Inside the World of Mason: A Journey Through Music, Gear, and Creativity
The Musical Legacy of Mason
Dutch producer, DJ, and songwriter Mason stands as a significant figure in the realm of electronic music, boasting a career that stretches over two decades. He has adeptly navigated the line between underground club culture and mainstream electronic appeal. His track, “Exceeder,” is a testament to this blend, having achieved global acclaim and a resurgence in popularity through its inclusion in the Saltburn soundtrack, showcasing how a classic can find new life in contemporary contexts. With his profound appreciation for both commercial viability and avant-garde dance music, Mason continues to redefine his artistic identity.
The Return of Nite Rites
Mason’s latest endeavor brings back his acclaimed Nite Rites series, launching with Nite Rite Alpha. This collection is specifically designed for club environments, released under his own label, Animal Language. The project embodies Mason’s relentless quest to fuse sophisticated soundscapes with club energy, providing listeners with pulsating tracks that capture the essence of nightlife.
Rekorder Studios: A Vision Realized
A pivotal moment in Mason’s career is the creation of Rekorder Studios in Amsterdam, a long-cherished dream that has finally come to fruition. This state-of-the-art complex features sixteen dedicated production rooms, nurturing a community for professional producers and songwriters. Mason’s personal studio, equipped with a blend of vintage and modern gear, underscores his commitment to crafting high-quality music. The studio’s design emphasizes superior acoustics, ensuring an optimal environment for creativity to flourish.
A Peek Inside His Studio Setup
In a recent discussion on Geared Up, Mason opens up about his current studio environment. “It really is a dream, to be honest,” he states, detailing how the studio’s acoustics are meticulously crafted to accommodate his powerful ATC monitors, which are renowned for their rich low-end capabilities. Emphasizing practicality, he utilizes Logic Pro, allowing for seamless transitions between various projects without excessive delays in recalling mixes.
Mason’s setup is a hybrid of digital and analog equipment. It features an impressive array of compressors, including the Distressor and API2500, along with cherished synthesizers like the Moog One and Sequential Pro 3. His configuration, managed with a Flock digital patchbay and Lynx interface, facilitates quick adjustments, enabling Mason to work efficiently even while incorporating both analog warmth and modern clarity.
The Instruments That Shaped Him
Reflecting on his musical journey, Mason reveals that his first instrument was the violin, which he played for two decades. His studio endeavors began with a Roland MC303 sequencer and an Akai S700 sampler, a nostalgic nod to his teenage years when saving music was a challenge due to the sampler’s deteriorating floppy drive.
Among his most cherished gear is a Juno 60, an instrument that has accompanied him for about thirty years, showcasing a deep emotional connection to the creativity it has enabled. He also fondly recalls investing hard-earned money to purchase a pair of Technics SL1200 turntables, showcasing his determination from an early age.
The Importance of Musical Taste Over Gear
While Mason appreciates his high-quality equipment, he emphasizes that successful music creation ultimately boils down to taste. “The only thing you need to make fresh-sounding music is finely tuned taste,” he asserts, reminding aspiring musicians that skill and aesthetics are the true keys to artistic expression. This viewpoint resonates in the industry where gear often overshadows the essence of music-making.
Memorable Moments in Music
Mason’s career is laden with unforgettable stories, including a humorous yet alarming incident involving his Yamaha CS2X synth, which was accidentally drenched due to a water leak. Envied for his resilience, he has navigated countless hiccups during live performances, from equipment failures to unexpected stage malfunctions. Each story serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of live music, further enriching his portfolio as an experienced DJ.
The Dream and the Future
When asked about future aspirations, Mason expresses a desire to acquire a CS80 synth, a lifelong dream for him. He values the creative spark that comes from experimenting with new instruments and looks forward to the exploration they can provide in his ongoing music production journey.
With a robust setup, a wealth of experiences, and an unyielding passion for music, Mason continues to inspire. His legacy reflects the rich tapestry of electronic music, encouraging both established artists and newcomers to find their unique voices while enjoying the endless journey of creativity.
