EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
X-Coast’s latest project, The Riviera Collection, isn’t just an album—it’s a window into another realm. Drawing on an ethereal connection with a virtual island, this collection of nine tracks defies the traditional constraints of an album, instead offering a carefully curated assortment of dan- cefloor-ready beats.
“Some would call it an album for sure, but there is a feeling that an album sent to us by a virtual island we practically know nothing about would have to sound more conceptual than 9 tracks that work tremendously well on the dancefloor put to- gether in a listenable order. An X-Coast album is expected to be written in one go, trying to weave an invisible thread that could keep it as a whole. I cannot say more; after all, I am just a mere repre- sentative of the island on planet Earth.”
This sonic odyssey was inspired by years of co- llecting ideas, memories, and sounds, and thou- gh the tracks are plucked from X-Coast’s vaults, the essence of the collection is anything but da- ted. Each track stands on its own, yet they come together in a way that is unmistakably X-Coast.
“No matter the style, these jams have that re- cognizable X-Coast touch—often imitated, never duplicated,” he shares.
The collection is a dedication to the dancefloor, with a mix of house, techno, tribal, and trance beats designed to captivate and move crowds.
A MUSICAL JOURNEY INSPIRED BY LEGENDS
Many of the tracks were born after a significant encounter with none other than Armand Van Helden. After a performance in Dublin, where the legendary DJ signed X-Coast’s arm, the moment became a catalyst for a creative explosion.
“We had instructed the vessel never to wash the arm again, because such scribblings by a legen- dary music craftsman bring immense power to the bearer,” X-Coast recounts with humor and reve- rence. “As a result, 31 heaters, 53 belters, 26 ban- gers, and 14 stompers were crafted—these are the best 9 creations.”
THE ART OF REMIXING: CRAFTING THE X-COAST GROOVE
X-Coast’s ability to remix hits has garnered him widespread attention in the electronic music world. His takes on Shygirl’s 4eva and DJ Gigola’s La Batteria are standout examples of his creati- ve process, one that involves identifying, extrac- ting, and manipulating elements from the original recordings to build the quintessential X-Coast groove.
“The X effect—a process of identifying, extracting and manipulating a sample from the original re- cording in order to achieve an X-Coast groove. As a result, a portal to the island is activated. Some- times it’s as simple as repeating a part of a vowel of the vocal track,” he explains.
His remix work, much like his original productions, has a distinctive touch, often transporting liste- ners to the enigmatic island that fuels his artis- try. “Both of these originals were hits already, but also both of the artists are friends and supporters of the island since the early years when the first contacts were made. They knew which originals would work and what to expect after the treat- ment.”
MOMENTS ON THE ROAD: HUMILITY, HUMOR, AND CONNECTION
X-Coast’s live performances are nothing short of legendary, not just for the music but for the unpredictable moments that unfold.
“Haha, like that time I played the main room at fabric for the first time and the island made me experiment a little with the track selection which resulted in emptying the whole floor. Or that time the island made me steal a bunch of beer from DC10 during Circoloco because they thought the prices there were through the roof,”
X-Coast’s stories reveal a sense of humility, play- fulness, and a deep connection with his audience. It’s this mix of humor and spontaneity that makes his shows unforgettable.
His upcoming tour, which includes a packed sche- dule for ADE, promises more of these unique mo- ments. While X-Coast remains tight-lipped about specific details, it’s clear that something special is brewing.
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