In a riveting conversation with electronic music virtuoso Lex Luca, we dive deep into the heart and soul of his latest EP, “I Think I Did It,” freshly minted on his own In Tune imprint. Lex Luca opens up about the creative forces that shaped this electrifying release and takes us on a sonic journey through the tracks that have ignited dance floors worldwide. With insights into his artistic vision, inspirations, and future endeavors, Lex Luca’s interview promises a glimpse into the mind of a passionate creator at the forefront of the electronic music scene.
Hi Luca Lex, welcome to Celebmix! Your latest EP, “I Think I Did It,” has just been released on your own In Tune imprint. Can you tell us about the creative process behind this EP and what inspired its unique sound?
I’d actually made What’s This a couple of years ago. It all started off with the vocal sample – once i’d got the vocal sections i was able to put the groove together quite quickly. I remember doing a couple of versions of breakdown and drop though as the first one wasn’t quite working. It took a bit of time but I got there in the end!
Then more recently I set out to make a b-side to go with it. I started working on a tribal infused drums, then found the I Think I Did It sample. Once I got that popping the rest fell into place and I Think I Did It became the a-side!
I Think I Did It” features two tracks that showcase your knack for groove and rhythm. Could you walk us through the different elements and emotions you wanted to convey with each track on the EP?
With both tracks I set out to make tracks that were really dance floor friendly and the key element to both of the tracks I think is the vocal sample.
With ‘I Think I Did It’, I wanted to make a track that brings the dance-floor together and brings a smile to people’s faces. What’s This i wanted to make more of a rolling tribal track. The drop is a key element to this one and the hooky vocal give some sing-a-long moments that i hope people can latch on to.
So to sum it up, I’d say unity, vibes and happiness!
In 2022, your track “Exposure” on Riva Starr’s Snatch! label gained massive support and acclaim. How did that experience impact your approach to music production and influence the sound of your new EP?
It’s always amazing to have so many big name DJs support my music and something I’m super grateful for.
My approach to music production is always been on to keep pushing my own boundaries – keep learning, growing and developing. As the tracks were made a couple of years apart there were quite a few things and experiences that influenced the tracks from studio set up, production techniques and personal tastes too.
Your work has received support from various heavyweights in the electronic music scene. How do you maintain your distinct sound while also appealing to a broad range of listeners and DJs?
For me it’s about being honest with myself. I’ve learned over the years to not get too caught up with external feedback and just focus on what I love to do. In the past when I’ve got too caught up in trying to appeal to anyone, it ends up going wrong. So now my litmus test is, do I like it, would I dance to it and am I happy with it. I I can honestly answer yes to all of those questions then I’m good with it. Of course it’s amazing when my music connects!
As the founder of In Tune, can you tell us about the vision behind your imprint and how it has evolved over time? What sets it apart from other record labels?
I love having a label so I can take control of my release schedule. My vision behind the label is to support the underground scene and to maintain consistency of quality house music and the future stars of the scene.
House music has a rich history and diverse sub-genres. What aspects of house, tech, and tribal music do you find most inspiring, and how do you incorporate these elements into your productions?
I’m inspired by the free-thinkers, the boundary pushers and the innovators of the scene. I go into the studio with an open-mind and embrace creativity
Many artists draw inspiration from a wide range of influences outside of music. Are there any non-musical sources of inspiration that have played a significant role in shaping your artistic direction?
Yes spending time outside of the studio is hugely important. Becoming a dad has been the most significant source of inspiration in recent years. Plus lot of internal work from meditation, free writing as well as keeping fit (lots of swimming and running) have really helped me stay inspired, and they allow me to be free from constraints when i’m making music. I love traveling, art and movies too. And I’m a people-person; i love spending time with and talking to people – this gives me energy and lights me up for music production.
Looking ahead, what can your fans and the electronic music community expect from Lex Luca in terms of future releases and projects? Are there any collaborations or events you’re excited about?
I’ve got a releases lined up on Trutopia’s Night Mayors imprint as well and Junior Sanchez’ Brobot, plus another EP ready for In Tune. I’m really excited to share more music over the coming months.
And I’m about to launch OpenDAW Talks podcast, the ultimate guide for independent producers and artists to thrive in the music industry. So watch out for that :)