HEDEGAARD, MARTIN JENSEN, VICTORIA NADINE ..... PAG 20 ALAN WALKER ................................................................ PAG 42
INACHE & KING AKA SAMPLEKING ............................ PAG 74
MICHAELBM ...................................................................... PAG 26
ORNELLA ......................................................................... PAG 60
DIRECTION, DESIGN AND LAYOUT: MAY OUTEIRAL
CONTENIDO: JUANJO BLANCO, JUAN ALVAREZ, GABUELIELLA, BILLY Y MAY OUTEIRAL
From the north of Chile to the world: The folkloric inspiration of an electronic music artist
By @Gabueliella
“The Chinchín is a drum born and created in Chile with a hundred years of using, its rustic material has changed in each decade,” begins the track -which bears the name of this instrument- by the Chilean producer and DJ, Carla Valenti.
Born in Iquique, a city in the north of Chile that borders the Andes Mountains and the Altiplano, Valenti has dedicated herself for creating with a great inspiration from her roots. Altiplano music with a mix of Afro, Valenti’s house music has crossed borders.
“The first time I heard it was on the “Human Nature Sun EP” by Abracadabra Records, by the renowned Blond:ish, with the song “Hueveo”, a word whose derivatives are used in most Chilean sentences. But what caught me the most were those sounds of drums and strings with a mix of synthesizers.
We were able to talk via video call, despite the six-hour time difference between our territory and the country where she now lives, Spain. In this interview I’ll tell you more about Carla Valenti, who started DJing in 2009.
How did you find a place in electronic music?
- Well, it was a quite random and not, really. I come from a super musical family, starting with my dad, who is a born musician and musical director. I listened to a lot of music from everything from Madonna to Illapu. And folk music at full blast. So I kind of come with that background.
I got the bug and started playing in my old folk group. From there I was there for about ten years or so. I tried different musical styles until I got stuck with the sound of the machines. I started working in sound and my first time was at the first Love Parade in Chile and everyone who worked at the Gemini production company came from the electronic music’s old school.
There I met Marcelito -may he rest in peace- and he was like my tutor, who taught me how to mix with the old machines that had CD trays.
Carla’s style changed as she got to know more parties in the electronic scene in the capital of Chile, Santiago. The northerner managed
to make a space for herself in the scene thanks to the support of the friends she made along the way. In fact, she says that one of her friends put her in a lineup without telling her and that was where the magic on stage began. It was when she met the Matanza Group that she realized that her style was more towards the sounds of the highlands, Afrohouse and downtempo.
How did you realize that this was the music you wanted to live with?
- I realized that all those styles were the perfect fusion of what I like: folklore and electronic music. And from there I started to get into that world a little bit and from meeting the guys from Matanza, we got together once, and I was delighted with their music. And from there I continued with that, with that musical thread and then I started to mutate a little more, to be more of a dance floor. And well, that’s where I stayed in the sense that I always play music of different styles, eclectically speaking and always with a Latin or Afro root.
What does it mean to you, to represent these roots of northern Chile in Europe?
- I got into that because as a kid - as a child - in my grandfather’s house I listened to this music all day. And we also went to the La Tirana festival - a religious celebration that receives thousands of pilgrims every year. I lived a very musically influenced childhood, also very Andean. In fact, my uncle danced in the first Diablada in Chile, that’s why the track “La Tirana”.
Her closeness to folklore is an attempt to embrace our indigenous culture. And that’s what she learned when she lived in Brazil for four years, as she admired how Brazilians embrace their culture and are very proud of it.
Where do the sounds of your music come from?
- It’s quite intuitive. I don’t think about it much either. They’re very much about flow and feeling. I’ve always played guitar, drums, piano. When I was a child, I played harp at the Municipal Theater opening for
Inti-Illimani once. It was like that, like understanding a little about the instruments and the areas where they are played the most. I also add charango, which is a very characteristic instrument of Iquique.
I play all instruments that are into my music, I would say 90%. I also play flutes, quenas, panpipes. Intuition has led me to create melodies with those instruments and say “wow, I’m going to use this” and then I start working on the perfect track.
When she creates music, she studies. From watching documentaries to reading historical information. She is interested in knowing from the root, for what she is creating. In August she will release an EP called El Grito, which she considers one of his first works dedicated fully to the dance floor. And in September it will be part of his first compilation vinyl from a European label and she will soon release an album with the Chilean artist Leinus.
What does the Chilean scene mean to you?
- I’ve been a bit lost for almost ten years now, from the scene in Chile, but what I see from here is that the union of electronic music with the Queer world has finally been made. I mean, those are the things that I’m most proud of, especially my friend Felipe San Camilo’s party, DAME. I think it’s something the country needed and the community needed. I know how difficult it must have been to have been able to make that union and grow so much.
Does it was hard for you for breaking into Europe?
- At first, like everywhere, it was a bit difficult for me because I was unknown here, but I had friends and colleagues, who already knew me for my work, from what I’ve been doing for a long time. So that opened a door for me, being able to enter a little easier as in the electronic music niche and then everything started to happen little by little, getting to parties, festivals and being invited to different places and meeting people and showing what I do. Since it is so different here, my sound attracts attention,
which is very particular.
I am a very observant person and I understand what people like to dance to the most and what people enjoy the most on the dance floor. So I try to detect those kinds of things and follow that path a little without losing my essence and what I like. Showing a little of the music of my country is just a matter of adapting. Understanding and also changing with the music industry.
Could you encourage more people to approach folklore from an electronic perspective?
- There are not many people in Chile who venture into this style of music. I know it is difficult because it is like going against the grain, doing something very different from what is most listened to or danced to. Authenticity is also valued within this environment, in the sense that the more authentic, the more real you are with what identifies you, that is what people will feel. And for me it is about trying to do what you like, what you are passionate about, not getting lost in external evaluations.
Carla has been in her career for 15 years, with ups and downs, but with the support of many people who believed in her and for this reason, she tries to do the same with other people. In 2023, she founded Revueltas Records with a friend, it is a record label focused on music production made by women “and also men who have helped us in this fight” she says.
She knows very well that women have had to make a space for themselves in lineups whose names are mostly men. Carla Valenti invites them to send material that wants to release music or that does not have a space to play. All are welcome... and welcome.
The Stickmen Project conceived “Alright” a couple of years ago, experimenting with various versions before finding the right sound. They discovered Izzy Bizu during a writing session and felt that her voice was perfect for the song. The production blends electro-pop with Bizu’s vocals, creating a summer anthem.
What inspired the collaboration between The Stickmen Project and Izzy Bizu on the new single ‘Alright’?
- We first made the idea for Alright a couple of years back, and since then had done about 5 or 6 different versions, none of them ever felt quite right. However, once we landed on this acoustic, poolside summer vibe we knew we were on to something special. We came across Izzy Bizu when we were in a writing session,
The song, inspired by a relaxed and organic approach, aims to convey positivity. The main challenge was finding the ideal vocalist, and the collaboration with Bizu turned out to be exceptional. After “Alright,” they have some club collaborations planned.
and someone played us one of her songs. We looked at each other and immediately knew we were thinking the same thing… she would be perfect for ‘Aright’! We messaged her on Instagram and the rest is history.
How did you blend electro-pop production with Izzy Bizu’s vocals to create the feel-good summer anthem ‘Alright’?
- We sent her our demo of the song, and she tracked her vocals with her own vocal producer. As soon as she sent the song back, we were blown away, her voice suited the song so well! She sent us all the separate vocal parts and we added them in to our project. After that it was just a case of finishing and perfecting the instrumental parts, re-recording some guitars and blending everything together!
Can you describe the creative process behind the uplifting track ‘Alright’?
- As we said earlier, we first started working on the song back in 2021. We tried so many different versions, House, Big Room, Slap House and after a while just decided to give it some time while we focused on other songs. We always try to let every song be what it wants to be, rather than trying to force it into a certain framework or try to make it to sound like one of our previous songs. So, after some time of leaving, it alone, we heard a song on the radio that inspired us to take ‘Alright’ in a more chilled out, organic direction.
We quickly recorded all the acoustic and electric guitar parts and some percussion to give it a live feel. We then knew we had found what the song wanted to be.
What message do you hope listeners take away from ‘Alright’?
- With this song we hope to make people feel good! A lot of our music can be quite dark, but with this track we just wanted to send a message of positivity. The chorus is all about making people smile, however, if someone is going through a hard time, they will take more meaning from the verses. This song will give those people some hope, that no matter how hard life gets, you can always live in the moment and be “Alright, tonight.”
has the success of your previous single ‘I Wish I Was’ influenced your approach to creating ‘Alright’?
- As we mentioned earlier, we try and let every song be exactly what it needs to be. It can become quite restrictive trying to make every song sound like a previously successful
song. So, we were absolutely delighted with the success of ‘I Wish I Was’ but creatively, it’s a very different song to ‘Alright’.
Can you share any challenges you faced while producing ‘Alright’ and how you overcame them?
- The main challenge we faced was having this amazing song and idea, but not knowing who the vocalist was going to be. As soon as we heard Izzy sing this song, it all started making so much sense! That was a lesson for us, on how important finding the perfect vocalist is for making a song feel right.
How do your energetic live shows and online presence contribute to your music’s impact?
- Our social media and online presence have had a very positive effect on how our music is received worldwide. It seems that having as many followers and viral videos as we do, it encourages people to listen to our music with more of an open mind. When it comes to shows, seeing us perform in person is where this whole thing starts to
make sense, and that’s where we find a lot of new fans.
What was it like working with Izzy Bizu, known for her jazz-inflected pop-soul sound, on this track?
- She was awesome from start to finish. She nailed the song in one session and we didn’t have to edit any of her vocals. She’s so talented and a real pleasure to collaborate with.
How do you balance maintaining your signature sound while experimenting with new styles and collaborations?
- We try not to focus too much on making everything sound the same or fit into some pre-determined formula. It’s honestly so much more fun and satisfying to just try lots of different versions of each song, until one of them just has that special feeling more than the others.
What upcoming projects or collaborations can fans look forward to after the release of ‘Alright’?
- We’ve got a few fun club records dropping after ‘Aright’ which are collabs with some friends of ours. That’s all we’ll say for now, but we’re super excited! But right now, we’re seeing out the rest of the summer with ‘Aright’!
HEDEGAARD, MARTIN JENSEN AND VICTORIA NADINE UNLEASH HUGE NEW TRACK ‘FAVORITE MISTAKES’ OUT NOW!
Just in time for the colossal Summer season and dropping the ultimate soundtrack to your festivals and athome hang-outs, Danish superstars HEDEGAARD and Martin Jensen link up with Norwegian breakthrough sensation Victoria Nadine for the new smash ‘Favorite Mistakes’!
Out this August, ‘Favorite Mistakes’ carries an instantly recognisable and classic melody, interpolating
the rhythms of the legendary Scatman John hit “Scatman (Ski Ba Bop Ba Dop Bop)” into modern territory, fusing together modern Dance/Pop with exciting big-room progressions, all topped off by Victoria’s stellar vocal performance. “Just wanna make my favorite mistakes…” soars the matter-of-fact message, one that instils the nocares-given fun of the dancefloor that resonates throughout the production. Taking on both brooding segments of swelling, spacious instrumentals come the middle verses, HEDEGAARD and Martin
Jenen’s fresh collaborative sound then jumps back into audial view, energetic and perfectly primed for audiences across the globe.
Producing some of the biggest Nordic hits of the past decade, HEDEGAARD has generated a mind-blowing 1.7 billion artist streams to date and with over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. His musical journey has taken him from the global breakthrough inventing the ‘Car Music’ sound and club sub-genre on the unofficial remix of the Dr. Dre classic “Next Episode”, to collaborating with and producing pop-hits for artists like Lukas Graham, the versatile Dane comes well prepared and on the back of his biggest summer tour ever, to the collaboration with Martin and Victoria.
Martin Jensen is the multibillion streamed artist behind the platinum anthem ‘Solo Dance’, also collaborating with a who’s-who of artists from ALOK to Jason Derulo and Sam Feldt, his musical dexterity and love of music – no matter the genre – shows no limits. With over
4 million monthly listeners and taking his club sound to every major live event from Tomorrowland to Capital’s Summertime Ball, Ushuaia Ibiza to Copenhagen’s national stadium Telia Parken, ‘Favorite Mistakes’ is just the latest addition to his powerful body of work, kicking off a fall with non-stop releases.
Victoria Nadine is one of the most indemand vocalists right now, having had eight Top 40 singles in her home country of Norway, garnering millions of streams with the singles “Nerve” and “Feel This Way”, and recently launching herself in the international markets with a R3HAB collaboration, this new collab – her first with both HEDEGAARD and Martin Jensen – is only going to follow in similar suit.
Make sure you get your hands on ‘Favorite Mistakes’ – out now via OneHundred!
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MichaelBM is riding the wave in this hot summer of 2024 with music to make every audience dance, released on big labels and a highly successful world tour
Michael Bernal Moreira aka MichaelBM is one of the hottest artists in the House, Tech and Latin House scene, with an infectious and vibrant sound that captivated audiences in Latin America and Europe. Of Mexican descent, the Spanishblooded DJ, is having a summer of 2024, very bubbly, as the artist has
not only two releases, ‘Beware’ and ‘Wiki’ (two collaborations with Jayie and ‘Wiki’ with Argentine rapper Vika), released on the past 26th of July as part of The Sound of South American VA compilation, released on famous UK Solardo’s.
The latin producer released ‘Bonito’ (with friends Twenty Six and Tech It Deep) on Tech It Deep’s label on 9th August, a track that recalls the essence of the Spanish classic theme ‘Bonito’ creating a perfect blend that resonates with more than one generation. In September we can count on the first official remix of the track “Fruta Fresca” from Wakyin with Carlos Vives, scheduled for release on 6th by Astralwerks - a record label division of UMG Recordings (universal music group).
‘Taka Taka Tour’, is the name of the world tour that MichaelBM started in April in Argentina and continues throughout the summer, touching some of the most important cities in Ecuador, Mexico, Perù, Costa Rica, Spain and France. At the end of July, the artist closed the tour in some cities of Spain like Barcelona the 20th of July, Ibiza the 24th and Gran Canaria the 27th.
MichaelBM’s world tour it’s a way to represent not just Mexico but all Latinos and their rich musical culture, in which the artist
showcases his unparalleled talent and passion for music to audiences across continents. With each performance, he aims to deliver unforgettable experiences, leaving a lasting impact on the global electronic music community.
“Every MichaelBM show is unique and special, bursting with energy! I always strive to connect with my crowd through music, crafting exclusive songs tailored to the location and the audience for that night. It’s all about creating an unforgettable experience and a powerful connection.”
- MichaelBM
MichaelBM is constantly working to bring his fans a unique musical experience and that is why he’s already working on another LATAM tour, which will touch Costa Rica, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Peru and more. The Mexican producer is also aiming to take the tour to the US and Canada and so we will certainly hear more about him in this summer of 2024!
MichaelBM is a dynamic and innovative DJ/Producer hailing from Mexico. Specializing in House, Tech House, and Latin House, the artist has swiftly risen through the ranks to become a prominent figure in the global electronic music scene. His tracks have earned the support of industry giants such as Carlita, Chelina Manuhutu, Cloonee, Gordo, Hugel, Matroda, Paco Osuna, and Solardo, to name just a few, on the
stages of internationally renowned festivals including EDC (Mexico and Orlando), TOMORROWLAND (Belgium), and MEDUSA FESTIVAL (Spain).. These endorsements have helped propel the career of MichaelBM to new heights, allowing him to perform at some of the most prestigious festivals and clubs around the globe.
BY @ eleonora_vologni
Mexican origins and catchy Latin House Music are the winning characteristics for this artist with a strong desire to make a name for himself
Michael Bernal Moreira, MichaelBM’s real name, is a South American-born artist with music in his blood ever since, who is climbing step by step to become one of the best DJs in the Latin techno scene. Thanks to his dynamism and innovation with the support of electronic music names such as Carlita, Cloonee, Gordo, Hugel, Matroda, Paco Osuna and Solardo, to name just a few, MichaelBM’s tracks has conquered the stages of
some of the biggest festivals in the world like EDC, Tomorrowland and Medusa Festival.
The Latin DJ is aiming higher and higher, having started a new chapter in his life that includes a world tour in progress, to make everyone aware of his dedication and passion for music, as well as many new tracks to be released to get his fans dancing in this summer that we wish would never end.
We learn more about MichaelBM, his origins, his plans for the summer, new music and especially about the “Taka Taka Tour”.
Who is MichaelBM?
- MichaelBM is a Mexican DJ who has become one of the hottest artists in the Latin house scene, captivating audiences across Latin America and Europe. He has released his music on top labels such as CR2 Records, Helix Records, and Sola Records. His electrifying performances have taken him to some of the world’s best clubs, including Duplex Club in Prague (ranked #52 by DJ Mag) and Lost Beach Club in Ecuador (ranked #25 by DJ Mag), among others.
How did your artistic name come about?
- Honestly, coming up with a creative name was quite a challenge, so I decided to keep it simple and stick with my own name. It’s authentic and represents who I am.
At the end of July, you took part on Sola Label with two releases. What are the names of the tracks and their genre?
- Yes! James (Solardo) gave me an incredible opportunity to collaborate as an A&R for the Sound of South American VA released on Sola Records. I had the chance to release two songs on it. The first is “Beware” and the second is “Wiki” both collaborations with Jayie. “Wiki” also features the top Argentinian rapper Vika, adding a unique twist to the track.
Tell us the story of the track “Bonito”, which was released on the 9th of August, and how you define its genre.
“Bonito” is my exciting new collaboration with my friends Twenty Six and Tech It Deep. This song redefines the Latin house music style, taking it to a fresh, new level. It combines the essence of the Spanish classic theme “Bonito,” creating a perfect blend that resonates with more than one generation. It’s a celebration of our musical heritage and innovation.
How would you define your live set?
Every MichaelBM show is unique and special, bursting with energy! I always strive to connect with my crowd through music, crafting exclusive songs tailored to the location and the audience for that night. It’s all about creating an unforgettable experience and a powerful connection.
Taka Taka Tour - tell us how it is for you to play in so many countries and represent Mexico all around the world.
For me, it’s an honor to represent not just Mexico but all Latinos and our rich musical culture. Our culture deserves to be known and celebrated worldwide, and house music is the perfect medium to blend and showcase our heritage. It’s a privilege to make our culture shine on the global stage.
Are you planning a new tour? Where will it be?
- Right now, I’m in the midst of my summer tour in Europe, which has been incredible! I’m already working on another LATAM tour, hitting Costa Rica, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Peru, and more. We’re also aiming to bring the tour to the USA and Canada soon. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements!
Alan Walker, a global phenomenon in electronic music, has captured the attention of millions of fans with his hypnotic and energetic tracks. Alan’s main inspiration comes from his followers, who motivate him to create and continue advancing in his career. With over 115 million social media followers and 80 billion streams, Alan strives to maintain a strong connection with his audience through activities and personal content, both online and during his tours.
His monumental success came at the age of 18 with “Faded,” which brought many challenges, especially for someone still in high school in Bergen, Norway. Collaborations with renowned artists like Ava Max, Hans Zimmer,
and Sia have been fundamental to his creative process, providing him with inspiration and artistic growth.
Currently, Alan is developing Walkerworld, an innovative theme park for his fans, with monthly song releases throughout 2024. He has also integrated Walkerworld into Fortnite, creating an interactive space for his followers. His performances at festivals and sold-out world tours demonstrate his dedication and love for music and his audience.
Alan, your music has captivated fans worldwide. What inspires you to create the hypnotic, highenergy tracks you are renowned for?
- It might sound like a cliché, but my fans and followers inspire me the most. Meeting people when I’m traveling who have listened to my music is incredibly motivating.
With over 115 million followers on social media and 80 billion streams, how do you maintain a strong connection with your audience?
- For me, it’s the most important thing. I try to connect as much as I can, whether directly or through activities and personal content. I love meeting people both on tour and online!
“Faded” was a breakthrough hit at just 18. How did that early success shape your career, and what challenges did you face?
- It feels almost surreal. There was so much happening all at once, and it was definitely overwhelming. The most challenging part was keeping
up with everything. So many opportunities came my way, and for someone who was in high school in Bergen Norway, it was all very new!
You’ve collaborated with prominent artists like Ava Max, Hans Zimmer, and Sia. How do these collaborations influence your creative process?
- A lot! I love working with talented musicians, artists, and songwriters. Hans Zimmer is a particularly significant collaboration for me personally. I’ve always been a huge admirer of his work, so it was monumental and gave me inspiration that I carry with me for life.
Can you share insights into the concept and development of your new project, Walkerworld, and how it enhances the fan experience?
- Walkerworld is an amusement park for everyone connected to the Walker universe. It’s a safe space designed for Walkers, with fun attractions, unique experiences, and a social hang out..
Walkerworld features new songs monthly throughout 2024. What can fans expect from these releases, and how do you stay creatively fresh?
- Great question! I’m privileged to work with many talented people, and even though we travel a lot, we find time for good sessions, both online and offline.
Your performances at major festivals and sold-out global tours are remarkable. How do you prepare for these high-energy shows?
- Energy drink! Naah, I actually love these experiences and meeting fans around the world.
The integration of Walkerworld into Fortnite is a unique endeavor. How did this collaboration come about, and what do you hope players will experience?
- Yes, I´m so glad we made this happen. The goal of an interactive experience of Walkerworld is to gather everyone with the same interests in one arena where they can chat, socialize, game, and listen to music! This is how I grew up, and it’s a big dream to create such spaces for others.
And - spoiler alert! there’s much more to come!
As you continue to evolve as an artist, what are your main goals and aspirations for the future?
- To inspire!
Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers who look up to you?
- Be curious, dare to try new things, and make sure to share your music with others for feedback and input!
ALAN WALKER TEAMS UP WITH BLUDNYMPH, MRD & LOVA ON NEW ‘NEON NIGHTS’ EP - IN COLLABORATION WITH MONSTERCAT & ROCKET
Following on from the recent release of ‘Wake Up’ featuring MRD, Alan Walkerreturns to drop the rest of the Neon Nights EP, featuring a number of different sounds, show-stopping features from Lova and bludnymph, as well as an accompanying campaign with Epic Games’ Rocket League!
At such an exciting time for Alan Walker, the worldwide dance music artistis ecstatic to release
his Neon Nights EP exclusively on Monstercatthis August! Monstercat, who have a massive digital footprint in the gaming and technologyworld, also releasing huge records from global artists like Nicky Romero, Vikkstar, Marshmello and more. Now, as two powerhouses of the music world, Alan Walker and Monstercat finally combine for the first time ever on this brand-new EP, arriving as a match made in heaven for this
release in collaboration with Rocket League as part of their similarly named in-game music festival of which Alan will headline! Neon Nightsis a four track EP, in which each song possesses its own unique sonic profile, taking influence from future house, dance pop and even drum and bass.
The EP will be featured throughout Rocket League, where fans will be able to claim each song from the EP as their very own player anthem and hear it in rotation on Rocket League Radio. It’s not just the music however, players can earn Walkerthemed items for completing Neon Nights Challenges; score ten goals in online matches to unlock the A.W. Mask Topper, and get two Aerial Hits to unlock the A.W.
Octane Decal. Fancy talking some Walker Wheels for a spin? The Walkzz Wheels are yours if you can get 50 Centers or Clears in Online Matches. With a whole host of other exclusive content to be found in the item store via the Jäger 619 Alan Walker Bundle, it’s safe to say that Alan Walker is taking over Rocket League!
“I’ve always enjoyed gaming, and it’s definitely my go-to when I’m on tour or just need a break from everyday life! That’s why it’s a great honor to be part of this collaboration. I’m a huge Epic fan and have truly enjoyed the entire process. It’s incredible to see my logo, and my new EP find their home in Rocket League. Now, I just hope that both my fans and Rocket League fans love what they see and hear!” - Alan Walker on Neon Nights EP and Rocket League collaboration
Lead single from the EP is ‘Beautiful Nightmare’ with bludnymph, one of the main voices in the Canadian indie-pop and alt-rap scenes. Touching on elements of drum & bass and breaks, ‘Beautiful Nightmare’ is a departure from Alan’s usual style and the quality of this release is testament to the Norwegian superstar’s versatility when it comes to dance music production. bludnymph, who is known for her unique fusion of altrap and pop sounds, has only been releasing music for three years and already the young vocalist has an array of successful releases under her belt, including her two 2023 EP’s
‘DROOL’ and ‘SEX MACHINA’. Her fast ascension up the ranks lead to her recent single ‘Self Destruction Mode’, working with giants of the game The Chainsmokers. The production is liquidy, free flowing and energetic and features a quirky yet catchy vocal performance from bludnymph, making for a beautifully composed vocal drum & bass banger – a perfect soundtrack to your Rocket League endeavours!
The masked producer looks to the talent pool of his home country once again with the release of ‘Wake Up’ alongside MRD. MRD, who is more recently known for his hyper-influenced sound, pushing the tempo with releases like ‘Midsommar’ with Narciss, brings his hardcore flavour to Walker’s cosmic and synth-laden production, creating an innovative soundscape which will take listeners on a journey through time and space.
‘Lifeline’ with Lova is an emotionally charged ballad featuring Walker’s signature dance-pop production and a show stopping, angelic vocal part from Swedish singer/ songwriter Lova. This track feels like a continuation from ‘Unsure’ with Kylie Cantrall, another track which followed the classical Alan Walker recipe, something which the fans long for!
The final song on the EP ‘Club Leclerc (Racers Mix)’ is a light-hearted nod to one of Alan’s favourite F1 drivers and friend Charles Leclerc, taking inspiration from this viral TikTok video and sound, which has been viewed millions of times and used by celebrities like Camila Cabello. Alan and Charles initially created a connection via their interaction on social media. ‘Club Leclerc’ adds a high-octane exclamation mark on thea star-studded EP!
Alan Walker’s new EP ‘Neon Nights’ in collaboration with Rocket League/Epic Games is out in-game/ streaming on 7th August 2024, exclusively on Monstercat.
Kevin Colt has crafted a unique style by blending Tech House and Latin House, creating an energetic vibe in every performance. His recent release, “Mueve Ese Booty,” a collaboration born during his LATAM tour, showcases his ability to produce music that gets people moving. As the founder of Feels Like Home Records, Kevin Colt aims to support new talent while maintaining creative control over his music.
With a career that includes performances at festivals like Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival and collaborations with renowned artists, Kevin Colt continues to innovate and make his mark on the global music scene.
How did you develop your unique blend of Tech House and Latin House music that characterizes your high-energy performances?
- Blending Tech House and Latin House music happened naturally for me. I’ve been into Tech House for ages, so I know it inside and out. Lately, I’ve been really into Latin House, so it felt right to mix the two. By combining the catchy rhythms and melodies of Latin House with the energetic beats of Tech House, I’ve created a unique vibe that really amps up my performances.
What can you tell us about your recent reléase Mueve Ese Booty?
- Mueve Ese Booty is a collaboration with Addiel LS and Gavss. Fun fact, we all met on stage during my LATAM tour and we all just vibed and made this song. Groovy with its heavy use of bongos, shakers and cowbells, paired with thumping drums and an enthralling soundscape, it’s seriously got all the elements needed to get you up and relentlessly shake your booty. My tour is about to start this weekend and I’m about to play Mueve Ese
Booty for everyone, I’m very excited about that.
Can you share the process behind creating music that resonates deeply with your listeners and conveys important life moments?
- My creative process is pretty laidback. I don’t have any specific routines or rituals. Instead, I just go with the flow and let life inspire me. Whatever’s happening around me – whether it’s where I’m living, what I’m into at the moment, or any big life events – that’s what I use to fuel my music. It’s all about keeping it real and letting my experiences shine through in my tracks.
What inspired you to launch your own record label and publishing company, Feels Like Home, and how has it impacted your career?
- I started Feels Like Home Records so I can be more in control of my music. When you release music under a label, there are a lot of factors to consider. But when I release my music under FLH, it’s 100% me. But that doesn’t mean that releasing under other labels doesn’t have
its pros. Either way has their own advantage, so it really depends on the situation.
As the owner of Feels like Home Records and an artist myself, my goal is to sign new and upcoming coming artists that are passionate about what they do. We’re committed to supporting talents who aren’t afraid to experiment and innovate. Ultimately, our goal is to keep producing music that brings joy to everyone who listens.
As a resident DJ at Club Versuz, what has been your most memorable experience performing there?
- Probably performing there for the first time? I was just starting out as a DJ that time and so it was unexpected to be part of one of the best clubs in the world! After that I’ve been playing as a support act with many international dj’s around the world, big artists like Alok, David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Oliver Heldens, Fedde Le Grand, Franky Rizardo, but also be part of the V-amily that do all the on tours in Europe is just a blessing to be part of the team.
How did performing at major festivals like Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival influence your musical style and stage presence?
- Performing on major stages like Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival was both liberating and inspiring! Don’t get me wrong, after 10 years performing at tomorrowland I still get super nervous and get goosebumps all over my body when getting on stage and see all those lovely souls in front of you. It was liberating because seeing people enjoy my music firsthand gave me a sense of validation. And it was inspiring because it made me want to keep improving. I wanted to create even better music for people to enjoy and work hard to get back on those stages. Just a heads-up, I’ll be back at Tomorrowland this year, so stay tuned for that!
Can you describe the experience and significance of being the support act for renowned artists like David Guetta and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike?
- Being the support act for renowned artists like David Guetta and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike has been an incredible experience. Sharing the stage with such iconic names in the industry is both humbling and exhilarating. It’s a huge honor and a significant milestone in my career. Performing alongside them has taught me so much about showmanship, crowd interaction, and the energy needed to captivate a massive audience. It has also opened up amazing opportunities and inspired me to push my own boundaries as an artist.
How do you ensure that each performance delivers an electrifying ambiance that gets the audience moving and grooving?
- It all starts with the preparation of my songs that i wish to use for that particular set of course. I carefully curate my setlist to include a mix of high-energy tracks and crowd favorites, and love to make private edits so fans will have a different vibe and experience about each song. I also pay close attention to
the crowd’s vibe and adjust my music on the fly to keep the energy levels high. Engaging with the audience is crucial, so I make sure to interact with them, whether it’s through shout-outs, eye contact, or even dancing along. On tour is also the perfect opportunity to test out new songs, and going back in the studio the day after to adjust some parts so it hits and feels differently. It all goes down on the vibe that a particular track will give you.
What challenges have you faced in maintaining authenticity and emotional depth in your music amidst the high-energy dance beats?
- It’s definitely challenging of course. It’s hard to balance both the message that I’m trying to convey and the high energy beats. You have to find that right blend, you know? For example, I have a few songs in my album BALANCE that are quite emotional. One of my favorite is Shine a light. It makes you groove but at the same time it talks about a very important message about not giving up on someone who is
having a hard time. Sun Goes Down is a pop/dance song that gives you summer vibes but on a festival you need to have more power so i mostly play a remix of those songs, so the message stays the same, but the feeling will hit differently.
How do your personal life experiences shape the narratives and messages in your songs?
- In many ways, my music is like my diary—it’s my outlet for expressing everything I go through. Whether it’s the highs or the lows, I pour my emotions and stories into my tracks. Each song reflects a piece of my life, capturing moments and feelings that are important to me.
What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers looking to create a lasting impact with their music?
- Keep going, nothing in life comes easy, but if you truly love what you’re doing and your passion is genuine, success will eventually come your way. Stay dedicated, keep honing your craft, and don’t be afraid to take risks and experiment with your sound. Be different, and just don’t make what 70% of the people are releasing because it’s popular. You will be noticed when you do something different. And most importantly, surround yourself with supportive people, learn from others, and always stay true to your unique vision. The journey might be tough, but the rewards of creating music that resonates with people and leaves a lasting impact are worth it.
After played at several festivals in Portugal and Spain such as:
Verknipt Portugal, Sound Waves and Summer Story Festival,
Ornella will have a 2024 to remember with her debut in France at Origins Festival, the start of her new project “Ornella Invites” and the releases of new tracks.
Ornella is Portuguese DJ, who describes herself as a ‘Hard Techno dealer’, who started her career in 2019, managing in a few years to conquer the audience of the Hard Techno and Schranz scene, a very niche subgenre for true fans of Techno.
The DJ and Producer will be in a lot of events until the end of 2024 and so far has participated in some of the most important Festivals and Events in Portugal, including Brunch Electronik, Verknipt Portugal and Sound Waves or Clubs like Gate 13 and Ministerium. Also played in Spain at the Summer Story Festival and during an event named CODE, at club FABRIK. Ornella has also gone overseas with Blackworks in New York Techno Brooklyn in USA.
On 16th of August Ornella play for the first time in France at the Origins Festival at Dieze Warehouse in Montpellier where she will experience their techno culture and makes part of a impressive line up with names like: such as Nikolina, Parfait, Aida Arko, Angel Karel, Karashnikov etc.
Summer 2024 will be for sure eventful for Ornella, an important springboard for showcasing her talent and dedication through her dynamic sets and productions and she is also preparing her new project. Starting on 11 of October, ‘Ornella Invites’ will be held in Lisbon at “Disaster” together with artists such as: Gaiveu, O.B.I b2b Svetec. The event ‘Ornella Invites’ will have more editions from north to south of Portugal and with the aim of reaching other countries.
The Artist has a suitcase of tracks that are full of energy and where we can feel her identity. One of her biggest highlight is “C U in Hell” an rebellious track, released in the end of 2023 on Farrago’s label, Vermilliontrax and collected the support from many huge names in the industry: Farrago, Lee Ann Roberts, Charlie Sparks, Parfait, Kander, Aisha, Zorza among many others.
New tracks of Ornella, especially remixes from well-known artists and excellent labels, will be released in the coming months to further
increase her repertoire. attracted the attention and collected the support from many huge names in the industry and as far as we can expect there’s still a lot more yet to come.
“I’m working on new music to make my sets even more intense, creating a journey into the depths of hard techno, with mixes of unrelenting beats, atmospheric sounds and driving rhythms to create an immersive experience for my audience. I want to create an electrifying atmosphere where everyone can lose themselves in the music and dance like there’s no tomorrow!”. Ornella
About Ornella: Immersed in the hard beats and hypnotic rhythms of techno, Ornella, a visionary artist, honed her craft over time and from an early age. Her unique ability to create immersive auditory experiences and her innovative approach quickly started to set her apart in Portugal’s vibrant music scene. The breakthrough came through performances at top clubs across the country, and most recently in various important features around the world, like Brunch Electronik, Fabrik Madrid, Verknipt and Blackworks New York. All these small steps in her still short but prolific career helped her to establish as a key figure in the portuguese scene and solidify her reputation as a pivotal presence in major festivals and events, contributing to shape the present and future of music in Portugal and abroad.
Ornella, DJ and producer of Portuguese origin, took her first steps into the world of electronic music in 2019, at a very young age. Today, 5 years later, she has established herself in the hardtechno and schranz music scene, two genres that best allow her to express all her inner energy and potential, connecting with the audience in one dancing soul.
At the end of 2023, Ornella released on Farrago’s label, Vermilliontrax, entitled ‘C U in Hell’, which found support with important artists from the Hard Techno scene. The year 2024
was a turning point for Ornella because it allowed her to play at some of the most important festivals and clubs in Spain, just think of Summer Story Festival and Fabrik, but also in Portugal like Brunch Electronik or Sound Waves and not only that, as the Portuguese DJ participated in Techno Brooklyn in the USA.
We find out with Eleonora Vologni how Ornella’s hard summer will continue, what her future projects are and anecdotes or curiosities about her music.
Why did you decide to produce Hard Techno and Schranz? What distinguishes these two genres from each other in your opinion?
- Hey everyone! I’ve always been drawn to the raw energy and intensity of Hard Techno and Schranz. For me, these genres represent the purest form of electronic music, aggressive and unapologetically powerful.
Hard techno and Schranz allow me to experiment with sounds and rhythms in a way that’s both liberating and creatively fulfilling. The fast tempos, industrial influences, and dark atmospheres of these genres offer a unique canvas to express emotions and ideas that might not fit within the confines of other styles of music.
Producing these styles is about channeling my passion for heavy, driving beats into something that not only reflects my personal taste but also connects with others who share that same love for the harder, more extreme side of electronic music.
Hard Techno is characterized by its heavy pounding beats, distorted kick drums and aggressive industrial influences. It often features dark, driving rhythms with a focus on the bass and percussion elements. The tracks usually follow a more structured format, with clear breaks and builds.
Schranz also features a fast tempo, often similar to or slightly faster than Hard Techno.
Schranz is known for high energy beats and repetitive looped sounds.
Hardtechno tends to be slightly more structured and less chaotic, while Schranz is more aggressive and raw.
You recently played in Spain for some important events, Summer Story Festival e CODE, how did you get on?
- Playing at Summer Story Festival and CODE in Spain was an incredible experience. Both events have such a strong reputation in the electronic music scene, so being part of them was a huge honor for me.
At the Summer Story Festival I had a very early slot so the crowd wasn’t yet formed. However, the entire experience was incredible, the organization and the way they treated me was excellent. I hope to return next year!
CODE was another level. The history and prestige of that event in the techno scene are well-known, so I went in with the intention of bringing my absolute best. The audience there is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the music, which pushed me to dig deep into my collection and deliver a set that was dynamic. The response was overwhelming, and it was amazing to see so many people fully immersed in the music. Both of these gigs were highlights, and they reminded me why I love doing what I do. The energy from the Spanish crowd is something special, and I’m already looking forward to coming back.
The best thing about it is that there was a Portuguese audience at both parties. It’s so good and gratifying to see that I’ve built a solid fan base.
You will soon play in France, at the Origins Festival, what set should your audience expect?
- My set in France is going to be an intense, high energy journey from start to finish. The audience can expect a relentless barrage of pounding Hard Techno and Schranz, with driving basslines, distorted kicks and industrial elements that will push the limits of the sound system. The goal is to take the audience on a ride where they can lose themselves in the music, feeling the raw power and emotion behind every beat.
This set is going to be special, and I’m bringing everything I’ve got to make sure it’s an unforgettable experience. I’m really excited for this gig.
You have an ambitious project in the pipeline for the autumn (Ornella Invites), can you spoil anything for us?
- Ornella Invites was a brand designed by me and the promoter of INVDRS (Portuguese techno brand). It was something we thought about for
months and we are finally going to do it. The line up will be me, Gaiveu (a portuguese artist) and the best b2b schranz in the industry! (I can’t tell you more). We’re going to do the party at Disaster, a warehouse in Lisbon with capacity for 800 people on October 11th. The event will be launched on August 19th. Stay tuned to my Instagram page to see this luxury line up! I invite you all to be present at the first edition of my new brand!!!
Who are the artists you were inspired by in your DJ career?
- When I started playing my biggest inspiration was Amelie Lens. The fact of seeing a woman making that art fascinated me. She continues to be an artist and a person that I greatly admire.
Klangkuenstler is an artist who began to be very present in my journey. So right now I can tell you that he is one of the biggest inspirations and references I have. Not only as an artist but as a human too.
Ornella’s dream is to create a lasting impact on the global electronic music scene, particularly within Hard Techno. I want to push the boundaries of these genres, continually evolving my sound while staying true to the raw intensity that defines my music.
A big part of my dream is to connect with people around the world through my music, to bring that energy to as many dance floors as possible, and to create unforgettable experiences for my audience. I aim to grow as an artist, as a person and explore new ways to express myself and collaborate with other talented producers and DJs who share my passion.
In the long term, I’d love to create a label that nurtures emerging talent in the Hard Techno scene. It’s about giving back to the community that has given me so much and ensuring that the music I love continues to thrive and evolve.
Ultimately, my dream is to leave a legacy that inspires others, whether it’s through my tracks, my performances, or the opportunities I create for others in the scene.
In recent years you have had several releases with a very unique identity. New music on the way? What can we know for the next few months?
¡Yes, new music on the way! I’m doing some collaborations with portuguese artists and soon new tracks will be released with remixes by some international artists. What I can tell you is to stay tuned because a lot of good music is on the way.
‘Aura / Dance With U’ is the new two-original-track EP by the DJs and producers INACHE and KING A.K.A SAMPLEKING, in their first release on Univack. After a couple some collaborations on other label, these artists want to continue making music together, to prove that they have a great symbiosis when they create tracks around House music subgenres. Solid beats and percussions, warm basses and chords, sweet melodies and cool vocals are some of the elements and resources that we can enjoy when we listen to these two originals.
The EP is completed by two amazing remixes. ERTAN KOCULU makes his own version of ‘Aura’ and proves his skills and sound quality when he is creating Organic and Deep House music. SONICVIBE & YONI YARCHI, return to Univack, this time to make a well-built version of ‘Dance With U’, being loyal to the original mix, but also showing their particular style when they make music together.
SOUND WAVES IN PORTUGAL WITH EPIC EDITION REVEALS AFTERMOVIE AND CONFIRMS WINTER EDITION IN LISBON FOR 8TH FEBRUARY 2025
After the resounding success of the summer edition with thousands of ravers on 6th July, the Sound Waves Festival releases the Aftermovie and announces for 8th February 2025 the second Winter Edition at the Carlos Lopes Pavilion in Lisbon
With 19 years of history, Sound Waves which took place in Esmoriz, Portugal, on 6th July, closed with a bang, leaving festival-goers with an unforgettable experience, crowned with the release of the incredible Aftermovie directed by Ruben Alencastre, which is now available on the festival’s YouTube channel.
With more than 20 non-stop hours, Sound Waves celebrated its 17th edition, the most epic ever, by showcasing its colossal line up, packed with an incredible wave of headliners. The DJ of the moment, I Hate Models transmitted all his energy from the beginning to the end of the gig to those present, who danced in harmony with the artist. Acclaimed star Sara Landry transformed the venue into a monumental arena with an intense,
fast-paced set to the delight of her fans. The well-known hard techno ‘Papi’ Shlømo took the dance floor to the peak of the BPM’s. Neapolitan diva Deborah de Luca took control of the booth with an eclectic show that awakened the spirit and nostalgia in the audience, as well as involving them with her latest works.
One of the surprises of the night was the Brazilian Joanna Coelho with her incredible explosive attitude on stage. DYEN ‘s Impulse was enormous and he continued to raise the tempo of the ravers, who were ready for their electrifying sounds.
VENDEX climbed the wave with strong songs and infected festivalgoers with his dark style. 6EJOU with his usual musical precision and mastery of the stage, rocked the dance warriors and strengthened his unique charisma in Esmoriz. Franck conquered everyone and everything with his techno groove. With a lot of verve and totally surrendered to the audience on site, Ornella opened the circuit to the proclaimed Portuguese queen of techno Miss Sheila. Special performances by Stëh b2b Madson
Carpenter and PK b2b LEMØS set the first rhythms of the day at the event.
Inside the Sound Waves Festival site, the entire space was renovated and more spacious, ready to welcome the thousands of soundwavers for another incomparable odyssey. The Igloo Tent stood out, covering the heart of the festival and was emphasized by the dazzling immersive visual effects, specially created by Nima Visuals Studio.
Sound Waves 2024 has taken the giant step of positioning itself among the world’s great festivals and embracing an entire raver community looking for an unrivaled experience, with more than 40 nationalities present on site: Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands, United States, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Ireland, Brazil, Morocco, Poland, Burma, Denmark, Austria, Canada, Hungary, Andorra, Bulgaria, Tunisia, Sweden, Mexico, Czechia, Uruguay, United Arab Emirates, Angola, Ivory Coast, Chile, Colombia, Finland, Greece, Romania, Mozambique, Slovakia, Ukraine and others.
2025 will be stratospheric for the Sound Waves brand, which will be celebrating its 20th anniversary, returning to Lisbon on 8th February with the second edition of the Winter Edition at the Carlos Lopes Pavilion and holding the Summer Edition in July next year. The two events will once again demonstrate the promoters’ DNA and commitment to presenting the best and latest on the world Techno and Hard Techno scene in Portugal.
