Upercent [Interview]

Valencia based sound architect Upercent has developed a distinct brand of electronic futurism. An enthusiastic attitude towards experimentation, coupled with extraordinary creative vision has made the Spaniard one of the more unique artists to emerge in the last decade. Upercent’s first microCastle project, 2018’s 'Vuit', not only served as the imprint's second ever vinyl release, but continued the Valencia resident’s mission to create contemporary club tools and destabilizing sound explorations. Seemingly in constant motion moving forward, Upercent would go on to record projects for Diynamic, Kompakt and Watergate, amongst others, firmly establishing his place amongst the underground’s premiere talents. Now more than five years on from this elusive string of projects, it has been Habitat, Innervisions, Sum Over Histories and TAU which have been vehicles for his creative swell over the last two calendar years, reminding us of the niche he carved out during his initial rise, as he continues to maneuver himself through the confines of electronic music. With 2024 being highlighted by ‘Falling’, a two-track collaborative project with Germany’s Adana Twins, Upercent now returns to microCastle with ‘Persevere’.

Progressive Astronaut caught up with Upercent to learn more about the release of 'Persevere', his background, electronic music in the Spain, DJing, mental health and much more. Enjoy

Hi Jose, thanks for joining us. How has the first half of the year been so far and please tell us something interesting about your day today?

Hi, thanks for having me. The year is being productive so far, and I’m diving into some projects I really love. This has me excited to wake up every morning, and today is no exception.

Looking back on 2024 so far, what gigs of yours have stood out and why?

My last gig in La Réunion was very special. In an age where everything is recorded and technology can be distracting, I really appreciate that the people at Désinvolt have a no-photos/videos policy—similar in concept to Berlin, a city I also love. Considering the venue, the crowd, and the promoters, they are organizing huge events. Additionally,  I also loved the Azerbaijan music scene that I recently discovered and is growing rapidly in the music business, and I have fond memories from there.

Let’s also look at tracks released since the beginning of the year. What do you guys think have been some of the standouts so far?

There have been a few of my tracks that I’m particularly proud of. For instance, 'Especisme,' released on Mind Against's label HABITAT, has received great feedback from music lovers and colleagues alike. Another track, 'Da Warrior,' was released on Solomun's label Diynamic. Additionally, 'Falling,' a collaboration with Adana Twins, and a remix I did for Ivory's song on Isolate, are also among my favorites.

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

Contrary to what many people might think, I don't spend most of my time creating music. In fact, I only make music when inspiration strikes or when I feel it's the right moment to produce. Typically, when I'm not traveling my days are filled with other business projects in the music industry and thinking about potential ideas for my next song.

Have you lived in Spain your whole life? And if so how did growing up there affect your music taste and direction? Or did it all?

I haven’t lived in Spain my whole life; I’ve also spent time in Kyiv in Ukraine and Dubai in the UAE. However, I’ve been based in Spain for most of my life. Growing up in Spain, particularly in Valencia, has had a profound impact on my musical direction. The local music scene, especially the hard styles with fast BPMs that were popular during my childhood, has influenced my productions. Additionally, my experiences traveling and DJing around the world have brought many global influences into my 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?

I started very young, going to clubs, and I was completely captivated when I saw the vinyls, mixers, and what the DJs were doing. It was love at first sight. When I began visiting what I considered 'temples' of music at around 14 years old, I was too young to enter legally, so I remember a mix of emotions: nervousness, euphoria, and happiness. From the very beginning, I knew I had never felt anything like the impact music had on me, and I always wanted to stay connected with it.

You’ve accomplished a lot across your career with releases via Innervisions, Kompakt and many more; along with being a well established DJ. What goals do you have going forward? Or a better question might be do you think about the future?

I don’t focus too much on the future. I visualize what I want in my career and work to make it happen, without getting caught up in things that haven’t yet materialized. I’ve achieved most of the goals I’ve set for myself, which is crucial for understanding where I stand. Right now, my focus is on my personal projects and collaborations with respected labels, alongside the projects I’m working on with my friend and partner.

What’s been a release of yours that advanced your career the most in your opinion? And why do you feel it had such a positive impact?

I believe a career is shaped by many factors. While some releases can act as triggers, a music career is a long-term journey. Releases on Diynamic, Kompakt, Innervisions, microCastle and TAU have also made a significant impact. Tracks like 'Parlem,' 'Tirant Lo Blanc,' 'Caos', 'Tranqui Tronco’, ‘Vuit’ or 'Agrair have been key in gaining recognition, with many industry heavyweights playing them around the globe. Additionally, being involved with remixes with Innellea, Jimi Jules, Blond:ish, Marcus Worgull have further amplified attention.

You are a known vinyl lover, do you have any record shops that you love to go to either in Spain or on your travels? And why is it important for you to have your music released on vinyl whenever possible.

I’ve always bought my music in Valencia at a vinyl shop called ‘Digital Records.’ Nowadays, I purchase vinyl online, and if I have time while traveling, I visit some shops. I have to say that currently, I’m buying different genres and not just electronic music.

Those who know me understand how important vinyl is to me and the deep affection I have for it. It transports me back to the feeling of when I bought my first records, when time seemed to stand still and I could focus solely on listening to the music, observing the artwork, reading the credits, and simply enjoying the experience. I feel that, in some ways, the digital era has diminished the value of music. It’s important to remember that there is a lot of work involved in any artist’s work.

This week marks the release of your ‘Persevere’ EP via microCastle, please tell us a bit about the release and what sort of vibe you were going for on this collection.

I’m going to dare to say that 'Persevere' is one of my most special releases to date. Some tracks were made in Kyiv, which has great significance for me, while others were created between Algemesí and Valencia. Releasing it on microCastle gives me the peace of mind that every step until it comes out will be handled with the utmost care. That’s why I feel fortunate to have worked with Mitch, who is a passionate and visionary music enthusiast. Every detail has been carefully considered and worked on together. Without a doubt, microCastle is in my top 5 record labels.

These tracks really show your versatility as an artist I think. Do you ever get caught up in thinking about having to stick to a certain sound to appease the current trends?

I try to find a balance between what works and what I truly like. We work in niche markets within an industry that demands specific types of sounds, so, in response to your question, it’s kind of a mental struggle, haha.

And to add to that how important is it as an artist to try and follow along with music trends?

For me, there are two ways to grow in the industry: one is by replicating what others do, and the other is by being a dreamer and creating what you truly like. The second approach is harder but likely the most rewarding. Regardless, even when making the 'most original' music, everything is inspired by other music that may have influenced your style or taste.

You released on microCastle once before with ‘Vuit’, which we all remember, what brought you back to the label and why was it a good home for these particular tracks?

Returning to microCastle was an easy decision after my first release. The respect they show for music is truly unique, and it's a genuine fact. The label’s commitment to quality in each release makes them stand out. I have confidence in how the label manager operates, and the alignment with my values made it clear that microCastle was the perfect home for these particular tracks.

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 your ‘Persevere’ EP?

My studio is constantly changing, I can't even remember how many times I've moved cities, studios, and changed my living situation. My setup for creating music sometimes includes old analog gear like some of my favorite classic synths, drum machines, and effects, while at other times, I might have nothing but headphones. It depends on the situation and the place I'm in at that moment. Years ago, I overcame the belief that you need a huge studio to make music or be inspired; it's all about creativity. Some of my best songs were made with the simplest setup.

What has been your favourite track to play from the EP and why?

Difficult question, as all of them are different. For example, ‘As It May Seem,’ a collaboration with singer Paul Brenning, is particularly meaningful because it was created far from Valencia and involved an intense process with the vocalist. Additionally, 'Blau Cel' is another track I’m proud of, for me it's an uplifting song that ends with samples of my cat, which makes me very happy :)

As mentioned, you are a well travelled and accomplished DJ, having toured around the world and holding residencies in different countries, how would you describe your approach to the craft?

Traveling and DJing have shaped my approach to the craft. Exposure to different musical cultures and audience dynamics has broadened my perspective and refined my style. My approach has evolved to blend local influences with global trends, allowing me to adapt my sets to resonate with diverse audiences. This exposure to new environments and sounds has enhanced both my technical skills and my appreciation for the art of DJing.

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 also, your work as a producer?

DJing has simplified my music creation process. Initially, my music was more complex and experimental, with layers of intricacy that sometimes only I fully understood. I still create that kind of personal music, but now I’m balancing simplicity with effectiveness.

My goal in this regard has been achieved. Previously, I struggled to incorporate my music effectively into my DJ sets, but now I can do so seamlessly, which is crucial for me.

Regarding how I view music as a producer, there are two totally different perspectives. On one hand, there's the child Jose, who probably experienced music in a more intuitive, natural and emotional way. This doesn’t mean it was better or worse, just different. On the other hand, Jose the producer approaches music analytically, whether it's my own creations or the music of others, often focusing on separate elements and their synergy within a track.

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

It's spontaneous. I simply put some music I like into a folder and let the vibe of the place guide me.

The subject of mental health is complex and nuanced, and it is an issue to which those working in electronic music are especially susceptible. It can be deeply rewarding but it is also competitive, fast-paced, unpredictable and hedonistic. Talk a bit about the pressures of what you do that fans may not be totally aware of.

The electronic music business is a tough jungle. It's crucial to have a strong mindset, set clear goals, and surround yourself with people who genuinely love you and believe in what you're doing. In my case, the support of my manager has been vital in keeping me focused. The pressure is intense, and to compete in the major leagues, you need to be in the same arena as the top players. Everyone wants a share of the same opportunities, so it’s not a market for the faint-hearted.

Creating music is mentally demanding. Art, in general, requires a lot of thought, and there’s often overthinking involved in the creative process. It’s essential to manage this overthinking and have a strong belief in what you're doing.

As a prominent artist, how important is it for you to raise awareness of subjects like ‘mental health’?

It’s essential and necessary. We start this career without an instruction manual, facing challenges and constantly stepping out of our comfort zones, which sometimes makes us lose touch with reality. However, the positive side is that facing all the challenges in the music industry and dealing with mental health issues makes you a much stronger person. I am grateful for everything I’ve experienced and learned.

If you were not a DJ/Producer what do you think you’d be doing with your life? (ie something completely outside of the music industry)

Working as a volunteer at an animal rescue shelter or being out of society with no contact with anyone. (Guys, this is not a symptom of having worked in the music industry—don’t be scared haha.)

What’s a book you’ve read or film you watched that has left an impact on you, and why?

There are some books that impacted me like ‘The Power of Now’, The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People’ or ’A New Earth’. The books I read it’s about self growing and business.

Current top five tracks?

1. Underspreche feat. Rumy - Loco [Diynamic]
2. Adrian Roman - Indecent Preposition [TAU]
3. Volar - See it [Essential Part]
4. Adana Twins - Neue Realitat feat Jence) [Live At Robert Johnson]
5. Imeïa - The Chaos Inside [When We Dip XYZ]

What are some of your favourite TV series? All time and recent.

I don’t watch TV, movies, or series, so I’d say I like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (watched it on a plane and still love it).

Apart from music, what makes you happiest?

Nature makes me feel good, and travel makes me feel fulfilled. I also love animals; I have a colony of 10 cats in Valencia in addition to 2 cats at home.

What does the remainder of the year hold for you in terms of releases and gigs? Anything you can share with us?

Many things I can't reveal yet, but they include collaborations, remixes, solo releases, and tours that I eagerly anticipate.

'Persevere' is available now via microCastle: https://linktr.ee/microcastle