“The Romanian scene has so many great artists and this inspired me to express myself musically too. Itâs a great place to be right now.” – Groovesh
Every country has their pioneers that helped shape the original scene and musical environment. Over time, however, it is the dedication and passion of the next generation that will continue to expand on the work of those before them. One such artist is the rising Romanian DJ/producer, Groovesh.
At the tender age of 17, Groovesh is well on his way to making a name for himself on the global circuit. Heâs released on a variety of tech and minimal labels receiving support from Tini, Hector, Enzo Siragusa, amongst others, and has played alongside groove masters such as Ada Kaleh, Praslea, and Valentino Kanzyani. Itâs clear that the Romanian scene is exploding at the moment, and with artists like Groovesh at the forefront of a new generation there is much to look forward to for the scene.
Weâve recently caught up with the budding Romanian artist to discuss his upcoming releases, his nightlife experiences, as well as what his parents think of the journey he has embarked on.
Groovesh: Facebook | Soundcloud | Beatport | Juno Download
When did you start DJ-ing? And what was your inspiration to begin this journey?
My first DJ-ing attempt was sometime in 2010, and my inspiration to begin this journey was the amazing way a Dj can make people feel good through music.
In our emails we jokingly talked about how you wouldnât be able to go to any techno or minimal clubs here in the USA for a few more years! What has it been like growing up in Romania where the scene is so vibrant?
The Romanian scene has so many great artists and this inspired me to express myself musically too. Itâs a great place to be right now and there are so many nice parties every week.
What is your favorite part of a club night?
I love quality club nights, especially when the club is packed with people that understand the music that is being played, regardless of the hour.
Who are some artists you enjoy listening to?
Iâve been obsessed lately with Floating Points, his production skills are amazing and thereâs always that analog feel in every track he creates. I’m also really into the music produced by friends like Silat Beksi, Alan Castro and Amin Ravelle.
Youâve had many major artists support your tracks. Tini, Hector, Enzo Siragusa, and Einzelkind to name a few! Can you tell us some of the tracks theyâve played out?
Both Tini and Hector played my track Midnight Depths, released with Early Morning Records, while Enzo Siragusa has been a fan of my Dope Love remix for iQude.
Can you take us through your production process, as well as the gear and your overall studio setup?
My production process just happens when inspiration strikes. The gear I use at the moment is nothing more than a Macbook with Ableton on it and two Yamaha HS80s in a nice studio room. However, I do have plans to invest some money this year and start making music only on analog gear.
What equipment are you interested in? And what is the motivation behind an analog set-up?Â
My main interest is buying drum machines. I’m in love with the fact that you can tweak sounds by twisting real knobs. You can’t compare that with making music digitally. It’s…analog :)
What has been your favorite memory since you started DJ-ing and releasing music?
There are definitely a lot of great moments from the parties Iâve played. I have a lot of fun seeing people positively react when I play my own produced tracks.
Can you tell us about your upcoming vinyl release, Slowset?
Itâs a vinyl EP Iâve been planning with Steve from FarFromNormal for a little while. It all started with the remix proposal for Jamie Hausâ âMeioseâ, and we later decided I should make an EP myself for them too. There are four tracks featured, 3 originals from myself and a Silat Beksi remix. It got some very good reactions from the people that already had the chance to listen it in clubs, and it is also early supported by Tini.
How do your parents feel about your musical endeavors?
My parents always had a hard time understanding the message I deliver through my music. However, considering Iâve found my life path and Iâm happy with what Iâm doing, theyâre happy too.
What are your goals for the rest of this year?
My goal for the rest of this year is to go fully analog with my productions and continue developing the âGrooveshâ signature in my musical works. I will just enjoy life and deliver my message to as many like-minded people as possible :)
