Dutch producer Moksi kicks off a new chapter as a solo artist on third studio album Moksi Crew, adding to the ever-evolving journey of house music while also rediscovering himself as a producer and artist.
Having begun in 2015, Moksi which pioneered the bass house genre expanded organically to span everything from tech and deep house to techno. This new album which builds on these wide influences while also challenging the popular sounds within today’s house music, hones in on new techniques as well as the signature versatility to make for a fun and fresh listening experience.
Speaking to Earmilk, Moksi chats about the inspiration behind the album, pushing sonic boundaries, how he describes his current artistry and much more.
‘Moksi Crew’ pushes your sonic boundaries beyond your signature sound. What inspired you to take this step in your artistry?
Mostly because I don't want to keep repeating myself for too long. I’ve been on the front line of Bass House since 2015 and until now I've released about 120 songs in that specific sound. I can't look at myself in the mirror as an artist if I keep repeating that ‘trick’. I’m well aware that I'm known for a specific sound, and I'm also well aware that some people have to adjust to some of the new songs. But making music has always been about expressing myself and finding my place in society. And right now I'm in need of rediscovering my place in the world. To make sure me and my music always have a place in it.
What is the inspiration/message behind this album?
This album is dedicated to the Crew. The fans. When people become fan of someone or something they actually mirror their taste, reputation and memories to it. If my music disappoints, in some ways they feel disappointed. If my music sounds great, they feel great. That is a tremendous responsibility for me. That's why I want to let them know that I see them very clearly. While on the other hand making decisions I need to make for myself to be happy and find my place in this world.
Speaking of your sound, how has it evolved over time and where do you see it going from here?
Its all about the crossover. Moksi means mix in the Surinam language. It’s always been about just that. In the beginning it was specifically a mix between UK genres with a Dutch way of producing. Now I'm trying to incorporate techno tech-house and house influences as well. But the main goal is always to keep that bouncy vibe my sound is known for. In the future I want to keep releasing club music, but I also really love working on melodic house. Songs like Gipsy, Tidalwave, Slow Burn, A Million Dollars are a testament to that.
You’ve been experimenting and fusing different styles on this album, what’s one sound or genre you’d love to experiment with in the future?
I would love to dive deeper into maybe one day work on a hard style/bass house crossover. I feel that there’s something in that combination. Especially because the distortion technique they use on their kicks is the same as I use on my basslines. There’s something in there! Can’t wait to dive deeper into that.
What’s your personal favourite track off the album and why?
Black On Black is the song where I feel I've succeeded best in finding the balance between so many creative ideas. The build ups, fake drop & drop, the second breakdown, they all have something unique and unexpected. Something that has never been done before. I'm proud of that! Want to thank Eleganto for the amazing studio sessions finishing this song.
Since the beginning of your career till now, what’s been the most surreal moment so far?
The fact that fans have tattoos of my logo or autograph. It’s humbling. And surreal. Never thought I'd reach that level of artistry. And I don't take it for granted.
What’s the most rewarding part of the music making process for you and which parts do you find most challenging?
The most rewarding is knowing you’ve created something that no one else is able to make. Something undeniably me. That has always been the goal.
The most challenging is knowing when you have to stop pushing the production. Most of the time the first idea is the strongest and it's easy to lose that in the search of something better.
If you had to describe your artistry in 3 words, what would they be and why?
Versatile – always searching for a crossover.
Bouncy – my music just has to have that bounce.
Unique – I want to be incomparable.
Connect with Moksi : Instagram
