LOUISAHHH: FROM CLUB DJING TO THE BIRTH OF SOLO HYBRYD
Art Designed by Javi Nunez at Modern Wav & Photography by Adrien Renaud
The sounds of Louisahhh have been reverberating, and, well, we have been listening. From the clubs to the Boiler Room, Louisahhh will soon make her way to San Diego. Join us as the techno queen hits the dark alt scene with her American Solo Hybrid debut at Modernwav. We had the pleasure of interviewing Louisahhh before her debut, talking about everything from music production to collaborations and what it takes to push yourself past creative boundaries.
Love is Punk is one of my favorite records from the last five years. This record combines elements of EBM, punk, and industrial with techno fundamentals. The lyrics and vocal arrangement are placed so eloquently, and you can really feel the emotion behind them. I'm curious to know how this album came to be. What is your process for writing lyrics? Was it a challenging album to create?
Aw, I’m so glad that you love ‘Love is a Punk’! This song was actually a very last-minute addition to my debut album, ‘The Practice of Freedom.’ We’d already begun the mixing process with the legend Dave Pensado when Vice Cooler, who produced the record, sent over a little DFAM drum loop, and the song kind of poured out very naturally and ended up being the lead single. Touring this album, this is the track that opened every show, and I’m so glad it came to me in the nick of time.
In terms of process, I try to write every day with a morning pages practice (if you haven’t checked out ‘The Artist’s Way’ by Julia Cameron, it’s worth getting into), and I also keep a note on my phone of anything that comes to me while I’m running around. Good ideas from either place will be then transferred into a private blog that I can refer to whenever I need a seed or a starting point for a song. I think a lot of songwriters or top liners begin with ‘mumble tracks,’ where they kind of find the melody of the song and find the words after; I usually start with words and allow the way the language falls to dictate the energy or the meaning of a song. Words have always been very important to me and it’s been a lot of (joyful) work to get my voice and performance chops to the point where I can feel confident on stage, but it’s really my favorite thing on earth to do, and I feel really lucky to get to roar these words like prayers at an audience.
As a prominent figure in the techno scene, you have been DJing for many years. How have you managed to navigate both the production side and the performance aspect of your music career within the world of techno? How has the techno scene influenced the way you express yourself in your current work?
It’s funny; I started out as a DJ both because I felt like I had superior music taste to almost everyone (lol), and because I was socially awkward and needed something to do in da club to avoid having to talk to people. It turned into a kind of spiritual pursuit in that it’s something that really saved my life at certain points; music generally, but also the practice of healing and being healed in club spaces, of connecting and feeling and moving in ‘collective effervescence’, or being a channel of that.
I previously mentioned Julia Cameron’s work, and she talks about this idea of ‘The Shadow Artist’, which is where an artist chooses a career that’s close or parallel to the work they’re meant to be doing, but not the work itself, as a way of avoiding the terrifying, vulnerable, challenging labor of digging into the real stuff. For me, in some ways, DJing was a proxy for being a live performer, and it took a long time to get brave enough to get on stage and sing my songs and put myself out there in the context of the ‘LOUISAHHH LIVE BAND’ or Live Hybrid with Maelstrom, or now my solo hybrid project (which will have its American debut at Modern Wav!).
‘Post-Covid’, I also felt a lot of disillusionment around the idea of being a DJ and the techno scene in general as it started to feel like something I didn’t really relate to and I felt less confident and able to connect intuitively to the audience like I once had. I also felt like in order to make the live projects work, I would have to make a choice about what I was selling and how; promoters will typically go for the easiest idea to communicate (who can blame them?) so if I gave an option between a DJ set (what I was known for) and this new, more challenging, confronting, expensive thing, they’d always choose the DJ set and I would never get to perform the live show. Let me also mention that with the live iterations of performance, I started to feel like I had access to a braver, more feral, more present part of myself that I hadn’t previously experienced, and I was unwilling to cage that part again (because spitting blood and rolling on the floor during a DJ set is apparently frowned upon).
I turned down a lot of DJ sets in order to get to play with the band, or to perform the live hybrid with Maelstrom. I think this was a good choice and I don’t regret it, but at a certain point I did start to miss DJing and every time I got the chance to do it - usually by accident because there would be certain circumstances that the live options would be impossible - it was so fun and easy and playful.
Kind of full circle, it has become necessary to have a live expression that it is possible to perform solo, and it’s kind of the most obvious path of really braiding together my lovingly honed DJ skills and my absolute obsession and infatuation with roaring at a willing audience, and thus the ‘Solo Hybrid’ is born. I made techno edits of much of my previous work and figured out how to perform in the context of a DJ set without compromising the level of expression I want to deliver, and it’s different than I thought it would be, but it feels really right and I’m really excited to play this show, to live in this sweet spot for a minute.
Your album “Sustained Resistance” is visceral and rich in production. How did you meet Maelstrom, and what is it like to partner with him in creating art?
Mael and I were introduced by Louis Brodinski shortly before I relocated to France from Los Angeles as a potential collaborator on my ‘Transcend’ EP. I showed up on his doorstep on the second day I was in this new country, kind of like a techno foreign exchange student, and he took me into his family and we made two tracks in four days and kicked off our musical journey together.
We have vastly different sonic backgrounds and influences - he comes from a ‘free party’ tradition where people travel around France in giant soundsystem trucks and throw illegal raves, and I come from seedy downtown bars of New York City during peak ‘indie sleaze’, but our tastes and talents conjoin in a way that feels really magical. On a personal level, I learn a lot from Mael about boundaries and support and moving through successes and challenges with grace. I think we teach each other how to fail better, and are constantly trying to grow and learn how to be in a healthy partnership. I admire him tremendously, and I feel like he is my biggest champion; we are in a kind of constant dynamic trust fall with one another: we play and tour together, we create music and run a label together, and I can’t think of anyone on earth I’d rather be in this with. Sustained Resistance was a celebration of that, released almost a decade to the day after we met.
Throughout your career, you've been involved in numerous significant features and collaborations. Have there been any specific collaborations that stand out to you where you and another artist had an incredible synergy and connection? Additionally, are there any artists or idols that you are particularly eager to collaborate with in the future?
I love a collab, ha. Part of this is because I don’t consider myself a very strong producer and I prefer to work with people who I think have more skills than me in that area because I believe I bring a lot of other stuff to the table as a songwriter and vocalist. I try to play to my strengths but I’ve been working on growing in confidence and ability on the production side.
Regarding specific collaborations, it’s been really exciting to work with so many people I admire and I feel like there have been a bunch of career changing connections that I owe a lot to. Of course, Danny Daze (‘Your Everything’) and Brodinski (‘Let the Beat Control Your Body’) are two very important ones that really altered the course of my life, and on a more personal level, Shelter Studios and Vice Cooler have been my principle partners for ‘solo’ releases, and I owe a lot to their ability to translate and express ideas that sound like me better than I could express them.
At a certain point, I think my work with Maelstrom has kind of taken on its own character, beyond collaboration and more like a singular entity that’s separate from our individual practices. I am really excited to see how that evolves because it’s been such a vessel for monumental growth on creative, professional and personal levels.
Obviously the dream collaboration is Nine Inch Nails, but I think if I keep talking about it, it will never happen because I’m too much of a stan, so I’ll shut up now.
In recent years, the music industry has suffered the loss of numerous talented artists to drug addiction, particularly due to the fentanyl epidemic and the increasing popularity of substances like Cocaine and Ketamine. Notable figures such as Luis Vasquez of the Soft Moon, John Mendez (Silent Servant), and his partner Simone Ling have tragically succumbed to this crisis. We commend your courageous decision to pursue a sober lifestyle. What words of wisdom would you offer to struggling artists and DJs who are grappling with addiction and are apprehensive about seeking sobriety, fearing that it might impede their creativity and ability to perform in the vibrant nightlife scene?
Thanks for your kind words. I want to be clear that it’s not so much virtue but necessity that I no longer drink and use, and it’s by sheer grace that I get to stay sober and clean one day at a time. For me, without sobriety, there is nothing else: no career, no creativity, no relationship with my family, no integrity, no health. I was a daily cocaine user and helpless scoundrel, super dysfunctional and self loathing, and it felt really scary and out of control. I learned early on in this journey that whatever I put before my recovery I will lose, but if I put my recovery first, I can have anything (except of course drugs and alcohol), and I really believe that, so staying clean and helping other alcoholics and addicts to get clean is a big part of my life - maybe the biggest - and certainly the most rewarding. If you or a loved one is struggling in this area, my DMs are always open and I am happy to help however I can.
All that being said, I don’t believe everyone who uses drugs or drinks is an addict, but unfortunately we live in a new and horrible reality where even recreational users can be killed with a casual line. There is fentanyl in everything. If you’re gonna use, please don’t use alone, test your drugs with fentanyl testing strips and carry Naloxone. Try to stagger use so that if someone is OD’ing, there are people there to help. All of this sounds like a real vibe killer, but I guess so is dying, so please try to use responsibly.
There are a lot of resources available for San Diego county, please check them out: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/bhs/BHS_Harm_Reduction/About_Naloxone.html
https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/od2a/community.html
What are you most looking forward to about coming to San Diego and performing at Modern Wav?
I love San Diego! Amazing food, a great tradition of music and a rad epicenter of cholo goth culture, which is the coolest. I am stoked to go run by the ocean and scream at the top of my lungs and eat vegan mexican food and rent a muscle car. I am really excited to play the new Solo Hybrid show here and to see so many awesome acts. I’m also bringing my (French) partner for his first time in San Diego, and it’s gonna be his birthday, so it’ll be super cute. I really can’t wait.
Lastly, how is everything looking for Louisahhh's next phase? Do you have any exciting news to share?
The next phase is an exciting one. Maelstrom and I started a new project tentatively called “Pain Magazine” with our pals in French post-hardcore band Birds in Row, and we just finished making an album together. We gotta figure out how to release it and tour it, but it’s some of the work I’m proudest of being a part of. Stay tuned.
On a totally other tip, alongside my musical practice, I’m working as a consent educator, and I really love teaching this stuff. The concepts surrounding that have (of course) seeped their way into my creative life, so I’m presently trying to get funding for a multi-disciplinary performance (music, dance, AI) that I really hope will get off the ground eventually. It’s pretty ambitious, but I’m learning a lot - mostly that you gotta try. In closing: keep trying, kids.
Louisahhh will be taking the stage on November 22, 2024, accompanied by IAMX, MATTE BLVCK, and DIE SEXUAL. Secure your tickets now by clicking the link below!
NOX NOVACULA: FEED THE FIRE
Hailing from Seattle, Nox Novacula have established themselves as a growing force within the dark alternative music scene. Their latest release "Feed The Fire" continues to carry their iconic deathrock sound, serving as a testament to the staying power of their sound and style in the ever-evolving landscape.
1. Let's talk Seattle! What is the current music scene like? When Nox has a weekend off, are there any venues, bars, or places you would like to frequent?
(Charlotte)
Seattle isn’t the biggest city, but I think we have a pretty cool and diverse music scene. It definitely has a bigger metal and hardcore scene than goth, post-punk, or electronic, but more bands are popping up all the time, and because the pool isn’t as large as some bigger cities, we end up with more mixed bills, which I think is pretty cool. As far as venues, Seattle, like many cities, is becoming less and less affordable, meaning many of us have had to move farther outside the city and even to neighboring cities like Tacoma. Many venues have suffered because of this as well, and Seattle desperately needs more small independent venues. That said, I enjoy catching an all-ages show at Lucky Liquor, seeing more prominent bands at the Showbox, where I also work or dancing at one of the DJ nights at Pony on Capitol Hill.
(Ezra)
I moved to Tacoma about 30 minutes south of Seattle a few years ago. We have some cool venues there: Overkill Lounge, Real Art, New Frontier, The Church, and the Valley, to name a few. More and more artists and musicians are moving down as they’re getting priced out of Seattle, and I look forward to seeing our little city get cooler and cooler!
2. The deathrock genre is one of the myriads of genres that fall under the all-encompassing "goth" umbrella. Throughout the years, it has had a very dedicated and loyal following. Nox, along with a few other notables(New Skeletal Faces, Detoxi, Da'at, Shrouds, and Horror Vacui, to name a few), have been true to keeping the deathrock sound alive. Do you see the genre continuing to thrive? Outside of the aforementioned bands, are there any other contemporary bands that have been carrying the deathrock torch?
(Charlotte)
I think that deathrock will always be a pretty niche genre, I feel like even in its heyday it was pretty niche, but I agree that it’s a genre that has always had a loyal base of true believers. I think as long as people are still making guitar based music, there will always be some people who are drawn to the darker and more macabre elements of punk and rock and roll.
As far as bands that fit the genre, you definitely named most of the bands playing currently, and funny enough, or maybe unsurprisingly, I feel like all the bands I know of currently playing Deathrock we are most likely friends with and have probably played with them at some point. I will add a few more to the list: Nyx Division out of Portland, H.A.L.T. From Vancouver, B.C., and Destros from Milwaukee are all excellent and definitely worth a listen if you like darker guitar-driven music!
(Ezra)
We could be here all day naming great bands that fit under the deathrock umbrella that we have played with, but, a few more would be Tears for the Dying from Athens, Cemetery Sex from D.C., long time staples Altar De Fey from Oakland, and Oracion Funebre from El Paso.
3. Goth culture exists. Lifting culture exists, however, that venn diagram does not seem to overlap. Sure, you have your occasional #healthgoth lifter in the gym, but let's be honest you don't see too many gym goers in a 45 Grave tee stacking plates on the bench or squat rack, however, vocalist Charlotte is the embodiment of both. Charlotte, how did you get into powerlifting? During strenuous touring, are you able to maintain your lifting and nutrition? Are there any other lifters or fitness enthusiasts within the Nox camp?
(Charlotte)
Yes, we certainly are all active in our own way, though I will admit touring is really tough when it comes to trying to maintain strength and stay healthy in general. I will admit that even though I always try to keep some sort of routine on tour, I typically end up giving up pretty early on; maybe one day I’ll figure it out! As for me, I got into powerlifting maybe 6 or 7 years ago. I just wanted to start going to the gym. I didn’t know anything about working out or lifting weights, and I’ll admit I was super intimidated at first, but I was naturally drawn to lifting, probably because I’m a little bit lazy and I absolutely loathe doing cardio, so powerlifting with its low reps and high amount of rests just made sense for me haha. Then, once I started feeling and looking stronger, I became hooked. Taking multiple breaks from touring and life stuff, in general, has meant that progress hasn’t always been linear, but now, the act of lifting is super important not just for my physical health but for my mental state as well.
(Ezra)
I did Boxing for years before some injuries made it much more difficult. These days, you’ll find me in the gym, usually four days a week, when we’re not on tour. As Charlotte said, and especially as I’ve gotten older, it’s a must, almost more for my mental health than the physical benefits. Zu is an extremely avid hiker. You’ll find her on top of mountains from Canada to Chili.
4. The Nox Novacula sound tells me that there are overlapping influences rooted in 1980s goth and deathrock between all band members, however, you all seem to have your distinct style and personality. Common influences aside, are there any outlier bands, influences, or genres that each of you have that the casual fan may be completely unaware of? Any secret die-hard Dolly Parton fans?
(Charlotte)
I mean, who on this earth isn’t a Dolly Parton fan?? For real, though, I know I’m not the only one in my band who has an extremely eclectic taste in music. If you popped into our tour van, you might find us listening to literally anything from Death Metal to Hip Hop to Country to 90s House music or Detroit Techno and everything and anything in between. I don’t know if it would be surprising or obvious, but we are all big Danzig fans and I think he’s definitely had a bit of an influence on our band, Ian Astbury of The Cult is a big vocal inspiration for me, probably unsurprisingly I would think. I also take a lot of inspiration from Sinead O’Connor and Nina Simone. Maybe not necessarily in the way our voices sound, but in the way they were able to express emotion while singing.
5. Since its inception, Nox has been gaining much well-deserved momentum and does not seem to be slowing down anytime soon. On the heels of this latest release, what does the future hold for Nox Novacula?
(Charlotte)
That’s a good question but a hard one to answer! We’re still recovering from all the work that went into writing, recording, and putting out the last record and the US tour we just got home from. Right now, the future is very open and full of possibilities! We would really like to play some dates outside of the US, and we’re working on making that happen. I am excited to start working on new material. Besides that it’s hard to say, we’re just chugging along at this point and seeing what comes our way.
Don't miss your chance to witness Nox Novacula at Modern Wav in November. The event features a stacked lineup with TR/ST, IAMX, SPIKE HELLIS, MATTE BLVCK, LOUISAHHH, VOID PALACE, and DIE SEXUAL. Secure your tickets for the single-day or two-day event now. Act fast and click the link below before they're gone!
SOFT FAITH: CONFESS THY SYNTHS
Photography by Axel Ghxst
1. Alright, Aaron, from San Diego to Los Angeles and now residing in New York, what brought the move to the East Coast?
(AARON)
I’ve always had such great love for my hometown of San Diego, and I still have my 619 phone number! But to be honest - I didn’t feel like LA was my home, and I was ready for a change. My wife is from the East Coast and has lived in New York for many years. She felt the same way about LA, so we decided to make the move! It’s been almost three years of living in Brooklyn, and I love it so much - it truly feels like home.
2. Los Angeles and New York are both primary markets for music, rich with respective histories and thriving scenes. From the people and nightlife to the music industry as a whole, how would you compare the two? Was it easier to find your footing in one city than the other?
(AARON)
When I was younger, LA was a lot of fun. As my local San Diego band (The Stranger’s Six) grew a bit in popularity, we became part of the LA scene in the mid-00s, and it was a blast playing Hollywood and all those legendary venues and being up in the mix of the industry. When I moved to LA ten years later, especially post-COVID - I found it challenging to re-find my musical footing. When I moved to NY - I simply posted on my IG story, “I’m here who wants to start a band,” and within the first year here, that’s how I met Kenneth and Soft Faith was born! So, for me, NY has provided me with not only an amazing new musical project but also a great friend.
3. Coming from the Pop Punk scene in the mid-aughts with bands like The Stranger's Six and Fenix TX, to the present day being fully submerged in Synth-pop music, what caused the shift in influence and/or artistic style? Was it a specific band that triggered it, or the sounds of the Sub 25 that served as the catalyst?
(AARON)
I must thank my first goth girlfriend when I was young for kick-starting my love for this kind of music! She introduced me to bands like VNV Nation, Covenant, Sisters of Mercy, and Depeche Mode - so even when I was playing in pop-punk bands, I was always listening to darker stuff with heavy synth elements. To this day, VNV Nation is a top 10 all-time band for me. I’ve probably seen them live 15 or so times over the years. Then, later in my life, I was doing film scores in the adult industry and using lots of synths, and from there, I got inspired to start making my own darkwave music, which I released under the name Empty Streets on Cleopatra Records!
(KENNETH)
For me, it was this natural progression from punk to post-punk. When I was in college, there was this sort of 80s nostalgia thing happening, with artists like the Killers and Interpol gaining popularity, and I started listening to Joy Division and the Cure a lot. From there, it was New Order and eventually Depeche Mode, and by then, I had quit my band and bought an Oberheim DMX drum machine.”
4. Kenneth Fletcher of The Neuromantic Boys brings his own arsenal of production and artistry into the mix. How did you two end up coming together to create the force that is Soft Faith?
(KENNETH)
Initially, Aaron and I discussed trading features for our respective projects (Empty Streets / the Neuromantic Boys). Empty Streets leans a little darker and industrial, while NB has more of a new wave-influenced sound. Aaron did some demos for his NB feature, and I liked the way his voice sounded. I asked him if he would record lead vocals on a synth-pop track I had just written, which I thought had potential but didn’t sound suitable with my voice. He agreed, and that track became Soft Faith’s debut original single ‘Tears of the Fall.’”
5. Let's talk gear. One synth is never enough, as we see you guys are packing some heat with a Sub 25, Juno-106, and Prophet Rev2, to name a few. Is any synth in particular considered a favorite, and are there any rare gems out there that you would like or will be adding to the stable in the future?
(KENNETH)
The Rev2 will always be a favorite. The 8-voice desktop version was my first ‘real’ analog synth. We actually just upgraded to the 16-voice version with the keybed for our ‘House of Faith’ studio. The Juno 106 is a dream synth. We just got it completely redone, so it’s basically brand new on the inside. Last summer, we picked up an SQ80 for dirt cheap with an extra cartridge filled with many amazing custom sounds its previous owner made. I like to think of it as a poor man’s Emulator. We just got an original 707. We’ve been using the samples since we started this project, so it only made sense to get the real deal. I’d love to get a 727 to match it. I really want to add one of the newer Oberheims to the studio. Originally, I was looking at the Ob-6, but now I’m leaning more toward the TEO-5. If I’m being honest, I also just think it would look really cool next to our Pro 3!
Modern Wav proudly presents Soft Faith's DJ set at this year's highly-anticipated two-day event on November 22nd and 23rd. Featuring an impressive lineup including TR/ST, IAMX, Matte Blvck, Spike Hellis, Louisahh, Nox Novacula, Void Palace, and Die Sexual, this is an event not to be missed. Join San Diego's vibrant gothic and alternative music community for an unforgettable night. Step into the dark corners of San Diego and secure your tickets today! Secure your tickets today!
PANTHER MODERN: CHAOS AT CAPACITY
Photography by Sarah Pardini
Panther Modern is a thriving presence at the intersection of techno and goth culture worldwide. He pushes boundaries not just within his music but also with his collaboration with the talented Melissa Scaduto in Sextile. Their high-energy performances and stellar tracklists have created eager anticipation among fans in San Diego, who are eagerly waiting to embrace the relentless electronic chaos that Panther Modern brings.
Modern Wav is excitedly anticipating Panther Modern's pivotal presence on April 6 at Music Box alongside powerhouse acts Health, Pixel Grip, and Street Fever. So, if you're a fan, don't miss out on the call to witness Panther Modern's full-capacity performance!
1) How do you feel about Panther Modern's widespread appeal among diverse fan bases worldwide, including admiration from goth, techno, and EBM enthusiasts in the United States?
I'm super grateful to have a fan base, period. Honestly, I have no clue what I am doing, and I am just kind of winging it. I know how to conjure moods with sound, but I have to discover them before I can connect with them and then disperse that energy into a room. Either way, I feel a sense of success knowing that my music doesn't fit into a particular niche genre. I'm a fan of each, but I want to push the boundaries of what they are. Some chaos
2) When dealing with two exceptional acts, how do you determine which elements are suitable for inclusion in Panther's projects and which are more fitting for Sextile's endeavors?
It's actually been increasingly more difficult than I had anticipated. At the moment, they kind of bleed into each other. I think my answer a year ago would have been, well, SEXTILE uses guitars. But I have been so over guitars that I don't pick it up when it comes to writing, and now SEXTILE is becoming more focused on synths. I mean, let's get real: the guitar was invented in the 15th century. The synthesizer and subwoofer were invented 50 years ago. I want to do shit that millennia of humans were never ever able to do. I get excited when I think 1000 years ago, I would have been burned at the stake for shaking a whole room with subfrequencies using a small black device; they would have thought I was a witch. Thats cool.
So, to really answer your question, Panther Modern has been getting my more experimental, harder electro tracks. SEXTILE is Melissa and I writing, working in a way that kind of feeds our need to create more melodic music.
3) You have recently released a new work called "Deluxe" that gives off a completely different vibe and mood than your previous works. I couldn't help but notice that the influence of breakbeats, Detroit, and Berlin techno is heavy, yet you have managed to maintain the unique sound of Panther Modern. Can you tell us what inspired you to move in this direction and what tools/gear you used to achieve this distinctive sound?"
Yes, the breakbeats!
It all started with entering into a deep depression during the pandemic. At that time, I was messing around with crypto and NFTs, which I wouldn't recommend anyone ever do. I bought the tech smoke and mirrors of royalties in perpetuity and a new paradigm for artists. As all of us know now, it was bullshit. I entered into the depression because I watched as hundreds of thousands of dollars were being thrown at the most useless projects instead of going to real art. I started to believe that art was dead, music was dead, and the world, when presented with the opportunity to back real art and real artists, turned a blind eye and threw it at shit that is worth absolutely nothing now. They would rather gamble, and they still do.
I struggled to get out of the depression, I struggled to make music, I was gaining weight, I wasnt connecting to myself - it all sucked. Maybe I heard it in a movie, or someone once said this to me, but the phrase “You got to get back to your roots, where it all started, where you first fell in love with music.” was just repeating in my head and it made a lot of sense. So I started listening to the music I used to when I was growing up. It was mostly East Coast 90s hip-hop like Smiff n Wesson, Mobb Deep, Gang Starr, and then 90s Trance like ATB, Alice Deejay, Paul Oakenfold, The Matrix soundtrack, and then getting back into Drum n Bass, or Prodigy and Slipknot as well. I mean I remember this profound moment of hearing Drum and Bass for the first time and just being SHOOK. It was at a festival in DC, I walked into this dark tent with black lights, neon everywhere and this producer Diesel Boy was spinning - I had never heard bass like that. I had never FELT bass like that before. It changed my life and it is the reason I wanted SEXTILE to tour Florida this upcoming tour. Diesel Boy is from Florida, and there was a huge DnB scene there. I feel I need to go pay my respects.
So, back to the depression. I'm depressed. I'm starting to listen to all the music I grew up listening to, and now I want to start making music the way I used to when I first started. That was sampling and getting creative with found sound because I couldn't afford a synth at the time, let alone any instrument. I was also super into Brian Eno, who I related to because he described himself as a non-musician and used the studio to create his treatments. I related to this because I have never been a technically skilled instrument player. I can't play piano with two hands, I don't know the scales on the guitar, and I couldn't solo to save my life, but I can record a bunch of sounds, arrange them in Ableton, and make something sound like a song. So my first sampler was the Roland SP-555, I got it cause I heard Panda Bear was using it. At the time, he had just released a track where the beat was a looped recording of someone riding a skateboard, and my mind was blown. I was also super into the Art of Noise manifesto at that time, so it was kind of like a perfect synergy for the type of sound art I was trying to explore.
Flash forward to today and I'm back to sampling breaks, trying to incorporate some of my favorite things about the music I loved when I was growing up and it has helped me immensely in reconnecting with myself and why I make art in the first place.
In terms of tools/gear I used, of course my Korg MS20 and MS10, a beatstep pro, a keystep pro, an emu polysynth, Ableton and a custom drumrack I built using samples of 808s and 909s I recorded myself.
4) In 2019, I stumbled upon a video titled "Ask Yourself" that immediately caught my attention with its unique branding and aesthetic. The visuals were a perfect blend of sinister, sexy, and chaotic, leaving me intrigued about the process behind its creation. I would love to learn more about the creative process involved in crafting the stunning 3D visuals and branding of your videos.
Ah that particular video I do cherish very much, but making those 3D scenes and editing that video was hell on earth. I had little knowledge of what I was doing at the time. That was my first time ever comping green screen footage and adding 3D scenes behind it. It took hours of motion tracking the footage and even more hours to render the 3D scenes, which I did on a single computer.
The worst part was that during that summer, while it was rendering, I had the touch choice between rendering the video or air conditioning. The power was so bad at my apartment that I couldnt run both at the same time, otherwise it would trip the circuit for the whole unit. To top off, while the computer is rendering, all it's doing is blowing oven-hot air into the room. I slept sweating with no sheets for 4 weeks. This is probably why I haven’t attempted to make another video quite like it.
Making music is much more gratifying and immediate. In terms of tools used for 3D, I used Cinema 4D and Octane Renderer. If you are just getting started with 3D, I would suggest using Unreal Engine and a new platform my friends and I created called HEAT. HEAT allows anyone to use their phone to capture a move or dance and bring it onto a 3d character without having to know how to code. Something I desperately needed 5-6 years ago.
Photography by Sarah Pardini
Don't miss out on Panther Modern's captivating journey back to his roots with his latest artistry, "Deluxe"! Experience it live at the Music Box on April 6th, where the three floors will buzz with excitement, thanks to Modern Wav at the helm. Health, Panther Modern, Pixel Grip, Street Fever, Baby Magick DJing, and a kink performance by Domina Death will make it an immersive and high-caliber experience.
This event promises to be another memorable addition to Modern, and you do not want to miss it! Don't wait; secure your tickets now to ensure you're a part of this special event. I always say, "Regrets are forever; presale is not."
STREET FEVER : Beneath the Veil of Absolution
Photography by CDIGI
As we gear up for the next edition of Modern Wav, our core values remain unchanged - experience, lasers, fog, cages, steel, leather, and faux leather from our vegan comrades. And let's not forget the most important element - sound. To be fully immersed and have your senses heightened by the mystique of the evening is what we strive for. Street Fever, with its artisanal mystique, is all set to rock the Modern Wav line-up on April 6th.
Behind the mask of the anonymous producer, cohesive art flows through a black canvas of dark electronic beats. Street Fever recently dropped a visually impressive video for their latest single, "Sinner" which is guaranteed to make you scream 'Daddy' in no time. And with tracks like "In Your Lungs," you'll definitely be coming back for seconds.
We had the chance to speak with Street Fever for a few seconds, and let's just say, the conversation was nothing short of amazing. So, let's talk shop.
Can you please tell me about the inspiration behind your new single 'Sinner' and the visuals used in the video? The track uniquely blends genres such as EBM, Drum n Bass, Industrial, and modern goth. I am curious to know about the story behind the creation of this remarkable video. Could you share some insights about it?
This video was a collection of footage I shot on tour over the last few years and some studio sessions at the art gallery I helped curate. I wanted to almost re-create certain situations in a real-world setting that I just used to go out and do myself without cameras. These poetic expressions were in real-world scenarios, and I feel it’s important to disrupt and confront people and institutions in power, so we did just that.
I think it’s our job as artists to use the privilege we have and the voices we are allowed to use and use them to our utmost ability. The amount of freedom we have to express ourselves is something I don’t take for granted. It is something I’m continuing to push myself to use and also pushing myself to see how far I can go in these sorts of grey areas of “is this legal or is this not?” and tapping into what we can get away with in the streets in broad daylight has been a very exciting journey.
Photography by CDIGI
San Diego has made its scene its own with several regular goth nights and alternative events such as Modern Wav. So, what are your thoughts on sharing the stage with the impressive lineup in the great city?
I’m extremely grateful to be playing this show and exploring new territory and playing a new space in SD. I’ve been a fan of Health for a long time and these other acts are really special as well. I’m extremely humbled to be invited to play such a carefully curated event and I’m even more excited to just check out the music and enjoy myself.
Photography by CDIGI
The music industry is a unique place for artists, as they all have their own individual experiences. So, what are the key pieces that you've learned from that keep Street Fever moving forward?
I’ve learned that it’s important for me to show up and support other artists. I think for me personally, it’s something that I truly enjoy about music, which is just connecting with others talking about art, and sharing stories. I think what keeps me going is the love and connection I get to build with other artists and the lifelong friendships I get to cherish. The music industry can be a confusing place and a really hard place to thrive if you don’t have the right people around you.
Lastly, what exciting projects does the future have in store for Street Fever that you want everyone to know about?
Well, I’ll be releasing my debut album “Absolution” out on April 2nd and touring the US and EU all year and probably for the foreseeable future. I have another album that I produced that will hopefully come out in the fall. I’ll be hosting events with @oil.move in my home town all year. I work intimately with an amazing community of artists that are a part of a shift in the industry and I’m excited to be a part of that.
Street Fever is set to release its debut album soon, and we believe that they have a bright future ahead of them. We cannot stress enough how much we value the freedom to express ourselves, and we never take it for granted. Modern Wav's upcoming event will be a testament to the power of collaboration, as we will see what happens when many creative minds come together.
During the recent Modern Wav photo shoot, which featured San Diego's Becky Giglo behind the camera, we felt the energy that Street Fever brings to their music. When their track "Sinner" played through the speakers, the room came alive.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this energy for yourself. Grab your tickets today and join us for Modern Wav's upcoming event, featuring Health, Panther Modern, Pixel Grip, and Street Fever. The event will take place on April 6th at the Music Box in San Diego. To purchase your tickets, click the "buy" button below.
From The Chicago Burbs to The Dance Floor: The Rise of PIXEL GRIP
Photography by: Riley Valentine
Every morning, I start my day with a playlist of songs that help me to get going. Pixel Grip's "Bet You Do" blasts through my car speakers, and I hope my friends and I will get lost in the electric beats and mesmerizing lights of a Modern Wav concert. It's like we're all part of a giant music box. The lyric "Baby, why you seem so dark? That's cuz you're standing in my shadow" has become my mantra.
Can you imagine the excitement when the iconic anthem 'ALPHAPUSSY' plays? The Modern Wav team is thrilled to announce that Rita, Tyler, and Johnathon will deliver some heavy beats on April 6th
Photohraphy by : Riley Valentine
Thank you for being a part of the Modern Wav lineup for the 3rd edition. I'm interested in hearing about how you came to work with Health and joining their tour.
For some context, the three of us are some corn-fed midwestern kids from the suburbs of Chicago. The first time I had been to LA was for Substance 2021. I didn’t really know anybody yet, and I think I accidentally crashed Jonny’s after-party. I realized that I was kind of being chaotic, so I decided to go up to him and be like, “Hey, I just wanted to introduce myself. I’m Rita from Pixel Grip, and I'm here with some friends. I didn't mean to crash your party but thank you so much for having me”. He was really cool about it and instantly was like, "Make yourself at home"! I wonder if he learned about us from that interaction or maybe from Substance 2022, but I heard he was talking about Pixel Grip in one of his livestreams as something he had been listening to lately. So, I think he asked us to open up for him because he genuinely likes the music, which is so sweet, touching, and affirming. HEALTH is absolutely iconic, and it's such a huge honor to share a stage with them.
I am curious to learn more about the song "ALPHAPUSSY". This club banger gets people going on the dance floor. It's a hit every time the opening hook plays. I want to know Pixel Grips's initial reaction when the song became popular.
“ALPHAPUSSY" was designed to get attention. At the time of recording 'Arena,'’ I think I felt unseen. I was watching so many people go viral or get a lot of attention for their music that just wasn’t happening with our project. I thought a lot about an interview that Lady Gaga did where she said that when she started to notice the crowd getting bored, she would start to take her clothes off. I started to implement that ideology. if there were a lot of people talking, I would just scream a blood-curdling scream off the mic, and it would instantly silence everyone in the back. I wanted to do that digitally as well on our Spotify page; I wanted an attention grabber. A piece of clickbait to lure audiences to our music. We lure you in with a completely unhinged title like ALPHAPUSSY, and then, as you listen to the record, you realize that there is a lot of depth and substance within the project. However, that’s not to say that ALPHAPUSSY is a joke song; I think it's a serious banger. I think it makes people feel sexy and empowered, and I hope people keep popping their pussy to it for a long time to come.
Going on tour can be a thrilling experience filled with adventure and fun. However, long hours of travel can be quite monotonous for musicians. It gives them a chance to reflect on their music and upcoming projects. I'm really interested to know what Pixel Grip has planned for the future.
A lot went down since ‘Arena’ and instead of going to therapy, I’ve been processing everything through songwriting. Bad for me, good for you, I guess. I’ve written a lot of music, and a portion of it has been selectively recorded. I can’t say for sure what’s next for us, but I can absolutely promise you some more music that is the best work of my life and something that I am extremely excited to share. I can also say that there is a headline tour in the works for late 2024. US and beyond? We shall see.
I have had the privilege of seeing Pixel Grip perform in a small club, but now, I and many others will enjoy their music on a much larger stage like the Modern Wav platform. What is Pixel Grip most excited about for the upcoming night?
As a band, we’ve played so many small rooms, empty rooms, basements, etc. Our climb to success has been a humbling one. The feeling of playing on a stage with a proper sound system and plenty of space never gets old and is something we have massive gratitude for. But not only that, we get to play alongside artists we look up to in fucking SAN DIEGO. The fans in San Diego are unmatched - the energy there is so ferocious and effervescent. So the thing that I’m most excited for is the joy, the feeling of belonging, the feeling of community. Sweating, dancing, and the feeling of release. I get so lonely here in Chicago and have a lot of steam I need to blow off. I can’t wait for the collective catharsis of the show.
Music is always prevalent in my daily routine. What song is currently playing on the Bluetooth speakers of Pixel Grip?
I'm attempting to get jacked for the tour, and the place I consume the most music is the gym. I need music that makes me feel sexy and horny, and empowered when I work out. Here’s a little glimpse of my gym playlist:
Work it (Soulwax Remix) - Marie Davison
Drugs in the Bathroom - xjermsx
Girl Crush (ft. Rico Nasty) - Boyz Noise
Stamina - Pixel Grip
Experience the unique vibe of San Diego as it comes to life with the Modern Wav music event. On April 6th, Health, Panther Modern, Pixel Grip, Street Fever, and Baby MAGICK will perform at the Music Box, making the city even more special. This is a chance to immerse yourself in a dark underbelly filled with fans of electronic music and alternative aesthetics. Don't miss out on this opportunity to witness the magic of Pixel Grip's performance and be a part of this unforgettable experience. Secure your tickets now before they sell out, and be a part of the action!
A MATTE BLVCK SHADOW HAS BEEN CAST OVER SAN DIEGO, AND IT CONTINUES TO GROW.
Photography by Alex Casillas
A Matte Blvck shadow has been cast over San Diego, and it continues to grow. They just released Proxy. An instrumental that has 'PAINKILLER' by Depeche vibes all over it like cat hair on my fit right before going out.
With selling-out show dates on the West Coast, San Diego local Matte Blvck is more than ready to celebrate the 40th anniversary of NITZER EBB with you at MODERN WAV along with the synth act, Normal Bias.
1) I love the new single. It's screams of the modern era of electronic/modern goth. I'm addicted to Proxy. Tell me you have new tracks coming.
We're excited to announce that we'll be releasing two new singles in the upcoming weeks. One of them features a legendary DarkWave artist, but we can't reveal their name just yet. Here's a clue: The band was established in 1981 and is widely recognized as the pioneer of Darkwave music. In addition to the singles, we'll also be launching a new album called "Vows" along with an Indie Gogo campaign that offers a variety of exclusive Matte Blvck perks.
2) Alex, you are also a founding member of MODERN WAV. Tell us how Modern Wav came about and how it blossomed to where it's at. Can you tell us what's in store for the future?
Through years of being in a band and playing numerous shows, I’ve witnessed the harsh reality of the music industry and how musicians are mistreated and underpaid. Behind the scenes, there are appalling practices taking place involving certain venues, promoters, and agents, leading to the downfall of fellow artists. However, my experiences with Matte Blvck and organizing our shows have allowed me to foster professional connections and collaborate closely with artists, agents, production managers, and venues.
I am seeking an opportunity to enhance the production of shows while prioritizing the well-being of all involved, including the artists and attendee experience. I have found a like-minded individual in Javi Nunez, based in San Diego, who shares the same values. I’ve been a big admirer of his events and strong work ethic, and now we’re joining forces for the greater good. As a musician, my aim is to abolish the "Two Drink Ticket Culture" and treat my fellow performers with the respect they deserve.
I am committed to bringing San Diego events that are founded on integrity, passion, and value.
Additionally, Modern Wav is organizing an exceptional New Year's party featuring a fantastic lineup and an astonishing visual display. Just wait until we announce these upcoming shows. You're in for a treat.
Photography by Alex Casillas
3) The band has been selling out shows in new markets. You're playing Catch One in LA with Black Light Odyssey, MODERN WAV with Normal Bias, and legends Nitzer Ebb. What do you make of the band's momentum?
To be honest, I'm feeling a bit of imposter syndrome and it's quite surprising. Nonetheless, I'm extremely proud of my bandmates who happen to be my brothers. We are three Mexican-American individuals from a small town, striving hard and taking risks to pursue our dream. Although we still have a long way to go, I'm glad to witness our progress.
4) I am always looking to see what my favorite bands are listening to. What are the 3 members of Matte Blvck currently listening to.
Louisahhh x Maelstrom
Normal Bias
Gerad Jugno
So Below
Clan of Xymox
So Much Blood
Matteo Tura
Local Suicide
The Agnes Circle
Ultra Sun
Grabyourface
Spike Ellis
Semantix
Creux lies
Panther Modern
I Break Horses
Undoubtedly, Matte Blvck is looking to raise the bar with its music and the values of destination events like MODERN WAV. September 2nd is already shaping up to be an experience like no other, with fetish performances, GoGo cages, lasers, so much fog, and EXCLUSIVE 40th Anniversary Nitzer Ebb & Domina Death merch.
If you have been fortunate enough to MODERN WAV with us, you will understand what a grand experience it was to host acts like HEALTH, Straight Razor, Soft Vein, and Patriarchy. Our guest buzzed about it for weeks, and now the buzz will be with you again on September 2nd at Music Box for the 40th Anniversary of Nitzer Ebb, Matte Blvck, and Substance artist Normal Bias.
As Labor Day Weekend approaches, Modern Wavrs from all over the West Coast buy tickets quickly. As previously, this event will sell out, and as I always say, “Regrets are forever. Pre-sale is not.”
See you Sept 2 for Modern Wav.
Tickets available at ModernWav.com
NORMAL BIAS BEGINS & ENDS W SEDUCTION
NORMAL BIAS BEGINS AND ENDS W SEDUCTION.
Being seduced by music with elements of Depeche, Camouflage & Nitzer Ebb and you will be reeled in. NORMAL BIAS released their S/T E.P. in 2022, and I am definitely late to the party. Just make sure to not be late to Modern Wav at Music Box 9/2 as they will be apart of the stellar lineup alongside electronic legends Nitzer Ebb and local starlets, Matte Blvck.
NORMAL BIAS crafted a dark banger with the track "Embody Control" that is regularly heard thoughout dark dancefloors + #healthgoth playlists. Once you hear it, you will be singing that verse and swaying in not time. Let's gets to know Chris of Normal Bias.
1) So tell us, how did Normal Bias start off. I love hearing how bands meet one another.
My previous band multiple man put out a record on Matt’s label DKA about 8 years ago. We were just boys. It was a good record but it was mixed like shit because I was 22. Matt offered to mix it so I guess we’ve been collaborating for almost a decade. I feel old. I need a drink.
2) Just by listening to Normal Bias, i know we have a lot of the similar tastes in music. What exactly is Normal Bias listening to?
I feel like all I listen to at home is some combination of Neil Diamond and stone temple pilots. If you’re talking influences I would put us in the realm of Cabaret Voltaire and severed heads. Anti tough guy, Mid 80s industrial that wasn’t afraid to sample silly bullshit.
3) Over the next coming months, NORMAL BIAS has some huge dates over the fall -- MODERN WAV + SUBSTANCE. Any new music or news on the horizon to accompany the massive shows?
We’ll have an LP done soon! Scared of how long record plants take these days. But we’re excited.
MODERN WAV scouted NORMAL BIAS for the monumental event on LABOR DAY WEEKEND 9/2 because of the incredibly music production that would sit at the same table as the many artists in your Spotify playlist. Don't miss them at
the next MODERN WAV.
SOFT VEIN: Lust, love, and the human condition.
Lust, love, and the human condition. SOFT VEIN's journey into darkwave and electronic has created a cult following with his project and the other live half of Harsh Symmetry.
Justin will perform live at Modern Wav on May 19th with Patriarchy, bringing his impressive March release 'VIOLENTIA' to the stage. Get ready for a dark and unforgettable experience.
Let's stab right into it.
1) Justin, I've repeatedly been listening to your latest song, VIOLENTIA, and I love how the production transports me to the world of SOFT VEIN. Can you share how you created this track?
Thanks for listening. VIOLENTIA came to me really quickly and the production really flowed and felt right as I was putting it together so I just went with it. I started with the drums and bass, which is my process for most songs. I looked for synth sounds that were haunting, and the sounds I found would really influence the recording of what’s become my first full-length album. Once I added those, I knew what the song was about and wrote the lyrics basically in a stream of consciousness, recorded the vocals in one take, added some guitar toward the end, and that’s it. It really helped break my pattern of overthinking things, and I’m really proud of that song.
2) As the tour life continues, what artists are you sharing the stage with are something that you find yourself amazed by?
I haven’t played many shows yet, but I’ve gotten to share the stage with Forever Grey a few times now, and they amaze me every time. CD Ghost is amazing as well; our show together at Rubycon Records in LA was a lot of fun. I’m really excited about some shows I have coming up this year.
3) Not only are you SOFT VEIN, but you are also fluid musically as a part of Harsh Symmetry. The bands have two different sounds. Is there a fine line between the two?
Harsh Symmetry is a solo project, like SOFT VEIN, and I perform as a live member. But I’ll say that performing that project has been such a positive and influential experience for me in so many ways. The two projects are definitely distinctive and what I enjoy most about performing with him is getting to do something completely different from SOFT VEIN, so I’d call it a bold line.
4) Would SOFT VEIN like to share anything or provide any exclusive information?
I'll l be announcing the release of my first full-length album soon. <3
It is highly recommended to arrive early at El Corazon Del Barrio this Friday, May 19th. You wouldn't want to miss any of the devilish performances from SOFT VEIN, Patriarchy, and the intimate show by Gisella Thorn. Additionally, we have a star-studded cast of DJs - Alex Gonzales from Matte Blvck, 7th Stranger, Javi Nunez, and Gothcheez - who will keep you dancing in your Demonias until the night's end. Be sure to dress for a lively funeral, as the second edition of Modern Wav is just around the corner. We look forward to seeing you in the fog.
Patriarchy: Bed, blood, bath, and Beyond.
"Bed, blood, bath and beyond" is what could be said about Patriarchy's recent European tour. Their madness of live snuff metal lands in San Diego with the second edition of Modern Wav at Corazon Del Barrio in Barrio Logan alongside Soft Vein Friday, May 19th.
As I joined the Modern Wav team, I got the opportunity to converse digitally with Patriarchy. Without further anticipation, let's get to the flogging questions.
1) Huizenga, who do you channel when you are on stage? Your energy on stage draws the audience in and keeps them watching and enthralled.
I’m really not present when I’m performing, so I can’t be sure. Sometimes maybe it feels like some dude inside of me, but the channel is not clear.
2) During your travels in the US, which artists have you performed with that have left Patriarchy in awe?
It was always inspiring watching Pixel Grip every night on our tour together, and most recently, Mvtant, King Yosef, marquis.is.dead, and Choke Chain has really got our blood pumping. Though Sandy Smiles will always reign supreme.
3) Siouxsie just came back. Have you seen the clips? What are your thoughts on her return?
I didn’t realize she had gone… I’d love to see her play the song from Batman and the underrated masterpiece ‘Forever.’
4) Remixes are very prevalent in the Patriarchy catalog. Zanias, Kris Baha, Kontravoid, Bon Harris (of Nitzer Ebb), and Rhys Fulber (of Front Line Assembly. Who is currently using ingredients associated with the Patriarchy in their kitchen?
I guess we can use this opportunity to announce that a full remix album of The Unself has just gone in the oven. Can’t name all the chefs quite yet, but we’ve tapped over a dozen of our faves for the first time, as well as a few returning for seconds.
Other exciting news: We have a second press coming of The Unself vinyl on special bloody semen-splattered wax, as well as the fifth and final chapter in The Unself video saga, a steamy thriller set to crowd favorite ‘No Touch Torture.’
We are also excited to play our first LA hometown show in a year headlining Dum Dum Fest at the Echo on June 24. as well as some other epic festivals in the coming months, like Verboden in Vancouver, the Terminus in Calgary, and the newly minted Immortalis at Portland's epic Coffin Club.
As we inch closer and closer to May 19th at El Corazon Del Barrio, we strongly encourage all our dark-spirited friends to indulge in the experience that is Patriarchy, Soft Vein, and live rope performance artist Giselle Thorn for an intimate setting of Modern Wav.
We highly recommend purchasing presale tickets as Modern Wav has already gained wide notoriety for selling out. As I say in my posts, “Regrets are forever, and Presale is not.”
Speaking to the grace of such darkness, Patriarchy, was an honor.
See you May 19th.
Gothcheez
Straight Razor: “I Make Music That Is Meant To Play Loud”
Every artist’s journey is unique, but some are more unique than others. Omar Doom AKA Straight Razor may be known for his appearance in Quentin Tarantino films (especially because he had the honor of killing Hitler), but his experience as an actor is much more recent than his history as a musician. Like any seasoned musician, his passion for music has involved him in multiple musical projects throughout the years, many of them in collaboration with other artists. Music has long been his main artistic focus, and he hadn’t even considered acting professionally until he met Quentin Tarantino, who told him he should pursue this art form as well. Seems he knew what he was talking about - who would have known that such a legendary and critically-acclaimed director would know potential when he sees it??
Clearly, the stars aligned to bring such a fated meeting of the minds to fruition, and we thank them because it brought a larger audience to an artist who deserves to be in the spotlight! Modern.Wav is thrilled to be showcasing Straight Razor at our April 15th show at Music Box San Diego in San Diego, along with Health, Author & Punisher, and Matte Blvck. And don’t worry: as an artist who prides himself on the intensity and cinematic nature of his music, you can be sure that Omar’s passion for film and theatrics shines through his set. He has a defined sense of style and aesthetic that feels altogether classic and clean, heavy and haunting.
An artist like this is best captured and understood through their own experience and thoughts, so Modern.Wav took the time to deep-dive into the mind of Straight Razor. Without further ado…
As a musician who is more widely known for your acting work, how do you feel your musical audience finds their way to you?
People are discovering my Straight Razor albums through their releases, social media and also through my acting work. I think fans of my movies are liking the movie soundtrack vibe of my music. Worlds collide when I do music for movies. You can hear a Straight Razor track in the opening credits of the horror movie SPREE starring Joe Keery of Stranger Things.
What newer artists do you look to as the future of the kind of music and/or musical communities you want to live in?
I just started a record label called Doom Vision where I’ll be releasing remixes from various artists that I’m really excited about. I’ll be releasing the identity of the remixers on my socials soon. I’ll be playing some of the new remixes for the first time at the show on April 15th at Music Box San Diego. There will be new Straight Razor music as well. Doom Vision is the future.
What non-music art and artists have inspired your creative path, and how do you feel it shows in your music?
I love all the visual tropes in Giallo films (Stylized Euro-Slashers/ Murder Mysteries). The sleek, masked killers with black gloves and often a straight razor as their murder weapon was the inspiration for the name STRAIGHT RAZOR.
What gets you lost in the world of music more than anything else?
I experience music best either in a club or driving. I make music that is meant to play loud. Aside from my studio, music sounds best to me on good club speakers or car speakers. Since we do a lot of driving here in Los Angeles, I get to listen to a lot of music. It’s a blessing and a curse.
If you discovered your own work 10 or 20 years ago and didn’t know you were the one that made it, how do you think you’d feel about it?
I’d like to think that I would’ve liked it. I think there’s a vibe in my music that has been there from the beginning. The mediums and methodology of making art and music changes with time, along with technological advancements and whatever else the future holds. The feeling you get when experiencing the art/music stays the same.
Are you on Spotify? Add Modern.Wav’s curated playlist “Dark Entries” to you favorites for more Straight Razor, Health, and Matte Blvck.
MATTE BLVCK Leak Performance Footage Ahead of Upcoming Show
Mere days before they play Modern Wav’s debut event, MATTE BLVCK drops a performance video that gives us a look into the atmospheric and immersive experience they have in store for us…
Photography by Alex Casillas
Mere days before they play Modern Wav’s debut event on April 15th, 2023 at Music Box , MATTE BLVCK drops a performance video that gives us a look into the atmospheric and immersive experience they have in store for us…
MATTE BLVCK is taking a different approach from contemporary bands in their content creation, in a way that’s making the full experience more accessible. By filming high-quality footage for fans to consume from home, they are drawing people into their world and pulling them closer to the stage. This footage feels kind of like a trailer or a teaser for the in-person show, and a live crowd will only add to that. The energy of the crowd fuels the dynamic of the performance in real-time, changing and enhancing the experience. Still, even in this video, there is so much to take in.
The action is beautifully caught through the camera cutting between the band members during the performance. It so richly captures each one of them, all absorbed in their own world of knobs, buttons, instruments, microphones… It’s a landscape that we’ve come to associate with some of the most impressive and successful musical acts in electronic music. Still, people who aren’t familiar with the backend of electronic music underestimate the vast difference between creating and performing electronic music. MATTE BLVCK performs their track with such sonic integrity, bringing it to life through emotion and passion in every detail of their performance.
It’s rare to find a group of musicians with such skill in both technological and emotive aspects so in-tune in their collaboration with each other. The live mixing of the music alone is impressive, it’s even reminiscent of Daft Punk. What’s more, is that the spirit of the track manifests in the details of the expression and intention behind every movement. If they can perform like this without a crowd, imagine how a crowd will electrify the moment even more.
We’ve curated a Spotify Playlist encapsulated with dark mechanical-tinged music. Search for MODERN.WAV | DARK ENTRIES and save it to your favorites
Written by Flux Psyche