Jimbo James
Montreal native and heavy hitting hot hand Maher Daniel takes over the reins in this week’s Lovecast Episode. Creating marvelous music on top tier labels such as No.19, All Day I Dream, Get Physical, and Leftroom; Maher has been in the sights of the Mi4L periscope for a few years now. The opportunity to chat with him and be presented with an exclusive mixture of his ornate tunes is an honor and a big push added to the momentum of our flywheel. Peep out Maher’s latest EP release ‘A Call from Within’ on No.19, which was released early September on Beatport; the EP features remixes from Martin Buttrich and Subb-an (two of our faves here at Mi4L) — seems like the perfect package. Without further ado, we present Lovecast Episode 065 from Maher Daniel. Enjoy, Lovers!
Interview with Maher Daniel:
Where are you from and what are your musical upbringings?
I am originally Palestinian, but born in the US and raised between Montreal and Dubai my whole life. My musical upbringing comes from a wide array of styles and genres — from listening to the sounds of the Gipsy Kings and The Beatles to The Stones to punk rock and slowly moving into electronic with the likes of Jean Michelle Jarre, Brian Eno and Aphex twin.
Can you tell us how you got mixed up in this crazy world of electronic music?
My brother was actually a big part of this reason, he introduced me to a Digweed mixed compilation and took me to my first rave — from there on I was hooked and it slowly developed.
Can you tell us a little about the city you live in now and the scene there?
Barcelona is a city which bleeds a lot of inspiration; the culture, the people and everyone around allows me to evolve as an artist. The scene here is really strong with artists pouring in weekly to play. We also have an amazing crew of artists that live here.
You are a part of No.19, can you tell us a little about how you got mixed up with this bunch?
It was really a natural thing that took place. I have been friends with the crew for a really long time. When I moved to Barcelona it really just took shape and evolved into the relationship that we have now.
We love your latest release ‘A Call From Within.’ Can you tell us a little about your inspiration for this tune?
The Inspiration for this record came from walking home one night and I noticed a street performer playing the hang drum. As I stood and watched him play with so much emotion it kinda just clicked. I ran back home and started writing this record.
When you are not making music, what are you doing?
When I’m not making music I’m managing the label and touring; also a lot of cooking — I love to cook, it’s one of my favorite things to do.
What can we expect from Maher Daniel in the coming months and into 2015?
There is a lot of new music coming out and touring happening worldwide. I have a strong team behind me and plenty of support, which is really amazing. I’m really looking forward to 2015.
What advice would you give to aspiring producers?
To stick to their guns and keep producing the music they love. Never let anyone tell you otherwise.
Who are some of your favorite producers/labels right now?
I have been playing mainly vinyl lately and most of the music has been vinyl only: Donato Dozzy, Delano Smith, Claro Intalecto, Perter Inspirescu, Robag, and many many more.
Drink of Choice?
Jack Daniels and soda
Can you tell us s little about this mix?
I did this mix over the weekend on the plane. It really builds nicely and has a mix of old and new records. Unfortunately, I did not get to record it live with a lot of the new music I have been playing on vinyl, but it has some choice cuts in there I have been supporting.