Maethelvin Meets Disco Unchained

Yes, we were able to get an exclusive interview with one of our favorite members of the Valerie Collective; Maethelvin. 

How did Maethevin start? Where do your origins lie?

The first time around it was only a joke with my friend David (College). I made a track, posted it on the Valerie Blog, and told him I found this strange artist (Maethelvin), who had made some tracks in the 80's, but nobody knows anything about him. I think he believed me for about one week, and after that I finally told him the truth.

What does Maethelvin mean? Is it French slang for something else?

Nobody has to know the truth about this ...

What would your top 3 musical influences be in regards to your music?

Jan Hammer, of course. One of the best musicians in regards to the use of digital sounds. I'm also listening to a lot of italo-disco stuff, from G. Moroder to Casco. And, on the other side, all the Detroit 'U.R.' stuff in general as well.

All time favorite dessert?

Cheesecake, but only when it's perfectly done.

All time favorite drink (alcoholic or regular)?

I love having a single shot of fresh pure vodka after a party.

Any new projects coming up soon? New EPs? New Albums? New singles?

I'm currently working on a release, but since playing music is not my main job, I'm quite slow. I have a bunch of new tracks already done, but I really want to make a nice full package. So it will take some time …

Explain a bit about your track "Delight". Have you considered vocals for your music or do you plan on sticking to music only?

I never work with vocals for my own tracks. As I am french, I don't want to sing with a terrible english accent, or asking to someone singing for me, this is not my main goal. I much more consider my music as a virtual soundtrack, so no vocals are needed to make this type of sounds. And I have nothing interesting to sing.

What interests do you have outside of music? Do you have other lines of work?

Back in the day, I was working for the automotive industry as a sound designer. I'm now working as a UX/UI designer for a big french company. I never wanted to work as a musician, just because I want to keep it fun, and never feel any kind of pressure about it.

You have a wonderful song called "My Favorite TV Show". However, I still don't know what it is. What is your all time favorite TV Show?

Quantum Leap! And it is still one of the best. Thank's Scott and Dean.

Any advice for newer synth artists?

Not really. The only advice I have to give, is to keep it fun, and not try to follow any pre-set musical standards or pre-shaped stuff. Test and play with all the synthesizers you can find ( analog, digital, good and crappy ones). Same for VST and Sequencers programs. You don't have to pay a lot to make good music. A basic synth and a cheap computer is enough to compose stuff if you are inspired!

Sébastien Tellier - L'Incroyable Odyssée (un mix de Radar!)

Wow. This is perhaps one of the single greatest mixtapes we've ever heard. A must listen! 

Disco Unchained Meets Loose Shus

Disco Unchained had a wonderful interview with synth legend Loose Shus! Loose Shus is a wonderful guy, and super down to Earth! We can't wait for his new stuff!

1) How did Loose Shus start?

I tried to make cop movie music, like during a chase scene there's usually 16th note hats and wah guitar, I wanted to do that, tried for many years. My failure to do so resulted in Loose Shus.

2) All time favorite song?

I really like Moments In Love by Art Of Noise.  

3) Top 3 musical influences of all time?

I like the italian horror soundtrack stuff, goblin and morricone, and lounge stuff like Pierro Piccioni.  Then also Mantronix type of drum machine music.  

4) What is Loose Shus's favorite T.V show of all time?

I don't know. Breaking Bad is good, The Wire is pretty good too.  Lately I've been watching Peep Show, the british comedy.  Big Train is really good too, they have a skit about Keith Emerson's synth collection, check it out.

5) Any new projects? New EPs coming out soon? 

I work with Randy Ellis we have a side project called Chautauqua.  The new Loose Shus EP is almost done, I'm mixing it right now, so should be out real soon on voltaire records.  I have a couple tracks on their compilations Affairs Online and Private Function, but have yet to do an EP.

6) You said you worked with Anoraak and College back in the day, how was that experience?

I opened for them back in 2009 at a show here in San Francisco, then did some remixes and a track for the Valerie and Friends compilation.  Those guys are great, really intelligent nice down to earth people. 

7) Other interests outside of music?

Skateboarding.  I'm also into programming and video art, lately I've been doing a ton of AviSynth videos, all the edits and effects you do in source code, that's a lot of fun.  I can't stand timeline editing, so either I'll use AviSynth or edit video via MIDI through a VJ program.  Just recently I did a music video for this psych rock band Hollow Mirrors, and also I did a bunch of videos for the Shock "heaven" remixes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvsxJA96DU0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeJtHxsS1OM&list=TLopOj8nocFr4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCSL6BYnWxA

8) Advice for newer artists?

I like these free plugins a lot, use them on almost every track :  http://www.kvraudio.com/product/synth1-by-ichiro-toda

http://www.vstboss.com/2013/03/kjaerhus-audio-classic-series.html

Also check out "sound fonts".  It's an old multi-sample format, there are a lot of really great patches that people have made over the years.  Also, check out digital keyboards right now, everyone is so Analog crazy that you can get some of the most amazing digital or FM keyboards for so cheap.  I use a Roland JX-305, from the questionable "Groove" products of Roland, got it for $20.  It's got all the famous Roland sounds like Syn-Vox, but hundreds of other weird patches too. I do like analog for bass sounds though, I'm using the Moog Slim-Phatty for most of my basslines.  The Moog Sub-Phatty is really nice too, I wish I had one of those.

Jordan F Meets Disco Unchained- Saturday Sit Downs

Disco Unchained had a nice chat with one of synth wave's most recognizable figures; Jordan F. The only thing cooler than his music, is his taste in horror films! He's definitely a chill guy! 

1)  What got you into music?
I started producing music around 3 years ago, before that I had no previous musical experience other than a bit of piano I did back in school. I didn't know what kind of music I wanted to make at first...then I discovered Rosso Corsa and the Valerie Collective and was completely inspired by the revivalist music they were making. I sent Miami Nights 1984 a few demos and joined their incredible roster.

2) All time favorite horror movie?

Thats a tough one...I'd say Night of The Comet

3) If you could change one thing about the music industry as a whole, what would it be?

I'd destroy those company's that allow people to pay for already created tracks...its a real low point in music. I can't stand the EDM hype and would like to see more blogs promote new interesting music rather than what Deadmau5 has to say on Twitter.

4)  What advice would you have for upcoming independent synth artists? 

Be patient...way to many producers rush into releasing albums and EPs without really thinking. Some artists get comfortable within a certain style/sound, you should always want more from your music.5

5) On a more serious note.. favorite Pizza topping of all time?

Pineapple, chicken, ham, sundried tomatoes and onions

6) Do you have any new EPs, singles, albums coming out soon?

Got some things in the works...I'm just being patient with the whole process... I'm making the slow transition to hardware synthesizers, so stay tuned 

7) All time favorite D.A.W to use while working

 I only have experience with Ableton, I like it and it's handy if you are moving from the studio to live shows.

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Here is one of our all time favorite Jordan F. produced songs!

Mitch Murder- The Touch- Single

Nostalgia. That is the only thing one experiences when listening to a Mitch Murder song. How could anyone not? As of 7 hours ago, Mitch just released his latest track "The Touch". This is the kind of music you go for a 10 hour drive in across Palm Springs late at night in your 1973 Jaguar. Yes, its that type of song.

Weekend Chat With Betamaxx

Phew! Its been a busy week at Disco Unchained. So many artists to talk to, so little time. Today we met with synth wave producer Betamaxx. Betamaxx is well known for tracks like "Senior Year 1984" (which happens to be one of your all time favorite tracks as well). Betamaxx just released their new album titled "Sophisticated Technology" as well. Wonderful stuff. 

1) What got you into music?

I’ve always been a big music fan since I can remember, but it all started back in Jr. High when I was forced to take band class as an elective. I remember the first day in class when I chose percussion over trumpet. Shortly thereafter my dad bought my first drum set for me when I was 14. I played in quite a few bands since I was 16 ranging from pop punk, to metal, to funk...all the while dabbling in guitar, as well as some very primitive electronic music I created with one of the first versions of fruity loops music software over 10 years ago.

 2) What do you do aside from music- what are some of your other interests

To be honest, not that much. I work a full time job. I enjoy playing golf, videogames (new and old), and going out with my friends probably more often than I should

 3) What influences do you have in regards to your 'sound'?

 I come from a pretty diverse music background, and I enjoy a lot of different styles and genres of music. Probably some of my biggest influences for my synth based music are a lot of acts from the 80s such as Midnight Star, Madonna, The Human League, and The Cure. I am also quite fond of some of the revival artists like Mitch Murder, Lazerhawk, Tesla Boy, FM Attack, and Anoraak that have inspired me to create my own synth based music.

4) All time favorite dessert?

 Tiramisu, hands down.

 5) All time favorite movie?

That is an incredibly difficult question. I really like John Hughes movies, but if I had to pick one movie that I can watch over and over again it would have to me American Psycho.

 6) Favorite US president of all time?

Favorite US president? I’ve never really thought about it. Probably Abraham Lincoln because it’s been said he never cried as a baby and I find that baffling.

 7) Advice for newer synth artists?

My best advice for new synth artists is to stay true to your own sound, and spend as much time and focus as you can on even one song, because that might be all it takes to get you noticed. Quality over quantity. Find software that works easiest for you, and consider at least experimenting with an analog synthesizer once, because they not only influence my music, they’re a big part of the sound that I achieve with my music.

Sharing Space Secrets With Cavaliers of Fun

Today was no ordinary day here at Disco Unchained. We met up with the god father of space pop himself; Ricco Vitali. The interview speaks for itself. 

1) What got you into music?

My father...the ruler of Nebula9 bought me a WinniBoard, which is probably the coolest synth in the cosmos. That's what got me started. That and the fact that Jii is a bit expensive. Jii is actually a drug that makes you act all unicorn for 33 seconds. It's a rush.

2) What are your favorite 5 bands/groups?

Youth43, Jii Warriors, Valiant, Le Branc and Formica #QWERT. I grew up with these bands back in my home planet. If you're asking about bands from Earth I would have to say RAC, Anoraak, Moullinex, Cut Slack and maybe Sair or Silenx. Great bands. It's a pitty they are all humans. 

3) What other artists have influenced your music?

Opus9! Tropical Space Pop from the Titan Moon. Arpeggios and weird solos...Songs 47 minutes long. 

I do fancy Mi-Sex, Flock of Seagulls or New Order too.

4) Favorite pizza flavor, and favorite topping?

Cheese and more cheese. You can never get enough of cheese. Cheese is the best human invention. I'm exporting cheese to Nebula9 and people are rioting to get more. Cheese will get me rich.  

5) All time favorite TV show?

Automan. Car chases that leave a trace of light...Eat my shorts Tron. 

6) What do the lyrics from "passenger" mean? Could you explain a bit about them? What inspired you to write them?

We are all passengers. From one planet to another. From one life to another. Forget all memories and start all over again.  

7) Favorite  action movie of all time?

 Back to the Future Part 2. Classic! And man it's a sequel even better than the first one. Fuck yeah! 

8) Favorite drink (coke, beer, etc)

Rasmussen, 1/3 coke, 1/3 battery oil, 1/3 Liquid Jii. It will mess your brain. 

9) All time favorite horror movie?

Goonies. Scary as shit. The Combo pirate skulls and Sloth in the same movie...Jezz. 

10) Advice for newer artists into dream pop?

Don't do it. Humans will all die in the year 2043 so it's a bit pointless. If you do want to do it...well good luck being poor, homeless, drug free and having that weird looking girl as the only groupie left. If you love music, only music will matter. Yeah right...

Disco Unchained Meets Lueur Verte

It's been a crazy week here! We've been catching up with all of our favorite artists, and we just got the chance to meet Lueur Verte! Lueur Verte is one of our favorite synth/new wave artists and it was an honor to be able to get an interview!

1 ) How did Lueur Verte get started ? What got you into music ?

Since I was a teenager , I've always been interested in the 80s to be honest. I discovered some 80s electronic artists on Myspace and later on Youtube. All of these retro visuals, the music, it was very unique. I really enjoyed this universe as a teenager and I was used to play with Garageband  In 2011 I tried to work more seriously and to make a track, trying something which would be my own style. Then, I uploaded my first tracks "Space Rider" and "California Workout" on my Youtube channel in order to get some opinions and feedback. Shortly after, I discovered SoundCloud where I uploaded my tracks as well. I was really surprised by the feedback and the interest of the people.

2 ) What are your top 3 favorite 80s artists?

Well it's really hard to do an order with my favorites 80s artists, and I have more than 3 to mention of course…so I will try :

•  Michael Jackson
•  Europe
• Fox The Fox

I love many 80s soundtrack composers as well!

3 ) Whats your favorite D.A.W to use while making music?

As I mentioned previously, I began with Garageband and I still use it today. I also use Logic Pro (I like both, but I really like the minimalist features of Garageband). A lot of people think that it's not a good D.A.W but it doesn't matter what D.A.W you use, it's about what you do with it. I hate the fact that people judge the artists based on what kind of D.A.W or which instruments or tools they use, it's bullshit, it doesn't mean that with your vintage synth collection you will be a better artist than one with just a Midi keyboard and a laptop.

4 ) What contemporary pop artist do you hate, the most ?

"Really ? There are too many bad ones in order to just pick one! Well, I have a bunch of contemporary artists which I hate, for example : Shakira, Rihanna, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber for sure, Nicky Minaj and of course all the ridiculous boy bands."

5 ) What is the most attractive quality you find in women?

Hmmm I would say the qualities of my girlfriend haha!

6 ) Whats your all time favorite food?

Well I love every junk food, I mean come on, that crap is delicious haha, but I would say Pizza F.T.W!

7 ) Any new projects coming soon ? Tell us about them !

Sure ! I'm still working on my very first EP called "Crystalica." I'm really excited about it, it's a big thing for me. I take my time in order to do my best. And hopefully all my fans will like it. The fact that I will release it on my own label Aphasia Records, is very exciting.There's no release date at the moment…stay tuned !

8 ) Advice for newer artists on the scene ?

An Original and unique artist name is the key, not something super cliché. Experiment with music at first. Don't copy other artists, create your own style. Also, visuals and cover/artworks, are something really important. You don't need to buy any vintage synthesizer in order to make 80s music, you have a lot of VST (Virtual Studio Technology) on the market which allows you to get the perfect 80s sounds, but of course real synthetizers are the best. Don't spend a lot of money on music studio material, you can start with just a D.A.W , a computer, headphones and a Midi keyboard controller. And also , don't release too much EP and albums…every release should be an event and not be like whatever, you need to show to the public that your sound evolves, go for concept, originality, make space between releases, some months at least. Take your time ! Try to do your best.

Cavaliers of Fun- Valley Of Dreams- Single

Cavaliers of Fun is back! It has been quite a while since we heard of them last. They're out with their brand new track "Valley of Dreams." It is absolutely brilliant. Smooth vibes for summer chilling. 

Weekend Chat with Bitapart

Disco Unchained had a talk with Bitapart this weekend! We wanted to find out more about him and thought we'd ask him a few small questions! He's a wonderful guy, really down to Earth (and such a talented producer on top of that)! Enjoy!

1) What got you into music?

"My best friend, who always was and still is a role model in any creative way. He played the piano and of course I wanted to do the same."

2) What would your top 5 favorite bands/groups of all time be?

Top 5 bands of all time?! That's a tough one…Ok here they are:

1. Michael Jackson (Thriller and Bad)
2. Roxette
3. Prince
4. Depeche Mode
5. Hurts

3) If you could change one thing about the music industry as a whole, what would it be?

"There is no heart in most of todays music anymore. That's why I like the music of the 80s, you can feel the artists emotions in the music and what he/she wants to tell. Today most of the music we hear is heavily overproduced polished and shiny with no life in it. So there has to be more HEART in todays music industry."

4) What advice would you have for upcoming independent synth artists?

Pursue your dreams, don't let anyone tell you that there is no chance you can fulfill your dreams.

5) What is your favorite TV show of all time?

That's an easy one. The show with fast cars, speedboats, good music, neon lights, an alligator, 80s ladies and two undercover cops: Miami Vice!

6) Best D.A.W to use for nu disco/8 bit productions?

Ableton. You can get really creative with different ideas and arrange the music around them.

7) Favorite restaurant?

That would be a restaurant called "Totò" they serve delicious Pizzas there.

8) Who is the  one person you look up to most?

"My grandmother"

Exclusive Interview With Arcade High

Disco Unchained once again was given the opportunity to speak with one of our favorite synth producers! We managed to get a rather informative interview with the classic Arcade High.

Shazeb: Alrighty then! Let's start with the basics! What got you into music?

Arcade High: My dad is a musician who plays in a handful of local bands so I grew up with music all around me. I started played guitar when I was 12, but in my teenage years could never establish any kind of consistent band due to lack of time and effort from other members. I suppose that's why electronic music really appealed to me. I started my electronic dabbling in late 2011 and established Arcade High in early 2012.

 Shazeb: That's awesome! I started playing the guitar at 12 as well! Anyways, what would your top 3 favorite bands/groups of all time be?

Arcade High: That's an extremely difficult question, but if I had to give 3 of the most influential ones off the top of my head, I would say The Postal Service, Radiohead, and College.

 Shazeb: That sir, deserves a high-five! All 3 are in my top favorites! College especially! Now, If you could change one thing about the music industry as a whole, what would it be?

Arcade High: I wouldn't know how to answer that question since I don't consider myself part of "the music industry" I'm just a guy making music in his spare time.

 Shazeb: fair enough. So, what advice would you have for upcoming independent synth artists?

Arcade High: Don't be afraid to be yourself. I can't stress this enough. Write the song that only you would create, no matter what the outcome. Let your influences guide you, not control you. That's pure honest emotion, and people recognize that.

Shazeb: That sounds legit. And I agree completely, originality shows. Speaking of originality and shows, what is your favorite TV Show of all time?

Arcade High: Another really tough one. I'd say its a split between Twin Peaks and Breaking Bad, but for totally different reasons.

Shazeb: Breaking Bad is awesome! You got good taste! Now, in your opinion, what would be best D.A.W to use for nu disco/8 bit productions?

Arcade High: Honestly I've only used GarageBand and Logic to write my music, but I am a big fan of producing in Logic. For 8-bit stuff I've always done them in house so I could have maximum control since I have a strange blend of synth and chiptune inspired instruments, but I've been looking into trying LSDJ for a more genuine sound and feel.

Shazeb:  Its amazing just thinking of the awesome music people can make with the most minimal resources! Anywhoo, What would your all time favorite movie be?

Arcade High:  Alien (1979)

Shazeb: Fuck yeah! Gotta love the classic. Okay, sow who would be the one person you look up to the most?

Arcade High: I don't have one particular person I look up to, but I would say I do look up to the producer Tycho, which I'll also add him as a fourth to that list of influential artists. He was one of the pioneers during my journey into the genre.

Shazeb: Fair enough! There's one last question i'm dying to know, and i'm sure a lot of people are too. Explain the song "crush." What inspired it? its absolutely beautiful, and I would very much like to know everything (you can manage ofcourse!) about it!

Arcade High: The story behind Crush is actually a long, but fascinating one. I'll try to be brief. Crush was the first electronic song I ever wrote. It was written in late 2011 for an 80s slasher film I was producing in film school. Maddie Ardillo, the singer / co-writer of the song, wanted to attach the lyrics to the films events in some way, while keeping the meaning of the song open to interpretation. The end of the film involved a deranged girlfriend killing off her last victim (her ex) by slitting both of their wrists and letting them bleed out. Although a gruesome scene, there was an odd calmness about it which made the song eerily fit. Crush can be interpreted as either a song about unrequited love or a song about sadomasochism.

Sunday Interview with Luke Cuerel (Pigeon)

Disco Unchained managed to get an interview with Pigeon front-man Luke Cuerel.  Pigeon, an Australian electronic dance band, has been making jams since 2011. Their music is fresh, and their beats are phat. 

Shazeb: Alright, let's start with the basics. What got you into music?

Luke: We all got into music in different ways, some of us dabble in jazz and roots stuff while some of the other guys are DJs and into rock and pop. Now we're a mish-mash of different styles under the umbrella of electronic indie dance.We all have been to a life changing gig early on that sparked interest in music making. Probably would be some embarrassing gigs in there too.

Shazeb:  Life changing experiences you say? Hm, I think i get what you mean. Anyways, what would your top 5 favorite bands/groups of all time be?

Luke: As a band, I'd have to say we draw so much influence from Royksopp, Friendly Fires and Delphic. Of all time, we might add in The Beatles and Daft Punk. I'd love to through the wildcard in there of Eminem, he has the nostalgia factor.

Shazeb: All hail Daft Punk! I personally am a fan of Friendly Fires as well, and enjoy their music. I guess i could see some of their influence on Pigeon. Now, if you could change one thing about the music industry as a whole, what would it be?

Luke: I would love to see more help for artists to develop their craft/product, however it's pretty lucky to be able to make music for a living. We're all pretty stoked. We're starting careers in the music industry.

Shazeb: Speaking of careers, what advice would you have for upcoming independent synth artists?

Luke: Do what you want! Go crazy with synths, the possibilities are endless with electronic music.

You guys can follow them here!

Florence + The Machine- No Light- Ben Macklin Rework

It must have been a very cold day in hell today. In fact, it had to have been below freezing, because someone made Florence & The Machine sound good. We here at Disco Unchained tend not to brand musicians completely, but when it comes to Florence + The Machine, we are a bit rigid. Ben Macklin's remix of the track No Light is absolutely brilliant. A brilliant intro, sexy vocal echoes, and a phat beat make this song a must listen. 

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You guys can follow him on Facebook here! 

Exclusive Interview with Shawn Ward of FM Attack

Disco Unchained has been on a roll lately, and we just got the opportunity to interview one of our all time favorite synth producers: Shawn Ward (AKA FM Attack). 

Shazeb: First things first. What got you into music?

Shawn: My parents put me in piano lessons from a young age, and my dad played guitar and sang in bands growing up.

Shazeb: Music runs in the family! Hmm, if you had to pick, what would your top 5 favorite bands/groups of all time be?

Shawn: Tough question! I'm going to go with Le Chic, The Beatles, OMD, The Cure, and Michael Jakson!

Shazeb: We have a lot more in common than I thought! I absolutely love Le Chic! Now, on a personal note, If you could change one thing about the music industry as a whole, what would it be?

Shawn: I would like to see artists making more money with the sales of music, and not having to just focus on performance to make a living. Also i would like to see more artwork and physical media in releases, it really fuses art with music.

Shazeb: I get where you're coming from. You speak wisdom! Speaking of which, what advice would you have for upcoming independent synth artists?

Shawn: Buy at least 1 analog synth (this is a must). You are missing out by just using software even though there are some great softsynths. Don't limit yourself to one style of music, and like everyone says, believe in yourself and your own music.

Shazeb: Alright, Alright, enough fooling around. it's time to get to the serious stuff. The stuff that matters... So, What is FM Attack's Favorite Pizza topping of all time?

Shawn: I think either portabello mushrooms or chipotle shrimps!

You can follow FM Attack here!

Here's a new classic by FM Attack!