Interview: BAKKIS Discusses ‘Emphasize’, Creative Intuition, and R-TRYBE

BAKKIS: The Journey of Simplifying Sound with ‘Emphasize’

Norwegian producer BAKKIS is back on the music scene with his latest release, ‘Emphasize,’ through R-TRYBE Records. Known for his stripped-back melodic house cuts, BAKKIS’s new track is a testament to his evolving artistic journey, featuring a persistent arpeggio, restrained tension, and subtle shifts in energy. Beyond his solo productions, BAKKIS also plays a pivotal role as a co-founder of R-TRYBE, an artist community and label dedicated to nurturing talent in electronic music.

The Evolution of BAKKIS’s Production Technique

In a recent interview, BAKKIS shared insights into how his approach to music production has transformed over the past year. A significant shift he identifies is a newfound simplicity in his creations. “I’ve become much more interested in getting a few strong elements to work together,” BAKKIS states, emphasizing his desire to create music where tension and evolution take precedence over an abundance of competing ideas. This philosophy is particularly evident in ‘Emphasize,’ which showcases a refined aesthetic focused on the interplay of sound rather than overwhelming the listener with complexity.

Trusting Instincts: A Producer’s Journey

Trusting one’s instincts is a crucial aspect of artistic growth, and BAKKIS has steered his journey in a direction that fosters this belief. He recalls a time when he might have felt compelled to replicate popular sounds or techniques, but over the years, he has learned the significance of staying true to his unique vision. “I’ve always been quite stubborn about making the music I want to make,” he explains, illustrating the delicate balance between inspiration from the surrounding world and the authenticity of personal expression. BAKKIS acknowledges that while influences and inspiration are vital, they should manifest naturally rather than through a conscious imitation of others’ work.

Crafting ‘Emphasize’: The Art of Subtlety

‘Emphasize’ is significant not just for its minimalist composition but also for its dynamic nature. BAKKIS reveals that his decision-making process while developing the track was heavily influenced by the intuition he gained from experiencing music in a live setting. By envisioning the energy of a club environment, he aimed for the transitions within the track to feel almost subconscious rather than overtly dramatic. “Sometimes the groove needs another little push, and sometimes the best thing you can do is leave it alone,” he notes, showcasing his understanding of the emotional journey that music can take the listener on.

The Power of Restraint in Electronic Music

What sets ‘Emphasize’ apart is its ability to generate tension without relying on traditional high-energy drops or climactic moments. BAKKIS points out that the evolution of energy throughout a track can be far more impactful than the standard paradigm of building up to a big drop. “I’m increasingly drawn to records where the tension itself is the payoff,” he shares, highlighting a shift towards an approach where subtle changes carry significant weight and emotional resonance. This method creates a sense of anticipation and engagement, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the music.

The Role of Remixes in Artistic Expression

The release of ‘Emphasize’ also includes a remix by Dennis de Laat, which maintains the essence of the original while showcasing a fresh perspective. For BAKKIS, a successful remix retains the “DNA” of the original track but also allows the remixer the freedom to innovate. “I want the remixer to do whatever they want,” he emphasizes, advocating for artistic freedom in the remixing process. This philosophy encourages diversity and exploration within electronic music, allowing different interpretations to coexist within a singular artistic vision.

R-TRYBE: Bridging the Gap in Music Production

As a co-founder of R-TRYBE, BAKKIS has contributed significantly to creating a supportive community for artists. R-TRYBE serves as an essential bridge, connecting music production education with industry access and mentorship. BAKKIS recognized the challenges many producers face when transitioning from learning to releasing music. “The biggest problem was the gap between learning how to produce and actually becoming part of the industry,” he reflects. In establishing R-TRYBE, he aimed to create an environment where producers could receive feedback, collaborate, and build professional networks, transforming isolated experiences into a community-driven journey.

The Impact of Community on Music Engagement

The unique voting system within R-TRYBE has altered BAKKIS’s perspective on what resonates with audiences. He acknowledges that emotional connection often supersedes technical perfection in music production. “You can hear a track where, from a production perspective, you immediately notice things that could be improved, but the community reacts to it because there’s an idea or energy that connects,” he explains. This realization encourages a focus on authenticity and feeling over simply striving for flawless production techniques.

Mentorship and Personal Growth

Through his roles within R-TRYBE, BAKKIS has embraced the duality of being both mentor and artist. He highlights the profound impact mentorship has had on him, forcing him to articulate his instinctive decisions and habits as a producer. “Teaching and giving feedback forces you to explain things that you might otherwise do instinctively,” he admits. This reflective process not only enhances his self-awareness but also reinforces the understanding that there isn’t a single path to producing music.

With ‘Emphasize,’ BAKKIS exemplifies the principles he has cultivated over the years: a commitment to simplicity, the embrace of instinct, and the fostering of community. As he navigates the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, his balance of technical knowledge and creative expression continues to inspire both his work and the artists around him.