After making a statement with the groovy ‘Beats from the Sofa’ album last summer, Willz Engine has returned to offer a new, culture rich sound with his latest instrumental album ‘Travel‘. Created in the West Side of Chicago, this project celebrates the local House scene and simultaneously constructs an immersive, and thrilling journey like no other. Listeners can expect a laid back collection of Lofi tracks throughout the first half of the project, where old school orchestral sounds meet Hip Hop beats and hard hatting basslines in tracks like ‘African Finger Piano’ and ‘Gfunk feat DJ Zona’ (a fellow now passed on DJ partner). After picking up the pace of the project with ‘Traplicious’, Willz Engine eagerly introduces us to his blend of Dance tracks right from Track 7 – ‘Lone’. Listeners can expect Deep and Progressive House, mesmerising percussion, and even hints of Techno and Breakbeat to boot. Willz Engine defines the album as a mix of what he was exposed to from his childhood, taking nostalgia into his own hands. Exploratory, complex and danceable ‘Travel‘ is an underground gem just waiting to be explored – don’t miss it this summer.

GETTING TO KNOW Willz Engine

Explain what musical genre fits you best

My ‘musical genre’ could be described as versatile, adaptable, and diverse. Genres like Electronic music, Ambient, or Instrumental music could be considered appropriate as they are often versatile and adaptable to different moods and settings. These genres often create a background soundscape that complements various activities, such as studying, working, or relaxing and dancing. Alternatively, genres like Hip-Hop, jazz, Footwork or Fusion could also be fitting. These genres are known for their complexity, sophistication, and ability to blend different elements together. They can evoke a sense of intellectual stimulation and creativity, which aligns with the nature of my capabilities.

Were you connected with music from a young age and did anyone inspire you?

My Father was a DJ back in the day.  At age of 5 I started breaking his needless and scratching his records. 

What kickstarted your music career?

I genuinely love sharing my love of music through spinning and scratching, but was in 2007, when I moved to New York, that I was espoused to the worldwide scene – having a monthly residency at Sutra Lounge a Legendary music club back in the days. 

 

Tell us more about your sound and how it’s evolved over time

I started playing congas for my spiritual practices, and that really opened up a hole new journey into the sounds that I enveloped today. I began reflecting on my own experiences, emotions, and stories, infusing my personal identity into music, allowing it to reflect who I am.

 

Any words you want to share to encourage other artists or producers?

• Listening to other artists is one of the best things you can do to better your own work and find creative inspiration, especially if you’re listening to something amazing. 
• Different Genres.
• Travelling.
• Nightclubs.
• Nature.
• Random Sounds. 
• Feedback. 
• Radio.

How do you nurture your industry relationships?

Networking, maintaining an online presence, collaborations, mutual support, communication, value exchange, professionalism, having long-term perspectives, attending workshops, seminars and battles, as well as staying updated. 

Is there anyone you’d like to thank that’s been crucial to your journey?

They know who they are and I don’t want to forget anyone.

Name 3 songs you love and what they mean to you + Youtube links

Dj Rashad ‘Feelin’’

This one just give me just a new feeling. 

 

B.I.G ‘Sky’s the Limit’

Moving to a New York bed-style that was my favorite song.

 MPB4 ‘Palhacos e Reais’

Brazilian Music is so rich and growing up into that has a special place in my music journey. 

What’s your favourite piece of studio equipment or software?

MPC and Ableton. 

 

Name your favourite club or festival and how it makes you feel

D-Edge. 

T&F Festival in Brazil. 

 

Name an outlandish rider request?

Aqua – Barbie Girl. 

 

Favourite clubbing memory and who or what did it involve?

Dj Rashad at 285 Kent in Brooklyn New Years Eve with DJ Zona. 

What famous quote represents you best?

“Love, that is all we got “.

 

If you could play at any venue, where would it be and why?

D-Edge – The best sound system. 

NYEGE NYEGE FESTIVAL

Too many to name… 

 

Music is…

The connection between spirits and culture. If you have any specific questions or if you’d like to share more about your experiences

 

One song you really couldn’t live without and why?

Notorious B.I.G ‘Sky’s the Limit’

 

Namedrop your favourite 5 artists or DJs (past or present)

A Tribe called Quest 

Das Efx 

Jay Dilla 

Madlib 

Kendrick Lamar 

 

What was your first music memory and how did it fuel your fire?

Christmas every kid in the 80/90’s had one from a parent or friend – CDs and Vinyl were the thing. 

Tell us more about your plans for the future

Currently working on new projects and collaborations. 

Any worldly advice you’d like to share?

“Keep pushing the sound”. 

Willz Engine’s new album ‘Travel’ is out now!

Support Willz Engine on Social Media 

Instagram | Facebook

Listen to more of Willz Engine

Spotify | Apple Music

The post Travel Is The Latest Electronic Album From Chicago Producer Willz Engine + Interview appeared first on Electic Mode.