TPSY [Interview]

TPSY, a talented artist who has made a significant impact on the music scene. From the beginning of his career, TPSY has showcased his ability to create and deliver sets with his own unique style, characterized by melodic and dark grooves that captivate his audience.

In addition to his prowess as a DJ, TPSY has ventured into producing his own music, creating a repertoire of original compositions. His dedication and passion for music have earned him recognition, as he has recently signed his first tracks with prominent labels in the industry.

Not only has he impressed his followers, but he has also caught the attention of industry giants such as Tale of Us, Kevin de Vries , Massano, The Element, 19:26, and many others. These heavyweights in the industry have supported TPSY's music, playing it in some of the world's biggest clubs and festivals.

With his distinctive style and ability to connect with the audience through vibrant sets and productions, TPSY has established himself as a creative force in the current music scene. His talent and success continue to grow, and undoubtedly, we can expect much more from this passionate artist in the future.

This week finds TPSY making his debut on Wout Records with a three-track artist showcase 'Dread'. Progressive Astronaut caught up with TPSY to learn more about the release of 'Dread', his background, electronic music in the Malta, DJing and much more. Enjoy

Hi TPSY, thanks for talking to us today. How has the first half of your year been and please tell us something interesting about your day today?

My first half of the year was really good! I had several successful releases. Today, I spent time in the studio experimenting with new sounds and concepts for my upcoming tracks, which has been incredibly inspiring.

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

One gig that has really stood out for me was Chasing Sunset. It was an incredibly fun performance, not just because of the enthusiastic crowd but also due to the historic venue. The combination of the unique setting and the vibrant energy of the audience made it an unforgettable experience.

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 track that has really impressed me recently is 'The Process' by MRAK. The balance between emotions and energy in this track is truly amazing, and the production quality is impeccable. It's a perfect example of how powerful and evocative music can be.

How did growing up in Malta affect your music taste and direction into becoming a DJ and producer? Or did it all?

Growing up in Malta did not significantly influence my taste and direction in becoming a DJ/producer. In my opinion, the passion for music and the drive to pursue a career in this field is something you're born with. While my environment provided various experiences, the core of my direction and taste in music comes from an innate passion and determination to create and share music.

What are some of your best memories from first going to clubs? Were there specific nights or sets that really made you feel you wanted to pursue electronic music?

My best memories from my early clubbing days were when I was just 16 years old, following trance music artists like Tiesto and Armin van Buuren. Those nights were transformative for me. I was also captivated by the unique styles of Underworld and Faithless, which left a lasting impression. Experiencing their sets made me realise that I wanted to pursue a career in electronic music. It was during those formative years that I understood how music constantly evolves, inspiring me to evolve with it and shape my own path as a DJ and producer.

Take us through a typical day when you’re not travelling, what does a day in your life look like?

My typical day starts with managing my own business, which keeps me engaged and motivated. After work, I dedicate time to my true passion—music. I spend several hours in the studio experimenting with new sounds, refining tracks, and preparing for upcoming gigs. This balance between my business and music allows me to stay creative and continuously evolve as a DJ and producer.

You have a new EP ‘Dread’ which is out now via Wout Records. Tell us a bit about the release and what sort of vibe you were going for on the tracks.

The upcoming EP titled 'Dread,' which I'm very excited about. The vibe of this EP is centred around hypnotic sounds and dark elements, combined with infectious grooves. Each track is designed to take the listener on a deep, immersive journey, blending intricate rhythms with atmospheric tones. It's a unique exploration of the darker side of electronic music, aimed at creating a captivating and memorable listening experience.

Which of the tracks has gotten the most play in your sets and to what
reaction?

The track I play most frequently in my sets is 'Dread.' It consistently receives a strong reaction from the audience, with many appreciating its hypnotic and immersive qualities. The track’s dark, groovy elements tend to captivate listeners, creating a compelling atmosphere that energises and engages the crowd.

This is your first release with Wout Records, please tell us how you discovered the label and why it was a good home for this project?

I discovered Wout Label through a network of industry connections and was immediately drawn to its innovative approach and artist-centric philosophy. It felt like a perfect home for my music because it offered the support and creative freedom I needed. The label's commitment to nurturing unique sounds and its collaborative environment resonated with my own artistic vision, making it an ideal fit for my work and growth as an artist.

Now let’s talk about DJing for a moment, you started DJing before venturing into production is that right? How would you describe your approach to DJing? And how do you go about programming a set?

Preparation for a performance involves several steps. First, I research the event and the audience demographic to tailor my setlist appropriately. I then spend hours selecting and mixing tracks, ensuring a smooth flow and a coherent narrative throughout the set. Technical preparation is also crucial; I check and test all equipment to avoid any issues during the performance. Additionally, I keep a backup plan ready for any unforeseen circumstances. Finally, mental preparation is key; I make sure to rest well and stay focused to deliver my best performance.

Can you tell me a bit about how your work as a DJ has influenced your view of music, your way of listening to tracks and perhaps also, your work as a producer?

My work as a DJ has profoundly influenced my view of music and my approach to both listening and producing. As a DJ, I’ve developed a keen understanding of how different elements in a track interact to create a cohesive experience. This has enhanced my ability to analyse music critically, focusing on aspects such as energy flow, structure, and audience impact.In terms of listening, I now pay close attention to how tracks can be mixed and the subtle nuances that make a track stand out. This detailed listening helps me select the best tracks for my sets and informs my decisions when producing my own music.As a producer, this DJ perspective has led me to focus on crafting tracks that are not only musically rich but also DJ-friendly. I consider how elements will work in a live setting, ensuring that my productions have the right balance of build-ups, drops, and transitions. Overall, my experiences as a DJ have refined my musical ear and influenced my production style, enabling me to create more engaging and effective tracks.

How much prep do you put into the sets you play, or are they spontaneous for the most part?

I invest a significant amount of preparation into the sets I play, although I also value spontaneity during performances. My preparation involves curating a well-thought-out tracklist, considering the event's context, and planning transitions to ensure a cohesive experience. However, I also remain flexible and responsive to the crowd’s energy, allowing me to adapt and make spontaneous changes to the set as needed. This balance of meticulous planning and on-the-fly adjustments helps me deliver engaging and dynamic performances.

Current Top five tracks in your sets?

I don’t have a fixed top five tracks in my sets because I constantly update my playlist with new tracks. I prefer to go with the flow and select music based on the energy and vibe of the event. This approach allows me to keep my sets fresh and tailored to the audience’s reactions and preferences.

If you are not DJing, producing or socialising at clubs, where do we find you? And doing what?

When I'm not DJing, producing, or socialising at clubs, you can find me traveling, watching football, or spending quality time with my girlfriend. I also dedicate time to working in the studio, where I continue to refine my music and explore new creative ideas.

If you were not a DJ/Producer what do you think you’d be doing with your life? (Something not music related)

Footballer or Fashion

What TV series have you been enjoying recently and what are some of your all time favourites?

Narcos & Peaky Blinders

Apart from music, what makes you happiest?

part from music, what makes me happiest is achieving success in my endeavours. Whether it's reaching personal goals, experiencing professional growth, or seeing the results of hard work, these accomplishments bring me a deep sense of satisfaction and joy.

What can we look forward to from you for the rest of 2024? Any releases or gigs you are looking forward to?

For the rest of 2024, Looking forward to not only my upcoming release but also two additional projects that I'm particularly excited about. I’m also planning to continue working hard to achieve my goals and will be announcing some new gigs and performances soon. Stay tuned for more updates and developments throughout the year.

'Dread' is available now via Wout Records: https://tinyurl.com/5t442ydn