Out Now via Unheard Music
Photo credit: Malandra Jr. / pizzaaftersex – Official
Unheard Music has once again transformed the sonic landscape with its latest release, ‘Your Retreat’. This collaboration brings together the creative talents of Italian producer Malandra Jr. and the label’s head, pizzaaftersex. As the second release from the label, it exemplifies the commitment to innovation and creativity that Unheard Music stands for.
At its core, ‘Your Retreat’ is built on a rolling house groove that perfectly balances club energy with an emotional resonance. The track’s melodic lift is designed to captivate listeners and create an immersive experience. Furthermore, the single is enhanced through remixes by two talented artists, Musumeci and Kirik. Musumeci injects an Italo Indie Dance flavor, adding layers of depth and attitude, while Kirik takes a more direct approach, crafting a remix that’s tailor-made for the dancefloor. This duality offers DJs a robust toolset for engaging with various audiences across different contexts.
Unheard Music was born out of a desire for artistic independence among its founders: Far and High, pizzaaftersex, and Mona Chrome. Since its inception last year, the label has prioritized experimentation and personal vision, steering clear of formulaic production techniques. This philosophy is artistically represented in ‘Your Retreat’, which reflects the diverse influences and creativity that the founders aim to nurture.
Sharing insights about the release, pizzaaftersex expressed, “For me, this is a very special piece of work. The release turned out to be dual – there is an incredibly strong mood that Malandra brought into the track, there are amazing remixes by Musumeci & Kirik, and there is also my original vision of the track, which dissolved within the interpretations of other artists…” His enthusiasm showcases his appreciation for the collaborative nature of music, emphasizing how each interpretation contributed to a richer final product.
*pizzaaftersex*, previously recognized for his work as a producer and sound designer in cinematic realms—including a significant soundtrack contribution to an international gaming production—has now pivoted his focus toward club and dance music, becoming both a DJ and producer. This transition highlights his versatile artistry and adaptability within different musical landscapes.
Malandra Jr. comes from a background steeped in music and art, having been nurtured in a creative family. He started composing early on and later studied classical piano and clarinet at the esteemed Academy of Teatro alla Scala. His early works in electronic music, including the much-acclaimed track ‘Conquest’ on Cocoon Recordings, paved the way for further releases on prominent labels like Dfloor, Stil Vor Talent, and R&S. His performances have graced major clubs and festivals worldwide, affirming his role as a notable figure in the electronic music scene.
Regarding the genesis of ‘Your Retreat’, Malandra Jr. shared, “This project was born between Italy and Dubai. It comes from deep mutual respect and from a fresh, sparkling melody that immediately pushed me to create something that could make it even lighter and more enjoyable to listen to…” This sentiment reveals not just his artistic approach but also a sense of cultural exchange, as distinct sounds and influences converge in his work. He emphasizes an inviting vibe in the track, with a carefree spirit that encourages listeners to simply “hold a glass in your hand and enjoy life.”
To experience the captivating sound of ‘Your Retreat’, it’s available for download here. For those eager to dive deeper into the sound, an accompanying playlist on SoundCloud showcases the musical journey crafted by these talented artists.
