Artist Spotlight: DBF
‘Freestyle Fanatic’ is the latest release under your DBF alias: how does this track fit with the DBF identity, and what makes it distinct from your work as David Forbes?
With the DBF material, I’m tapping into that late ‘90s to early 2000s vibe, no-nonsense, feel-good party music. It’s all about capturing the energy and fun of that era. In contrast, my David Forbes productions tend to explore the darker, more intense side of trance, pushing boundaries sonically and emotionally. DBF is more light-hearted and nostalgic, built for the dance floor with a smile, whereas the David Forbes tracks dive deep into the underground. ‘Freestyle Fanatic’ really sums up what DBF is all about: high energy, hands-in-the-air vibes, and I suppose a nod to that golden era of club music.
What other styles or influences are you planning to bring into this new project going forward?
I’m keeping things open. I think that’s the beauty of it. It’s a chance to step outside the box and blend in styles that I grew up with or that shaped the early rave and club scenes. You’ll definitely hear more freestyle, hard house, old-school trance. I want to keep that raw, energetic vibe alive while still making it feel fresh. It’s all about drawing from those classic influences, yet flipping them in a way that works today on the dance floor.
What are your long-term goals for this alias, and where do you see yourself taking it?
Long term, I see DBF as a space where I can really let loose creatively and connect with people through the kind of music that first made me fall in love with the scene. I’d like it to grow into a recognizable sound, something that clubbers and ravers know will bring that fun, high-energy throwback feel, but with a modern edge. It would be cool to see it evolving into a real identity of its own alongside my David Forbes work.