No. 30 - Maya Fourteen - English

No. 30 · DECEMBER 2024

MANAGEMENT MAY OUTEIRAL FRONT PAGE, ART DIRECTION AND LAYOUT NEREA CARRIÓN EDITORS MAY OUTEIRAL JUANJO BLANCO JUAN ÁLVAREZ GABRIELA CORTÉS JONATHAN GUTIERREZ COLLABORATOR BEEPDMUSIC LM PR JUANJO BLANCO JONATHAN GUTIERREZ URBANREBEL PR

CONTACT info@syncbeatmag.eu WEB www.syncbeatmag.eu

KING A.K.A. SAMPLEKING ........................ 7

KAYZA .................................................................. 33

CRISTOPH .......................................................... 17

FERNANDO LAGRECA .............................. 35

NEO-P9 ............................................................... 27

VICTORIA ........................................................... 37

RITMO ...................................................................................................... 5 WEEKEND BEACH......................................................................... 19 SOUND WAVES............................................................................... 29

Nikkole,

una

cantante

y

compositora

siendo reconocido como el mejor álbum

creole-americana, ha destacado en la

de R&B de 2022 por Goldmine Magazine.

industria musical con más de dos décadas de trayectoria.

Además una

de

su

influyente

música, figura

Nikkole

es

mediática,

con

Su potente voz y presencia magnética la

apariciones en publicaciones como Rolling

han convertido en una reina de las listas

Stone y roles como coanfitriona en The

de Billboard, especialmente en el género

Vantage Point y el podcast Shades of Us.

dance.

Ha colaborado con artistas destacados Desde su debut en 2001 con Appearances,

y

Nikkole ha fusionado pop y R&B, logrando

que aspira a los Grammy 2024. Con

éxito con álbumes como Hallucinations

nuevos proyectos y el apoyo de sus fieles

(2014) y Vulnerable (2021), este último

“Nikkolediers” Nikkole sigue rompiendo

alcanzando el #2 en el UK Soul Chart y

barreras y dejando su huella en la música.

producido

éxitos

como

“Romance”

It brings a rich tapestry of rhythms, melodies, and storytelling traditions. You can hear the influence in the way I blend genres, drawing from R&B, pop and dance. A true amalgamation.

Could

you

describe

the

process

of

collaborating with Leon Sylvers on this album?

Working with legendary producer Leon Sylvers was a transformative experience.

His expertise in crafting timeless sounds helped me refine my vision for the album.

We spent hours in the studio experimenting with different arrangements and sounds.

Leon’s ability to blend classic vibes with modern elements really pushed me to explore new creative territories.

What was the inspiration behind naming the album Vulnerable?

The

title

essence

*Vulnerable* of

the

Vulnerable includes various genres. How do you balance pop, R&B, and dance sounds in

captures

album’s

the

emotional

journey. It reflects my willingness to open up about my experiences, struggles, and triumphs. I wanted to create a space where listeners could connect with their own vulnerabilities, reminding them that it’s okay to show their true selves.

How has your Creole-American heritage influenced your musical style?

My Creole-American heritage is woven into the fabric of my music.

a single album?

Balancing pop, R&B, and dance sounds is about finding common threads. Each genre brings its own energy and emotion, and I approach them with a mindset of fusion rather than separation.

By

focusing

on

strong

melodies

and

relatable lyrics, I create a cohesive listening experience that feels both diverse and unified.

What message do you hope listeners will

How did the lockdown period shape the

take from your single All Mine?

themes or production of Vulnerable?

With *All Mine*, I hope listeners feel

The lockdown period was a time of

empowered and understood.

introspection for me. It forced me to confront

my

thoughts

and

feelings,

The song speaks to the complexities of

which deeply influenced the themes of

love and possession, emphasizing that

*Vulnerable*.

true connection goes beyond ownership.

The isolation allowed me to dig deeper I

want

people

to

reflect

on

their

relationships and recognize the beauty

into my songwriting, exploring topics like loneliness, hope, and resilience.

in sharing themselves authentically with others.

The production also evolved, using more organic sounds to reflect that intimacy.

Could

you

share

more

about

your

funding to navigating distribution.

experience working with notable names like Ray Parker Jr., Thundercat, and Dâm-

However, it’s incredibly rewarding because

Funk?

it gives me total creative freedom. I can pursue my artistic vision without

Collaborating with artists like Ray Parker

compromise, which is essential for my

Jr., Thundercat, and Dâm-Funk was surreal

growth as an artist.

and incredibly inspiring. Each brought their own unique style and perspective,

How would you describe the visual

pushing us to elevate the art.

approach to Vulnerable’s music videos and album art?

These experiences taught me the value of collaboration and how diverse influences

The visual approach for *Vulnerable* is

can enhance creativity.

all about authenticity and storytelling. I wanted the art and videos to reflect the

What challenges did you face building

emotional core of the songs, using vibrant

your independent label, and what does it

colors and intimate settings to invite

mean for your creative freedom?

viewers into my world.

Building my independent label was a

Each video serves as a visual extension of

journey filled with challenges,

the music, enhancing the narrative and

from securing

emotional impact as well as the album art work.

How do you see the evolution of your music from

I’ve

Appearances to Vulnerable?

The

evolution

from

*Appearances*

grown as an to

*Vulnerable* is significant. My earlier work was a great beginning for me as an artist.

It showcased my pop alternative side and spoke about complex life’s issues set to infectious tracks. *Vulnerable* dives a little deeper into personal experiences and emotions.

artist, allowing myself to be more honest and open, which resonates more profoundly with my audience. Each project has taught me something new, leading me to a more authentic expression of who I am.

RIT/MO announces first names for Its 2025 Edition Jasss b2b John Talabot, Kia, Marco Shuttle, Tornado Wallace, and Sedef Adasï among the first confirmations for Granada’s RIT/MO festival.

The electronic music festival RIT/MO has unveiled the first 10 names on its lineup for the 2025 edition. Known for its intimate capacity and unique setting in the heart of nature—just 15 minutes from Granada—the festival has consistently gathered some of the coolest artists of the moment. The 2025 edition will take place on May 30 and 31, once again located at the foothills of Sierra Elvira in the Natural Area of Ermita de los Tres Juanes (Atarfe, Granada).

The initial lineup is enough to excite even the most discerning clubbers. Witnessing a b2b set from Jasss and John Talabot in such a breathtaking location is reason enough to start packing your bags and grabbing your comfiest dancing shoes. In fact, you might want to bring a backup pair, as the lineup also includes standout acts like Australian artist Kia and Berlin-based Italian Marco Shuttle—an indication that the RIT/MO organizers have an impeccable radar for selecting cutting-edge talent. These artists are known for crafting high-level sets that take audiences on rich emotional journeys.

As if that weren’t enough, the addition of Tornado Wallace’s impeccable quality and the vibrant energy of Germany’s Sedef Adasï and Belgium’s Lola Haro transforms this first glimpse of the RIT/MO 2025 lineup into a true dance-focused treasure. The lineup is rounded out by four remarkable names from Spain’s national scene: Barcelona’s oma totem and Tamarindo, the popular Madrid duo Systema, and Córdoba-born, Mexico-based Rootian.

This initial preview of RIT/MO’s lineup has us eagerly awaiting more announcements and marking May 30 and 31 firmly on our calendars!

Renowned worldwide for his infectious beats and genre-blending mastery, King a.k.a Sampleking drops his latest release, Si Ai, under the Hypecue Label.

This Afro House track showcases his signature production style, weaving together deep rhythms, hypnotic percussions, and a powerful melodic backbone that elevates the soul.

Si Ai brings forth a high-energy sound rooted in the heart of Africaninspired beats while seamlessly integrating modern house elements.

The track’s infectious bassline, intricate drum patterns, and uplifting vocals invite listeners into a rhythmic journey that fuses traditional Afro grooves with contemporary electronic flair.

Whether on the dance floor or at home, Si Ai is sure to resonate with fans of Afro House, uplifting spirits with its catchy hook and energetic flow. King a.k.a Sampleking continues to solidify his position at the top of the global dance scene with this vibrant release, delivering yet another unforgettable track that is bound to dominate playlists and clubs alike.

A must-listen for Afro House enthusiasts and anyone looking for a fresh, danceable hit!

Maya Fourteen is a rising star in the electronic music scene, celebrated for her distinctive blend of organic soundscapes, deep tech, and progressive vibes. With a rapidly growing international following, Maya has been enchanting audiences worldwide with her emotionally charged sets and signature style.

From intimate events to massive festivals, she has showcased her passion for music, connecting with fans across borders. Recent highlights include performing at iconic venues like Green Valley (5-time #1 club in the world) and World Club Dome (Germany’s largest festival and ranked #9 globally), her debut single through Systematic Recordings (which reached #8 on Beatport), appearances at the Abu Dhabi F1 Or Noir private after-race parties, and collaborations with renowned brands like FENDI and GT Home, perfectly encapsulate her recent accomplishments. Maya’s journey is a testament to her continuous evolution as an artist.

In this interview, she reflects on her career, inspirations, and the exciting future ahead.

You’ve been growing steadily in your career. How do you feel about where you are now as a DJ and producer?

I feel like I’ve grown significantly, not just as an artist but also as a person.

As a producer, I’ve gained much more confidence, which naturally comes with studio experience. Collaborating with different colleagues has broadened my understanding of production and given me fresh perspectives on the craft.

As a DJ, the more I perform, the better I become. Reading the crowd and creating memorable moments is an ongoing process for any DJ. It’s truly a game of interaction - my goal every time I step up to the decks is to create an unforgettable experience.

It’s been a journey of constant learning and self-discovery. Every gig, track, and interaction has brought me closer to the artist I aspire to be. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I know there’s always more to explore and improve, and that’s what keeps me excited about the future.

Can you tell us about your recent remix for Costax on Dioscuri?

Releasing this remix and doing it on Dioscuri, from Costax, was such an incredible experience. This was officially my first remix, so I put extra effort into it!

Working on “Stay” allowed me to explore a different side of my creativity. I took a different approach to this remix, focusing on bringing a distinct vibe to the track while respecting its original essence.

When I listened to the vocals, it called me to create a trippy version, a kind of hypnotic track that massages your brain on the dance floor while keeping you dancing!

It was also an honor to share the remix release with legends like Timo Maas, which added an extra layer of pride to the release. Moments like this remind me why I love what I do—it’s all about experimenting and leaving your mark.

You were part of ADE this year. What was that experience like, and where did you play?

ADE is always an amazing experience, but this year was even more amazing since I had my first release coming out at the peak of it! Besides, the energy in Amsterdam is always something special, and it was incredible to be part of such a massive gathering of talent.

I played at two events while I was there.

The first was at Taiko, where I was invited by the talented Hedda Stenberg, and it was such a great experience. The venue was small, but the people there were really engaged, and the vibe was perfect for sharing some tracks I love.

The second was at the official Dioscuri label

You’re heading to Asia soon for a tour.

event, which felt like a big moment for me,

What are you most looking forward to?

especially with the remix release I had just done for the label and by sharing the decks

I’m doing some gigs in the United Arab

with Timo Maas and my colleagues from

Emirates before leaving for Bali, where I will

the Remix release - Costax (the label owner),

perform on New Year’s Eve and other gigs

Ibarra, Sam Silva, Francisco Mami, and Maps

that are still being worked out.

of Alaska. ADE is always a highlight of the year, and this time was no exception. It was

Asia has always been on my radar, and I’m

a real honor to be in such a vibrant and

thrilled to finally bring my music there.

creative atmosphere.

It’s exciting to explore new territories

Touring Europe this summer was really great as I got to play at a variety of venues, from smaller, more intimate places where I could really connect with the crowd, to huge festivals that were on another level.

A standout moment for me was definitely playing at World Club Dome in Frankfurt, Germany, where I had the chance to warm up the stage for Hot Since 82 and Jamie Jones, headlining. It’s one of the largest festivals in Europe, and the energy there was off the charts. I was also super impressed by the size of it and the number of dance floors—you could basically find one for each taste of music you have and an impeccable organization!

Another memorable experience was playing at Die Nach in Monchengladbach, a super small venue where you can play whatever you want (as long as it’s great!) and the crowd is having fun like if they are with you in the DJ booth!

and connect with completely different audiences. The culture, the energy, and the love for electronic music in places like Bali (they say) are unparalleled… Let’s see if they can beat Brazil! LOL This tour feels like the next chapter in my journey, and I can’t wait to see how my sound works there. I hope to not only leave a mark but also take inspiration from everything I experience.

How do you prepare your DJ sets? What’s your approach?

For me, every set is a story waiting to be told.

I like to curate my selection of tracks that not only complement each other but also take the audience on a journey.

Not that I prepare the set “per se”, but according to the venue and crowd, I try to anticipate what they will like and do a preselection of possible tracks to play from my truly extensive DJ rekordbox collection!

It’s about creating a flow where each track builds on the last, leading to moments of pure connection on the dance-floor.

My background as a musician has trained my ear to hear layers and details, so I can’t help but approach every set with a sense of storytelling.

My goal is to leave people with a memory they’ll carry long after the music stops. The only obstacle to this is when I find DJ equipment that may jeopardize the mission; that’s why it’s so important for clubs to invest in proper club equipment— it’s a win-win for everyone.

You’ve also played at exclusive events.

How do you balance your artistic vision with the demands of those settings?

Exclusive events present a unique challenge because they require a level of sophistication that differs from the typical club or festival experience. I see these events as an opportunity to blend music with other elements like art, fashion, and culture, which deeply inspire me.

My approach is always to elevate the overall experience without overshadowing the ambiance or the special atmosphere of the event. I spend a lot of time curating tracks that not only fits the event’s theme but also stays true to my sound. It’s all about finding the right balance, and I love how these events allow me to push my creativity in new directions.

A recent example would be my collaboration with Fendi and GT Home, where I had the chance to perform in a luxurious, high-end apartment within the Yachthouse by Pininfarina towers in Balneário Camboriú - Brazil. It was a fantastic blend of music, fashion, and lifestyle, and it gave me the opportunity to create something truly unique that I wish to repeat asap!

Who are some artists who inspire you?

I’ve always admired Maceo Plex for his ability to innovate while staying true to his sound. He’s a master at creating tracks that feel both timeless and fresh. I don’t want to call them “hits,” but essentially, every track he creates is amazing. On the more unconventional side, I’m a huge fan of Fatima Yamaha.

His music has this nostalgic yet futuristic quality that’s truly unique. Both of these artists remind me of the importance of staying authentic and pushing creative boundaries, and they inspire me to do the same in my work.

In a different layer, I’ll mention two opposite producers im starting to collaborate with and who are true masters in what they do: one is the Portuguese Mario França, a dance-floor burner track master producer, and the other is Patrick Medina from Brazil, the organic house guru, also a brilliant producer.

Jet lag and different time zones can throw anyone off, so I focus on maintaining routines that help me stay grounded.

Whether it’s practicing yoga, meditating, or simply finding moments to rest and recharge, I try to take care of my mind and body.

Mindfulness is a big part of my life, and it helps me stay connected to my purpose, even when things get hectic.

At the end of the day, I remind myself how lucky I am to be doing what I love, and that keeps me going.

What’s next for you? Where do you see yourself in the future?

I see my future as an open canvas, full of possibilities. I don’t want to limit myself to one direction—I want to follow where the music and inspiration take me.

Right now, my focus is on sharing my sound

These two talents are ones the world must

(as DJ and producer) with as many people

put their eyes on!

as possible, reaching new audiences, and

Touring can be challenging. How do you stay grounded amidst jet lag and constant travel?

Touring is a dream come true, but it definitely has its challenges and a price to pay.

continuing to grow as an artist.

Ultimately,

I

want

to

keep

evolving,

becoming a better version of myself with every step, and, in doing so, hopefully contributing to making people’s lives a little brighter and more meaningful!

SUBCULTURE CRISTOPH

Building on his recent achievements, including a Beatport No. 1 and recognition as the top-selling Progressive House artist on Beatport, Cristoph unveils an exciting new chapter for his label, Consequence of Society Recordings (COS Recordings). The project takes shape in the form of the first ever VA (Various Artists) compilation on COS Recordings to the title of SUBCULTURE. This exciting endeavour delivers fourteen hypnotic tracks that seamlessly blend the worlds of techno and progressive house, perfectly showcasing the sound and energy that COS Recordings represents from artists such as Paul Deep, Charles D, ADZ, Weksa, Michael Anthony and many others.

The fourteen-track VA departs from solo productions, featuring a mix of upand-coming and established artists whom Cristoph admires and embodying the sound he strives to cultivate. This project series is intended to serve as a catalyst for like-minded individuals to engage with COS Recordings and to give more artists within this progressive subculture community an opportunity to release with him and on his label. Following a string of chart-topping releases and streaming success, the launch of this new VA compilation represents the label’s next big development as it seeks to broaden its creative synergy with new and established artists.

This inaugural release in the series not only embodies COS Recordings’ unique identity but also aims to lay the groundwork for Cristoph to create his own subculture within the progressive community whilst opening doors for new and exciting artists to have an opportunity to breakthrough.

Cristoph presents SUBCULTURE is out now on Consequence of Society Recordings.

Their wild trap fused with drum & bass and pop is an international success—an explosion of vitamin C for the soul. They will present their hit album “Baño María” at the festival’s 10th Anniversary in Málaga this July.

Weekend

Beach

Festival

shakes

up

Spain’s

festival

calendar

once

again. After recently announcing a performance by KASE.O—one of Spain’s biggest rap icons—set for his only show in Andalusia, the festival turns

up

the

heat

with

another

headline-worthy

announcement.

The successful Buenos Aires duo Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso, who sell out every show they play, is the first international act confirmed for the Torre del Mar festival. They will perform on the beach for the first time, delivering their distinctive and versatile style packed with originality and charisma. These two Argentine artists arrive in Spain riding the wave of their spectacular recent performance on Tiny Desk Concert, hailed as one of the top three in the history of NPR’s iconic live series. Their 17-minute Tiny Desk session, recorded in a single take, has already amassed over 1.6 million views.

Their music is a dazzling experience, blending irresistible flow with touches of jazz, R&B, and plenty of charisma and attitude. The result? A brilliantly executed set that seems effortless yet meticulously planned, catapulting them to international stardom. Fans can look forward to hearing their viral hit “La que puede, puede” and many tracks from “Baño María” live during the Weekend Beach Festival’s 10th Anniversary celebration on July 10, 11, and 12.

Catriel and Ulises—the real names behind Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso—have known each other since school. As kids, they formed a psychedelic guitar band, with Ca7riel on bass and Paco on drums, but soon left it behind to explore more urban sounds. Since then, they’ve built a solid career in Argentina, with their provocative spirit translating into live shows that are as punk as they are entertaining.

www.weekendbeach.es

¡Syncbeat Magazine launches a new section!

Each month, through personal interviews, we will discover great artists who are beginning to make a mark on the global electronic scene.

Today, we speak with NEO-P9, a Turkish artist and producer who is “breaking boundaries” with his work.

By Juanjo Blanco

Can you share with us a quick introduction about who you are? Your name, home country, music style, etc.

Anything you think is important to share with us and the audience?

I’m Neo-P9, a 24-year-old DJ and producer from Turkey. I started my music career in 2019 in Eskişehir.

Thanks to my stage energy and music style, I quickly became recognized as a DJ/Producer. I was nominated for the best DJ category in my city.

I pro-duce Melodic Techno music. Currently, I have 4 released projects. My first single, Beyond The Horizon, entered the Beatport Top 100 at #20 and stayed on the chart for 10 days.

Similarly, my other tracks like Gate, Bella (Neo-P9 Remix), and Don’t Wanna also gained chart placements right after their releases. I’ve performed at many events and festivals, and I continue to do so.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and where you grew up?

I was born in Istanbul, but due to my father’s work, I didn’t grow up in a single city. I lived in many different cities and was exposed to various cultures. My school life was spread across different cities and schools.

I studied Nursing and Medical Laboratory at high school and university in Eskişehir. However, my love for music could never be extinguished.

I worked hard, researched, and focused on DJing and production. Despite the lack of resources, I started learning production with a broken computer and DJing with phone headphones. I’ve come this far without giving up. I did everything by myself, through hard work and persistence.

What motivated you to pursue a career as a DJ? I’ve always been interested in music since I was young. I wished I could learn to play instruments, but I never had the opportunity. Later, I discovered electronic music.

When I saw a DJ setup for the first time, I felt like I was born for this job, and that’s when my serious career began.

Who are your influences?

Sam Collins is an idol for me because of his stage presence, musical taste, and energy. Massano has often inspired me with his strong stabs and sounds.

Another person who has influenced me is Mahmut Orhan, whose life story and sincerity resonate with mine.

How would you describe the music that you play?

My music style is a fusion of Melodic Techno and many other genres. I aim to provide listeners with both a rhythmic and emotional experience.

By balancing the energetic flow of beats

One needs to understand what they want to

with the harmony of melodies, I aim to make

offer and constantly improve themselves.

people dance and think at the same time.

I believe that a person will not fail in anything What are some of the challenges you face

they are passionate about if they work hard

as a DJ and producer?

and constantly improve.

One of the biggest challenges as a DJ and

How do you stay informed about the latest

producer is staying innovative and con-

developments in music trends?

stantly evolving. The music industry changes very quickly, and to keep up, you need to

To stay up to date with the latest trends in

constantly reinvent yourself. Also, being

the music industry, I keep in constant touch

consistent both on stage and in the studio

with other DJs, social media, and music

while staying creative is a big challenge.

platforms. Additionally, attending music festivals and events is a great opportunity to

Another issue is that if you’re good at your

discover new music.

job, you’ll also have many unseen enemies.

Sometimes, you face sabotage attempts

Can you describe the methods you use to

that affect you negatively on stage. With the

captivate and engage your audience?

rise of social media and the globalized world, people who have little to do with music can

The most important method for me is

still end up at festivals or nightclubs due to

sincerity and authenticity. I believe the most

their popularity, which unfortunately leaves

effective way to connect with your audience

many skilled and musically rich artists in the

is to make them feel your music. When you

shadows.

show your energy and emotions through both your music and stage presence, you

What key competencies do you think are

become one with the audience. That’s how I

required for a DJ and producer to succeed?

approach both my music and performance.

To be a successful DJ and producer, having

What aspect of being a DJ brings you the

knowledge of music theory and technical

most personal satisfaction?

skills is essential. Additionally, originality on stage and the ability to impact the audience

The stage and my studio are the places

are also very important. Being innovative,

where I can express my feelings most freely.

keeping up with trends, and understanding

Living my dream and experiencing it with

what the audience wants are fundamental

my audience is truly amazing for me.

skills for a successful career.

When

listeners

find

something

of

However,

on

days

when

I

have

a

themselves in my music and style, sharing

performance, I usually rest for 1-2 days and

those emotions with them on stage is the

then return to production. During intense

most fulfilling part of being a DJ.

periods, this may change, but both DJing and production can be exhausting and fast-

Right now, you are working on a new

paced, so I try not to work on pro-duction

project with Ertan Koçulu called Hypecue.

on performance days to stay focused and

How are you finding this new and exciting

comfortable.

challenge?

How has your workflow changed with I’ve worked with Ertan Koçulu on several

new technology?

different projects. Our mindset and working styles complement each other perfectly.

With new technology, I can find what

He’s already very successful and has been

I’m looking for much easier and more

continuing steadily.

efficiently. It’s a more comfortable situation for me, but on the other hand, the fact

When he proposed the idea of Hypecue and

that everything is so accessible and easy

invited me to join, it made me very happy.

to obtain can sometimes lead to boredom

Being part of a music-centered company

or dissatisfaction when the desired result is

and feeling like I’m at home with other

achieved too quickly.

artists is truly exciting and fulfilling. The rapid success of the project didn’t surprise

Considering your roles as both a DJ and

me much because I call it the Ertan Koçulu

producer, which areas do you consider

effect. I’m confident that when you ask me

most critical for your career growth?

the same question a year from now, you’ll see how right I am.

These could include securing bookings, interviews,

social

media

presence,

How do you allocate your time between

collaborations, or experimenting with new

the production room and DJ perfor-

equipment. I see them all as interconnected.

mances?

When you perform at a festival, you need I generally start my day when my mind is

to give a great performance. A strong

clearer and more focused, so I dedicate the

performance helps you get recognized by

early hours of the day to production, as it’s

listeners who may not have known you

the most productive time for me. Later in

before. Photos and videos from the event

the day, I focus on keeping up with trends

get shared on social media, exposing you

and researching what I can do for my per-

to a wider audience.

formances.

This helps you get booked for more events,

In the next 4 years, I am very confident that

and the interactions, short interviews, and

my name will be known worldwide.

contacts made at these festivals push your career forward. Meeting other artists and

If you weren’t a DJ today, what would you

collaborating on projects also plays an

be doing?

essential role.

If I weren’t DJing, I would probably be What sets you apart as a DJ? What makes

working in another area of music, maybe in

you different from others in your field?

mu-sic production. Music has always been a part of my life, so I would still be involved

On my stages, I focus on playing not only

with music in some way.

hit songs but also lesserknown tracks that sound very appealing. This sparks curiosity

I also love visual arts, so I could have planned

in the audience, and they notice the dif-

a career in graphic design, 3D printing, or

ference when they hear music that takes

photography.

them to different, unknown atmospheres in-stead of the same monotonous tracks

Any final thoughts or comments you wish

they’ve heard everywhere else.

to share with us?

Another thing that sets me apart is that I

I’m always grateful to my listeners. Music is

don’t just connect with the equipment; I

a journey for me, and being on this jour-ney

make sure to engage with the audience.

with them is very precious. I will continue to

Many DJs become too focused on the

stay innovative and energetic.

equipment and lose contact with the crowd.

I think this is one of the key elements that

I also want to say something to those who

sets me apart. Music selection, originality,

are just starting or thinking of starting: Don’t

stage presence, and sincerity all combine

give up, I didn’t. Life can be exhausting, and

to create something distinctive.

there will be moments when you feel like it’s all over, but the sun always rises and sets

Where do you see yourself in the next 2

for a new day. If you truly want to make this

to 4 years? What are your professional

your life’s center, you must keep working

objectives for the year 2025?

without ever giving up.

For 2025, I aim to have another year like 2024, where I continue releasing new tracks and producing music. I’m also considering releasing an album.

NEO-P9 is about to unleash a stunning new track titled “SHATTER”, a captivating blend of atmospheric depth and driving energy within the Melodic House genre.

This track is a sonic journey that perfectly balances

powerful

rhythms,

and

undercurrent

that

melodies, an

intricate

emotional

resonates

with

listeners long after the final note fades.

Opening with a mysterious, ethereal intro, “SHATTER” immediately sets a cinematic tone.

The track builds with layers of smooth, hypnotic pads and rolling basslines that create an immersive atmosphere, pulling listeners into a space of both tension and anticipation.

As the track progresses, shimmering synths

and

melodic

arpeggios

emerge, leading to a dramatic drop that’s both uplifting and introspective.

The title “SHATTER” captures the essence of the track perfectly—a moment of emotional release, where the weight of the build-up finally gives way to an explosion of sound.

The driving, pulsating bass and rhythmic percussion carry the track forward with relentless energy, while the melodies remain lush and emotive, adding a sense of both euphoria and catharsis.

Throughout “SHATTER”, NEO-P9 showcases his skill in crafting a track that isn’t just about energy, but also about feeling.

There’s a raw emotionality to the way the melodies unfold, combining light and dark elements that mirror the process of breaking through internal barriers and finding clarity.

The delicate balance of tension and release, coupled with a smooth, progressive build, makes this track perfect for both personal reflection and peak dancefloor moments.

With “SHATTER”, NEO-P9 proves once again why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the Melodic House scene.

This release is poised to resonate deeply with fans of emotive, high-energy electronic music, leaving listeners craving more of the producer’s uniquely immersive sound.

999999999, FANTASM, LEE ANN ROBERTS, BAD BOOMBOX FEATURED IN THE FINAL LINEUP OF SOUND WAVES WINTER EDITION

The Sound Waves Winter Edition Festival in Portugal has announced its lineup, featuring 999999999, Bad Boombox, Fantasm, Hades, Lee Ann Roberts, and Ornella.

After a successful summer edition in 2024 in Esmoriz and the debut of Sound Waves Winter Edition in Lisbon in 2023, the festival is returning to Portugal’s capital for its second winter edition in 2025. The event will take place at the Pavilhão Carlos Lopes on Saturday, February 8, starting at 8 PM and running until 6 AM on Sunday. The lineup showcases prominent names in techno, including 999999999, Bad Boombox, Fantasm, Hades, Lee Ann Roberts, and Ornella.

With over 10 hours of music, ravers will experience electrifying

performances

by

some

of

the

most renowned artists in the techno and hard techno

scene.

Italian

duo

999999999,

also

known as “Techno Duo From Other Space,” will shake the dance floor at Pavilhão Carlos Lopes with their hard and acid techno sounds.

Making his debut in Portugal, Bad Boombox will bring a captivating mix of genres, including Groovy Rave, Hardgroove, and Booty Trance. Highlighting industrial techno, Fantasm, one of the most soughtafter names globally, joins the lineup. Colombian virtuoso Hades will take control of the decks to uplift the crowd’s spirits with his dark and heavy soundsLa holandesa Lee Ann Roberts mostrará su empuje enérgico y contagioso en el evento. Una de las residentes de Sound Waves, Ornella, representará

Dutch artist Lee Ann Roberts will bring her energetic and contagious style to the event. Representing Portugal, Sound Waves resident Ornella will showcase why she’s considered one of the strongest names in the Schranz scene.

Sound Waves continues to give opportunities and prominence to emerging and current artists, solidifying its position as a visionary project in the electronic music world. Since its inception in 2005, the festival’s unique identity and charisma have made it an iconic global event, hosting several editions throughout the year in different cities across Portugal.

Sound Waves XMAS Edition returns to Porto on December 21, confirming its historic Sold Out status with an enviable lineup featuring Azyr, Callush, Karah, and Ornella.

To close out the year, on December 27, the final rave of 2024 will take place with the debut of Sound Waves Invites in the heart of the country, at one of the most renowned national clubs – the electronic room of NB Club Coimbra – featuring artists Nikolina, Ornella, and the Portugal debut of the Dutch duo Toxic Machinery.

2025 kicks off with Winter Edition for the second time in the city of Lisbon, followed by Sound Waves Invites on March 3 at the Hard Club in Porto. To celebrate 20 years of the iconic summer event, the city of Esmoriz will host it on July 5, welcoming thousands of ravers from around the globe.

Get ready to experience an electrifying journey as Famous Producer from Morocco teams up with KAYZA (MA) for their highly anticipated release, EUPHORIA, out now on the Hypecue Label. This Progressive House anthem is a mesmerizing blend of atmospheric soundscapes, powerful builds, and euphoric melodies that are set to take listeners on a sonic adventure like never before.

From the very first note, EUPHORIA engulfs you in its captivating energy, drawing you into a world where every drop feels like an elevation of spirit. The track’s lush pads and expansive synths create a dreamy, yet driving backdrop, while the carefully crafted build-ups and dynamic basslines lead into momentous, spine-tingling drops that will ignite any dance floor.

With its perfect balance of emotion and intensity, EUPHORIA is more than just a track—it’s a celebration of the feeling that music can bring. The collaboration between Famous Producer and KAYZA (MA) showcases their undeniable chemistry, blending their individual styles into a sound that’s both fresh and immersive, making it a must-have for fans of Progressive House.

Whether you’re getting lost in its deep rhythms or riding the wave of its euphoric melodies, EUPHORIA promises to be a standout track of the season—one that will undoubtedly keep listeners coming back for more, track after track.

Get ready to lose yourself in the EUPHORIA.

Fernando Lagreca, the Uruguayanborn, who

Spanish-adopted has

been

charted

producer multiple

times, returns with his latest fulllength offering, TIME, out via Beautiful Accident.

Known for his solid live performances across the globe, Lagreca’s new album is a sonic journey that taps into the rhythms and textures spanning from the early ‘90s to the 2010s — two decades that have shaped much of today’s electronic landscape.

Rather than confining himself to one genre, Lagreca seamlessly blends UKinspired arpeggios with subtly processed pop guitar riffs, layering these with techno-driven motifs. The result is a complex tapestry of pitched, detuned melodies that drift effortlessly into breakbeat-driven rhythmic shifts.

TIME offers a collection of tracks that stand among the finest in electronica, with delicate infusions of psychedelia, fractured drum patterns, and ethereal vocals, all meticulously woven together.

Fans of iconic acts like The Chemical Brothers, Orbital, or Leftfield will find much to admire in this release, as Lagreca channels their influence while carving out his own distinctive space in the electronic realm.

Victoria is back to set the dance floor ablaze with her latest single, ‘Ratata’, a scorching fusion of Latin energy and high-octane techno.

Following the roaring success of her solo debut single ‘Get Up Bitch! (Shake Ya Ass)’ with Anitta, which earned support from heavyweights like VTSS, Victoria raises the stakes with a new track that’s pure audial adrenaline.

Playing the single exclusively for fans in Sao Paulo, Victoria gave audiences an intimate ride in a vintage car around the city whilst spinning the track for a unique first play, with the buzz intensifying further as a secret pop-up performance in the city, closed out proceedings, where Victoria’s raw energy spun the crowd into a state of ecstasy.

Now, with its official release, ‘Ratata’ is set to take over, blending thunderous kick drums with jagged, syncopated percussion, the track drives forward with a relentless energy. As the rhythms pulls listeners into a whirlwind sound, laced with stand-out, anthemic Latin vocal hooks, it weaves a visceral narrative that feels both tight in production and anthemic.

Speaking on the new release, Victoria said: “I’m really inspired by all the stuff going on in South America right now! I love the crossover between funk dance and techno, and I had so much fun experimenting with that in ‘Ratata’, mixing 4x4 techno kicks with the percussive elements of Rio’s funk dance and Portuguese vocals. I have been playing it in all my live sets and it has been going off every time, so I really wanted to release it and share it with everyone!”