I was first introduced to DXXXY at the 2014 BUKU Music + Arts Project in New Orleans a few weeks back. I was really just trying to figure out the layout of the festival and see what the whole thing was about.

I heard some incredibly ratchet set happening and started to pick up the pace. Before I knew it I was snapping pictures and dancing my ass off (or as best as a white guy can) to DXXXY’s set.

Afterwards we got to talking and I soon realized that this kid was going to be one of the next biggest names in electronic music. The passion he had about his music, producing, and even designing his own name and brand were all of interest to me.

I checked out more of his music once I got back from NO and found even more goodies. We were fortunate enough to get him on the site for our newest artist spotlight.

JNTM: How did you start producing? What is your background in music?

DXXXY: I started producing by making chopped-n-screwed remixes of New Orleans rap tunes.
However, I played music from a very young age starting with being classically trained in guitar.
I taught myself bass, drums, and keyboard while playing in various bands in New Orleans up until college.

JNTM: What genre, if any, do you like to produce the most? Trap?

DXXXY: I enjoy Trap and bounce/twerk because of the energy and being raised in New Orleans (because of the Cash Money//No Limit influence).

I like making house too (though they’re unreleased) because of the melodies/harmonies I can explore.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/127738917″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: How would you describe your production style?

DXXXY: Heavy…Dark…Melodic

JNTM: Where does the name DXXXY come from?

DXXXY: It stands for “DEITY” with the middle letters X’d out to pay homage to my metalcore/hardcore days/peeps.

People automatically think that I think I am a God by donning that name, but the name isn’t about that at all.

I was really into Greek mythology at one point, and became fascinated with the idea of Aphrodite. Being into fashion, models, and haute couture I liked how that goddess represented female elegance//beauty//sensuality. So, the name DEITY stands for that.

JNTM: Who are your favorite artists right now? EDM or not

DXXXY: DJ Snake, Ben Khan, Tchami, Jack Novak, Junkie Kid, Samo Sound Boy, Blonde, Oliver Heldens

JNTM: For you, what’s the most difficult thing about being an up-and-comer? And with that, what’s the most important part about being an independent artist on the rise? Do you have a mantra for yourself to stay motivated?

DXXXY: Getting your name out and standing out amongst all the other people trying to do the same thing.

I think one of the most important things is setting goals for yourself, staying focused, and accomplishing those set goals.

My mantra is that NO one is going to do your work for you. I can’t be lazy and expect to get anywhere. Also, I’m doing something that I LOVE to do.

JNTM: What is the New Orleans EDM scene like? Is it any more easy or difficult to make a name for yourself out in the Big Easy?

DXXXY: It’s new and growing. It’s easy to get a start here in New Orleans, but the feel of the Big Easy is more traditionally laidback.

One really has to motivate themselves and stay focused to make a name that not only grabs attention here but outside the city.

JNTM: How involved are you in the design aspects of your brand?

DXXXY: Heavily! I make all of the flyers for my monthly dance parties. I make all of my own artwork for mixes//tracks.

I had a specific idea for my brand from the very beginning, and I make sure I stay on top of that.
I sat with a photographer//artist friend of mine to come up with my logo too.

All of my graphic “skills” (I’m not the best…I just know what look I want to accomplish) are self-taught.

JNTM: What hand did you have in the music video for Kate Moss?

DXXXY: I brought all the ideas of my brand and the feel of the track to director Tyler Yee.
It was a collaboration of ideas to bring together the finished product. He found an amazing team of people to bring on board as far as makeup (Jenny Sauceda), shooting, and styling (Christina Flannery) goes to bring ideas to the melting pot as well.

Even my model friends who were a part of it brought ideas to the table that went with our original treatment.

DXXXY – Kate Moss [Music Video]

JNTM: What can we expect in the near future for DXXXY? Tour? EP? New video?

DXXXY: I would love to get a tour going!!! Right now, I’m focusing on getting more of my production out there for 2014.

An EP is in the works, but can’t reveal much more about that right now. A new video will definitely be in the works from the great Tyler Yee. Also, some new material from my production duo Ritual as well as other collaborative projects!

JNTM: A question we always like to ask: if you could have any job in the world besides DJing/Producing, what would it be and why?

DXXXY: Hmm that’s tough because music is my life, but probably something in the fashion industry. Styling…modeling…helping to design something.

Stay tuned later this week for an exclusive mix from DXXXY, only on JNTM! 

DXXXY

Facebook // Twitter // SoundCloud

The post Artist Spotlight: DXXXY appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Breaking on to the scene with a stockpile of remixes and originals comes Elaksi — 19 year old from Finland whose most recent release “Sometimes” is blowing up on the blogosphere and social media channels alike.

Featuring vocal samples from Beyonce’s “Best Thing I Never Had,” Elaksi is able to make a compelling and emotional future trap track that is sure to push his popularity over the edge throughout 2014.

Elaksi – Sometimes

While there is still little information regarding the young producer, one thing is for sure: with some time and a few more releases like “Sometimes,” Elaksi will be an artist to watch for this year. I’m personally excited to see what becomes of this young producer, since it seems as though he has just scratched the surface of EDM stardom.

Check out more of Elaksi on Facebook, Twitter, and SoundCloud

The post Artist To Watch: Elaksi appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

After releasing remixes for DCup, Wave Racer, and Oso Gato, Slumberjack spent their first year together showcasing their DJing talents at Australian festivals like Wonderland, Club Paradiso, and Stereosonic, and will continue into the next year with shows all across their native country.

We were able to ask Morgan and Fletcher some questions regarding the origins of this project, being an independent artist on the rise, and what it’s like being one of the front runners of the Australian EDM movement.

JNTM: What got you both into producing? Was there a particular artist, album, or event that made you interested in producing/djing?

Slumberjack: Fletch: I got into electronic music when I first heard the Boys Noize track Lava Lava. I went and bought a copy of Sony Acid and started making my first (extremely hacky) tracks. It took me almost 6 years of jumping around different genres to find the sound that I really wanted to produce.

Morgan: My musical journey started when I begged my parents to let me pick up the classical piano. With that said, I was also always drawn towards mainstream pop and hip-hop production. Not long after I heard what the guys like The Neptunes and Timbaland did on Justin Timberlake’s “Justified” album, I got myself a copy of Sony Acid as well!

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/116967697″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: How did you two meet?

Slumberjack: We met at the Perth Dance Music Awards last year. We both won the Into The Limelite DJ Competition consecutively (Fletch in 2011 and Morgan in 2012) so we decided to suss each other out. We got in the studio a couple of times and with just a couple of tracks under our belt decided to make it an official project.

JNTM: How has being friends helped with the production process? Is it any easier or harder than producing alone?

Slumberjack: When there are two brains in the studio, tracks tend to get completed a lot faster. When you’re by yourself, you often hit a wall with a track and it’ll end up sitting on your hard drive and never get finished.

Now though, if we hit a wall, we’ll just flick the project over to the other person and they can keep working and maybe add those few little bits that open a new direction for the track so we can keep working.

JNTM: Who are some of your favorite artists right now, EDM or not?

Slumberjack: We really love Ludovico Einaudi, a pianist and composer. We study up on his chord progressions and melodies and have even sampled one of his pieces for the title track of our forthcoming EP.

On the electronic side of things, we’re loving the gritty sounds of What So Not and Mr Carmack as well as the smooth vibes coming from guys like Renz and Sable.

JNTM: There is this incredible thing happening right now with Australian artists becoming more and more popular in the US. Artists like Flume/What So Not, Wave Racer, and yourselves are getting tons more recognition out here. What’s going on down there that we should know about? Describe this movement as best as you can.

Slumberjack: Not going to lie, it’s pretty wicked! Being from Perth, there is significant physical separation between us and all the acts over on the East Coast but it’s definitely a “we’re in this together” kind of vibe and we all keep in touch via the wonder of the internet.

Each city has their own handful of acts which we were stoked to be able to meet when we flew over to Sydney for the Electronic Music Conference at the start of December.

JNTM: With that, it seems as though all of the previously mentioned artists pull from the same style — almost this “Love Trap” style pulling from slowed down almost hip hop beats with HUGE airy synths. If you could, describe this genre that’s beginning to show from Australian artists.

Slumberjack: It’s pretty hard to put it in words really. In its very essence, we see it as a lovechild of a multitude of genres all thrown into a musical cocktail.

Unlike most “EDM” genres where the main focus is a club-oriented “drop”, we think the producers of this new wave of music tend to produce without any preconceived notions on the direction of the finished record.  They tend to write much like any other conventional musician would and without sounding too cheesy, they let it flow from within.

JNTM: How would you describe your music in your own words?

Slumberjack: A mixture of future garage and hip-hop with a touch of jazz thrown in.

JNTM: What do you think the biggest differences are between the ‘EDM’ scene in Australia and the US?

Slumberjack: There’s no doubt that EDM is exploding all over the world but to be honest, we haven’t seen enough yet to make a judgment. It would definitely be cool if we could do a few shows in the US to get a vibe of the scene there.

JNTM: What’s the most important part about being independent producers on the rise? What are some challenges you’ve faced? What’s the most enjoyable? Is there anything you try to tell yourselves as you work towards bigger things?
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/110183871″ params=”color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Slumberjack: We reckon the most important part about being independent producers is setting realistic goals.  For example, we have to accept the fact that many labels won’t reply to emails and there will be blogs that won’t like our material enough to push it.

We also constantly remind ourselves that we need to stick with own sound despite being tempted to do what’s popular. Having said that, when label’s do reply with positive feedback and the blogs do feature our tracks on their platforms, we feel a sense of accomplishment and pride.

We prepare for the worst and hope for the best!

JNTM: With that, what ‘bigger things’ do you both strive to accomplish?

Slumberjack: We’re definitely working towards expanding our fan base to the other side of the country so we can take our live show on a full Australian tour. We’re also pretty keen on the idea of eventually doing an album, but that is quite some time into the future.

JNTM: What advice would you give to someone(s) that wants to be doing what you guys are doing? What advice would you give yourselves if you could go back in time?

Don’t ever doubt yourself! If we could go back in time, we’d tell past Fletcher and Morgan the same.

JNTM: What’s coming up for Slumberjack? Any upcoming mixes, tracks, or tour dates?

Slumberjack: We’ve got quite a bit coming up! We’re taking on a summer residency at Sydney’s FBi Radio along with a few other Australian acts and are playing a hoard of shows around Western Australia over the new year break (details on our Facebook page).

We’re also working on our first EP which will be out early next year along with a few collaborations with really talented guys we’ve met over the months.

JNTM: When can we expect to see you guys in the US?

Slumberjack: Soon hopefully – we’d like to expand to the rest of Australia first and then move outwards and upwards! Like we mentioned above, it would be a hell of an experience to travel to the US for shows.

JNTM: A question we always ask: If you guys could have any profession in the world besides producing/djing, what would it be and why?

Slumberjack: Morgan:  I’d be a professional sessionist. I probably wouldn’t pick anything not related to music. I just simply cannot imagine life without it!

Fletch: I’d definitely be an astronaut. I know it’s kind of a kiddy dream, but floating in space, come on!

Slumberjack: Facebook // Twitter // SoundCloud

The post Artist Spotlight: Slumberjack appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

While cruising around the interwebs earlier last week, we stumbled upon monster label OWSLA‘s SoundCloud account which was promoting it’s newest release from British duo Icarus — a group we had never heard of. We listened to the EP, entitled Steal the Sun, and immediately did an album review.

To our surprise, the group had only 200 likes on Facebook and about 250 followers on SoundCloud. Surely this had to be a mistake. How could a group that released it’s first official EP on such a giant label have less than 1000 likes and followers?

Truth be told these guys have only just now broken on to the scene but are by far and away the most promising group to have been released from OWLSA this year.

Needless to say we knew our next Artist Spotlight would have to be on this brother duo who have already proven themselves to be the next big thing. We were able to talk with Tom about the group and where they’re headed.

Just Noise to Me: What got you into producing? Was there one song or artist that made you want to start producing?

Icarus: Well, we both grew up playing musical instruments and through our teens played in several original and covers bands.

I (Tom) moved into a house full of DJs when I started studying music at uni and became hooked on mixing vinyl. From there it was just a natural progression into starting to write and produce dance music.

Ian started a couple of years later, so after we were both finished at uni it seemed like a good idea to put our heads together and see if we could write anything decent!

JNTM: Who are you favorite artist right now? EDM or not.

Icarus: We’re into a lot of different styles of music but if we had to name 3 in ‘dance music’ then it would be Kry Wolf, Clean Bandit and Maribou State at the moment.

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/114896117″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: The new EP seems to start at one end of the electronic music spectrum and completely shifts to another. It almost seems to go from radio-friendly pop to some really deep house/booty house… Describe that transition and where you find inspiration when working on Steal The Sun.

Icarus: We like ‘song writing’ as much as we enjoy writing for clubs so we wanted to try and include some different styles into the EP, without any tune sounding out of place.

We think we’ve achieved a diverse EP at the same time as being able to tell each track is from Icarus. We hope there’s something for everyone in there!

JNTM: How has being brothers helped the production process? Is it any easier or harder than producing alone?

Icarus: We find it pretty easy working together, which is lucky! We’ve never had any major fallouts over anything. It’s good having two people working on a track because if you get stuck or hit a brick wall inspiration wise then hopefully the other person can step in with an idea.

JNTM: How does it feel to have your first official release on OWSLA?

Icarus: Fantastic! It’s an honour to be involved with such a prestigious label. The guys are great to work with and we’re stoked that they want to promote our music!

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/114896067″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
JNTM: We recently listened to your BBC1 Radio One mix for Monki and loved it. What’s your general aim or goal when making a mix like that or playing live?

Icarus: Thanks! Well with that mix we only had half an hour so it was a case of picking favourites and getting as many tunes in as possible!

When playing live we want to keep people dancing so we tend to pick more dance floor orientated music. If we were doing a mix for a CD or Podcast or something like that then we’d more than likely vary the type of stuff we play.

JNTM: What do you think the biggest differences are between the EDM scene in the UK and the US?

Icarus: Well it’s hard to comment on that considering we’ve never been to the U.S. Here in the U.K though things seem to move pretty quickly.

There’s such a highly concentrated amount of talent here and we’re excited to be a part of it. We’d love to get over to the U.S in 2014 though so watch this space!

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/114895806″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

JNTM: What’s in store for Icarus in the future? Tours? Remixes? Can we expect to see you on the upcoming OWSLA tour?

Icarus: We’re working on our 2nd EP right now so we hope to get that released in early 2014. We’ve done a remix of Bastille’s single “Of The Night” which should be out fairly soon.

We’ve also got another original tune coming in November on a compilation but you’ll have to watch our social media for info on that!

We’ve done a remix for an OWSLA artist too which we’re super excited about. Again though, eyes on our social media for details of that!

As for touring, that’s something we want to start doing ASAP so promoters should get in touch with us now!

JNTM: A question we always ask: If you could have any other profession, what would it be?

Icarus: Tom: Spy // Ian: Zoo Keeper

For more on Icarus, like them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter and SoundCloud.

The post Artist Spotlight: Icarus appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Miny: I started a death metal band with my sister when I was 13. We thought it was hilarious because we were two girls playing this terrifying music. The metal band went on for 8 years and I felt like I wanted to branch out and start writing in the genres that I was primarily listening to; rap and pop.

It’s as if the universe began accepting different kinds of female rappers the moment my love for rap took a complete hold on me and I wanted to be a part of it. The freedom of expression as a female in rap is very appealing to me — and the more I do it, the more freeing and fun it gets!

Miny: I think it’s important to accept and free all of the things I feel instead of trying to fit one particular genre. My music tends to be kind of bipolar, and I would describe it as genre skipping indie pop/rap. I set out to make each song different from the next to express whatever I’m feeling.

Miny: I’m inspired by artists, songs, feelings, conversations, relationships, or thoughts that strike me as potent and authentic. I try to tap into a place of expression without filter which can be challenging. Growing up in the 90’s also really inspires me because it was all about being proud of your quirkiness.

Miny: Getting started and being independent is artistically freeing, but financially straining which is probably the hardest part.

Music costs money and to cut down costs- I end up doing a lot myself. I’m typically multitasking with directing/editing/ producing my music videos, writing, mixing, mastering, social networking, graphic design, etc.

The plus side is that I end up learning a lot, and have control over what’s released because I’m personally involved in all of it.

JNTM: Women in music, specifically rap, are becoming a more dominant force. What do you think that says about our generation and where music is heading? Have you ever had any problems with performing because of your gender? 

Miny: I think it’s great that fellow females are trying to make it in rap, but we have a long way to go before we’re respected. Being a female in metal and now in rap can be really challenging and I’ve definitely encountered difficulties in both due to my gender.

It often feels like people want to test my skill or fit me into some sort of category when music should be the focus- not gender. I understand why things are that way because a lot of females continue to send us backwards with gimmicks instead of being innovative and it makes people skeptical.

I’m hopeful that with time people will get used to seeing females in powerful positions in music and that gender can be less of a focus.

Miny: Affording an artistic passion really comes down to taking advantage of resources you have available, staying networked with like minded creators, and being educated. A lot of my music videos were done before I graduated from ASU in the film and media production program. My school provided film equipment, and I edit the videos using a mixture of programs which I learned in High School.

I work closely with film friends from ASU who dedicate a lot of time and energy into helping me. Right now I record at a studio that I built this summer where I record, mix, and master songs using Pro Tools. I’m basically working on no budget and have to get super creative and maximize my productive time to get things done.

Miny: I love social media, without it independent artists wouldn’t be anywhere. I think it’s challenging because people constantly crave new information but it keeps me on my toes. Social media helps me grow because I immediately get to see what people like or dislike in order to gain perspective.

I think every artist faces difficulties in terms of loosing face to face connections, and dealing with online harassment- that’s really the only detractor with social networking and it’s not really that negative because I personally get a kick out of it.

Miny: The most important part of being an independent artist is putting out authentic music while you can. The Biggest challenges include cost, time, and energy. The most enjoyable aspects are having control of my music, getting to personally interact with my audience, and making every song and video exactly how I want.

I stay focused by being inspired by new music and dedicating my efforts to my sister Desiree who passed away in 2007. I like making music/ videos that she would have enjoyed. I would advise other artists that if you keep on going- you’ll get where you want to be. Don’t let anything slow you down!

Miny: I started rapping during the summer of 2012. I was living in LA and had seen several articles spring up on female rappers, and it just got to a point where I had to start. Rapping has been something that I’ve wanted to do for so long and I feel like since the moment I’ve started- things have constantly been changing.

My dreams, ambitions, personal style, musical influences, and branding are constantly changing as I’m growing within the genre. I’ve started to feel less like an outsider trying to fit into a genre, and more like an artist trying to celebrate their individuality in a genre that embraces that.

JNTM: What advice would you give to someone who wants to do what you’re doing? 

You just have to do it, and don’t stop. Do whatever you can to get yourself out there- make some recordings, indie music videos, play as many shows as possible and get going. With enough time and effort- you’ll get where you want to be. 

JNTM: What’s in the future for Miny? Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years? 

Minymusic.com

The post Artist Spotlight: Miny appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Rooted in Phoenix and now based out of Los Angeles, producer/DJ Drezo is without a doubt on the rise to stardom. With countless mixes, remixes, and originals, Drezo is only getting started. Drezo was recently selected to perform an hour long set at EDC Orlando after winning the Insomniac Discovery Project for his original track “Peak.”

JNTM: To you, what’s the most important part about being an independent artist on the rise? What are some of the biggest challenges? What’s the most enjoyable? Is there a mantra of yours you tell yourself to stay focused? 

To find out more about Drezo, check out the links below! 

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/users/899794″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]

The post Artist Spotlight: Drezo appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Vancouver native Sleepy Tom has been making huge waves in the EDM scene for the past few years. With some heavy-hitting remixes, including his “Set it Off” remix which appeared on Diplo’s Express Yourself Remix album, Sleepy Tom’s work has been featured in live sets of DJ’s like Felix Cartal, Botnek, and Zeds Dead.

His newest EP The Currency is a collection of tracks that break through the boundaries of genre labels and instill hope for EDM fans who have given up on the likelihood of anything original surfacing onto the scene.

We had a chance to ask Sleepy Tom a few questions about his musical influences, what it’s like working with A-Trak, and what’s in store for the future of electronic music.

Just Noise to Me: What got you into producing?

Sleepy Tom: Music has always been a big interest of mine. I grew up playing guitar in rock bands and started writing songs at a pretty young age. My cousins had Reason on their computer, so I think that was my introduction to production. I’d just screw around with the drum machine in there and make loops.

It wasn’t really until 2008 that I really dove into it. I started listening to a lot more electronic music before then. Crystal Castles, MSTRKRFT, Justice etc. and when the whole remix culture blew up I was like, I think I could do this.

JNTM: Who are your favorite artists right now? EDM or not.

ST: Miguel, Oliver, Cashmere Cat, Tame Impala, Kendrick Lamar.

JNTM: As a producer who isn’t really restricted to any specific genre, where do you see the electronic movement moving?

ST: Music with a little more grit and attitude. Less “shiny.” I hear a lot of the old rave elements coming back into dance music, which is tiiiiight.

JNTM: What’s your favorite part about releasing your album on Fool’s Gold?

ST: Having been a fan of the label for several years makes it pretty special. They put so much love into every release they do. Nick [Catchdubs] and Alain [A-trak] picked through all my demos and chose whats on “The Currency.” Having them as filters has really helped me to focus in on what works in my productions and what makes them unique.

JNTM: Being from Vancouver, what can you tell us about the EDM scene in Canada?

ST: It’s big! You can see big name DJs on a weekly basis and BC has a bunch of great electronic music festivals during the summer. There’s always cool new producers popping up in Vancouver too.

JNTM: What software do you prefer to use when producing? Abelton? Logic?

ST: Logic

JNTM: What can we expect for Sleepy Tom as for as touring, another EP, remixes?

ST: I’ll be doing some touring in the fall. Not sure where yet, but it’s getting put together. I’ve got a bunch of remixes coming out this summer for some very cool artists. There will be another EP eventually…

JNTM: Just for fun, if you weren’t a producer, what would your dream job be?

ST:  Basketball player. HOOP DREAMS!

For more on Sleepy Tom, check him out at these fine social media outlets:

twitter.com/reallysleepytom

facebook.com/reallysleepytom

The post Artist Spotlight: Sleepy Tom appeared first on Just Noise To Me.