Music Connection Goes Digital: Meet the Rising Stars of EDM
Every May, Music Connection leaps into the digital realm, showcasing the vibrant world of electronic dance music. This year, the magazine features a striking cover by the acclaimed producer deadmau5 and includes an extensive Digital Resources guide. Among its highlights is a roundtable discussion with some of the most exciting up-and-coming DJs and producers on the scene today. Let’s delve into the insights shared by these talented artists, exploring their journeys, sounds, and future ambitions.
NOSTALGIX: The Bass House Pioneer
When and how did you start DJing/producing?
NOSTALGIX’s journey into music began in 2017 while studying film production. Falling in love with dance music, she started DJing for fun in her dorm room. By 2018, she ventured into music production, which rapidly transformed from a hobby into a serious endeavor. Recognized for her unique sound, she gained traction around 2020.
Describe your sound.
Her music manifests as a hybrid between house and bass, characterized by high energy and power. NOSTALGIX defines her sound as a fusion that resonates deeply within the dance community.
Tell us about your latest release.
Her debut album, Inferno, released on March 27th, represents her most significant work to date. Infused with passion, this album encapsulates her artistic vision. Collaborating with artists she admires, NOSTALGIX is excited for listeners to experience the beauty of her creations.
What gear do you use?
Traveling frequently for tours, her primary gear includes a laptop and Ableton. The KRK KNS 6400 headphones are her trusted companions for production on the go, alongside her AirPods for quick ideas.
Future Plans:
Looking ahead, NOSTALGIX is set to tour North America, bringing her debut album to life on stage.
MELTX: Crafting Fever Dreams
When and how did you start DJing/producing?
MELTX expresses that her music journey kicked off while scoring short films, evolving into DJing when she discovered the club scene. It became serious when she saw crowds coming specifically for her sets, indicating that her magical atmosphere was resonating with audiences.
Describe your sound.
Her sound is described as a fever dream; a blend of hyper-feminine elements that create an engaging and contrasting experience. MELTX crafts techno like a film score, layering softness over hard beats to create cinematic experiences.
Tell us about your latest release.
Her latest release is a unique piece of hard dance tied with vibrant and dangerous undertones. Each track invites listeners into a world where beauty serves as armor, making them feel deeply engaged with her artistic narrative.
What gear do you use?
For performances, MELTX relies on Pioneer CDJ-3000s and a Xone 92 mixer. In the studio, she uses Logic Pro X, allowing her to create atmospheric soundscapes and intricate synthesizations. The Sennheiser HD 25 headphones are her go-to for clarity.
Future Plans:
MELTX looks forward to bringing her high-emotion feminine energy into the spotlight with new singles, darker visuals, and immersive performances. Her debut North American tour is on the horizon, promising a theatrical experience in every city.
Mary Droppinz: The Sound Explorer
When did you start DJing/producing?
Mary Droppinz began her DJing journey in Southern California in 2015 and transitioned to production in 2019. It became serious in 2021 when she secured a manager, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
Describe your sound.
Her sound is a blend of experimental and experiential, drawing from genres such as breaks, garage, jungle, and riddim. Each set she plays is a curated journey designed to immerse her audience.
Latest release:
Her collaboration, “What?”, with Neumonic, recently released on Deadbeats, reflects her playful yet cheeky approach to music.
Key gear:
Mary utilizes CDJ 3000s and Sennheiser HD-25s, alongside Ableton and Rekordbox for her digital production needs.
Future Plans:
With a new single dropping called “Pop,” along with a full EP in the works, Mary is having fun creating new music, capturing the excitement of her evolving artistry.
Explore more about Mary Droppinz
ELIIZA: The Hybrid Innovator
When did you dive into DJing/producing?
Musical passion runs deep in ELIIZA’s veins, stemming from a family connection. She began her journey in production, which seamlessly transitioned into DJing as she honed her skills. A pivotal moment came when she played her first live set in Manchester, marking her commitment to music.
Describe your sound.
Her music combines bouncy rhythms with harder techno elements, focusing on building tension and releasing it at the perfect moment. ELIIZA ultimately aims for her audience to feel a deep connection through groove and energy.
Latest sets:
Her recent performances emphasize progression and storytelling, showcasing her ability to manipulate the dynamic of a room.
Key gear:
Comfortable with various setups, she’s recently invested in a Pioneer V10 mixer, enhancing her creative flexibility in performances.
Future Plans:
ELIIZA seeks to refine her sound while releasing music that resonates with audiences. With exciting shows lined up, including major festivals, she’s gearing up for a breakout year.
XS BULLY: A Natural Instinct
How did you start in music?
XS BULLY began producing instinctively at a young age, eventually gravitating towards electronic music as club culture became a larger part of her life.
Describe your sound.
Her evolving sound blends elements of Latin club and rhythm-driven electronic music. XS BULLY embraces a unique creative process that prioritizes community and the dancefloor in her music-making.
Latest release:
Her recent collaboration, “BELLA.K.HORSE,” showcases high-energy rhythms and percussive grooves, embodying her Latin club influences while celebrating collaborative creativity.
Key gear:
Using minimal gear, XS BULLY develops her sound entirely in-the-box, relying on impulsive creativity.
Future Plans:
She’s dedicated to fostering community through her queer club events in London while also focusing on new performances and productions that expand beyond traditional formats.
This year’s Music Connection truly encapsulates the evolving landscape of electronic music through the stories and artistry of these rising stars. Each artist brings a unique sound and perspective to the forefront, promising an exciting future for the genre as they connect with audiences around the world.
