Contributing Writer
Izaakson is a Netherlands based DJ/Producer with a solid reputation in the undergound dance community. In addition to being the driving force behind his Memoria Records imprint, Izaakson has released music under various pseudonyms throughout his career. We sat down with Izaak to discuss his latest EP, ‘Troy’, on Seventeen Soundscape.
Hey Izaak! Thanks for chatting to Music is 4 Lovers. How’s your year been so far?
Hi there! I appreciate the warm welcome. This year has been a whirlwind of creativity and growth for me. I’ve been diving deep into my passion for music, exploring new sounds, and connecting with fellow music enthusiasts. One highlight has been the collaboration with two old friends, Massimo Girardi and Ilario Liburni, under the name IZIL. We’ve had the pleasure of doing some gigs together this year, blending our individual styles into a unique musical experience.
In addition, I’ve been away from DJ-ing for almost 10 years, and it’s been an incredible journey to start touring again this year. It’s a nostalgic and heartwarming experience to reunite with familiar faces, both in the industry and among the crowds. Meeting everyone again and playing for enthusiastic audiences has added a special dimension to my musical comeback. Despite the hiatus, the connection with the audience feels as strong as ever, and I’m thrilled to be back on the road, sharing my music with such vibrant and appreciative crowds.
Your latest EP, ’Troy’, is out on the 15th December on the freshly launched 17 Records; what can you tell us about the release?
I’ve been at the helm of Memoria Recordings for quite some time now. Memoria is more than just a record label, but I’ll delve into that aspect later on. Recently, I found myself yearning for a fresh new label, a space where I could curate and release music with a distinct House vibe. This primarily includes my own creations, occasionally featuring collaborative efforts.
The upcoming release serves as a prime illustration of the sonic direction I envision for the label. It encapsulates a sound that is undeniably catchy and reflective of the musical landscape in 2023. I’m excited about the prospect of shaping the label’s identity through releases like these, and there’s much more to come.
What does your production process usually involve when creating a track?
My journey into music began with playing the piano as a kid, and that early exposure to music theory has become a cornerstone of my creative process. When crafting a track, I draw on this foundation to shape melodies, harmonies, and overall compositions.
The creative phase is where I invest a significant amount of time. It’s the initial spark, the exploration of ideas that define the essence of the track. This is where my piano background and understanding of music theory come into play, guiding the musical elements toward a cohesive and expressive result.
Once the creative aspects are in place, I prefer to step away before diving into the technical side of things. I come back with fresh ears on another day for the mixing process. Admittedly, it’s a part of being a producer that I find less enjoyable, but I recognize its crucial role in delivering a polished final product. To bolster this aspect of my skill set, I took the initiative to return to school and further develop my technical expertise.
Having a foundation in music theory and keen ears is a significant advantage in the mixing process. It allows me to navigate the technical intricacies with a more nuanced understanding, ensuring that the final mix not only meets industry standards but also maintains the artistic integrity of the original concept.
What can you tell us about your label, ‘Memoria Records’?
Memoria is a multifaceted entity with various components. In addition to our role as a record label, we operate a vinyl shop, engage in artist management, and boast a substantial distribution and pressing arm that assists other record labels in their endeavors. Over the past 12 years, I’ve been running Memoria, a period during which I made the decision to step back from my own DJ career. At that time, I felt the need to channel my focus entirely into the company and its diverse operations. Balancing the demands of running a substantial company while performing as a DJ across Europe every weekend proved challenging, requiring a level of dedication that couldn’t be split.
In the past two years, there has been a shift in my role. My dedicated partner, Omar Mazzon, has taken on the majority of operational responsibilities, allowing me to rekindle my focus on my DJ career. This recalibration has proved fruitful, and my DJ career is experiencing a resurgence. It’s a testament to the importance of finding the right balance and allocating attention where it is most impactful.
Is there anyone in particular who’s been a real inspiration to your work?
It might sound like a cliché to state the obvious, but in this case, it’s an undeniable truth. Raresh stands as an absolute pioneer in our scene, and his remarkable career speaks volumes, even without a continuous stream of music releases. His ability to strike the perfect balance between minimal, house, and techno on the dancefloor is truly commendable. Beyond his musical prowess, Raresh is a genuinely humble and pleasant individual.
As a DJ, Sonja Moonear ranks at the top for me. Her performances are nothing short of exceptional—the way she commands the decks, her impeccable record selection, and her captivating stage presence. Every aspect of her approach resonates with me.
When it comes to the ‘new’ generation of artists, I must admit that I haven’t been closely acquainted with their work. It’s not a matter of dislike; rather, my limited attendance at shows over the past five years has left me somewhat out of the loop. However, based on what I’ve observed online, I’m particularly impressed by my fellow Dutch artists like Toman and Chriss Stussy. The progress they’ve made in the last few years is undeniably impressive, showcasing a dedication and skill set that commands respect.
What’s the most memorable set you’ve played and why?
Picking a single favorite gig is a challenging task. While I hold respect for today’s partygoers, I find myself reminiscing about earlier times when my DJ journey was marked by a myriad of unforgettable experiences, from festivals to intimate club settings. Among the highlights, performing in South America holds a special place in my heart because of the unparalleled passion the audience has for the music.
However, singling out one specific gig would be unjust. Broadly speaking, what I cherished most about those earlier times was the incredible atmosphere. People were genuinely there to revel in the music, creating a vibe that felt unmatched. Unlike the present, where clubgoers are often preoccupied with their phones, the emphasis back then was on the collective enjoyment of the party. It’s a trend I find less appealing in contemporary club culture. Thankfully, I’ve noticed a positive shift in some clubs, advocating for a phone-free dancefloors. This encourages a return to the essence of enjoying the music and the moment without distractions.
Can you name a track from this year you’ve had on repeat?
I tend to have an old-fashioned approach to music. During my sets, about 90% of the tracks are old records I’ve amassed over the years. However, when observing contemporary artists, it’s evident that Traumer exerts a significant influence on the current sound. The entire French cohort, including the complete Apollonia crew, along with the emerging talents like Janaret, are truly making waves in the realm of house music. I’m a big fan of the innovative contributions coming from this collective.
As a DJ/producer based in the Netherlands, what sets your local scene apart from the rest of the world?
The hub of the Dutch dance scene predominantly revolves around Amsterdam. While I acknowledge the well-organized nature of this scene, boasting incredible talent and high-level promoters, it tends to be heavily Amsterdam-oriented. From my perspective, there seems to be a lack of sufficient recognition for artists outside of Amsterdam, and the scene appears somewhat insular. A few organizations dominate the landscape, resulting in a repetition of the same artists playing at various venues throughout.
Do you have anything lined up for 2024 that you can tell us about?
Next year, IZIL has some significant performances lined up in Belgium and Germany, although the specific line-ups are yet to be announced, preventing me from delving into the details. Collaborating with Massimo and Ilario as IZIL remains a constant highlight for me. The camaraderie we share while traveling and staying in hotels together enhances the overall experience. Our longstanding friendship has built a substantial level of trust among us. Moreover, when we’re behind the decks, our synergy shines through seamlessly, facilitated by a shared lack of ego.
As a solo artist, my primary emphasis is on studio work. I’m actively engaged in the creation of an album, and I’m eagerly anticipating upcoming releases on labels that I hold in high regard—a source of considerable pride for me.
Buy ‘Troy EP’ HERE
Follow Izaakson:
Instagram – Soundcloud – Facebook
