EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
X-Coast, the Serbian DJ and electronic music producer has made a significant mark on the global music scene with his distinctive style. Known for blending house, techno, and breakbeat influences, he has captivated audiences with trac- ks like “MANGO BAY” and “BAILANDO 2023.” In an exclusive interview, X-Coast delves into his creative process, collaborations, and the inspirations behind his work, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a dynamic artist.
X-Coast’s recent work has impressed us featuring remixes for prominent artists like Trance Wax, SHYGIRL, and Partiboi69.
“Yeah, it seems like a big remix year for the X-Coast project. We were fortunate as a group of artists to be developing our skills and getting more attention at the same time. All of the names you mentioned above and also a remix I just wrapped up in the studio for DJ Gigola’s La Batteria.. we have a long-standing relationship of respect and support for each other, so it comes organic, almost effortless, and that’s when the best things come to life. I think all the artists knew pretty well what was in the package when you hit me up for a remix, and I also had previous insights into which X-Coast tracks they loved in the past years. I was a fan of all these ori- ginal tracks as well, so giving them the X treatment was fun & inspiring.”
This camaraderie allows X-Coast to stay true to the essence of the original tracks while infusing them with his unique flair. His latest remix for DJ Gigola’s “La Batteria” exemplifies this approach, blending his style seamlessly with the original’s spirit.
Reflecting on the collaborative process, X-Coast highlights the importance of mutual understan- ding and admiration among artists. Knowing what each artist appreciates in his work helps him tailor his remixes to resonate with their styles while main- taining his distinct touch. This blend of respect and creativity ensures that the final product is both innovative and true to the original vision.
One of X-Coast’s standout tracks, “Marathon Man,” emerged from a longing for a specific sound in his DJ sets. Influenced by a friend’s set recorded in Serbia in 2003, he wanted to create a track with a long, evolving melody over a tribal techno beat. The result was a track that he produced in a day, capturing a special feeling he felt was missing in contemporary music.
“Marathon Man” came out of a need for a longer evolving melody on top of a tribal techno beat in today’s fast-paced arrangements. I got inspired while listening to a set a friend of mine recorded around 2003 in Serbia and he mixed these two elements in that gave me a very special feeling. I thought to myself how I’m really missing this kind of sound in my DJ sets and I wouldn’t even know where to start looking for it. Just sat down and wrote it. It’s one of those tracks that you produce in a day. When things are flowing, it’s easy.”
“Marathon Man” is a testament to X-Coast’s ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources and eras. By blending elements from the early 2000s with modern production techniques, he creates a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. This track not only fills a gap in his DJ sets but also connects listeners to a different time and place, evoking memories and emotions through its carefully crafted melodies and rhythms.
Contrary to its vibrant energy, X-Coast initially aimed for a more “creepy” vibe with “Get Down.” Starting with the beat and bass, he experimented with vocal samples to add complexity. The “Get Down” vocal sample fit perfectly, bringing the track to life.
“I didn’t aim for too vibrant with that one. More creepy, hence the “X-Clone 1000™” being abducted in a coffin. I think I started laying down the beat and bass (my process does not start like this always), and after I got the “singing” bongos right in the mix I wanted to make it even busier”.
the chaos and when I loaded the “Get Down” one into the sampler it just fit perfectly. I do write a wide variety of electronic music, but trying to find some deeper meaning in a tribal / tech house track is not needed in my opinion. I guess, the message is plain and simple - “Get Down!”, He laughs.
He emphasized that the track’s message is straigh- tforward to get people dancing.
The creative journey behind “Get Down” showcases X-Coast’s experimental approach to music produc- tion. By allowing the track to evolve naturally, he captures a raw, unfiltered energy that resonates with listeners. This willingness to embrace sponta- neity and let the music guide him results in tracks that are both dynamic and engaging, encouraging audiences to lose themselves in the rhythm and energy of the music.
UPCOMING DOUBLE EP ON RIVIERA RECORDS
X-Coast’s forthcoming double EP on Riviera Re- cords features tracks from the past year or two, all tested and proven in his live sets. Unlike a conceptual album, this EP is designed with the dancefloor in mind, featuring tracks like “Put Your Hands Together,” “Hold Me Bby,” and “Ar Kor Junglist.” These tracks have become fan favorites, with audiences eagerly trying to identify and obtain them. This project showcases X-Coast’s ability to curate a collection of dancefloor-ready hits, reflecting his deep connection with his audience.
“It’s a selection of tracks from the previous year or two. Most of these are weapons from prior X-Coast sets that work really well and that’s why it’s a double EP. Think “Put Your Hands Together”, “Hold Me Bby”, “Ar Kor Junglist” and all the others that people were trying to ID and get their hands on. They were all written with the dancefloor in mind. An X-Coast LP (album) would need to be more conceptual.”
The double EP is a celebration of X-Coast’s recent work, offering a snapshot of his evolution as an artist. Each track has been carefully selected for its ability to energize and captivate audiences, ensuring that the EP delivers a powerful and im- mersive listening experience. By focusing on tracks that have already proven their impact in live set- tings, X-Coast ensures that the EP resonates with listeners and keeps them coming back for more.
“I must admit, producing these videos is where I have the most fun these days.“
“I tried chopping up some vocal samples to add to
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