘A Slice Of Heaven’, and continued working with artists within the Trance community throughout the year, such as DIM3NSION, Jordan Suckley, Saad Ayub and Ilan Bluestone, and after the success of 2018 has more releases in store after making his first donation to project partner, VH1’s Save The Music Foundation, an organisation launched to reinstate music programs in public schools, which to date has raised over $53 million and helped over 2,100 public schools.

You can learn more about the Unity project with our Ferry Corsten Interview.

Download/Stream


Gesaffelstein New Era Arrives With ‘GAMMA’

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The new era of Gesaffelstein has arrived. GAMMA is the latest project from the French talent, which will debut live at Coachella in a number of weeks.

Rumours that Gesaffelstein had been working on this third album have been circulating for some time, initially sparked by a tweet shared by Skrillex last year. “Gesaffelstein’s just played us his new album my gaaawd,” the LA-based DJ and producer shared in March.

The 11-track LP is a gritty representative of Gesaffelstein’s mind, with his vocals sprinkled throughout. There is a core Gesaffelstein sound incorporated into each record, but each record still stand separately. Whilst this album might not be a smash hit on streaming, it’s sure to be an incredible experience in the desert next month.

The album also comes with a closely developed visual campaign developed by director and cinematographer Jordan Hemingway (whose past credits include work with FKA twigs, Gucci and Acne Studios) in close collaboration with Gesaffelstein himself.

New Dance Sounds: Alesso, Zerb & The Chainsmokers + More

Dive in below to engross yourself in fresh new music that has been released today, you might even find your newest favourite!


Alesso – Zig Zag [Capitol]

This captivating track highlights his distinctive progressive house sound and is set to ignite dance floors as a pulsating club anthem this year. ‘Zig Zag’ leads the charge as the inaugural single from his upcoming music, heralding a fresh era for Alesso.


Zerb & The Chainsmokers feat. Ink – Addicted [TH3RD BRAIN]

The Chainsmokers are here with their first release of 2024, a team up with Zerb and Ink. The house production features a great vocal and a catchy production. Hopefully ‘Addicted’ isn’t the last collaborative effort from Zerb and The Chainsmokers.


MUZZ – Galvanize [UKF]

MUZZ is back on UKF with fiery new anthem ‘Galvanize’. The drum and bass talent features a prominent vocal throughout that leads to a hectic drop that continues the melody heard before. MUZZ continues to please all drum and bass fans with his terrific offerings.


Rodg – It’s The

Rodg continues his independent releases this year with ‘It’s The’, a techno-trance production that includes a bouncy beat and an underground vibe throughout. Rodg doesn’t disappoint.


Achilles – Only On XTC [CLUBWRK]

Melbourne based producer Achilles returns to CLUBWRK with fiery new main room anthem ‘Only On XTC’. With elements of acid, techno and big room infused, the record hits hard. With the incorporation of a catchy vocal, ‘Only On XTC’ is sure to be a win with fans.


ryscu & Medyk – By Myself [Awakening]

ryscu and Medyk’s team up is here via Ekali’s new compilation. ‘By Myself’ is an atmospheric wave anthem with a sensational vocal. ‘By Myself’ is certainly the stand out from the 23 track compilation.

ADENIAL – Close Enough [We Are One]

ADENIAL’s debut record has arrived. The sensational production is taken to the next level thanks to a wonderful vocal. There is no better way to start an artist project than with a record such as ‘Close Enough’.

Rowland Giles – Come Thru (Eugenio Tokarev Remix) [nomads]

No wonder this was played on ASOT, Eugenio Tokarev injects his progressive vibe into Rowland Giles’ latest one. This is a wonderful remix that has used the original’s vocal beautifully.

Anyma Assembles Techno Dream Team For ‘Genesys II’ 

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Seven months after his debut album Genesys, Anyma is already following up with Genesys II – which includes brand new singles and remixes of the first album. The album is a two-pronged project, with 10 original mixes in disc 1 and 11 remixes in disc 2, this is a great day for Anyma fans!

Included throughout the remix package are notable names in the techno world, such as Kölsch, Amelie Lens, Cassian, Kevin de Vries and many more. Eric Prydz’s previously released remix of ‘Consciousness’ is also included.

The original mixes are a treat, there are several new notable collaborations such as PARISI, Adam Sellout and Rebūke. It’s difficult to pick a favourite when there is such great music on offer.

Genesys II comes hot off two sold-out Afterlife shows at Miami Marine Stadium and ahead of Anyma’s highly anticipated set at Coachella Music Festival. It was just announced that in addition to his solo set, Anyma will go B2B with Eric Prydz for a 3+ hour sunset set at the newly launched Quasar Stage during Coachella weekend 2.

Anyma’s loaded new project Genesys II is an awesome offering from the Italian superstar and will be enjoyed by the millions of fans. The speed and quality from Anyma has been greatly appreciated and will continue to be.

DEARI Unleashes Dancefloor Vibes with ‘Feelin”

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DJ and music Producer DEARI is back with another powerful Dance track titled ‘Feelin.’’ Set for release through V Records, this new production displays DEARI’s usual groovy and powerful sound, highlighting his own style and skills as a Producer, ‘Feelin’’ is ready to reach new heights for this rising artist in the Electronic music scene. 

Following his latest release ‘Falling’, which received support from Don Diablo, and with a music catalog that keeps adding new exciting productions and even more listeners every time, DEARI is gearing up to unveil a busy release schedule that promises new hard-hitting tracks that will keep his name climbing on the list of Producers to follow; and ‘Feelin’’ is no exception, powering through, this new release is upbeat, groovy and vibrant. 

‘Feelin’’ features catchy vocals, bouncy basslines and a lively synth progression that carries the energy of the track. Underlaying arpeggiated synths and textural pads add layers of dynamism to this refreshing listen, alongside powerful drops where the low-end hits releasing the track’s energy, this new will get listeners to join the party, with its infectious and energizing vibe. When listening to ‘Feelin,’’ listeners will be transported to the middle of the dancefloor, as its refreshing energy and catchy melody will keep the party going. 

DEARI is certainly making a statement with each release, as he displays his own style that is gearing up to continue to surprise and captivate his followers and lovers of the genre, assuring an unmissable release schedule packed with hard-hitting music. And while he keeps busy in the studio creating his next hits, be sure to follow him across social media to keep up to date with his latest releases and new projects, as this is just the beginning of a promising path. ‘Feelin’’ is out now and available in all major online stores and leading streaming platforms. 

Listen to ‘Feelin’’ Now:  

https://www.beatport.com/release/feelin/4444195

DEARI Online 

Spotify | Instagram | Beatport 

V Records Online 

Beatport | Instagram 

DJ Dris Delivers Groovy Anthem with ‘Work’, Featuring the Captivating Vocals of Natalie Graham

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DJ Dris is here with his newest Afro House release, ‘Work’ featuring the striking vocalist Natalie Graham. Set for release via the label Born Digital Music, this latest production places the unique creativity and sound that continues to mark DJ Dris out within the world of Electronic Music in the spotlight; a rising star in the music industry, DJ Dris continues to make waves with his unique blend of Afro House, Afro Tech, and Funky House beats, drawing in fans from across the globe with his distinct, vibrant energy. A former rapper and radio host, DJ Dris’ diverse background sees him bringing a fresh perspective to his productions, setting him apart from others on the scene. Now, having worked with Natalie Graham previously for their track ‘Kiss and Tell’, DJ Dris is back with another emotive and refreshing collaboration with the vocalist.  

The daughter of the soul pioneer Jaki Graham, Natalie Graham appears with a unique set of experiences and expertise that enables her to add a distinct and original touch to any production. As she layers her soulful vocals into this new track, Natalie Graham’s talents and love for music shine through, raising the dynamic and powerful energy that ‘Work’ delivers to its listeners. 

As ‘Work’ incorporates DJ Dris’ infectious rhythms and Natalie Graham’s soulful vocals, listeners are sure to enjoy the unique sonic experience on offer; with shuffled rhythms, tribal beats, and infectious melodic hooks, the track leads through a captivating soundscape, curating a listening journey that is sure to keep listeners on the dancefloor. As catchy motifs and layered vocals join the mix, the track keeps its high energy, shining a light on the soulful and funky style of both DJ Dris and Natalie Graham. 

So, make sure to stay tuned and follow DJ Dris for more feel-good releases as he continues to push boundaries and redefine the sound of Afro House within the realm of Electronic Music. ‘Work’ is out now and available to stream and download across platforms.  

Listen and buy ‘Work’ now:  

DJ Dris Online  

Website | Spotify | Instagram

Natalie Graham Online  

Website | Instagram  

Born Digital Music Online  

Instagram 

Get into the Groove with Freekbass’ Latest Release ‘Change My Mind’

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Freekbass unveils ‘Change My Mind’, the latest Funk/Disco track to be added to his captivating collection of productions. As he drops this vibrantly energetic new release, Freekbass makes his stellar talents and original creativity known, offering a track sure to impress genre fans worldwide with its funky vibes and intense grooves. The track’s magnetising sound and infectious melodies result in a listening experience unlike any other, no doubt positioning ‘Change My Mind’ to become a new favourite amongst fans of the style; surely unmissable, this release from the talented Freekbass serves to prove both his originality and innovative artistry.  

Coming from the perspective of a live performer, having started his career as a bass player touring and recording with top Artists like Bootsy, Catfish Collins, and Buckethead, to name just a few, Freekbass appears on the Electronic Music scene with a distinct and unique style. A striking DJ, his approach towards music production and performance sees him incorporating live instrumentation into his tracks and live sets, distinguishing him as an innovative inventor, original in musical identity. As he brings his signature lively style and vibes into this new release, listeners will no doubt enjoy the punchy and uplifting sound offered by ‘Change My Mind’. 

With a bassline that dominates the groove throughout, ‘Change My Mind’ delivers a sonic experience sure to invigorate listeners, persuading them to join the dancefloor. As the track moves forward, catchy vocal hooks add to the infectious energy of the production, elevating the soundscape as funky guitar details and colourful sonic hits keep the listening journey varied and intriguing. With driving rhythms and bouncy elements, ‘Change My Mind’ certainly showcases Freekbass’ signature sound, shining a light on his musical talents and individual style. 

Now, as he delivers this must-listen new track, Freekbass once again establishes himself as a talent to watch out for, demanding attention with a compelling and engaging production. So, make sure to keep up-to-date with Freekbass by following him across social media. ‘Change My Mind’ is out now and is available to stream and download across platforms. 

Listen and buy ‘Change My Mind’ now  

https://www.beatport.com/release/change-my-mind/4476426

Freekbass Online  

Spotify | Website | Instagram  
  

Get to Know the Talented Techno Producer Raw Ideology

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With a captivating energy, Raw Ideology has been garnering attention within the world of Electronic Music; originally hailing from the Amazon in Brazil, this talented Producer and DJ has taken to stages around the globe, injecting dancefloors with his powerful signature sound and presenting his unique perspective of Techno music.  

Today, Raw Ideology is joining us to share a glimpse into his creativity, giving us an insider’s look into his vibrant and exciting musical world. So, get ready to discover more about Raw Ideology as we present this exclusive quickfire interview. 

Most memorable live performance? 

There are many great ones, but I guess one of the events off my own back in São Paulo, called Spot, where we had the party on railroad tracks with a massive crowd, which was like 3 thousand people, and a movie backstage with all my friends together for my bday party – super vibe. 

DJ or Producing? 

DJing. For the fact that I enjoy playing when I can see the reactions to my own songs and am able to make people have a great time, which is priceless. But, at the same time, I love producing because I can think of the moment when I will be blasting my tunes to the   crowd: so, neither discipline can really live without the other. I’ve been doing studio work for   a while (ghost producing for people, mixing, mastering etc) and it’s really not my thing, I would rather be on stage or be working on my own productions. 

Favourite Artist outside of Electronic Music?

Lamb of God! 

What would be your top three desert island essentials?  

Depends on the type of island but for most cases a sharp axe, water filter and a strong dog, guess I would have a good time until the rescue! 

Most influential artist to you?  

In Techno, definitely Richie Hawtin, the man provided me with some of the best raving and philosophical insights Iʼve ever felt whilst attending his performances, the whole Close show with the visuals and light work was one of the most incredible things Iʼve experienced in terms of art.  

Bucket list venue?  

Gashouder no doubts, for me that place is where Techno stops being abstract and becomes a reality. 

All-time favourite track?  

‘Engage The Fear Machine’ – Lamb of God 

and 

‘Let Me Think About It’ – Fedde Le Grand, in terms of Electronic Music, as it was the first Dance track I ever listened to, and I’ll never forget the moment. 

Biggest achievement in your career so far?  

Well, I think everything is a blessing, from all the experiences and people Iʼve met, it’s all pretty crazy for an Amazonian kid like me to experience travelling around the world, performing to people, playing my own songs and all, if i told that myself when I was 13, I would never have believed it. 

Are you an early bird or night owl?   

Early bird in the week and night owl at the weekends. 

Favourite track you’ve ever produced?   

Hard one, for the fact that I make tons of tunes, to the point I even forget about them. But an emotional one for me was ‘Celestial’ released by Hotstage Records; it was a delicate time for me, and I used my feelings to write the track, which made me feel good. 

As we end this interview, we thank Raw Ideology for taking the time to share an insight into his musicality and for giving fans more of an understanding of who Raw Ideology really is. With an enthusiastic passion and determination, one thing is for certain, this is a Producer and DJ poised to captivate audiences worldwide with his distinctive production style and unique performance energy; so, as he continues to pave his way within Electronic Music, make sure to keep up-to-date with Raw Ideology by following him across social media.  

  

Raw Ideology Online  

Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram  

  

Meetch Gives us a Glimpse Behind the Decks with This Enlightening Interview

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Dive in and discover more about the talent behind the decks as we present our exclusive interview with the talented Producer and DJ Meetch. As he continues to stand out within Electronic Music, elevating his live performances with the incorporation of a robot helmet into his stage persona, Meetch remains one to keep an eye on within the genre today: consistent in the quality of his creative output, whether commanding the decks on stage, presenting energetic productions, or delivering unique listening experiences with episodes of his radio show ‘Digital Dance Radio’, Meetch is no doubt making a name for himself on the Electronic Music scene. 

Hello Meetch! How are you? 

Doing awesome, as per usual!  

Was there one standout moment when you were young that made you interested in live DJing? What made you pursue DJing as a career? 

Well, I have always been a musician, starting out with playing drums. I went to a concert when I was 16 for the jam band Lotus. There was an opener who was a DJ, NittGritt. That was the first moment I saw something like this live and that was the moment I wanted to DJ. That was 2011. Since that moment, I have done everything to make this a reality. I am so close I can truly feel it. So many things have been happening. I am so close. 

Can you remember your first live performance? Where was it and how did it go? 

Well, the first time I played for a group of people was actually a sweet 16 and that was also in 2011. Not long after the show I went to, I was able to DJ a sweet 16 after putting an ad on Craigslist. I remember during the event, one of the workers there shut down the power for my system by accident. So embarrassing. After the event, the check I was given actually bounced. When I reached out to them, it was fixed, and I was able to cash my first $200 payment from DJing. What a trip! 

What was the first piece of gear you incorporated into your live performances and what was the last piece you added?  

Oh man, my first one was this cheap tiny Numark DJ controller. I practised and started to get really good at transitioning. The last piece I added was Pioneer CDJ Nexus 2000s and I have been rocking those ever since. I usually play on the 3000s at shows but they are all so similar, so I just have 2000s at home in my studio. Soon I’ll buy the 3000s just so I can have 4 CDJS to play with. 

How do you usually get ready for a live show, do you have a specific routine?  

I set up a ton of tracks in a folder and categorize them all by key. I have never actually prepared a setlist in my life. If I know that a song has the same melody key, I know it will blend. I also look at the screen of the CDJ and see the graphic of the song and based on that and the length of the song, I know it will fit and how to blend it in. It’s a weird way to DJ, some might say, but I am confident to say my sets are unbelievable every time and I think that sets me apart from the average DJ and performer. The amount of good energy I get from the crowd and even people on stage watching when my sets are done is unbelievable. This is just another reminder that I know things are really about to take off. 

How much of your live set feeds off the audience and how much is pre-prepared? What techniques have you developed to be able to read an audience and curate tailored live mixes? 

This goes right back to my answer above! 

Do you have a favourite memory of performing live, if so, can you tell us about it? 

I have so many memories, but the memories that stick out the most are based on the size of the crowd. My number one memory from all my events is when I play a specific song and the crowd erupts in “OHHHHHH”. When a switch-up happens and it blows everyone away at the same time. There is nothing better than that feeling at my shows. And I love that it happens once or twice during all my sets! 

If you could pick any venue or event in the world to perform at, what would it be and why? 

I think everyone’s dream place to play is at a festival like TomorrowWorld or something like that. I agree that definitely is a goal of mine but, there are some venues I dream of playing at. It’s hard to pick one. But one that comes to my mind first is headlining Webster Hall in New York City. I’ve played in some of the rooms there, but I have never had a headlining slot there. I have been there for shows so many times in my life, so I am just waiting for it to come full circle. Another venue I have the same dream for is Terminal 5 in NYC; this was the venue where I first saw the show that changed my life and made me want to pursue this. So those two are on my list. And multiple around the world! 

What is one piece of advice that you wish you had known before you started performing live? 

I don’t know of much advice for the performance itself. I have always put on a good show, and I don’t remember anything happening that has ever made one of my performances a “bad show”. I am not saying I’m perfect, but I have developed a style for my shows that is different from everyone else. I just think I need to pay attention to my hands and make sure I don’t accidentally hit the cue button or play/pause the wrong CDJ. So, if there was advice that was to, “pay attention” then I would take it!  

Are there any new techniques or pieces of equipment that you would like to experiment with in your future performances? 

I definitely want to incorporate more live instruments in my sets as I grow bigger. Drums would be my main thing. It would have to be different than the average drum set though. Not totally sure yet but I will make sure it’s beyond different and unique in its own way. 

On a path to continue delivering unforgettable live shows, Meetch is certainly one to keep on your radar. So, as we conclude our interview with him, we thank Meetch for his time and eagerly encourage you to follow him across social media to remain up-to-date with his upcoming performances and releases. 

Meetch Online 

Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram 

Zander Shine Joins Us For an Exclusive Interview: Diving into The Musical Influences That Inspire His Creativity

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Zander Shine has landed on the Electronic Music scene with a mighty force; determined, motivated, and passionate, this talented Producer and DJ appears with an impressive set of skills, enabling him to produce striking music that makes an impact. Having debuted his project with his single ‘Don’t Hold On’ via Universal Music, Zander Shine has quickly positioned himself on a path towards gaining an influential reputation within Electronic Music today, making him a rising star to follow closely. 

So, we’re thrilled to have had the opportunity to sit down with Zander Shine to discuss the music, sounds, and Artists that feed his creativity, gaining an insight into the musical influences and inspirations that have shaped his artistic journey and unique sound. 

Hi Zander Shine, how’s it going? 

I’ve been super inspired recently and have been writing a lot of new music in the past few days. Coming up with new fresh ideas that I am really happy about. I haven’t felt this inspired in a really long time so it’s a nice feeling to be this productive. 

Tell us, was there a specific moment, Artist, or track that first influenced you to start pursuing a career in music? 

I had a friend from high school who worked for a management company in California, I was in the studio with one of his Artists watching him produce a remix for Zara Larsson. Watching him work in FL Studio to compose and produce the remix, and really just put everything together seemed so cool. That was the moment I first realized production was something that I wanted to learn. That experience along with attending EDC Vegas and Coachella around the same time really made me want to give it a shot to learn how to compose and produce Electronic Music. 

Who are your biggest inspirations within Electronic Music? Are there any Artists that have had the most influence on your musical journey? 

Avicii impacted my career very significantly and initially ignited my desire to produce Electronic Music. When I was first listening to Avicii, it was so inspiring to hear the euphoric melodies that he would create. The attention to detail that Tim put into his work was phenomenal and next level, something that I aspire to achieve as well one day. He really influenced Progressive House into becoming my favorite genre of Electronic Music to listen to. 

Can you tell us your top three favourite Artists? 

Martin Garrix: he is such a versatile Artist and Producer. Progressive House is my favorite genre and I love a lot of the music his label puts out. His tracks contain many intricate layers of sound design and new fresh ideas that always keep things interesting. He collaborates with Artists that you wouldn’t expect and blends genres a lot. He creates tracks listeners can have a deep emotional connection to with the lyrics and vocals, and he has an inspiring way of making it all seamlessly come together. 

Jax Jones is such an inspiration, a true creative genius in my opinion. He has worked with so many talented Artists and Songwriters and he can bring out the best in everyone to ultimately produce something spectacular. His music is undeniably catchy and meaningful, so I think he is one of the best modern-day Producers.  

I’ve already mentioned him, but Avicii would be the third Artist. He is my inspiration for chasing this dream of being an accomplished musician. He was the first Artist who inspired me on a deeper level and gave me the confidence and drive to want to become a great Producer. He’s inspired me to compose music that makes you feel a certain way, he was able to tell a story with his music and make you feel. This is a skill he possessed, unlike any other Artist or Producer that I’ve come across. 

Would you say your influences have evolved as you’ve grown as an Artist? If so, how? 

I have to say that my influences have remained constant over the last few years. I do however always enjoy discovering new songs or Artists, and as my career starts to get more momentum, I foresee myself continuing to build on the foundation of what I’ve already been inspired by, discovering new Artists who inspire me as well. 

Are there any Artists outside of Electronic Music that you find particularly inspirational?  

I’d say a lot of Alternative Rock like Blink 182 for instance. I also listen to Classic Rock like Led Zeppelin & AC/DC. As well as Jazz, I actually lived down the street from George Benson growing up so that’s basically what I was raised listening to. I listen to a wide variety of music every day and that keeps me inspired as I work on my own tracks. 

How much, would you say, do current trends influence your own approach to music production? 

First and foremost, I make music for myself, and if others happen to like it that’s even better. I am also cognizant of the current market trends and what is making a significant impact, but I like to remain true to myself and the sounds that bring me joy.  

Can you tell us how you take influence and inspiration from other works, and create music that is unique and original? Does your production process usually involve finding inspiration and influence from other works before you set out to produce a track? 

I find most of my inspiration in my roots, the music I grew up listening to and playing. I also get inspired by the people and things around me. Inspiration, however, is fleeting. In times like that, I’ve found that relying on the dedication to just sit down, keep messing around and push through any creative block is ultimately what gets the best results. 

What about a track draws you in? Is there a particular element or type of energy that is often most inspirational to you? 

For me, there are really two specific elements that can draw me in. The first is dynamic sound design – something that really is unique can immediately draw my attention to a track. The second element would be a great melody. When these two things are put together seamlessly the outcome is always something that draws me in. 

Which substyles of Electronic Music would you say influence your work the most?  

Progressive House music is easily the greatest influence on my work. I also enjoy UK House and Bass House and draw inspiration from these subgenres as well. 

We wrap up this interview by thanking Zander Shine for taking the time to speak with us, allowing us a glimpse into the inspirations that continually drive his creativity. As he keeps carving out his way within Electronic Music, Zander Shine no doubt appears as a must-watch talent to keep on your radar, so be sure to follow him across social media to remain in the know about his upcoming releases, projects, and performances. 

Zander Shine Online    

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Lorna James Discusses Her Journey into Music Production and Her Approach to Creating Captivating Music

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In this exclusive interview, Lorna James joins us to talk us through her creative process for music production, giving us insight into her artistic journey so far and the goals she hopes to achieve with her music. As she blends elements from across genres, including House and Classical, Lorna James crafts a signature style that appears as unique as it does original, striking out with powerful music that no doubt resonates with listeners worldwide. So, discover more about the artistry and creativity behind this captivating talent as we sit down in conversation with Lorna James. 

Hi Lorna James! How are you?  

I’m great, thanks. Thank you for having me! 

To start, tell us about your journey into Electronic Music production; what first inspired you to start experimenting with Dance music?  

Dance music has been the soundtrack to my life since the early 90s. I love some of the early Acid House sounds. I have always composed music and used to experiment on GarageBand many years ago, but it was only in about 2021 that I started recording Dance tracks. My first piece of Electronic Music was an ode to the early 90s; ‘Dance Would Be a Fine Thing.’  

With your love for films, do you have a dream to place your ambient dance tracks in a movie one day? What would be one of your favourite cinematic background pieces?  

There are several tracks on my new album ‘Stratosphere’ that would work well in movies; each track is inspired by a different place in the world. I have some music going into films, but I would love to be commissioned to write the soundtrack for an entire movie. 

Which DAW is your favourite?  

LogicPro X. 

How did you learn to compose music?  

I was never formally taught to compose music, I just played and experimented on the piano a lot. Over time I learned to trust my ear and gained confidence in what I was creating. 

What does your usual production process look like as a pianist? How do you approach creating a new track? Do you start off with a chord progression?  

It really varies. I might hear a vocal sample that inspires me to write a track around it (e.g my track ‘Footprints in the Sand’), or I might watch a movie and want to make a soundtrack to the emotion it’s left me with, and more recently I have begun to make Dance tracks out of my own classical compositions.  

How do you find the inspiration to create and produce music? Is there a vocal reference track that helps you bounce back ideas when creating?  

This will sound strange, but I don’t think my music really comes from me. It just comes out! If I force something out, the result tends to be fairly average. Quite often I’ll just sit down in my studio and start putting things together, I’m quite surprised at the result at the end. 

What are your favourite plugins and effects? Are there orchestral soundscapes or synth patches you use as your go-to?  

I tend to use Kontakt 7 for my orchestration, and there are some great atmospheres on Splice that can create a fantastic vibe for a track. 

Which pieces of equipment would you say are essential to your production process?  

My Yamaha piano! I couldn’t do anything without it.  

What brand of music gear do you find yourself purchasing most often?  

I don’t align with a specific brand per se, I’ll just buy what I need at the time. 

What would be one piece of advice you would give to another pianist and Producer trying to break ground in Electronic Music?  

Trust your ear, write consistently, and practise, practise, practise. 

We conclude our interview with Lorna James by thanking her for her time and providing us with a behind-the-scenes look into her creativity when it comes to producing music. As she continues to pave her way within Electronic Music, Lorna James surely remains a talent to keep an eye on, so make sure to follow Lorna James across social media to not miss the next captivating production from this talented Artist. 

Lorna James Online 

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