Q: “This Way Home” is a captivating techno album full of energy. What was your creative process in making the album?
ICARUS: Thank you for listening!
Well, I try to create something every day and depending on the mood and energy of the day the outcome can vary. Over the years I’ve created different alias so i can then sort and categorise the various types of music I make. So for the the Ica Rus alias there is overall a deeper stripped down house & techno flavour.
The album consists of a collection of tracks that I’ve recorded over a few years. One thing in common of theses tracks is that many elements are recorded into the DAW as audio and not midi. For example the synthesizers are captured in one or two takes and left as they are. I think there is a certain magic and tension you can capture with this process.
Q: Do you have a personal favorite on the album?
ICARUS: I think Heatwave, Atomic Spring and Neon Attack are my favourites of the bunch. Heatwave I especially remember the day being a hot summer day and i recorded and mixed the track in a hour. Atomic Spring also has this lovely improvisation part of the Nordlead Synthesiser that i think is a highlight moment of the track. Neon Attack also stands out on the album as a little emotional bridge in-between the 4/4 beat of the other tracks.
Q: Did any real-life feelings or experiences inspire the album?
ICARUS: My excursions up in the forest close to where i live is definitely an inspiration for this album.
There is a certain goodness that a forest can provide. If you have a bad day or feel low on energy a walk in the forest will get you back on track. It clears the mind gives inspiration. This Way Home is a small homage to Nature for sure.
Q: Was there a pivotal moment in your life when you decided to follow your path as a musician?
ICARUS: I don’t think i had one pivotal moment, music has always been part of me since i can remember. I never choose it, the curiosity of music choose me. But when i think about it i guess that performing infront of an audience is one of many experiences that is a key to my career path. Its very addictive.
Music has this invisible magnetic force that influences people in a profound way. And when you experiences musical moments together with others the indescribable feeling of knowing happens. It is universal. As a DJ or Live act i have the privilege to actually control this energy and create moments that has left me speechless countless of times. I strongly believe that music is one the most powerful ways of communication. When its combined with dancing together with other people it has a healing effect and our brains gets stimulated in a incredible way.
I have always considered music to be an endless discovery and constant process. I learn something new every day by listening to music.
Q: What is coming up next for you?
ICARUS: Summer is upon us and i can’t wait. Winters are long up here in Sweden and I’m really looking forward to enjoy some warm weather. In terms of music there is many fun projects in the pipeline. Some more Ica Rus releases and also more music coming out under my Ambient Alias Damm later this year. Also a bunch of Joel Mull releases in the works. Touring will bring me around to destinations around the planet, many nice parties and festivals.
Q: What would you like to tell your supporters out there?
ICARUS: I would like to thank everyone that are are tuning in to my frequencies. And also relay a message.
Please keep on support your local venues, clubs and parties. They are the backbone of this fragile music culture and they work hard to provide rooms and spaces for you to enjoy the very moments I’ve spoken about. It also helps artists being able to survive on their art. Also i would like to remind you to never stop dancing, never stop playing, keep your inner child alive!! Music and Dancing is what keeps us Young. Thats a Fact.
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