The Element [Interview]

The Element is a pioneering artist from Malta. With 30+ years of experience in melodic house & techno music playing with all the biggest artists in the world, he has taken his musical journey to new levels and become a key talent himself. After being signed to Afterlife in 2019 and finally acknowledged for his quality performances and productions, The Element has taken his show to the world stage and demonstrates what this experience brings. His career started in the early nineties and he has gotten stronger and more dedicated over the years, reaching this point where he takes listeners to new levels. As The Element continues to ascend to new heights, his global recognition reached a pivotal moment three years ago with the release of his debut single 'Ryder' on Afterlife. This milestone not only catapulted him onto the international stage but also firmly positioned Malta's artists on the global map, a trend set to continue in the years ahead. Now, in an exciting development, The Element is proudly signed to Zamna Record Label and is an integral part of Zamna Soundsystem, a dynamic trio of pioneers. This collaboration adds a new dimension to his already illustrious career. Promising more groundbreaking musical journeys for his audience, and leaving a lasting mark on the global music landscape. The Element

Hi Sean, thanks for talking to us today. Now that we’ve reached the end of the year, how has 2024 been for you?

2024 has been an exciting and rewarding year. It’s been a year of growth, creativity, and new milestones, particularly with the release of my EP on UNSEEN Records. I’ve spent a lot of time in the studio crafting music I’m truly proud of and connecting with audiences around the world through some unforgettable gigs. Ending this amazing year with the release of this EP feels like the perfect way to close out 2024, and I couldn’t be happier with how things have unfolded.

Let’s look back on the year, what gig of yours has stood out the most and why?

It’s hard to pick just one, as every gig brought something special this year. Whether it was an intimate crowd or a massive festival, the energy and connection I felt with the audience made each moment unforgettable.

Now let’s look at tracks (not your own), what is a track or tracks which have come out this year that has impressed you the most and why?

“The Echo” by Adriatique and myself really stood out for me this year. It’s one of those tracks that perfectly blends emotion with powerful production, creating a vibe that’s both uplifting and deeply moving. The balance between the vocals and the melodic elements makes it a track that stays with you long after you’ve heard it.

You were born and raised in Malta, tell us what it was like growing up there and did you initially get exposed to electronic music in a country that isn’t well established in terms of electronic music.

Growing up in Malta was unique — it’s a small island with a close-knit community and a rich culture. While electronic music wasn’t as prominent back then, there were always pockets of passion for it, and I was lucky enough to discover those early on. I found myself drawn to the underground scene, where a small but dedicated group of artists and promoters were working hard to bring this music to life. That early exposure sparked my curiosity and set me on the path I’m on today.

Was there anyone from Malta who took inspiration from before you established yourself? Or was it mostly from international DJs and producers, and if so who?

In Malta, there weren’t many local artists to look up to in the early days, as the scene was still finding its footing. My inspiration mainly came from international DJs and producers who were shaping the global electronic music landscape.
Artists like Sasha, John Digweed, and Laurent Garnier played a huge role in influencing my sound and approach. Their ability to create journeys through music left a lasting impression on me and fueled my desire to carve my own path.

You are well known for your Cosa Nostra events which played host to Adriatique, Dixon, John Digweed, Mind Against, Sasha, Tale of Us and countless other top international talents. Tell us what some of your best memories are from those events and what stands out looking back on them?

The Cosa Nostra events hold a special place in my heart. Bringing some of the world’s best talent to Malta and witnessing the energy they created with the crowd was truly unforgettable. What stands out the most is seeing the local audience connect so deeply with the music — it was more than just events, it was about building a community and putting Malta on the map for electronic music. Watching artists like Dixon or Tale of Us play while feeling the crowd completely immersed in the moment are memories I’ll carry with me forever.

You’ve been a producer and DJ dating back to the 1990’s, when you look back on those earlier years can you pinpoint pivotal moments to the success you’ve achieved today? Maybe a gig or two, or a release which really helped your propel career? Would 'Judgment Day’ be one of those tracks?

Absolutely, ‘Judgment Day’ was definitely a pivotal moment for me. It was one of those tracks that resonated with a lot of people and opened doors to new opportunities. Looking back, the 90s were a defining time where I was building my foundations, playing gigs that pushed me creatively and solidified my connection with the audience. Each milestone — whether it was a key release, a breakthrough set, or learning a new aspect of production — contributed to the path I’m on today. It’s been a long journey, but those early moments set the tone for everything that followed.

For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you?

Like many artists, I started by studying and emulating the sounds that inspired me. In the early days, I was heavily influenced by pioneers like Sasha, John Digweed, and Laurent Garnier. I’d spend countless hours deconstructing their tracks and sets, trying to understand the nuances of their sound and how they created such seamless journeys. Over time, as I honed my craft, I began to develop my own style and identity. It’s a natural progression — learning from those who inspire you and then finding your voice within the music.

As a producer you primarily operate in the melodic house and techno space, I'm curious what your opinion is on the state of the genre as 2024 is ending. Many feel it’s reached an unacceptable commercial level to some extent. What are your thoughts about the current state of the genre and how do you think it changes and evolves going forward?

Melodic house and techno have grown immensely, which is both a blessing and a challenge. While the commercial aspect has brought it to larger audiences, it has also led to a saturation of predictable, formulaic sounds. That said, I believe the genre will naturally evolve as true artists continue to push creative boundaries and introduce fresh ideas. Authenticity always shines through, and I see a shift toward deeper, more emotional storytelling within the genre moving forward

Who has your own sound evolved as the genre has gotten more popular?

As the genre grew, I became more intentional about staying true to my artistic vision. I’ve refined my sound to focus on emotional depth and timeless melodies

while maintaining a strong groove. Rather than chasing trends, I aim to create music that feels authentic to me and resonates on a deeper level with listeners.

You have a new EP ‘Flames Of Emotions’ which is out now via UNSEEN Records. Tell us a bit about the two tracks and what sort of vibe you were going for on them.

‘Flames Of Emotions’ is about blending intensity with emotion. The tracks explore contrasting energies — uplifting yet melancholic, driving yet atmospheric. I wanted to create music that feels cinematic, a journey that builds tension and release, making the listener experience the full spectrum of emotions.

Are there special meanings behind the track titles for you?

Yes, the titles reflect the concept of emotion being like a flame — powerful, consuming, and beautiful. It’s about capturing those moments of vulnerability and intensity and turning them into something timeless.

How much play have both tracks gotten in your sets and to what reaction? And which one has gotten more play?

Both tracks have featured heavily in my sets, and the reactions have been incredible. The title track, Flames Of Emotions, has definitely seen more play — it has a buildup and melodic flow that resonates immediately with the crowd.
You can feel the energy shift when it drops, and that’s always special to witness.

Let our readers inside your studio for a moment, what is your current setup and what studio tools are featured heavily in your recent productions and more specifically on your ‘Flames Of Emotions’ EP?

My studio combines analog and digital tools. For this EP, I leaned heavily on my Moog Sub 37 for basslines and leads, and the Prophet Rev2 for lush melodic textures. I produce in Ableton Live, with key plugins like U-He Diva, Arturia FX, and Valhalla VintageVerb for depth and warmth. It’s all about blending precision with organic sounds to create something immersive.

What can we look forward to from you in 2025? Any releases or gigs you are looking forward to?

2025 is already looking like a big year. I have new releases planned, including some exciting collaborations and follow-ups to my work with UNSEEN Records. There are also some incredible gigs lined up across Europe and beyond, and I’m particularly excited about the festivals I’ll be playing. It’s all about continuing to push my sound, connect with audiences, and keep the momentum going. I can’t wait to share what’s next!

'Flames Of Emotions' is available now via UNSEEN Records: Download