Contributing Writer
Hellbent Records continues its 2026 run with a new name as VLAD makes his debut on Cloonee’s imprint with his ‘Interlude’ EP. Marking the launch of the project, the two-track release delivers a direct, peak-time introduction built around driving grooves, punchy percussion, and high-impact club energy.
Title track ‘Interlude’ sets the tone with infectious basslines and tightly locked rhythms, while ‘POP’ pushes the momentum further with crisp percussion and rolling intensity. Though the alias may be new, the producer arrives with a deep résumé behind the scenes, including a Grammy nomination for his work on Burna Boy’s ‘I Told Them…’. We caught up with VLAD to talk about launching the project, the thinking behind the EP, and what is next…
This marks your debut, both on Hellbent Records and as VLAD. What drew you to the label, and why did ‘Interlude’ feel like the right project to introduce yourself?
I’ve been a fan of Hellbent from the very start. I’ve known Cloonee and Fallon from many years ago – so when it was time to send music out, it made sense to hit up the boys. To see what the label has become since its inception, and how much it’s grown, has been incredible. I didn’t put too much pressure on myself for the right introduction to the VLAD project…I always try to make music that truly reflects me, regardless of what the current “in” sound is.
The EP feels very direct and peak-time focused. When you were building ‘Interlude’ and ‘POP’, were you thinking about specific dancefloors or moments in a set?
Definitely. When I’m making music, it has to give me a certain feeling in the studio that I would want the crowd to feel at a festival or club. I need energy… I need goosebumps. Different cuts serve different purposes, of course, but I aim to create memorable moments.
In the studio, are you meticulous with sound design, arrangement, or how tracks translate on bigger systems?
For sure. I appreciate sonics and strive to achieve the highest level in my work, too. All of those things are constantly at the forefront of the process. It’s a balance between having a good idea and nailing the science of bringing it to life in the correct way. It can be tricky getting everything right, to be honest, which is why I have huge respect for all dance/electronic music producers.
With this debut setting the tone, how would you define the VLAD project moving forward? Is it strictly club-focused, or can we expect other sides of your musical background to emerge later in 2026?
For the foreseeable, it’s going to be strictly club-focused. I’m loving making club music again. However, I’m inspired by a wide range of artists, producers, and genres…so who knows – I’m not rushing anything. The project is going to develop in a natural way, so you’ll have to wait and see.
VLAD ‘Interlude’ EP is out now on Hellbent Records – buy/stream HERE.
Follow VLAD via:
Instagram – Soundcloud
