Our EDC Orlando coverage keeps rolling in!
This is an artist that really seems to be taking the scene by storm. I managed to catch his main stage set at Beyond Wonderland Bay Area back in September, and it was nothing like I had expected. Insomniac (much like Motez states in one of our later interviews) stuck with their guns, and took a chance putting deep-house artists on the bigger stages. It worked incredibly well, and the dance floor was packed from front to back. The scene at Tinker Field this weekend will more than likely be very similar when The Magician finally takes the stage.
This interview was originally intended to air with BOO! SF coverage back in October, so we're proud to finally present it to all of the fans. We spoke with The Magician a few weeks ago in regards to his track "Together", what he brings to a festival show when he DJs, the Belgium dance music scene, his unique monthly mix called "Magic Tape", and much more.
Let’s talk about the song “Together” that you released this year. How did the process of writing this track go in comparison to a track like “Sunlight?”
For "Together", I’ve been inspired by a musical instrument from Peru, the pan flute. I like to incorporate that kind of original sound into a electronic/house track. The production is more contemporary than "Sunlight". The accent is on the bass-line, although the breakdown is very 90’s Euro Dance. Then I have asked some topliners to write lyrics on it. I kept this one.The result is pretty unique.
You do a monthly mix tape called “Magic Tape”. What is your process in terms of how you create the mix each month? Is it a rather structured process or does it vary each month?
Firstly, it’s a mixtape of tracks I really like, like my top 10 favorite tracks of the month. It is also a way for people to discover music to be released soon, because I try to premiere each track or be the first DJ to include it into a mix. I don’t give [out] the track list, so fans have to search for the tracks and interact between each other on SoundCloud, etc. It’s interesting to see. This way, it's perfect for artists and labels who just want to get a buzz on their track. [Because of] that, I receive tons of promos every day from labels, A&R or producers themselves. I hide a track or remix of mine sometimes...
You’re based out of Brussels, Belgium, if I’m correct. To be honest, I don’t know much about the dance scene in Belgium. How has performing and growing in that scene helped you thrive as a DJ and producer?
Belgium had a very strong dance scene late 80’s early 90’s but the sound of Belgium hasn’t influenced me that much. mid 90’s I went to London quite often to buy records and go out and that for sure influenced my music… Garage, Soulful House, Electro, Trip-Hop/Big Beat and some Drum & Bass. In the meantime, from 1996 to 2008, I played every weekend, everywhere in Belgium, before getting into production.
In your opinion, what do you think sets you apart from the other artists out there when playing a festival? Essentially, what do you think is going to get fans to stop and say “guys, let’s take an hour and watch this set?”
I don’t play like most EDM artists. I mean, my mix technique is different. The selection is about positive energy, love and happiness. It is never too dark or aggressive. Something I like to do is surprise my crowd ! To play a track for the first time and see peoples' reactions excites me.
This is the last question that I ask, and I ask it to every artist that I interview. It’s rather broad, but what does music mean to you?
Music means passion. That makes life more enjoyable.
Be sure to catch The Magician take the stage at the NEONGARDEN on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 from 7:35 PM to 8:50 PM.
For more music and info on The Magician, visit www.facebook.com/themagicianmusic
This has been another Shameless Promotion.