Congrats on the release of your Air EP — how are you feeling now that it’s out in the world?
So good! Always a great feeling to get music out there. Really happy to be back on Purified with my first solo ep! Such an amazing label that fits my sound really well.
The EP is made up of three tracks that each feel emotionally distinct. Was there a narrative or theme you had in mind when putting it together?
In terms of inspiration and what I like to play in my sets really ranges. I like evolving things and telling a story hence why I wanted to produce in a few styles while maintaining a sound that was true to my brand! I wanted to create something that was palatable for the club but also had a sense of emotional integrity that would make it approachable in different environments as well. ‘Air’ really embodies a much more elegant and airy sound design while staying true to that progressive 4×4 rhythm. Like its name, I wanted to create something that was light and fluid in nature, similar to air. ‘Event Horizon’ was a much more industrial and rigid approach to the melodic techno sound. Taking inspiration from its name, I wanted to explore the concept of going into the unknown. For me this meant pushing my sound design in different directions and trying new approaches to production. Lastly, ‘Forever’ ties things together with a deeply woven breakbeat. For me this track really embodies an eternal and emotive feeling, allowing me to find solace in the introspective nature production can often bring. Overall, I think each track gives people a little glimpse into the styles and sounds that represent me.
Your sound has a cinematic and atmospheric quality that really stands out. Is that something you intentionally aim for, or does it happen organically?
I think a little bit of both, I have always been drawn to atmospheric sound scapes. It’s almost innate to my music taste and who I am as a person! Similarly, I actively try to produce with the mindset of creating something atmospheric or ethereal. It’s something that has held true even as my sound has evolved.
You’ve been part of Chicago’s underground scene for a while now — how has the city shaped you both personally and creatively?
Chicago is such an amazing city that has really shaped me as a person! There is such a great underground scene with a rich history of house and techno. Personally, the city has exposed me to so many amazing artists and musicians which can be really inspiring and refreshing. Similarly, having the privilege to play legendary clubs such as Spybar or even do my own parties really gives me the opportunity to showcase my art in different forms which I’m extremely grateful for!
Looking back, what first drew you to electronic music, and when did you realize you wanted to pursue it seriously?
Electronic Music has always held such an important place in my heart! I think it was the sheer innovation and limitless nature of genre. It seemed there were endless possibilities. Also getting access to bigger festivals such as Lollapolloza from a young age really helped expose me to range of artists. Coupling that with the emergence of SoundCloud I feel I had the ability to explore new and emerging sounds. From a production standpoint I was probably taking it seriously before I even knew any better haha! Mainly because music has helped me in so many ways I feel it’s only right I gave back that same integrity. Ultimately, having releases on bigger more globally recognized labels such as Purified, and getting asked to play at venues that have inspired me as an artist solidified to me I was on the right track! That all began to happen about 2-3 years ago but I have been producing on and off for over 10 years!
You’ve performed at some iconic venues and festivals — do you approach your live sets differently than you do your studio work?
I’d say there’s always some crossover. When I am producing I tend to consider how the tracks will be received in a live setting. As I have built up my catalog I feel I find myself building more and more sets around my production especially when playing in any sort of hybrid live setting.This is something I aim to explore more in the future as well. I always consider what elements can be stripped out and played live when writing my music. I also think as my brand grows there is an expectation to play my own music in my sets and from that perspective I have to approach my performances as an artist / producer not just a dj. I feel like finding a balance is important. Giving the room what they want while also incorporating your own production can be extremely rewarding!
Are there any artists — from any genre — that you dream of collaborating with in the future?
Wow, there are so many! To name a few: Bjork, Rival Consoles, Burial
Outside of music, what fuels your creativity or helps you reset when you’re not in the studio?
I really enjoy getting out in nature and exploring new places! I find it extremely helpful to reset. Also some quality time with friends and family grabbing a couple drinks or just hanging out! Production can be extremely introspective so I find it helpful to get out of that headspace at times to maintain a balance!
