Shinedoe Interview “The Dutch Techno Scene Has Always Been Strong”
By Juno Daily 11/22/2022 13:48
Last change: 22.11.2022 , 14:01 .
Dutch veteran tells us to 'wake up'
Shinedo has been showing his stunning art productions to the public for almost two decades, but with a growing scene in the Netherlands and superstars like Dave Clark , Jeff Mills, Rickyds and Jet Doctors recognizing his skills, he's on the rise. He has just released his fifth album Freedom Riders on his newly formed Music That Moves (MTM) label (digital only) as well as his four track EP Wake Up on vinyl to the delight of DJs. We caught up with him to find out more...
Have you recovered from dancing in Amsterdam? It seems like a real event at this point. what have you found Where have you played and seen other great combos?
ADE was very good this year. Friday night I closed the Dave Clark Gala at Melkweg. I also did an Everything Music x ADE audio tour where people can download the app (https://everythingismusic.io/) and hear my voice guiding them to my favorite places in Amsterdam. There is a lot to do during ADE. This year I met some friends and relaxed, because in a few days I will go to Colombia.
The Netherlands has always had a place for techno, but right now the Dutch techno scene seems particularly strong. What do you think of its features and are there any new names you can suggest?
The Dutch art scene has always been strong in clubs and festivals. From my perspective, all forms of techno music have always been mainstream. It's probably more 'commercial' now, which might explain why people think it's probably a bit louder at the moment, as well as the new generation embracing techno music. I am constantly discovering new names, but the scene is very dynamic.
Your hit single "Dillema" was released in 2004 on the Dutch label 100% Pure. How do you think your music has changed since then?
When I make music, it's always what I feel or see. Each track has its own unique feeling that I want to convey. I'm always interested in finding new hardware or plugins to use. I learn more every time I have something new in my studio or even when I run into a technical problem and have to sit on it for hours.
Tell us about the Music That Moves (MTM) label you founded in 2018. Why is it necessary to leave Intacto and focus solely on publishing one's own works?
I successfully ran Intacto Records with Dylan Hermelin (2000 and One) for 16 years and during that time we released music from many artists around the world. I have learned a lot and am very grateful over the years.
At some point I felt and understood that it takes a lot of time and effort to find the right music for our company. When the quarantine came, I had time to think and felt that I just wanted to focus on my work and keep the music moving as a label.
Your voice is often described as a "positive" voice. Do you actively work on it or does it come naturally? Should I be careful not to overdo it?
It is interesting! To me, producing means being free-spirited and creative. I don't describe my voice or how my music sounds. I just create what I feel in the moment and express it in my work. What I love about music is that everyone has their own experience and interpretation when listening to music, so my compositions can represent something unique to each listener.
Last year I released an album on Jeff Mills' Axis label; how is jeff doing as a label head?
Jeff Mills is always honest, but he's always kind and fully engaged.
The Wake Up EP gave us a taste of the Freedom Riders album and something to play with. How would you describe the LP?
My Wake Up EP focuses on being aware of your surroundings and getting in touch with your inner truth. When you have peace within you, you will be awake and aware, and from then on you will be free. Freedom Riders is about breaking free from the conditioning of the world and returning to your core, your pure essence. I hope the EP leads you to the LP in the same way.
Ben Wilmot
Buy your copy of Wake Up here.
