Q. Can you objectively explain the impact of the "Downtempo" series?

I cannot objectively explain the impact of the "Downtempo" series. I leave it to the people to assess the impact of my music on them. On me, it had a very pleasant impact because it is another way for me to have fun in the studio or with my video maker friends, creating different contents and exploring new ways of making music.

Recent trends and future.

Q. How has the Corona since 2020 affected you? How do you think your view of music has changed since and before Corona?

Honestly, it didn't change anything for me except that I had two extra days to work on my songs during the week because I had no gigs on the weekends.

Q. You are at the top of the Hardcore scene. You have the support of the underground. How do you see your position?

I don't see myself as being on top of the Hardcore scene. While some may consider me to be at the top, others may see me as the worst producer ever. It's all a matter of perspective, and there are too many people out there for me to try to control their opinions. That's why I'm not concerned with my standing in the scene. I'm focused solely on enjoying the process of making music and contents.

Q. What do you think of the relationship between underground and mainstream? What do "underground" and "mainstream" mean to you?

This is another subjective matter. What is considered mainstream by some may be considered underground by others, and vice versa. I simply make the music that I feel at the moment and then let the listeners decide if it is mainstream or underground.

Q. You have wonderful supporters all over the world, but I believe you also have haters. What do you mean by haters? What are some of the interesting opinions (comments) you have received from haters?

What is often referred to as "haters" are simply people with a different perspective, and their opinions should be respected. I make an effort to read all the messages I receive, and I sometimes even agree with the criticism.

To be honest, I'm quite forgetful, but the most recent criticism I received was about the use of the word "downtempo." The commenter questioned the idea of labeling hardcore music in this way. Personally, I believe that anything with a distorted kick drum can be considered hardcore, regardless of the tempo.

I never intended to create a new subgenre within the hardcore scene. However, I understand the importance of having a clear and recognizable label for the message I want to convey with my music.

Q. Dogfight Records released Nightshift's "I Am Doom" last year. This has a traditional Darkcore feel to it. Also, Millennium is being re-evaluated(your Sounds of the Millennium too). Do you think we will see another Dark Hardcore revival in the future?

I hope that the more diverse approaches to Hardcore we have, the more intriguing and powerful Hardcore will become. It all depends on the producers, we need more producers who can eventually evolve into artists with their own messages and perspectives. However, to truly become an artist, there are two paths: either you are a genius (which is very rare) or you are a hard-working and dedicated person.

Q. What are your thoughts on Post-Rave such as Casual Gabbers and Never Sleep and Hard Techno movment? Who are your favorite producers and labels these days?

That's very respectful. What they are doing is probably one of the most difficult things to do because Hardcore is not very well received. Genres and movements tend to be closed minded and elitist, but they are breaking into that scene and expanding the Hardcore movement even more than other Hardcore producers who are following the Uptempo or Raw trend.

Q. Since last year, the Hardcore Festival has resumed as usual. However, there is no change in the lineup at all. Is this a lack of quality from the young producers? Or are the festivals being conservative? Will the hardcore scene continue to evolve? If there is a problem with the current scene and industry, what is it?

In my opinion, the new producers are not yet ready. I know that big promoters may be eager to add variety to their lineups, but if the new "artists" don't sell tickets, it's not their fault and they are forced to repeat the lineups. I have seen many new producers release a few good songs, play at big festivals as openers, and then fail within a year or so.

In my opinion, this is because the big promoters want to change the lineups, but the new artists are not yet ready. They take the stage and have three options:

1) You become an instant superstar (very rare)

2) Your ego starts to inflate because you feel like you've made it, and you produce less and less inspired tracks.

3) You can't handle the pressure of a big stage and you overthink in the studio, leading to fewer releases.

I believe that being a good producer is a long journey that also involves failures. Failures and hard work make you experienced and stronger, and this is a process that a producer face every day in order to become a real artist. And any way, sometimes an old artist has much more to say than a new producer.

Q. What advice would you give to aspiring producers who are trying to make music? Also,any advice for those artists who are already active and are resentful of the current situation.

In these days, everything changes quickly, including trends, social media, promoters, and new big names. These things can put a lot of pressure on you, cause you to overthink, and distract you from your main goal of making good music.

Today, it's even harder than yesterday, and the methods I used in the past to emerge may no longer work in the current scene. The only thing I can do is trying to give a good example if they want to take it. So, I can only wish them luck and enjoy what they are doing.

Q. What is the upcoming schedule for you ?

Soon I will release the an official Rmx of The First Rebirth by Jones and Stephenson, the track will be released on Thunderdome Records and we did a very beautiful video to celebrate this legendary song.

Q. Please leave a message for our readers.

I miss Japan and all of you a lot. Your country feels very similar to mine, with a rich history, culture, beauty, and delicious food. I'm confident that we'll see each other again soon :).

2024.12

Conversation Series Vol.1 with DJ Mad Dog

MDC Interview#66 " DJ Mad Dog "