Exclusive Interview with Somna!

 

The dance music scene is filled with a variety of artists to fill every musical preference and style one may be searching for. There are of course the talented DJs who have the ability to make a room explode with their selections and uncanny sets. On the other hand there are producers that can create tracks that can blow one's mind from the very first beat, due to their creativity and incredible aural landscaping. There are also artists that combine both skills in an equal fashion, thus excelling in all they may set their sights on. One of these artists is without the shred of a doubt Benjamin Leung from Canada, widely known in the dance music universe as "Somna". 

 This  talented individual has gone above and beyond to spread his love for dance music with the world. His first artist album "Beside You" was one of the best albums I have heard in a long time and it was only natural that it was a huge success! His DJ sets at glorious events such as the prestigious "AVA Nights" are ones to fondly remember in our minds, as are his special sessions on "Twitch". He also has played a major role on the success and evolution of "AVA Recordings" over the years, curating the label alongside dance music icon "Andy Moor". 

 I had the honor to conduct an exclusive interview with him a couple years ago when I was a resident writer for "Trancefix.nl". The time was definitely right for yet another interview with the man himself, this time for "MusicTalk15", so we can all find out what he has been up to and of course discuss his second artist album, which has been receiving such high praise! 

Many thanks for the exclusive interview and for your time once more man! Welcome to "MusicTalk15"!

Question 1: It has surely been a busy year for you! Lots of definite highlights to remember and rejoice! Which ones would you select from the whole bunch?

2023 was definitely a year with a ton of exciting things!! I released my 2^nd album and also had my debut guest appearance on "A State Of Trance"!! Definitely got to tick off some of my goals I’ve always wanted to achieve!

 

Question 2: Your first artist album “Beside You” remains a firm landmark in your career and still remains an aural treasure to all true “Somna” fans worldwide! Imagine their thrill hearing about the launch of your second album. How have the reactions been so far by fellow artists, friends and fans?

It’s been very well received! It was hard doing a follow up album to “Beside You” as many of those songs I hold dear to my heart but I’m overjoyed to see that songs from “Satellites” has been very well received by the fans!

 

Question 3: Your second artist album is of course named “Satellites”. Would you like to elaborate a tad about the title, character and in general the concept of this second album?

The album title is kind of my love letter to the fans that supported me during the pandemic. During that time when we were all locked at home I started streaming DJ sets on Twitch and met the most wonderful people online and the amount of support I received was overwhelming. “Satellites” to me signifies us all beaming our love around the globe to each other no matter where we were.

Question 4: For dance music addicts who have not yet had the pleasure of listening to the album, what would you like to share with them about the album and what surprises lay within?

I suppose listen with an open ear as its quite varied and while there’s plenty of trance in there, I tried to create a broad range of styles and challenge myself as a music producer while retaining the core feelings I try to incorporate into my music (which are melodies).

 

Question 5: For myself artwork is always a deciding factor when checking out releases in general. Interesting choice on the anime style artwork selected for the release of “Satellites”. Was this your choice and would you like to share a few words about the artist and are you a fan of anime? If so which ones?

I actually don’t know who the artist is but Deon at "Alpha 5 Design Group" organized it and we had many discussions about the direction. I had some ideas but my original idea actually centered around a wire frame of a satellite but somehow it veered into anime and then this idea came about and I am SO HAPPY with how it turned out. Each character was custom drawn and I just think the artist did such an amazing job. As far as being a fan of anime, I watch the odd one here and there but haven’t really been into many series aside from "Attack on Titan"… before it got all extra weird haha.

 Question 6: “Satellites” is definitely gone out on digital format on all the major platforms. Is it available on physical format as well and if so are there any special autographed editions available for the hyper fans?

Yes!! Its available also as a CD and double disc Vinyl! The autographed versions sold out right away but if you purchase a copy and bring it to any of my shows I would love to sign it!

 

Question 7: Speaking of the album, news has come to our attention that you have begun album tours. How cool is that? How has it been so far and what do these shows contain besides showcasing music from the album?

It’s already underway now and I’ve done some fantastic shows to support the album. Aside from showcasing music from the album, I’ve been able to sneak peak share some of the upcoming remixes and venue dependent, some of my shows include time coded visuals to go with certain songs which creates a super cool experience!

 

Question 8: Word has it that you played at the legendary “Cyberdog” located in Camden, London. Been there twice myself. How was your experience and were the people surprised to see you playing there?

It was super fun!! People were dancing and it got busy and they actually have a pretty intense sound system (I had to wear earplugs when I was wandering around after). Honestly I think only a handful of people knew who I was, I feel like 80% of the people who came through were probably tourists haha.

 

Question 9: Another highlight is your recent guest appearance on “Armin Van Buuren’s” prestigious “A State Of Trance” radio show. Must been rather special gracing the decks of the legendary studio. How did you feel to be a part of it and did you play any exclusives for the show?

It was such a dream come true to be a guest on there! Also extremely nerve wracking playing a set there knowing that millions of people tune in and there’s no room for error. I debut my remix of "Luminn" “Tempus” on there as well as the upcoming "Sam Laxton" remix of my track “Not Too Late” with "Sarah de Warren"!

Question 10: The success of “AVA Nights” has been wild! Are there plans of more on the horizon and if so where in the world can we expect them?

I’m glad you asked!! We had an "AVA Night" in conjunction with the "Unkonscious" festival brand in Bangkok on Feb 4^th for their official after party! I was so excited to be making my Thailand debut and it was at the amazing "Eden Club" with their Void sound system.

 

Question 11: “AVA Recordings” has showcased so many amazing and talented artists on the label over the years! Some of them have even had the pleasure to release an album on the label such as “DJ LTN” and “Sam Laxton”. Are there any plans for any of “AVA’s” artists surprising us with a brand new artist album or perhaps DJ mix compilation?

I don’t know if I should spill the beans but one of our artists is working on their debut artist album (which might not be released on AVA but we’re still so happy for them!)

 

Question 12: It has been grand seeing “AVA Recordings” branching out into some rather fine sub-labels, each with their own unique character and attitude. Will we perhaps see a compilation featuring some of each of the sub-labels finest sounds, perhaps mixed by different artists from the label?

 Our 500^th release on the main label of "AVA Recordings" is coming very soon and we’re planning on releasing some kind of a compilation with new remixes that we’re excited about. It’ll branch across all our sub labels so you’ll definitely a wide range of dance music.

Question 13: October is always an important month in the dance music community. The reason? The massive “Amsterdam Dance Event” (ADE) situated in The Netherlands. Are you or any other “AVA” artists going to participate this year and if so what surprises can we expect?

I’ll be there again in 2024! I missed 1 due to the pandemic and I had the biggest fomo ever so never again shall I miss out (unless for a VERY good reason). Its too early to do a pre announcement for an announcement of big things to come but….big things to come…

 

Exclusive Interview with DIM3NSION!

The amazing thing in dance music is the global scale of it all and the connection we all have to it. Artists and fans alike connect, form friendships and are of course unified by the wondrous power of the music itself. Artists arise from all corners of the world, fueled by their passion and love for the music they play and many times create. 

One of the most charismatic and gifted artists out there is without a doubt an artist from Vigo, Spain who answers to the name "DIM3NSION". He has been a bright beacon in the dance music scene for many years now, constantly bringing something new and exciting to the field. His steady flow of uncanny releases over the years have brought large smiles to many dance music faithful fans around the world. Creating music for him is not a job or favorite pass time. It is a necessity and that can be seen if you pay close attention to any of his releases. They are filled with pure emotion and an energy that brightens the mood on any given day. It is always a rare pleasure to interview him and I am pleased to share this exclusive interview with you all for "MusicTalk15".

Question 1: Last time we sat down and talked was in Amsterdam during “ADE 2017” for an interview for “Trancefix.nl”. Great times! Has the “Amsterdam Dance Event” become a yearly tradition for you ever since and are you perhaps planning a comeback for the next edition this year?

Hey Kostas, first of all, thank you so much for the interview. It´s nice to talk with you again 6 years later! Absolutely, I think ADE is a must for any artist. I couldn’t join the previous editions but this year I will come back to see old friends and open new business.

Question 2: Covid and the lockdown around the world was a huge blow to the scene that we love and the artists more than most. Did you work during that devastating period and if not how did you stay occupied? Did you dive into creating new music and in return focusing on your craft?

Well, that chapter in our lives was indeed quite bad for everybody but I have been always focused on music. I´m positive in life and I was thinking all the time that the covid shit will stop and the situation would change sooner or later so I was still focused on creating music. There were some changes in my organization as well during that chapter and it was the reason why I have not released as much music as I would have love to in 2021 and especially 2022 but finally, I´m getting where I want to be and you can see that this year with all the music that I’ve already released.

Question 3: What were the highlights of last year for you and what are you most looking forward to this year?

For me 2022 doesn’t have any highlights to be honest with you. I just released two songs last year and that’s unacceptable for me. I´m an artist able to do more than 2 songs in 365 days. Nowadays an artist needs one release per month as minimum to keep being visible so I was very disappointed with that. Most of the songs I´m signing and releasing this year have been produced in 2022 but they have been there waiting for the right moment.

 Question 4: What would you say were your favorite tracks of 2022 and what artists do you acknowledge for their contribution to the scene so far this year?

Maybe the remix I did for "Sunnteck – Explorer", featured on the "In Search Of Sunrise" compilation was my favorite of last year. I have been experimenting and discovering a lot of artists. I´m a big fan of the combination of future rave and trance. Armin is doing awesome for example with his club mixes of "Come Around Again", "Let You Down"... that type of sound is what I´m feeling at the moment. "Skytech", "BLR", "Aname" or "Avao" are some of the names I’ve listened to the most last year.

Question 5: With severe restrictions and lockdown in effect we witnessed quite a few artists locking themselves away in the studio and returning with their premier artist albums. You have given us loads of magnanimous single releases over the years. Do you feel that the time has come for a “DIM3NSION” artist album this year? 

From the point of view of an artist, creating an album is like the ultimate goal. It´s like seeing your full creation out there in the hands of the people, not only digital, you can convert your music into something tangible. It´s something I really want to do. But on the other hand, I don´t feel it is the right moment yet, I need to grow a little bit more, have a bigger fan reach and keep releasing music often on the biggest labels like I´m doing this year. After that, let´s see what´s going on, but an album is a goal for me. Absolutely yes.

Question 6: One of your most renowned and instantly recognizable tracks is the wonderful “Origami”. Still one of my faves ever! Do you have any plans for a follow up style-wise to that tune or perhaps a rework of the beloved tune for 2023?

Absolutely! "Origami" is probably the most beautiful thing that happened to me. Also "Mangata" which was a follow-up of Origami has worked pretty well. I think there are more people who know me because of Mangata rather than Origami.... Certainly, I already did a follow up of this track and it was "Theia".My first signing of this year, it was released on "FSOE" last January and reached a top 10 position on Beatport. I`m very happy with what "Theia" has brought.

Question 7: You are mostly known for your most vivid instrumental tunes. It was a big surprise to see you working on a vocal release. How did that come about and will we see more vocal tunes from you in the near future? 

In the beginning I was not comfortable working with vocals because there is a longer process until it gets released. You have to wait for approvals, lyrics, the recorded vocals, changes, etc... It´s true that for the people,vocal tracks work always much better than instrumentals but this year, I felt it was the time to change this. I actually have signed to Armada 3 vocal tunes for the second half of 2023, so yeah. In the near future there will be more vocal tunes!

Question 8: Do you have any favorite movies or series that you enjoy watching? Have you ever considered working on a movie soundtrack?

Not right now. What I love the most from the TV series or films is listening to the soundtracks and sometimes it makes me lose the dialogues... :p I enjoy them a lot and I took many as inspiration but for now, I prefer to keep my focus on my business, my releases as "DIM3NSION", "Benner" and also the music I´m doing as a ghost producer for other artists, clients, online classes and my "Patreon" on: patreon.com/dim3nsion

Question 9: Years back you had provided us with a DJ mix compilation for “Flashover Recordings”. Can we expect a future mix compilation from you once more in the near future?

That compilation was very fun to make. I selected and mixed personally together with the a&r of "Flashover" at that time, Celwin Frenzen (owner of "EDCT Recordings" nowadays). It is not in my plans to do another mix compilation in the future but I´m planning to run my own record label in 2024!

 

Question 10: Do you happen to have any exciting events you happen to be performing at this year that you would like to share with us?

Well, after covid I lost all my gigs, there were cool things in schedule like a China tour, some dates in the USA as well as in Europe... but everything stopped for me. My plans right now are to make the best music possible, release as much music as I can this year and working to find the right people to work in order to have gigs again in 2024, nothing in schedule for now unfortunately.

Question 11: The Spanish trance family is definitely on a rise. Over the years we have seen more and more trance music oriented events popping up plus the rise of the “Summer Story” festival. All great things for the scene there. What are your thoughts on the matter as a Spaniard and as an artist? Do you see Spain having more and more attention from the fans wishing to travel there for an event or from the artists themselves expressing a similar interest?

The Spanish trancefamily has grown for sure, but is still a small niche. Good people and good fans. I feel beloved and I´m grateful for that but trance in Spain is still really small. Spain is not a good country for electronic dance music, most of the people just want have fun at the festivals, a festival is a business and they follow the trends. I understand completely and respect it but for example nowadays, most of the festivals are focused in techno which is the bigger genre at the moment.

Question 12: “Ferry Corsten” has always been a big inspiration to you. The concept change of his radio show from “Corsten’s Countdown” to “Resonation Radio” was a daring move yet met with great success. You have worked with him many times in the past. Will we perhaps see you assuming guest mix duties on his radio show soon?

Who knows? I´m always working to have the best music possible and get a bigger reach and opportunities. Being his guest on "Resonation" would be a pleasure for me and another cool opportunity :)

Question 13: Rumor has it that you have a brand new release coming out on legendary label “Future Sound of Egypt”! Would you care to share with us some information regarding this release?

 Yes! This new track is called "Funktionlust"' a German word which means "the pleasure of doing what one is made to do or what one does the best". It was released on Monday April 3^rd and I´m very excited for this release. Happy to come back to "Future Sound Of Egypt". I still love this type of sound and FSOE is one of the biggest labels for trance, you have to be there if you are a trance artist. So I´m very grateful to "Aly & Fila" and the team for signing this record!

 

Exclusive Interview with Steve Dekay!

Over the last years Latin America has been providing the dance music world with some of the most consistent, versatile and talented artists out there. From "Hernan Cattaneo" to "Heatbeat" and "KhoMha", all of them attain the raw talent, motivation and love for the music they played. No surprise they all elevated themselves in the dance music cosmos and continue the gradual ascent to further success! Another talented artist to emerge onto the aforementioned scene comes to us from Colombia. 

 Steven Rengifo is known in the world of dance music under his artist name "Steve Dekay". A producer of undeniable talent, Steve has found success in the field under his own brand name and his alter ego "Skender", one suited for the darker, techier sound he has ushered into the world. His creations have found a home on esteemed labels such as "Critical State", "Universal Nation", "Who's Afraid Of 138?", "Suanda", "Future Sound Of Egypt" and "Coldharbour Recordings" among many others. An artist who lives for his craft and continues to push the boundaries of his sound, a fact that can easily be seen in his body of work and pesky bootlegs of favorite tracks of yesteryear. Aside from his production abilities, Steve has conquered the populous' hearts while gaining a loyal following over the years as a prominent DJ as well. His terrific past performances lead him to a wondrous European tour in 2023 through some of clubland's finest landmarks such as "Ibiza", "Prague", "Madrid" and "Zurich". 

 Following his career over the years, it was only natural that I would like to have the honor to conduct an exclusive interview with him for "MusicTalk15". Fate intervened and I was delighted to not only make an imminent to "Prague" in "The Czech Republic", a city of amazing architecture and stunning beauty, but to also witness the magician in action at "Radost FX" for the mighty "TranceNation Reloaded!" So here it is, the interview I have been promising you, exclusively for your reading pleasure! Thanks for everything man!

Question 1: How did you first discover the wonderful world of dance music and what was the key factor that got you hooked?

I discovered the world of dance music when I was a kid, I remember I liked to dance with my brother, jumping in our room listening to those Trance classics.

The most beautiful thing I like of this music is the melody, it is everything!

Question 2: You certainly have a unique artist name. Could you please share the story behind its inception? 

"Steve Dekay" is a project I started in 2014 approximately, all my music skills are completely empyrical. I remember I watched a lot of tutorials and read some forums about how to make dance music. So in 2015 was when I started this project professionally and focused in Trance and Progressive music.

Actually I'm working on Techno music too, using some Trance elements, like melodies etc.

Question 3: You have been working in the studio feverishly, producing loads of new music. What inspires you to create such special tracks and are any of them inspired by real life events or personal experiences?

The inspiration comes from random moments in my life, it could be by listening to other genres, a movie etc. But it also comes from some personal experiences like visiting new cities or countries, meeting new cultures etc.

Question 4: We certainly are aware of your tremendous productions under your main artist name. Really been loving your work under your alter ego “Skender” as well. What is the significance behind it and what led you to conjure up an alias?

As I said before, under "Steve Dekay" I make Trance music, but actually I'm working on more Techno tunes, that's the reason I wanted to create a new alias focused like 'in a dark side' of dance music, in this case with Techno, Melodic Techno. I like Techno very melodic but also dark and harder too. That's what I'm currently working on.

Question 5: You recently came back from your first European tour which included several gigs in Ibiza, Madrid and Prague amongst others. How did you enjoy the whole process and experience and how did it feel to connect with your fans from all over the world?

These experiences were really GREAT! Because I met new people, new places, new cultures and the most important thing, I enjoyed my music with different crowds, every crowd with its passion for music, so every crowd is different and very special, so it's something that will surely remain in my memories.

Question 6: Speaking of recent events your explosive performance in Prague for “TranceNation Reloaded” was a huge success! As one being there I certainly witnessed the crowd loving it and devouring tune after tune. How did you enjoy the event and the marvelous city of Prague in general?

That event was really good! I love the 'intimate' clubs where you are very close to the fans, where you can feel that heat from the crowd, so yes it was really good!

And the city, wow, it's just beautiful! I hope to be there again soon!

Question 7: One of the tunes that stood out for me and the rest of the audience during your performance at “TranceNation” was your remix of the beloved tune “Played-A-Live” by “Safri-Duo”. Are there any plans for an official release in the near future?

I love that remix, it got a really good reaction every place I played this tune and yeah I'm working to release it as an official release soon! :D

Question 8: The latest fashion over the last years is reinventing classic tunes from the distant past. Is there a certain track or tracks that you would like to remix to your heart’s content and for what reason?

There are some classic tracks I always wanted to make my own remix of, like "Home" by "Paul van Dyk & Johnny McDaid", this track is pure gold! The melody, the drums, the vocals! It's just a beautiful tune!

Question 9: Aside from your musical interests do you perhaps have any hobbies or favorite pass times?

I'm a football lover haha so yeah I like watching it and playing it too and also working out.

Question 10: Are you a fan of a specific movie or series? If so have you ever considered remixing music from it or creating a track in tribute to it?

I like series about thriller, time travel and about the universe, I'm a big fan of the movies or series and I want to create my own version of 'Interstellar' the main theme, this melody is epic, one of the best melodies I've ever heard!

Question 11: Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new cities, experiencing the culture and all? Which has been your favorite destination so far and where would you like to visit next?

Very difficult to choose to be honest. But Ibiza is magic, every place is beautiful and the connection with music is really great!

I'd like to visit Amsterdam and the UK, to make my debut there would be really good! But there are more places I'd like to play.

Question 12: What surprises can we expect from you in the near future that you would like to share with us?

Good music! More Trance music, vocal Trance, Melodic Techno and dark-harder Techno :D haha

 

 

Exclusive Interview with The WLT!

 The forever vast field of dance music is more often than most blossoming with new and diverse talent, sprouting out of the soil like the most rare and exquisite flowers. One of these emerging and exciting talents is an artist known under the riddlesque name "The WLT". Dana is a female artist from Romania, on a mission to spread the love she has for trance music with her fans through her vigorous live DJ performances at uncanny events such as Romania's leading dance music event "Untold" or via her very own string of aural delights. You may in fact already be familiar with her sound if you have heard the excellent remix she provided for none other than dance music heavyweight "Markus Schulz" and "Christina Novelli's" collaboration "Not Afraid To Fall", turning the beloved tune into an instant supercharger. Constantly striving to ascend that ever winding staircase of success she frequently finds herself at the forefront of all things dance music. Receiving infinite support by some of the industry's finest and in constant creation mode, this passionate artist has loads more tricks and surprises up her sleeves! 

It is my absolute pleasure to welcome her on to "MusicTalk15" for an exclusive in depth interview, having the opportunity to share her story with the world!

 

Question 1:

 

When did you first discover trance music and what was the key factor that got you hooked?

I discovered trance music in 2008 because of Tiesto’s music back then. It was out of this world! 

 

Question 2:

 

You have done an exquisite job on putting your touch on “Markus Schulz’s” collaboration with “Christina Novelli”- “Not Afraid To Fall”. How did that come about and would you love to put your touch on yet another track of his and if so which one would it be if you could choose?

Thank you! Well, I took a guess that Markus will want to release “Not Afraid To Fall” as a single (out of  the “Escape” album) and I thought Coldharbour might be interested and open for the idea of an uplifting remix so I asked the ques­tion if it’s possible to give it a try and so it came to life. 

Well, if I would have to choose an other song from Markus to remix, that would be his collab with "Ana Diaz - Nothing Without Me".

 

Question 3:

 

There is often confusion about your artist name and who is behind it. Could you share with us all the story behind the choice of your artist name?

Well, my artist name is "The WLT" and my real name is Dana Bordeianu, I’m from Romania. WLT (pronounced in the same way like ATB) stands for "We Love Trance" and the story of choosing this name is not complicated. I just wanted to find a name that can speak for all trance lovers, because in the end it isn’t just about myself, it’s about me and all the people out there crazy about trance music.

 

Question 4:

 

You recently hosted a contest where you had the courtesy of handing out some custom “WLT” caps. Is this the start to a new “WLT” merchandise brand and if so how did you come up with that cool idea?

Last year I also had two contests to give away a few WLT t-shirts and then after, the WLT caps contest happened. I am always trying to stay close to my followers, replying to every sin­gle message, story, comment and this was a special way to thank them with such giveaways, engaging them to just drop a comment or answer to a very simple question to win one of "The WLT" limited edition merch items. Just to see them proudly wearing one of the WLT t-shirts/caps and feel their love and support for my music, it means so much to me!

Question 5:

 

Out of all your productions so far which holds a special place in your heart amongst all others and for what reason?

At this moment, my latest new single “Waiting Here For You”, that was just released on "Find Your Harmony", is a special one to me, because it marks my first release of 2022 and the second time working with Andrew Rayel’s record label. 

 

Question 6: 

One of your recent highlights is definitely performing for Romania’s leading dance music event “Un­told”. How did the crowd respond to your performance and did this in turn bring forth many new fans for you?

Untold festival is amazing! I wasn’t expecting such a big crowd during my set and great live feedback counting the fact that I was closing the Untold Fortune stage! I’m stoked to have gained a lot of new fans and friends at Untold and the funny thing about this, was that many of them didn’t know I am from Romania and that the The WLT is actually a woman.

 

 

Question 7:

What software do you use when in the studio and which are your essential “vsts” that you frequently use in your productions?

Well, I started with Ableton and never changed that. Spire and Serum are my favorite vsts.

  

Question 8:

 

You recently had a guest mix on “Trance Energy Radio” which is based in Romania. Would you be in­terested in obtaining your very own radio show and if so what would the general concept be like?

Yes, I am one of their guests once in a few months. Of course I would love to host my very own radio show and probably the concept will be based on the same idea as I did till now with all those radio guest mixes I recorded so far. A pilot episode test run is already uploaded and available to watch on my YouTube Chanel named simply "We Love Trance 1st Edition". Oh, by the way, the second episode will follow soon.

 

Question 9:

Besides your obvious love for dance music what other interests or hobbies do you perhaps have?

I love to read, travel and I love to spend time in nature.

 

Question 10:

Producers from time to time have collaborated with fellow artists which in turn led to some marvelous tunes. Who would you like to work with if you had the chance?

There are way too many artist names on my collab wish list and I don’t know where to start from, so let’s ask the trance fans that get to read my interview here to let me know. (You can send me a private message to my FB page or my IG profile) with which trance artist(s) they would like to see me collaborate with. I promise that I’ll try to make the most realistic ones happen! 

 

Question 11:

Could you please name five tunes from past to present that are a constant must in your DJ sets?

Besides constantly showcasing some of my own music, so the exception to the rule, I don’t really use older tracks much in my sets nor do I use a certain song more than twice, because there is so much good music re­leased every month that I want to test, enjoy and play in my DJ sets.

 

Question 12:

It is great to see a plethora of artists recognizing your potential and thus featuring your tunes quite often on their radio shows. “Andrew Rayel” has done so time and time again on his “Find Your Harmony” radio show. How would you like to assume guest mix duties on his show?

Absolutely!! If Andrew would ask me to do it, I would be crazy happy about such an invitation!

 

Question 13:

Speaking of which you just had your first release on “Andrew Rayel’s” label “inHarmony Music”. The majestic “Waiting Here For You”. How has the response by the fans been so far and what other projects do you have in the works?

Yeah, like I’ve already mentioned about, “Waiting Here For You” is a special one at the moment and the feedback from the listeners was, and still is, amazing! “Waiting Here For You” is already one of the most loved, played and supported tracks of mine. Thank you all!

I’ve got a lot of new music, most of them are already signed and about to be released soon!

 

 

Exclusive Interview with Rinaly!

One of the fastest emerging talents in the orient comes to us from the land of the rising sun. A Japanese female DJ/Producer known to her peers and the wide world of dance music as "Rinaly", has been making her very own ripples in the scene which have grown larger with the passing of time. Responsible for energizing the crowd with her dynamic yet euphoric DJ sets at some of Japan's finest venues as well as honing her skills on her unique flavored productions. Each track she has worked on has that fine blend of uplifting and pure melodic trance qualities which she has become known for. 

Slowly yet steadily she has gradually won over the hearts of many of the trance faithful around the globe! An artist who surely lives for her art, "Rinaly" has not missed an opportunity to entertain her long legion of fans on the "Twitch" platform during the pandemic and long after, giving the audience her pure dedication and wild assortment of gripping tunes. Definite highlights in her career include getting a mass amount of  support on "A State Of Trance" and world premiers by none other than Dutch maestro "Armin Van Buuren" himself as well being selected to mix the renowned DJ Mix compilation "Techno Club" alongside founder and DJ "Talla2xlc". 

It is with great pleasure that I get to welcome "Rinaly" aboard "MusicTalk15" for this exclusive interview! An honor and privilege and I in turn thank her most graciously for her time!

 

Question 1:

What was the deciding factor that got you into dance music? Were you interested in music and its production from a tender age?

A: I was hearing trance as ‘love-filled’ music, I've been besotted with its emotional depth and textured sound since I first discovered it aged 20 in a Japanese nightclub.

When I was a teenager, I played bass in a band, and I learned composition from the age of 14.

Question 2:

What would you say was your biggest break in the scene after being involved with dance music for a good amount of years?

A: "Ronski Speed & Rinaly - Horoscope", released in 2016, got "ASOT" support for the first time and I started to feel confident in the sound I made. After that, I started touring abroad and became busy.

Question 3:

Could you please share with us the story of how you became involved with “AVA Recordings” and in time became a part of the “AVA family” of artists?

A: My first release on AVA was "Rinaly - Wave of Affection" released in 2017, which got # 1 on the Beatport Trance Chart.

In 2018, I organized "AVA Night Tokyo" and deepened my ties with the AVA team. I’m honored to be part of them because they are very kind, warm and always supportive.

Question 4:

When working on dance music, what do you enjoy? Creating originals where you play the leading role in all ideas and creativity or do you perhaps prefer collaborations with fellow artists?

A: I enjoy expressing my emotions with sound. Also, I have some collaboration projects because I learn a lot from collaborations and it is inspiring.

Question 5:

As a producer what software lies in your studio? Which is your “daw” of choice and the virtual instruments that frequent your productions?

A: I use "Logic Pro X" as my main DAW, but occasionally I also use "Studio One". "Spire",

"SERUM" and "Sylenth1" are used a lot in my productions.

Question 6:

A recent highlight in your career is of course having the honor to mix the second disc of the prestigious “Techno Club” series by none other than “Talla 2XLC”. How did all that come to be and could you please share some insight into your ideas and music you decided to showcase within?

A: Talla and I are working hard on streaming on Twitch and it makes us get along.

Talla surprised us by announcing during the stream that he chose me for "Technoclub vol.62". I was so honored to lose my word!

Question 7:

Being from Japan you have certainly witnessed a whole different clubbing experience. What was your favorite club to play at there? What would you say the difference is between clubbing in Asia in accordance to Europe and their club culture?

A: In my experience, melodic and vocal tracks are preferred in Japan, and more danceable and driving tracks are preferred in Europe. But it really depends on the event and crowd.

Question 8:

Which artist or artists were your early influences or inspiration when you first began to produce your own music? Which artists inspire you today in 2021?

A: When I first started making Trance, I was influenced by "Andy Moor", "Omnia", "Ben Gold" and others. Today I'm experimenting with Tech Trance artists like "Alex Di Stefano" and "Paul Denton" etc. to create my own unique sounds.

Question 9:

What five songs are your favorites of the moment and you would love to play out when returning to your clubland and regular DJ performances?

A: Other than my own tracks:

#1 David Forbes, Paul Denton - Out Of Order

#2 Somna & Jennifer Rene - Stars Collide (XiJaro & Pitch Remix)

#3 Sean Tyas, Darren Porter - The Potion (Metta & Glyde Extended Remix)

#4 Steve Dekay, Emanuele Congeddu - Origami

#5 Everlight - Obelisk feat. Emma Chat

 

Question 10:

During lock down you have been a steady force of sanity and inspiration for the clubbers who lost their favorite pastime. You were there week in week out, entertaining us all and achieving new heights while doing so. Pure dedication and passion which will not go unnoticed! How did you enjoy your Twitch sets and did they in turn fuel you with well needed positive vibes to restart your life once all settles?

A: I've always focused on playing fresh and perfect sets, but perfectionism has plagued me so I decided not to overwork in the last few months and it's easier and much more enjoyable than before. I learned how to deal with myself during lockdown. I’m so proud to have built a warm community that always encourages me. 

Question 11:

Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new lands and cultures? If so what are your dream destinations and for what reason?

A: Yes I do. I have longed for Scandinavia for a long time. I decided to live in Sweden and I am mentally much better than before. I was inspired by different cultures and beautiful nature.

Question 12: What are your plans for the future? Any upcoming events you wish to share with us or perhaps other exciting music related news?

A: I have both Trance and Techno releases in the coming months.

The closest release is "Rinaly - In The Predawn Darkness" on "FSOE Clandestine" which was released on the 29th of October.

Question 13: Being an avid producer for quite a spell is there any chance we may see a “Rinaly” artist album in the near future?

A: I cannot say for sure but, I definitely want to make an album in the future ;)