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Interview with Michael Cristiano: A Journey Through Decades of Mastery

Posted on 18 January 2025

Renowned as a singer-songwriter, producer, composer, and performer, Michael Cristiano has built a remarkable career steeped in versatility and creativity. In this exclusive interview, we touch on his beginnings, inspired by Elvis Presley’s electrifying performances, and his evolution into a globally respected music director and producer. With decades of experience, including his pivotal role with The Seekers and his recent all-Italian album, Michael opens up about the personal significance of his projects, the artistry behind music production, and the thrill of live performance. From crafting multi-platinum albums to exploring new frontiers in Latin music, his dedication to his craft remains unwavering. Whether sharing his advice for aspiring artists or reflecting on the defining moments of his career, Michael Cristiano offers an inspiring look into his world.

Michael Cristiano, welcome to A&R Factory! Thanks for taking the time to sit down with us and discuss your storied and accoladed career as a singer-songwriter, producer, composer and performer. Before we cover your achievements, we’d love to hear how you discovered and honed your skills.

I remember watching Elvis Presley in “Viva Las Vegas” on TV one night with my grandmother. I couldn’t have been more than three or four years old. Elvis was playing the guitar, singing and dancing with Ann Margaret. I was entranced. Not long after that, I watched the ’68 Comeback Special, which featured classic footage of Elvis playing the guitar and singing in black leather. I knew then – that’s what I wanted to do. I became obsessed with the guitar and started classical guitar lessons at the age of six delving into further studies in jazz, rock, composition and arrangement in my early teens.

You’ve been the Music Director and Producer for The Seekers since 1992 and joined The Original Seekers as the fourth voice in 2019. How has your experience with such iconic groups shaped your approach to music production and performance?

I am blessed to have worked with some of the greatest artists in the world throughout my career, but The Seekers were perhaps the most influential. They trusted me with producing their “sound”, and Judith Durham often said that I was the only producer since Tom Springfield (their original producer) who could re-create the magic that was The Seekers. Working with the group opened many doors for me professionally, and I am forever indebted to them for their trust and friendship. Being asked to be the ‘fourth voice’ in ‘The Original Seekers’ was the icing on the cake, and I’m thrilled and honoured to be part of Australian music history now.

Your all-Italian album, released on November 1, 2024, showcases your versatility as a singer, musician, and producer. What inspired you to explore this particular project, and what does it mean to you personally? 

I have always wanted to record an all-Italian album of original songs as I have been a fan of Italian pop music since I was a child. My father bought me a vinyl single of Italian singer/songwriter Nicola Di Bari’s hit “Chitarra Suona Più Piano” and I was hooked from my first listen.

I enjoyed every minute of recording all the songs on the album. I played all the instruments, sang all the vocals and produced the entire project. To see it resonate so strongly with international audiences is a dream come true.

You’ve produced multi-platinum albums for legends like The Seekers, Russell Morris, and Mirusia. How does your approach differ when producing for other artists versus working on your own music?

When producing my own music, I’m free to explore different styles and musical genres, whether jazz, blues or classical. When producing other artists, staying true to their style and identity is crucial. A producer’s job in that situation is to bring the artist’s vision to life and make them and their songs sound as good as possible.

What do you enjoy most about being on stage, and how does it compare to the creative process in the studio?

I love working in the studio, but nothing beats the feeling of playing in front of a live audience. That is what music is really about – performing, communicating with an audience live, in the moment. That’s one of the most special feelings there are.

With your latest album being added to international radio, how does it feel to have your solo work resonate with such a wide audience?

I’m thrilled with the reaction the album is getting around the world. I knew there was something special about this album when I first started recording the songs and seeing audiences worldwide react so positively to the music was wonderful.

Your career spans decades, and you’ve excelled as a singer-songwriter, producer, composer, and performer. What moments stand out as the most defining or pivotal in your musical journey?

Many moments stand out to me, first playing my first ‘paying gig’ when I was just twelve years old. Two years later, I started my first band, ‘Rebel’, with friends from school, later known as ‘7th Avenue’. I joined the show band ‘Koco’ in my late teens and backed many of the biggest international acts of the day that toured Australia. Following this, I played with The Seekers in 1988, became their Musical Director in 1990, and Record Producer in 1992. Producing my first platinum-selling album, ‘The Seekers – The 25 Year Reunion Celebration’ is another definite highlight.

Can you share more about the direction you’re heading with your upcoming projects?

I’m about to record two songs from my Italian album “Mai Finirà” with Spanish lyrics, and I’m very excited about releasing new material for the Latin music market. There’s also a new album in the works, so stay tuned, folks.

Reflecting on your extensive career, what advice would you offer to aspiring musicians and producers hoping to make their mark in the industry?

The best advice I can offer to up-and-coming musicians is to work with as many different musicians as possible. Make an effort to work with musicians that are better than you. Listen and learn as much as you can. Never, ever give up. Most importantly, practice. Work at your craft, always. It doesn’t matter what you have to say as a musician, a singer, a songwriter or a record producer if you haven’t developed the skills to express your ideas – oh, and practice, practice, practice.

Discover Michael Cristiano’s work on Spotify and his official website.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Breaking the Mould: An Interview with r/ginola on Bold Soundscapes and a New L

Posted on 18 January 2025
r/ginola

With an unmistakable knack for pushing boundaries and weaving intensity into every track, r/ginola is a genre-defying artist carving his own path from the unlikely backdrop of Connecticut. Having honed his craft through years of experimentation and evolution, his music is an unapologetic blend of moody cadences, raw emotion, and influences as diverse as shoegaze, nu-metal, and modern trap. In this candid interview, r/ginola opens up about his tumultuous artistic journey, the deeply personal themes behind his forthcoming 8-track LP, and his unrelenting commitment to authenticity in an industry often criticised for its uniformity. From his creative process to his take on vulnerability, this conversation offers a glimpse into the mind of an artist determined to leave a mark.

r/ginola, welcome to A&R Factory! It’s a pleasure to sit down with you and discuss the release of your upcoming LP. Before we get into the music, we’d love to get a better understanding of who you are as an artist. How did you get started and where has your music taken you so far?

I started about 4 years ago as more of a way to vent my feelings and frustrations that I had at the time. I showed friends the stuff I was making during a smoke sesh and they really encouraged me to get in a proper studio and take it seriously. That period was very dark but I’m glad I went through it. It allowed me to fully express things but also find myself as an artist and really made me open to new ideas or sounds.

Fast forward to now, after 3 rebrands in terms of name & genre, and over 100 songs, I feel I’ve really grown as an artist, and I am currently making my best stuff. The old stuff was cool (a lot of it is deleted) but the new stuff is basically a blend of what I was making previously.

What’s the most satisfying/challenging aspect of your craft?

Hmm.. the most satisfying to me is creating songs. I enjoy the writing bit, coming up with different flows and then putting it all together. The most challenging bit is mixing/mastering. I’m not the greatest at it but I normally try to tweak it to how I would like it and how it would sound in my car

Can you describe the unique elements that define your sound?

My sound to me is different from anything you hear currently. It’s hard nowadays for artists to really stand out because there is a lot of copy and paste but with my sound, I worked hard to make it different.

My delivery/cadence is very moody, and I think that comes from my time making shoegaze/nu-metal music. The lyrics are very sexual or aggressive at times, which is basically my usual nature.

What’s the story behind your 8-track release?

Whenever I drop a project, I always try to paint a picture. The picture is created by expressing everything I have dealt with in my life through relationships, friendships and miscellaneous things. This project, in particular, is about me falling in and out of love with an ex. I don’t wanna dive too deep into it, but you get the gist. I should also add that when it comes to the story/lyrics of each song, I leave it up to the listener to interpret it however they see fit.

How would you say the release reflects your identity as an artist?

This release is me. From the lyrics to the story to the energy to the sound, this project embodies everything I set out to be when I initially started.

How do you balance vulnerability and creativity?

When it comes to writing I pretty much lock myself in a certain period of time in my life and remember what it felt like. The more vulnerable I am the better the lyrics I believe. I try to keep it from sounding like I’m whining and keep it very fun so people are able to connect with it better. Sappy love songs just aren’t for me. I like to make mine sick and twisted, very dark at times.

You’ve cited influences ranging from Deftones and Static Dress to Yeat and Young Thug. How do these varied inspirations manifest in your music, and are there any nods to these artists on this record?

Jeez, I could talk about each of these artist for days! And there are loads more, LOADS! But these have been very prominent in my artistry. I’d say Deftones for sure has played the biggest role, Chino Moreno for me is god (I’m glazing heavily and I don’t care haha), I love that guy dearly! From songwriting to singing to energy to just about everything, he heavily influences my music. I love Static Dress for their visuals as well as their sick storylines, Oli is very cool!

Going by the standout single, sssnake, you’re clearly one to push the boundaries of sound design, where did that boldness as an artist come from?

I’ve always been bold. Maybe too bold at times but I like being this way. You can’t be afraid to take risks or try new things, you just gotta go for it and stick with it. Will it get you in trouble sometimes? Sure, but who cares! Be different, enjoy yourself!

How has your location shaped your artistic journey?

Umm I mean I feel like it kind of blessing but also a hindrance. I’m from Connecticut, so not too many people know of the state or where it is. There aren’t many artists or any artists for that matter that have made it out. But I also feel like that’s because everyone is trying to sound like everyone, and since Connecticut is unknown, no one wants to hear their story. They’d rather listen to someone from California, Florida or New York if the story is similar. For me, I’m in my own lane; there is no one making this kind of music here. And I love that!

What does 2025 have in store for you?

We will see together hahah I’m hoping to tick some boxes off the things I’ve been manifesting but I won’t be disappointed if things don’t go as planned. End goal is to just continue putting out great music and enjoy every second of it!

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Stream r/ginola’s new 2025 LP on SoundCloud now.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

‘sssnake’: r/ginola’s Venomous Dive into the Electronic Spectrum

Posted on 17 January 2025

With sssnake, the up-and-coming artist and producer, r/ginola, strikes again, delivering a sonic venom that bites hard and fast. Forgoing the usual slow-burn build-ups, the track hooks instantly, plunging listeners into a speaker-slamming anthem that meshes bass-heavy EDM with hyper-pop chaos. The glitchy techno interjections and euphoric house swells create a kaleidoscope of sound that refuses to play by the rules, colouring far beyond the conventional lines of electronica.

Building on the foundation of his first official release, Edgar Allen Poe, a genre-defying electrotrap banger, r/ginola continues to scribe his unique sonic signature across uncharted auditory territory. While his chaotic approach to production lands firmly in the remit of modern trends, his distinctive style carves out a space that’s entirely his own.

sssnake not only showcases r/ginola’s adventurous approach to sound design but also hints at his potential to become a trailblazer in the EDM scene. With a tighter structure and a little more polish to his sound, he could be poised to dominate the electronic frontier.

sssnake was officially released on January 17th; stream the single on SoundCloud and Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Interview with Elevated Focusion: Channeling Two Decades of Motif Mastery into ‘An Electric Evening with Jonny Rhythms and the Magical Motif’

Posted on 12 January 2025

Elevated Focusion has always had a knack for turning personal moments into musical odysseys, and their latest venture proves it once again. In this interview, we step into their world of mesmerising motifs and rediscovered treasures. The backbone of this LP, An Electric Evening with Jonny Rhythms and the Magical Motif, dates back to 2001–2004, a time when a Yamaha Motif Classic keyboard was central to the creative spark. Fast-forward two decades, and these tracks find fresh purpose in 2025, offering a glimpse into the old-meets-new synergy that fuels Elevated Focusion’s style. From the subtle jazz infusions to the nostalgic Nintendo echoes, their willingness to experiment breathes new life into these long-lost compositions.

Elevated Focusion, thanks for catching up with us to discuss the launch of your LP, An Electric Evening with Jonny Rhythms and the Magical Motif. With the tracks being made in 2001 – 2004, the project has been two decades in the making; what inspired you to release the collection of tracks in 2025? 

The studio I mix my music in has an old Motif. So while mixing my 3rd album, I have been taking all my old music from my memory cards. I already released the album ‘Elevated Focusion’ under the name Jonny Rythmns.  I would say that album was 20 years in the making.  This was probably 5 minutes in the making…lol.

I am an impulsive artist and in the moment it seemed like it could be cool to do something with some of the mixed music from my old memory cards.

All the tracks were brought to life on a Yamaha Motif Classic keyboard; how did the instrument influence the creative process behind these tracks?

I bought this keyboard when I was 19 years old.  With the Motif, I used to play a lot more piano.  A lot of my songs would have piano in some way or another.  Which is funny, because I never use piano at all anymore.  So it really is like two completely different artists.

Do you feel its specific sound shaped the emotional atmosphere of the collection?

I love Jazz and 90s Nintendo music.  At that time, I really wanted to be a jazz artist, but I just didn’t have the technical skills to do it.  I was trying to make jazz, but it just ended up being whatever the hell it was…lol

I only ever had an original Nintendo and it was functional for a long time.  So, I guess subliminally, I always had Nintendo on my mind. So Nintendo “wanna be” Jazz was my thing I guess.

What was the process of professionally mixing these songs like, and how did it transform the original tracks?

I honestly did the bare minimum on these songs except for the last song.  I put a little time into that one because I wanted to see where the engineer could bring it.

I wasn’t planning on releasing these songs.  I just was doing the bare minimum to get them ready for possible use in TV & Film.

I mixed the song that is the final song on the album last week. I really wanted to do something with it.  So, I decided to put together an LP with my favorites of the songs I recently mixed.

Since creating this collection, what do you feel are the most noticeable ways you’ve evolved as a musician and composer?

I definitely feel like technology has made it easier to develop a song and collaborate with other artists.  My music was a lot more introspective back then.  I was just stuck in my own head.  I have a lot more life experience now.  It is a lot easier for me now to step away from my music and try to create from a third-person point of view.

Were there any specific life events or personal moments during 2001–2004 that particularly influenced the themes or emotions of these songs?

There is no doubt about it, that it was a difficult time in my life.  To be honest, I don’t really remember it. Those memory cards are really all I have.

I always want to create an experience with each release.  It sounds crazy, but this release really isn’t personal.  I wanted to create an immersive experience of what memories I took from those old memory cards.

Is there a particular track in this collection that holds the most personal significance to you?

I would definitely say the final track.  It was my attempt to create a symphony just using that keyboard.  I recorded each sound on its own track and filled up the 16 tracks on the keyboard.  It was really difficult to do at the time.

Now with having Logic Pro, all the things that were impossible on the Motif are now extremely easy.  But I am still really proud of that track for what it is.

How do you hope this collection connects with listeners, especially those who might not have experienced your earlier music?

This is an invitation to an intimate moment.  It is almost like sharing memories.  Most of my old music is poorly mixed.  These songs are professionally mixed.  So maybe someone would give this a chance, where they normally couldn’t get into my old music.

What’s next for Elevated Focusion? 

I am working on the mixing for my 3rd album which I hope to release by Fall 2025.  It is a lot of fun and I’m looking forward to sharing it.  Where ‘Dark Nights’ focused on dark themes, this is a lot lighter.

I honestly love doing this.  I am already working on my 4th album.  Each album will always have its own vibe, and I will always try to challenge myself to do something fresh.

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Listen to An Electric Evening with Jonny Rhythms and the Magical Motif on SoundCloud now.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

LA’s GiNN 諸葛靖 dropped a darkly debauched dancefloor-scorching electrohop anthem with his mindfully mantric hit, //MHM//

Posted on 10 January 2025

LA’s GiNN 諸葛靖 is back with a swagger-soaked, unapologetically bold new single, //MHM//, dropping on 10th January. It’s a jet-black, body-moving juggernaut that hammers home his mission to bridge cultures and tear through genre boundaries in one fell swoop. The track bristles with a sense of unrestrained hedonism, but there’s an empowering undercurrent too, as GiNN commands us to trust our instincts and slam the door on timid self-doubt.

Charged with grit and fuelled by a pulsing bassline, //MHM// is precisely the kind of track that carves its own niche in Electrohop. As soon as the thundering beat kicks in, it’s clear GiNN has taken care to ensure every element lands like a knockout punch.

Recorded in Chengdu, Sichuan, and spearheaded by GiNN as Executive Producer, Composer, and Lyricist, the single joins a litany of cross-continental influences that shape his bilingual style. He’s deftly woven Mandarin and English hooks into a propulsive arrangement that feels underground-ready and crafted for the main stage.

With creative support from Otomic on arrangement and audio engineering, //MHM// simmers with dark tension before bursting into a thunderous assault of bass. GiNN’s low-slung vocals add an air of edgy mystique; there’s no mistaking his raw self-assurance as he urges listeners to own their choices. Lyrically, it holds true to the mantric backbone, turning a simple “mhm” into a resolute statement of intent.

GiNN’s commitment to celebrating his Han-American roots remains a vital part of his artistic identity. He’s proven he can hold sway both online—racking up more than 50K followers on 抖音—and on monumental stages like 88rising’s Head in the Clouds festival in Guangzhou.

//MHM// will be available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify, from January 10th.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Exclusive A&R Factory Interview with Producer Mykah: From Church Choir to Afrobeat Innovation

Posted on 27 December 2024

In this exclusive A&R Factory interview, Producer Mykah takes us on a journey through his inspiring rise in the music industry, from his humble beginnings in a church choir to producing for global icons like Davido and Ozuna. With a signature style that marries Afrobeat and R&B, Mykah discusses the challenges he overcame to establish his studio, his creative process, and his passion for giving back to the community through YouTube tutorials. He also sheds light on his recent EP, collaborations with rising stars like Boyspyce, and his vision for the future.

Producer Mykah, welcome to A&R Factory! We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with you and discuss the crowning points of your career and your future ambitions. Going back to your origin story, what inspired you to step into production and how did you get started? 

Thank you for having me! My journey into music production began with inspiration from my dad, who was the choirmaster at our church. I was fascinated by the keyboard and curious about how people could create such beautiful music with it. That curiosity led me to learn the keyboard, and soon, I was playing for my church. In 2016, I took it a step further by downloading FL Studio, a DAW for music production, and I started teaching myself how to make beats by watching YouTube tutorials. That marked the beginning of my career as a producer.

Were there any challenges you faced when you started out?

I like to view challenges as building blocks to success, but the most significant obstacle I faced was financial. Setting up my own music studio required resources I didn’t have at the time. However, I overcame this by consistently putting out more beats for purchase, which gradually provided the funds I needed to establish myself.

Your list of credits is almost endless; which projects stand out for you and why?

One project that stands out for me is a track I produced featuring Ozuna and Davido. The experience of having two artists from different continents working on a beat I created was mind-blowing. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do. I’d also say my signature style, which blends Afrobeat and R&B, adds a unique element to my projects.

What inspired you to create a tutorial series on YouTube?

YouTube played a significant role in my journey as a producer—it’s where I learned many of the skills I have today. Creating a tutorial series was my way of giving back to the community and helping upcoming producers like myself who may not have access to formal training.

Can you tell us a little about your recently released EP and your work with Boyspyce?

My recent EP focuses on Afrobeat, showcasing its many facets while featuring talented up-and-coming artists. I wanted to provide a platform for these artists to share their talent and tell their stories. Working with Boyspyce was a particularly fun and rewarding experience. Our collaboration came about after he discovered my beats on YouTube, and the rest is history.

How have the artists you have collaborated with shaped your career?

Collaboration has been pivotal in my growth as a producer. Every time I work with an artist, I learn something new and refine my craft. Artists like Davido, Ozuna, Barry Jhay, and Boyspyce have left a lasting impact on my journey, helping me evolve and reach new heights.

What would you say is the main driving force behind your creativity, and how is it pushing you towards your long-term goals?

My creativity is fueled by my passion for constantly creating new sounds and pushing boundaries. It’s this drive that keeps me experimenting and evolving. Looking ahead, I see myself creating global hits and launching my own music production school to nurture the next generation of producers.

What’s your vision for the future, and how does that tie in with the contributions you want to make to the music industry?

My vision is to continue innovating and elevating Afrobeat on the global stage while building a legacy that empowers others. I want to give back to the industry by creating opportunities for young talents and fostering a collaborative environment where creativity thrives.

What are you putting into place to ensure that you reach your milestones and grow your brand?

I’m focused on exploring new sounds, incorporating AI into my production process, and collaborating with artists, producers, and entertainers from around the world. These steps will help me stay ahead of the curve while expanding my reach and influence in the music industry.

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Discover Producer Mykah’s work on Spotify and keep up to date with his latest work via Instagram.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Shaping Soundscapes: An Exclusive Interview with Audio Engineer Kaiki Chan

Posted on 24 December 2024

Kaiki Chan’s journey into audio engineering is as inspiring as it is illustrative of the intersection between technical mastery and artistic passion. In this interview, Kaiki discusses their path from youthful curiosity about the entertainment world to an accomplished career that includes mixing standout tracks like Summer Cologne and restoring the audio of classic films at Audio Mechanics. The interview touches on the challenges of balancing creativity with client expectations, the rewards of collaboration, and the evolving landscape of sound engineering. Kaiki’s insights offer a window into the artistry and precision that define their work in shaping unforgettable audio experiences.

  1. Kaiki Chan, it’s a pleasure to connect with you and discuss your decorated career as an audio engineer. Before we get stuck into your accomplishments, can you take us back to the first moment you realized audio engineering might be more than a hobby and could become a lifelong pursuit?

From a young age, I was always drawn to the world of entertainment whether it was film, music, or television. What really fascinated me was the behind-the-scenes process: how all of these elements come together to create something that resonates with the audience. As I grew older, I became increasingly interested in sound and how it shapes our perception of media. It was in my teenage years, when I first started experimenting with recording equipment, that I realized this was more than just a hobby. I began to see audio engineering as a path that could blend my technical curiosity with my creative interests, and from that point, I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career.

  1. How did your early influences lead you toward refining your technical skills and understanding the artistry involved in shaping sound?

Throughout my academic years, I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredibly inspiring peers and professors who broadened my perspective. Although I initially felt that sound engineering was a niche, I quickly discovered just how expansive the field really was. Whether it was through learning about acoustics, mixing, or the creative possibilities of sound design, I realized that audio engineering is both a technical craft and an artistic expression. The more I learned, the more I recognized how sound can influence emotion, narrative, and overall experience, which ultimately refined both my technical abilities and my artistic sensibilities.

  1. Along the way, have you had to overcome any challenges which ultimately gave you more confidence as an engineer?

One of the most challenging aspects of being an audio engineer is the constant balancing act between creativity and client expectations. Over the years, I’ve learned that the moments that truly boost my confidence are when I’m able to meet those expectations while still maintaining a high level of creativity. Whether it’s delivering a sound mix that elevates a project or receiving positive feedback from clients who are thrilled with the final product, those moments serve as reminders of why I’m doing this work and motivate me to continue pushing myself.

  1. Could you share some insights into what drew you towards working as a mixing engineer on the track “Summer Cologne” and what made that collaboration such a standout moment in your career?

“Summer Cologne” was one of the first major projects I worked on as an audio engineer, and it stands out for a few reasons. One key factor was the collaboration itself. The artist was incredibly open to new ideas, and the creative freedom allowed me to experiment and really find the right sound. Additionally, the project came together remotely due to the pandemic, which was a new experience for many professionals at the time. The challenges of working virtually helped me realize the potential for remote collaboration and taught me how to adapt quickly to new technologies and workflows, which has been invaluable in my career.

  1. What was the most rewarding aspect of restoring the audio of old films at Audio Mechanics?

Restoring old film audio is an incredibly rewarding experience for me, primarily because it feels like I am giving new life to pieces of history. Many of these films had soundtracks or audio elements that had deteriorated over time, and the opportunity to preserve them for future generations felt meaningful on a much larger scale. There’s something deeply gratifying about knowing that my work will allow people to experience these films in their most authentic form, and that I’m contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage in a way that can be appreciated by audiences for years to come.

  1. How do you navigate the pressure of deadlines and high expectations while still allowing creativity to flow naturally?

Managing deadlines and high expectations is definitely part of the job, but I’ve found that the key is balance. Time management is crucial, but it’s also important to let the creative process take its course. When I’m really in the zone, it feels like nothing else matters. Hunger, sleep, even time itself become secondary to the flow of ideas. It’s when I’m able to focus fully on the task at hand that I can create my best work. And, as for high expectations, I’ve learned to embrace them as a source of motivation rather than pressure. They push me to strive for excellence, and they often lead to some of my most fulfilling work.

  1. What do you hope to achieve in your career that will leave a meaningful imprint on the industry?

My goal is simple: I want to continue contributing to the world of sound in a meaningful way. Entertainment, in all its forms, plays a crucial role in shaping how we understand the world, connect with each other, and experience life. While it may not be life-or-death work, the emotional impact of great sound design or engineering is undeniable. I’m proud to be a part of that process, and my aspiration is to keep working on projects that resonate with people, spark emotions, and leave a lasting impact, whether it’s through a film, an album, or any other medium.

  1. What would you say to inspire others to follow their own engineering paths?

The journey in audio engineering is one of constant learning, and that’s something I’m still experiencing every day. One of the most important things I’ve learned along the way is the value of mentorship. Having someone who can guide you, offer advice, and challenge you to grow is invaluable. But just as important is believing in yourself. This is a field that requires dedication, patience, and a passion for learning, and it’s crucial to stay committed even when the road gets tough. My advice would be to embrace the learning process, seek out mentors, and above all, trust in your own potential to contribute something unique to the field.

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Connect with Kaiki Chan on Instagram & check out their work on Spotify.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Rumination refracts through the emotive visceralism of Ricky’s alt-electro release, Dreaming

Posted on 18 December 2024

In his latest release, Dreaming, the artist and producer Ricky reached far beyond the reverberations of the moody electronic trend, entrenching his release in piercingly plaintive soul. As one of the most melancholic leftfield electronica tracks to permeate the airwaves in recent years, Dreaming transcends self-indulgence to deliver a raw visceral experience.

As the frenetically syncopated backbeat sonically visualises the tumult of the external world, the dual vocals from Ricky and an arcane-timbered female guest vocalist reflect rumination in the cultivated track, which reaches the epitome of affecting, Every note in Dreaming is a tender extension of vulnerability which entrances you into the emotion as light radiates from the progressions, refracting a sense of salvation that the lyrics yearn for.

Ricky’s roots trace back to Nottingham, where he cut his teeth with the electro-punk indie rave duo Battlecat! between 2007 and 2010, touring extensively and sharing stages with the likes of Hadouken!, Does It Offend You, Yeah?, Two Door Cinema Club, Future Islands, and many more. He hit prestigious stages before pausing his output due to family commitments.

Eventually returning to music, he released ‘Pushing Buttons’ in 2021, drawing inspiration from Burial, Bicep, Boards of Canada, and The xx. Early singles caught the attention of BBC Introducing’s Dean Jackson, earning airplay and solid feedback. After grappling with depression and a ten-month hiatus, Ricky has re-emerged with a new EP in the works and plans to bring his live sound to the UK and Europe in early 2025. I know I will be the first in line for a ticket for the live rendition of Dreaming.

Dreaming was officially released on December 1st; stream the single on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

TEX entranced the airwaves with the lush lo-fi ambience in ‘Wolves on Pike Street’

Posted on 16 December 2024
TEX by TEX

Wolves on Pike Street by TEX allows lush lo-fi trip-hop ambience to place you in a sonic clearing where birds call amid syncopated beats, their gentle presence woven through ripples of reverb. There’s a natural stillness at the core, yet the pulsing rhythms lure you into a trance-like focus, making you feel every subtle shift in tone.

Just before the track settles into calm, sermon-like indietronica vocals rise. These hushed tones arrive before fresh scintillation refracts through the melody, dousing the arrangement in subtle luminescence. Vibes, soul, and euphony form the triadic pillars, supporting what almost feels like an extension of the universe itself.

Hailing from Cape Town, Johnny Tex—born in 1985—the family man who cherishes his own solitude, experiments with colour and sound alike, crafting music purely out of love, hoping to inspire at least one other soul to reach for creative release. Safe to say he succeeded in his mission with Wolves on Pike Street which constructs a sonic sanctuary for the rhythmic pulses.

Stream and purchase Wolves on Pike Street via Bandcamp now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Duane Harden conquered the pop scene with Blind (Pop Life Mix)

Posted on 11 December 2024

After carving a legacy in the confines of the house music scene, Duane Harden has proven his mettle as a pop icon in the making with ‘Blind (Pop Life Remix)’.

Euphoria pulses through the intro, carried by shimmering new wave synths that ignite a rush of sonic exhilaration. As the melodies gain momentum, Harden’s mastery of interwoven complexity becomes unmistakable. This is not the work of an artist content with formulaic hits; instead, Harden layers raw emotion, kinetic energy, and rich textures into his production, crafting an anthem that resonates with bittersweet authenticity.

The track pulls listeners into a trap-tinged world of naïve desire, where the longing to escape emotional vulnerability is laid bare against the Latino guitars and disco-pinched grooves. With each progression, Harden’s hooks tighten their grip, drawing you deeper into the duality of aching euphoria and scarred sentimentality.

By refusing to paint within the lines, Blind (Pop Life Mix) cements Harden’s place as a multifaceted artist capable of shifting seamlessly between genres while delivering emotive, high-energy productions. For his 81k monthly listeners and beyond, this track is an invitation to revel in the alchemy of pop at its most sincere and unflinching.

Be a part of the hype by hitting play on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast