In this week’s MEET THE ARTIST series we introduce Israeli producer Spectral. Fostering a passion for Trance, DJing and production from his early teens, with early influence from Ferry Corsten, Paul Van Dyk and Scooter, Spectral joined forces with Chris SX for the massive release on Intonenation Axiom "The Angelcy".

Listen/Download: https://intonenation.complete.me/theangelcy

How did you start making music, and what were your early inspirations?

I fell in love with electronic music when I was about 11 years old. I was my class's resident DJ, switching cassettes when we wanted to have dance-offs outside. My gateway DJ was Scooter, but my hands-down idol was Ferry Corsten. Once I heard 'Out Of The Blue', I just knew this kind of music would have me locked for life.

Could you describe your sound, and what makes it unique?

Melodies first and foremost. I have a hard time composing something that does not revolve around the melody and the harmonies. They need to have a soul and need to be unmistakable. Right now I'm infusing my original tracks with Psy-Trance elements, particularly the unmistakable kick/sub combo. I think the hard edge, coupled with the powerful lead synths, reflects my 'I want it all' personality and fits me.

How did you get started in the business, and what was your first landmark moment?

My break-in to high profile releases came at a very late stage of my production. Production was way in the background for me for over 15 years, when an old friend reminded me of something he really liked that I made back in 2003. It reignited my confidence and made me commit. I start taking things more seriously and judge my music by sound quality and appeal, sought out colleagues, and good instructors. It took another year and a few good words to land me my first signed release with Redux Recordings!

My landmark moment is so far easy to pick: The first time I saw a video of my music played to a live crowd. My current absolute idol. Sean Tyas, played my track 'Reborn' at Luminosity Beach Festival 2019 and I can't describe the feeling I got from that.

Which do you prefer, producing in the studio or DJ’ing?

I have not DJed for quite a while and really focused on making music the past two years. Making music is my #1 love. But I miss a crowd, I miss the feeling and hope to rekindle the Jockey flame soon.

What’s next for Chris SX/Spectral?

Chris and I are not done and will be delivering more music together. I may have 1 or 2 more releases by the end of 2020 but will have lots more in 2021. I have never had more unsigned and in-progress works as I do right now, with quite a few collaborations with other producers and amazing vocalists. I'm going to branch out and put out a few prog-housey tunes as an outlet to my laidback side, but for my core work: I intend to keep taking my sound to harder, faster regions while maintaining my heavy, melodic, emotional signature.