adminThe ninth release of the Canadian label Defmain(): is out now courtesy of Serbian techno talent Electricity Is Humming.
Electricity Is Humming reveals with Aradia his vocation for dynamic, dark and full-bodied structure techno. The self titled opening track uses cycling sequences that are drifting into mantra inducing surroundings . Daunting cymbals and polyrhythm percussion are a constant reminder that everything could change.
The B side track ‘Lilith’ is characterised by disturbing pads filtered to metallic resonances, the amalgam results in a deep perceptive ambience. The sound is acute and urgent, a combination of almost manic synthwork and menacing progression. Peak time bassline that lays on top of the kick drum that marks time in a reassuring manner.
Electricity is Humming says:
” “Aradia” is my second release as Electricity Is Humming. It is inspired by witchcraft myths and stories. Catalyzing all my energy to create a throbbing beat and hypnotic vibe invoking witchcraft rituals.”
How did you get into music and for how long have you been involved in the arts?
I got into music a long time ago. In the mid 90s I was part of a hip-hop group in Serbia that released an album in 1997, which was my first experience in the music production. At the same time I was listening to techno, jungle, hardcore, house, etc. and got more into electronic music. I bought my first computer and started making beats in different DAW’s and programs like Cubase, Reason, Cakewalk, Sound Forge and Fruity Loops. Although I studied art in Germany in the mid 2000s, I never stopped working on my music. After I had finished my studies I focused again more on my music and got involved in a few electronic music projects, which led to this Electricity Is Humming project few years ago.
What inspires you and what makes you want to keep making music?
In my case, making techno music is a need. Once you are hooked on it there is no way out. What inspires me the most is when I go out to a techno party. At the moment when I enter the club and hear the throbbing bass I get into that creative state of mind that lasts for days. Through all those echoes and distortions I always hear new patterns of rhythm, new sounds. So, going out to a rave and dancing and jumping in the crowd is essential for me as a producer.
Which artists are you currently listening to? And is there anyone of these that you’d like to collaborate with?
I am currently listening to Oliver Rosemann, leloopar, Reeko, P.E.A.R.L., TWR72, SHXCXCHCXSH, Populist, SNTS, Rrose, to name a few. Their music is out of this world. I’m happy to say that I’ve already collaborated with leloopar, he is a great techno artist and I am so inspired by his, in my opinion, dystopian vision of techno music. Basically, I like collabs, so I am always up for it with anyone.
How do you separate yourself from other artists and producers right now?
That’s a good question. I think that every artist has his own personality, experience and background that are different and unique. I have my own background and I believe that my music is a reflection of everything I am. It is always a subjective feeling. I don’t know how other people perceive me, so I just do my thing.
What do you consider a really successful or high point in your career so far?
After so many years of experimenting with music, the high point of my career is the moment when I finally realized in which direction my music should go. Although I’ve been making techno since 2000 I’m still relatively new in this techno world so I’ll strive for future high points. The most important thing for me is to make great music you can dance to.
For aspiring musicians, what advice would you give to simplify making music?
In my own experience, making a track is like a little war between you, your ideas and reality. It’s a struggle from beginning to the end. My advice would be, never give up, if you think the kick sounds awful, change the kick. If you feel that your track is boring, start with a new one. How your music sounds also depends on your mood, most of the time. You need a time distance, make a pause and most important thing, you need to know that other people perceive your music differently than you.
Which piece of hardware or software would you consider the most essential in your setup, and that you would be a little lost without?
There are few. My laptop, Ableton, NI Traktor Pro.
Which is the one piece of software or hardware you’re still looking to add to your collection?
I am absolutely satisfied with my software collection and programs that I’m using in my own production. I always look out for some new plug-ins and programs.
Tell us about your upcoming releases or projects?
It was a busy year for me. Right now I’m working on my new EP. It’s going to be my third EP this year. Also I’m working on a few remixes for other artists. My brand new “Aradia” EP is going to be released on 11 August on defmain():. So, right now, I’m very excited about all my future projects.
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