Q1. The title of your new album“Moments Of Clarity” is very philosophical. Perhaps it reflects what you as a human being have experienced throughout these years… Could you elaborate on what you’re expressing throughout this album?

Making music can be a painful process sometimes. You have an idea, but often it turns out it doesn't work or it's not as good as you thought. Every now and then you have these brilliant moments where everything just comes together. Sometimes you get a few of those in a week and then it will take another month or so. That is actually what the album title refers to, I call those moments 'Moments Of Clarity'. Apart from that there isn't really a deeper meaning to the album that I am trying to get across, it's just music that I really enjoy making.

 

 

Q2. Which track from the album touches you very emotionally and why?

I would say The Calling is one of my favourites on the album. There's many favourites to be honest, but this one has all the bits and pieces that I'm looking for in a great track. I came up with the strings and the bassline first and I instantly knew it was going to be good. Usually I measure that by a simple fact- whether I get goosebumps or not. After the first version came together, the recognizable vocal from the breakdown was actually the last thing that I added. But it really finished the track for me. It's a track I will continue to play in my sets for a really long time.

 

Q3. Releasing an album is another big step in your career. How do you see this album as a way to grow and to reach your goals as an artist?

Well even though this is my third artist album, the moment when it gets released is always special. It's something that I've been working on for two or three years and heard so many times by now, but to most people it's brand new. It's always exciting to see what the first reactions and impressions are. I still think the album is a bit of an art form as well. You can take complete creative freedom and release music that you would never put out as a single. It's about taking people on a journey and expanding your horizons as an artist at the same time. With this album I'm also premiering my new live show soon, something I'm really looking forward to!

 

Q4. Can you pick 1 or 2 must plays in your recent sets and why?

Underwater by Rüfüs Du Sol has been one of my biggest tracks recently. It has a brilliant vocal and fantastic atmosphere. They are an amazing band and often I play remixes of their music, but this one can't be beaten and I play the original mix and the dub version. Also, Timeless by Fat Sushi has been a steady winner in my sets. It was released on my label DAYS like NIGHTS just recently and it contains one of the most beautiful melodies I've heard this year. We're also releasing a Mees Salomé remix soon which is equally good!

 

 

 

Q5. You are a role model for a lot of DJ/Producers out there. Can you give some advise to upcoming talents on how to step up the game?

One thing I really learned through the years is that quality is much more important than quantity. People will remember a great track, even if it was the only one that you released that year. But they won't really remember 10 average tracks. There's too much competition for that nowadays. Focus on what really matters and make your music as good but also as original as you can. And don't give up. I'm a firm believer in the fact that you make your own success- if you want to achieve something go for it!

 

Q6. Please leave a message for your fans in Japan.

I still haven't had the chance to visit Japan. Honestly, it's at the top of my list. I really can't wait until I get the opportunity to play in Japan, but also to visit the country and experience the culture. Hopefully I will see you soon! :-)

 

 

 

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