First of all, congrats on your debut artist album, Surreal, which was just recently released on the 1st of March. What does this album mean to you?

Thank you, I appreciate that. I think each individual track on Surreal means something different to me. When I’m making a song, it’s coming from a unique place, a place that’s hard to replicate once the track is finished. One of the most interesting things about finishing the album was seeing all of these different ideas come together to create a single story. The overall experience of writing this album has helped teach me to trust the creative process and enjoy the journey!

You say the name "Surreal" is about finding yourself. I love that! What inspired you most to take the album in that direction?

Making music has taught me a lot about life in general. During the writing process of each track there are ups and downs. I have moments where I think the track sucks and times where I love it again. If I push through and finish the project, things usually turn out positively. I think as an artist, you find yourself a little bit more with every idea you finish. Finding yourself is definitely an on going process and one I try to work towards every day.

Do you have a favorite track on this album and, if so, what about it makes it stand out the most to you?

Well that’s a tough one to answer! If I have to choose, I’d pick Dimensions. It’s always so much fun to work with my talented sister Bethany Marie. I remember when she recorded the vocals for Dimensions in the studio last year. I couldn’t believe how great her voice sounded paired with the music. There was another band waiting to record next, and we all danced around the control room as she was singing.

Who are the artists that have inspired you the most, musically?

There are many artists who have inspired me in different ways, but the biggest inspirations for me lately would have to be Kyau & Albert, Jon Hopkins and Above & Beyond. All of these artists write beautiful songs that have helped me through difficult times. I’m sure the raw emotion I feel listening to their music has influenced my sound for sure.

Surreal reached the top 10 on Beatport's trance releases, and was also featured on A State Of Trance! What are your thoughts on that?

I would have to say my mind was blown! I felt the love from everyone who helped Surreal chart on Beatport. Buying songs takes effort, but it ultimately allows artists to chart and get more people interested in their music. This helps us continue to do what we do! Having Armin’s support for Surreal was amazing. I want to give a big thanks to the team at ASOT for giving me the platform to help promote my new album. Much love!

Let's talk about you signing at Euphonic. How did joining Euphonic come about?

Euphonic has been instrumental in shaping the modern trance and progressive scene, so I must say I had a great deal of respect for the label before signing with them. I first approached Euphonic early last year with a few tracks that I felt would be a good fit for the label. I was happy to hear they liked the music and wanted to work with me. With the support of the whole Euphonic team, I decided to write my first artist album, Surreal.

You just ended your Euphonic label tour. What were some of the highlights of that tour for you?

The tour was so much fun! It was an incredible experience to be able to play my album out live around the world. Besides playing in some legendary cities and venues, meeting fans of my music from so many different countries was really special and definitely the biggest highlight for me.

Is there a new tour in the works for Surreal? Is there anywhere you want to play but haven't had the chance to yet?

I can say there are some exciting things on the horizon for Surreal. Be sure to follow my socials for updates on future events, and if you’d like to see me in your city, be sure to message your local promoter!

One place I’ve always wanted to play is Buenos Aires. I remember Bryan Kearney dropped his remix of my track Statues there during ASOT 700 back in 2015. Ever since then, it’s been on the top of my list of places to play live. Plus my friends have visited and I hear the food is outstanding!

Can you tell us what the rest of 2019 has in store for you and Euphonic?

After the successful release of Surreal on Euphonic, I’m excited to say we’ll be releasing singles from the album along with remixes. I actually just heard one of the remixes today and I can’t wait for everyone else to hear it too! I was able to road test some new ID’s during the Euphonic tour, so stay tuned for those to drop on the label as well.

And lastly, is there anything you'd like to say to your fans?

Thank you for listening to my new album, telling your friends and adding the songs to your personal playlists. It still blows me away when people say they enjoy listening to my music.
Thanks for sending me encouraging messages and coming out to the shows! Your support means I can continue to do this and I’m looking forward to sharing this journey with you ☺