Artist Spotlight: CIEIII
What first inspired you to start producing electronic music?
The first track that really made me want to start producing was Calvin Harris – I’m Not Alone. The trance-inspired synths in that track reminded me of the trance CDs my older brother used to play while growing up which led me to start exploring the genre for myself. One of the first trance compilations I bought was Dave Pearce Trance Anthems 2008, which really cemented my love for the genre. I then started wondering how these tracks were actually made from scratch and not just how they were mixed by DJs – that curiosity eventually led me into music production. I’m still inspired today by those older trance tracks, and the nostalgia they bring is something I try to integrate into my own productions.
Can you tell us more about the making process of remixing The Eternal?
James at Armada reached out and asked if I’d be interested in remixing The Eternal. It’s such a timeless trance record so I knew I wanted to stay true to the emotion of the original while still bringing some of my own sound to it. I struggled at first trying to find that right balance but once I started introducing some Balearic-inspired textures and leaning a little further into the trance influences than I normally would in my own productions everything seemed to fall into place. Looking back I’m really happy with how it turned out and I feel like it respects the original while still bringing something fresh to it.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about where you could go next?
I still feel like I’m developing my own sound and that’s probably what excites me the most. Every track teaches me something new and I feel like I’m getting closer to finding my own identity as an artist. I’m very excited about some upcoming releases and collaborations that are currently in the works and also seeing support from artists who inspired me early on such as Tiësto and Armin has been incredibly motivating. I’m excited to see where the music takes me next!