Interview: Alice.km Shares 'The Back Beat' EP, Talks Evolution As An Artist, Label Signings, & More
The art genre has grown steadily over the past few years, giving artists the opportunity to showcase their dynamic styles. Leading this development is Phoenix, Alice.km's AZ Coordinator/Producer. His upcoming two-song EP 'The Back Beat EP', set for release on July 21 via the Eclipse Red label, promises to be an exploration of challenging techniques.
The backbeat deviates from the organic rhythms of the past, immersing the listener in a complex soundscape and developing methodical vocals. In the same vein, but with its own unique flavor, "Talk to Me" is a blend of raw, soulful melodies and techno intensity. The latter's sudden introduction comes from an audio sample taken during an interview at a techno warehouse party.
However, this EP is not a one-off. This year is part of a remarkable musical history for alice.km, which has had a perfect journey since its first DJ gig in Brooklyn in 2016. From playing famous New York venues like Elsewhere and the Rosewood Theater to hosting the famous magic party, Midnight Society. Its influence is undeniable. His success is not limited to live performances. The numbers speak for themselves. In 2022 alone, it has amassed a staggering 120,000 Spotify streams, making its presence undeniable. Add to that unforgettable performances at the Destination Festival, Evening Music Festival, and a special opening for the Drum Cod Tour in Tempe.
alice.km is not just a name. It is a vision characterized by passion and creativity. After winning a Circus Recording competition and recently releasing a remix of Maxine's 'Collide', he has established himself as a dynamic house artist exploring the inner workings of the genre. From DJing to producing tracks signed to IAMHER and Delusional Records, alice.km's instincts remain its guiding star, guiding it to do what it does best: make and play music with purpose.
Exclusive interview
Your new EP, The Back Beat EP, marks a clear transition from your previous house's organic/chill-influenced sound to a stronger techno style. Can you discuss the motivation behind this clip?
Techno was my first love in dance music. When I started DJing in 2016 this was the genre I played with the most and my first single released as alice.km is the best techno track ever. I like different styles of dance music ranging from organic, downtempo, house, electronic and techno. Back Beat has almost gone back to my artistic roots, but I now have a more experienced production lens.
From hosting your own events like Midnight Society to releasing an EP on the Eclipse Red label, you've had an amazing journey so far. Can you share some of the challenges and triumphs you've faced on this journey?
Being a musician can sometimes feel like a journey of constant challenges and rejection. The biggest challenge for me was learning to produce. I've been a musician and singer my whole life, but the learning curve for software has been steep. Once I sat down and followed the course and understood, the success began. I've spent countless hours studying production, mixing, and songwriting and think it's really worth it. Since I started releasing my own music, I've noticed a difference in the type of shows that get booked, and now I'm signed to more labels.
You won the Circus Recording Remix competition and will soon be releasing a remix of Maxine's "Clash". Can you describe your approach to remixing tracks and how you put your own spin on Collide?
When it comes to remixes, I do my best to preserve the original melody and create completely new music around it. I kept all the sounds of "Collision", but I wanted to deepen the idea of "When the Stars Collide" and change the universe, which is what the song is about. Inspired by this idea, I created a very cosmic, almost deep, ethereal path. I guessed this product at every stage, but it paid off in the end.
Your life story emphasizes trusting your instincts. How did your passion lead you to create the Backbeat EP?
This led me to create what I feel is an ongoing need. My friend gave me the idea for "Back Beat" so I felt I had to make the track. When it comes to production, I really feel like I spend a lot of hours studying it, but the muscle I've built in the studio definitely guides me when I'm editing and mixing a track. I put "Back Beat" on Eclipse Records and they were interested but wanted a companion track to the EP. This instinct led me to talk to me, which I felt should be in the same vein but different from Back Beat.
What are you planning for the rest of 2023?
I've been working on a lot of new music, including some collaborative work that I'm really excited about. I have one EP and one more on Delusional Records later this month. I recently moved to Phoenix and am doing fun shows including Where's The Walter? House on November 18.
