EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH : Alex Kislov

Chicago-based producer and DJ Alex Kislov has quickly become a standout in the city’s electronic music scene. Known for his captivating blend of deep house, techno, and experimental beats, he’s performed at iconic venues like Radius, Spybar, and The Mid.

Passionate about pushing boundaries and creating memorable experiences, Alex Kislov is set to release his debut artist album, *Dream Sequence*, in October 2024, with the lead single “Daydream” featuring Ron Carroll dropping in May.

“Daydream” is a stunning house track that balances progressive and melodic elements, merging plaintive tones with euphoric highs. The atmospheric piece showcases Kislov’s intricate production, providing a perfect backdrop for Carroll’s rich, uplifting vocals, with lush melodies and crisp percussion that captivate and enrapture.

Alex, your debut album ‘Dream Sequence’ is described as highly personal. Can you delve into the personal experiences or stories that influenced the creation of this album?”

The genesis of this album dates back to 2019 when I set a goal to create an album while diving into the world of music production and label submissions. During that time, I had numerous unfinished projects which I stored in a dedicated folder. Fast forward a few years, during the pandemic, I revisited those projects and breathed new life into them, while also adding more tracks that fit the overall theme.

At the beginning of 2023, I fully committed to finalizing the album, selecting seven tracks from over 30 options. I spent countless hours refining these tracks, utilizing techniques I had learned over the years, ensuring they aligned with the album’s style.

Although the album’s name proved challenging, a breakthrough occurred when a friend, while listening to some tracks, described them as dreamy. This led us to explore dream concepts, ultimately discovering the idea of dream sequences in film, which perfectly captured the album’s essence. Once the name was finalized, the album’s development became smoother.

It’s worth noting that each track was composed during different stages of my life, encapsulating various emotions. Consequently, each song serves as its own sequence within the overall dream that the album portrays.

Your new single ‘Daydream’ features Ron Carroll, a celebrated house music artist. How did this collaboration come about, and what was the creative process like working with him?

My collaboration with Ron has been a long-awaited endeavor. Despite our shared roots in Chicago and frequent encounters at events, the opportunity to work together never quite presented itself. Our cordial interactions and meaningful conversations formed the foundation of our eventual partnership.

After completing the album, I reached out to Ron while on my honeymoon in Brazil. At that time, the track “Daydream” (initially titled “New Day” with a South African artist’s vocals) didn’t resonate as strongly as I had hoped. Recognizing the need for a more commanding vocal presence, I contacted Ron and shared the track, expressing my interest in collaborating.

Even though I had already invested over 800 hours into the album’s development and was eager to move forward, I knew that achieving the perfect sound for my debut album was crucial. Ron’s enthusiasm to participate validated my decision.

After Ron’s initial take, which featured primarily spoken words, I requested a more powerful, Rasta-inspired approach reminiscent of his work with Axwell and Bob Sinclair. Ron delivered a second take, which ultimately became the finishing touch on “Daydream.”

You mentioned that ‘Daydream’ is an ode to daytime dreamers. Can you elaborate on the concept behind this track and how it differs from traditional dreams?

“Daydreams” are fascinating mental phenomena that occur during our waking hours, transporting us into realms of fantasy and deep thought, much like those moments of drifting off in class. An intriguing aspect I discovered during the creative process is that daydreaming is a universal human experience, taking various forms for different individuals. Unlike conventional dreams, daydreams require no sleep, allowing us to temporarily escape reality while fully conscious.

In the context of the album, the track “Daydream” represents the awakening from a series of dream sequences. This concept is further enhanced by the song’s empowering message, which encourages listeners to stand up for themselves and embrace self-assertion, ultimately merging the dream world with the reality of personal growth.

Your music blends deep house, techno, and experimental beats. How has your sound evolved over the years, and what new elements can listeners expect in ‘Dream Sequence’?

The notion of wishing for someone to remain unchanged is, in essence, a desire for stagnation. Growth and evolution are integral aspects of life, particularly in the realm of music production. As technology advances and my personal investment in the craft deepens, my skills and understanding of music expand correspondingly.

This album, ‘Dream Sequence,’ is a culmination of my years of experience, knowledge, and relentless pursuit of mastery in music production. It encapsulates the growth and evolution of my sound, drawing upon the sum of all my previous work. Each aspect of this album serves as a testament to my dedication and continuous development as an artist.

Being based in Chicago, how has the city’s vibrant electronic music scene influenced your style and approach to music production?

The adage “You either make it in Chicago or you make it everywhere else” speaks volumes about the city’s rich and competitive music scene. Chicago has become a breeding ground for exceptional talent, with a wide range of genres flourishing, particularly house music alongside blues and hip hop. This musical melting pot has produced numerous iconic artists over the decades, from Green Velvet and Frankie Knuckles to John Summit, Fall Out Boy, Common, and Chance the Rapper.

The environment in Chicago both fosters opportunities and fuels competition, demanding that artists consistently bring their best to the table. Promoters and fans hold significant influence, challenging musicians to push their boundaries and break free from creative limitations. Simultaneously, the city’s tight-knit artistic community offers a supportive network, enabling collaboration and growth.

The city’s relentless energy has indubitably shaped my own work, acting as an unyielding force that drives me to transcend my own limitations and continually evolve as an artist.

You’ve performed at iconic venues like Radius, Spybar, and The Mid. How have these experiences shaped your career, and do you have any memorable moments from these performances?

My philosophy for live performances centers around the idea that every show may be my last, emphasizing the importance of giving my absolute best for the fans who have come to see me. This mindset has significantly influenced my approach to live shows, as I strive to create an unforgettable experience for the audience.

I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to play at various venues and events, as these experiences have not only helped grow my brand but also honed my skills as a performer. The exposure gained from these performances contributes to the continued evolution of my career and expands awareness of my music.

With ‘Dream Sequence’ set to release in October 2024, what can your fans expect from this album in terms of theme, style, and overall experience?

‘Dream Sequence’ is set to be the pinnacle of my creative output thus far. Crafted with passion and dedication, this project represents a labor of love that I have been eagerly anticipating to share with the world. To ensure that nothing would hinder my vision, I chose to self-release the album, allowing me to maintain full control over both the creative process and the marketing strategy. This decision guarantees that the album will truly encapsulate my artistic expression without compromise.

Your tracks are known for their intricate production and lush melodies. Can you share some insights into your production techniques and how you achieve such a distinctive sound?

In a recent feature for Magnetic Mag, I delved into the creative process behind my latest release, “Daydream.” A common thread running through my music is the presence of pads, powerful arpeggios, and straightforward basslines, which have become signature elements of my sound. To achieve these elements, I rely on several essential plugins, including Diva, Nexus, and Pigments. For producers starting their journey, I wholeheartedly recommend the KSHMR Essentials III pack as an invaluable resource for expanding their sound palette and enhancing their productions.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future in terms of your music career and any upcoming projects or collaborations we should be excited about?

At the moment, my focus is entirely on the release of my album and the excitement that surrounds it. However, I do have another project on the horizon, set for December around the holiday season. Inspired by the concept of “8 Crazy Nights,” this upcoming endeavor promises to be an engaging experience that I’ll be unveiling in the near future!

The post EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH : Alex Kislov appeared first on FindYourSounds.

​ 

Tagged as: edm