Interviews
Interview | Questions & Answers With Enzo Sprigg
Last month, I reviewed Enzo Sprigg‘s new album ‘Cosmic Bipolar Nebula’ and my initial impression was quite positive. In no time, this left me with the desire to know further details. Currently, he is expanding his artistic vision to new horizons. So, I was fortunate enough to interview him. Enzo took his time and literally explained everything about his latest release!
1 – What was your first exposure to electronic music?
I clearly remember seeing Gary Numan’s “Cars” video and being completely blown away. Not only did he look like no one else I’d see before, the sound of the music was so futuristic and slick sounding. It also had a subtle edge and he seemed very forward thinking. I think that’s why I like electronic music so much. It constantly sounds like the future.
2 – Does Enzo Sprigg has his own signature style?
I would say my voice and lyrical approach brings a lot of my signature sound. Vocally I sing higher than most other male electronic singers. My voice is more like Martin Gore (Depeche Mode) than Dave Gahan. I think that gives my songs a bit more vocal range and is also a big part of my sound. I also play with genres a lot so I try to stretch and expand my songs beyond standard electronic music. I’m still developing but I don’t want to stay in one place musically.
3 – Why did you name your newest album ‘Cosmic Bipolar Nebula’?
I wanted something memorable and descriptive to what the album is about. “Cosmic” because I make it a habit to try to think beyond myself. I also wanted the album to sound spacey and psychedelic. “Bipolar” because I pressed myself to explore both the lighter, euphoric side of my personality as well as the sorrow and pain I carry. I knew this would make the body of songs dynamic and varied. “Nebula” was my last word because I always strive to be shifting, growing and changing, moving beyond myself into new territories musically. What’s weird is after I released the album I found out that Bipolar Nebulas actually exist! Google it!
4 – I read that you were involved in almost all its recording process. How good and bad is to be a multifaceted artist in today’s music industry?
I personally think it’s great and suits me well. I doubt it’s better for my career but to be honest that’s not my main motivation. I’m always looking to grow and learn as an artist. Doing as much of the work myself helps me do that. Besides, I tend to be hyper-productive anyway and would prefer to work on something musical or artistic than nearly anything else.
5 – Was David Bowie’s music your biggest inspiration on this album?
A bit of Bowie’s direction is in everything I do. He is just a blueprint for the sort of artist I want to be. Musically, I don’t think we sound the same though. I’d say his approach to songwriting (i.e. doing his own take on shifting genres) is definitely there on this album. The spacey theme is a subtle nod back to his Ziggy days. Sort of a tribute to his passing which was a big loss for me.
6 – Which song features the most profound lyrics?
I think the song “Oh Mother” is the most personal song on the album. I’d been wanting to write a song for my mother for a few years now. She is a very creative person and early on in my life showed me the way to express myself and encouraged everything I did artistically. The song also talks about how the world and time can take you away from the ones you love. The loneliness of that. It’s a pretty heavy song emotionally for me and when I was recording I had to take time to collect myself. I think you can feel it in the song.
7 – How many instruments, tools, and software were used?
Well, there are acoustic and electric guitar parts here and there but for the most part I wrote, sequenced, and produced it all in Reason 9. It’s incredibly flexible music software and I feel I can create any sort of song I want with it.
8 – I really like the Space art concept on your album artwork. Do you believe life exists anywhere else in our Universe?
I sure hope there is. Not the most efficient use of space if not. One side note about the album cover. The porthole on the cover is actually what my mirror looks like in my bathroom. I look at my face every morning through it so it has sort of an inside meaning. This album is meant to be a journey inward so that’s why the cover looks like that.
9 – Are you planning to release a music video anytime soon? If yes, give us more details.
Yes and I think the first one will be for “Oh Mother”. I also want my mom to be in the video. I think that would give it so much emotional power and I’d love to share that moment with her. I’ve already started the planning on it so expect it in the new year. I’m also planning another hand-drawn music video. That will come after “Oh Mother”.
10 – Finally, I know besides being a musician you’re also a Makeup/Costume Designer. What is your favorite past Halloween costume?
Actually, I’m pretty happy with how this year’s Halloween costume turned out. I handmade a Night King costume (from Game of Thrones). It was very complex both in makeup and clothing but was also a lot of fun to make! The reaction people gave me when I walked in the room was worth all the time I put into making it.
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Paul Mayson‘s first-ever album, ‘One Life,’ is like a special mix of his love for House music, blended with different kinds of sounds and cool collaborations from artists all over the world. You definitely don’t want to miss this interview!
1 — With the release of your debut album ‘One Life,’ what are your expectations for how listeners will connect with the music?
My goal was to showcase my story and my sound. And for it to be an uplifting, positive, and summery album. Hopefully, it feels like that! It’s a collection of songs made at the moment, to make you feel happy and free. It’s about embracing life, the good things and the bad. And about doing what makes you happy.
2 — You’ve teamed up with a diverse range of international artists on this material. Please let us know how these collaborations came to be.
It was really exciting taking elements from different genres, working with a group of great artists who come from very different backgrounds, and bringing all of these sounds and flavors together on one project. A lot of artists I meet myself, reach out to the people I’m interested in. I often travel abroad to work on music together and do sessions in London or LA. Sometimes collabs can also happen through the label or the publisher, but ultimately it’s great to have an artist-to-artist relationship.
3 – What compelled you to emphasize the themes of life, freedom, and diversity in this album?
I’m very passionate about House music culture and the way it started. Which was all about positivity and celebrating life together. I love that message and think the soulful, feel-good element of House music is what always really attracted me to the genre. And to music in general, including other genres like Soul and RnB.
4 – Can you share more details about the process of integrating experimental elements into the music production of your album?
A few of the songs (like “Tell Me How” and “I Want You”) were basically made during one big jam session. It’s me just trying out completely different sounds, textures, and rhythms and experimenting with live drums, guitars, and whatever I feel like. Letting go of any rules connected to dance music allows for a really fresh approach to the album songs.
6 – How does the artwork complement the album’s concept?
It emphasizes the feel-good element and the overall message of the album. Life is in front of you, it’s there for the taking. You’re in the hallway, step into the light and embrace life.
7 – Will there be another amazing music video like “Have It All,” dropping in the near future?
We released a really cool art piece and visualizer for the album which I’m very excited about!
8 – Given your ambition to push boundaries within the Dance genre, do you think the bunch of producers already out there could make it tough for you to really stand out?
I think individuality is key. Doing something you’re passionate about. Telling your own story. If you go into that process, the outcome will be unique. Not following trends and doing my own thing is what helps me stand out and allows me to be ahead and I try to keep pushing myself.
9 – Among your studio essentials, what’s the item that you consider the cornerstone of your setup?
Quite a lot of my work is digital. I carry my laptop around and can produce and write anywhere with it, whether it’s my home studio, the studio in Amsterdam, a hotel, or even an airport. That’s what makes it flexible and international! Just being able to work anywhere and get the creative process going. At home I also love my Adam A77x monitors and I also use a Prophet synth.
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In this exclusive interview, Swedish producer Tobtok discusses all the details about his latest single as part of the ongoing countdown to the upcoming ‘My Friends’ EP. This is a collaborative effort with farfetch’d that you definitely shouldn’t overlook.
1 — Congratulations on the release of “My Friends.” Please tell us more about the influences and musical style that shaped this cool track.
Thanks! This tune has taken inspiration from bits and pieces of tracks I’ve been into over the last 10 years, everything from Daft Punk to Fred Again. It contains a lot of micro samples and vocal lines that are in a similar vein as old French House records, but we also wanted to experiment with the current UK rave sound, which we think ended up in a pretty unique and interesting way.
2 — How did you and farfetch’d navigate the creative process together, especially when faced with differing ideas or disagreements?
We were kind of on the same page with most things to be fair. Jerry from farfetch’d is a very creative guy and he loves to bash out new ideas, which worked well for me to develop into full songs. We worked on every track together in my studio and finished them off together. Of course, we had some different ideas about certain things but since none of us had a big ego, we just compromised. I think when you like the same kind of music, you usually think quite alike.
3 — What sets this collaboration apart from your previous singles?
I think this is possibly the strongest single from the EP. It feels catchy and is super simple yet not too boring. It also has Jerry’s voice in it which is unique to any other of our tracks.
4 — Can you share any funny anecdotes about specific moments while crafting “My Friends”?
We have hidden a few wacky voice notes in it as a sort of ambiance. It can be heard in the second verse or whatever you wanna call it. You clearly hear Jerry laughing about something, but I can’t remember what it was.
5 — Is this tune part of an upcoming album or EP?
It’s track no.3 from our ‘My Friends’ EP which has a total of 6 tracks. It was released via Perfect Havoc on 29th September.
6 — What are your emotions when your music receives recognition and praise from other producers in the industry?
It’s always so much fun to get praise from your peers and colleagues. These people live and breathe music and probably hear way more stuff than the average listener, so I guess they tend to be less impressed by music.
7 — Has your signature sound as Tobtok undergone changes over the years?
Haha most definitely. I started out with French House which evolved into Nu-Disco. I later jumped on the Tropical House train (quite early on in my defense). Left that and tried something cooler with my track “ABER,” and from there, it’s been more of a mix between UK and Deep House.
8 — Is there any specific music genre you’re eager to explore?
Old School Disco and Soul. I’m a big fan of the 70s as a whole, that’s why I’ve bought a few vintage Roland pieces in my studio and a Rhodes Piano.
9 — Considering the global nature of music today, are there any international artists you’d love to collaborate with?
I love Jungle right now, for reasons made quite obvious in the previous question. They’ve mastered this cool retro 70’s/Motown sound and yet managed to make it sound fresh somehow. I’d love to just hang out in the studio with them and see what they do.
10 — As we conclude, do you feel that there’s a certain formula that artists can follow to produce chart-topping hits?
Nowadays, it’s all about doing something that stands out from what everyone else is doing and probably also adding a sprinkle of nostalgia and familiarity into something. A good example is the new Peggy Gou record which is a massive hit that takes inspiration from ATB but puts it in a new and interesting context. It doesn’t hurt to have a massive TikTok following either lol.
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You must read this interview with Kouss! He used to rock it as a badass drummer in the Stellar Revival band, but now he’s spilling the beans about how he switched things up and got into making electronic dance music (EDM). The spotlight is now on his latest track, “Can’t Go Back.” Learn more here.
1 — Putting your sound into words, how would you convey the mood and sensations that your music evokes to someone unfamiliar with it?
My music aims to be an uplifting and thoughtful blend of Progressive House and Dance-Pop. Even though the music is very dancefloor-friendly, the songwriting is very Pop-forward. I also love mixing live instrumentation with electronic production to create layered recordings. As a drummer, having live elements mesh with the electronic really brings out a unique texture.
2 — Your transition from Rock music with Stellar Revival to EDM is quite remarkable. Can you tell us more about it?
The transition from Rock to EDM is an exciting and natural creative evolution. I’ve always been passionate about electronic music, so finally being able to fully immerse myself in the genre as a producer and songwriter has been fulfilling. My background as a touring Rock drummer also gives me a unique musical sensibility that I try to incorporate into Kouss Records.
3 — As a drummer, you had to adapt to a different genre. How did you translate your rhythmic background into this new realm?
When approaching any genre, especially Dance music, I’m utilizing my background in percussion to create grooves and drum patterns. The drum parts still come from the same creative place whether I’m sitting behind a drum set or drawing with a MIDI controller. I will say that with EDM I find myself focused more on groove and restraint.
4 — In what ways have Illenium, Zedd, and David Guetta played a role in shaping the sound of your new single “Can’t Go Back”?
Illenium, Zedd, and David Guetta definitely influenced the melodic and atmospheric vibes in “Can’t Go Back.” Their music motivates and challenges me to produce massive soundscapes on the highest level. They’re all melodic magicians, and I continue to be inspired by their work. I also feel like I put my own spin on “Can’t Go Back.” It’s almost like the line between EDM and Pop became blurrier on this track.
5 — What’s the story behind the song title?
“Can’t Go Back” is generally about moving forward and not dwelling on the past. For me personally, it’s about evolving as an artist and person.
6 — Anna Kline’s presence on “Can’t Go Back” adds a unique dynamic. How did this collaboration come about?
I was introduced to Anna soon after starting the Kouss project by “Can’t Go Back” co-producer and dear friend Phil Barnes. The second I heard Anna sing I knew I wanted to work with her. She’s an incredible songwriter and an awesome human. It was an organic collaboration that we’re both stoked about. Definitely be on the lookout for more collaborations with Anna in the future!
7 — How do you aim to connect with listeners on an emotional level through this single?
I aim to connect with listeners on an emotional level through the authenticity and musicality of “Can’t Go Back.” It’s about delivering that special feeling to the listener. We crafted this recording from a place of passion as artists. The lyrics are relatable and cathartic, and Anna’s vocals draw you into this sonic world we created. We also tap into some nostalgia with the Big Room House vibe. But overall the goal was to give listeners an authentic musical experience that resonates with them, regardless of what genre they usually listen to.
8 — For “Can’t Go Back,” did you experiment with a combination of electronic elements and live instruments?
Yes, “Can’t Go Back” mixes electronic production with live drumming and live guitars. The live instruments give the song a dynamic texture and human feel. Not every Kouss song will have live instruments, but it’s definitely a major part of the debut EP coming in 2024.
9 — Looking ahead, how do you envision your music style evolving?
I want to continue bridging the gap between organic and electronic. Creatively, I think there’s a lot of meat on that bone. I also don’t want to limit myself to a single genre or style. I love all types of music and ultimately hope to develop a sound that draws from those diverse influences and experiences.
10 — Lastly, reflecting on your journey so far, what’s been the most memorable or rewarding moment of your music career?
Working with talented musicians and creators who are excited about my music has been humbling and inspiring. I didn’t expect it, but the reaction to “Can’t Go Back” has been both unexpected and validating. It’s so cool to see the song played in clubs, gyms, and cars. I’m truly fortunate to share my passion for music and connect with listeners who share the same passion.