Exron Exclusive Interview: Kallaghan

In this interview, DJ and music Producer Kallaghan shares his top tracks from 2023; he highlights his tracks “Wasting Time” and “SKYFALL” and his fusion of groovy basslines and UK Breakbeat energy, as well as his fondness of including guitars and elements from Rock in his evolving sound. Kallaghan touches on unexpected moments, memorable collaborations, and the creative process behind his tracks, sharing insights into what makes them special. Join us to explore the music and experiences that defined Kallaghan’s 2023 in the Electronic music scene.

Exron Music: Can you share with us your personal top tracks or releases from this year, and what makes each of them special to you?

Out of the seven tracks I unveiled this year, “Wasting Time” and “SKYFALL” stand out as my top picks. These 2 songs blend the groovy basslines reminiscent of Chic! with the vibrant intensity of UK Breakbeat, taking cues from legendary acts such as Prodigy. Both songs include a lot of guitars, something new I have been adding to my sound this year.

Exron Music: Reflecting on the past year, which track, either by your own production or by another artist, do you feel has had the biggest impact on your career, and why?

I had the privilege to collaborate on “Watch The World Burn” by Falling In Reverse. While it might not be classified as EDM, the sheer quality of this song is undeniable. Producing Ronnie’s vocals for it was an exhilarating experience. The song just turned Gold in less than 9 months. Incredible experience.

Exron Music: Were there any unexpected or surprising moments related to the tracks on your list, whether they are your own or by other artists? Any unexpected fan reactions or collaborations that stood out?

Collaborating with Bryce Case on “AM I RIGHT” was a fantastic experience. It’s perhaps my most mainstream track. Not only is Bryce an outstanding vocalist, but he’s also a wonderful person. His melodic style is top-notch, and there’s a hint of that Justin Bieber charm in his voice.

Exron Music: Can you take us behind the scenes and describe the creative process or inspiration behind one of your personal releases that made it to your top list?

I wrote ‘Skyfall’ in Corsica this summer. I got super inspired and wrote half of the track on my laptop in the cliffs of Calvi. I have a Rock approach to writing Electronic tracks. I wrote Rock music for 15 years, I like bringing people on a journey and make sure there is “progression” and “relief” in my sets. I love “riffy” tracks (House/Bass House) and big melodic transitions (Deep House). I also love to drop into big Techno parts but always with a riff approach. The synths on the verses are my telecaster played in my Moog 27.

Exron Music: Can you share a track by another artist that you discovered this year and felt a deep connection to? What drew you to that particular piece of music?

‘Badadan’ by Chase and Status. I knew the project from back in the days, but their live performances are so sick. It really talks to me and my Rock background.

Exron Music: Are there any particular musical influences or experiences from the year that you believe are reflected in your selection of top tracks, whether they are your own or by other artists?

Seeing the premiere of New Redemption at Mission Ballroom in Denver. Such an inspiring set and visuals with “the Line”. Malaa and Tchami, Fuego!

Exron Music: Can you share any memorable anecdotes or stories related to the creation or performance of one of your personal releases or a track by another artist on your top list?

I played Reggaeton Rave at Exchange LA. First, I don’t speak Spanish, and second I am French haha so preparing that set was so much fun. I prepared a remix of ‘Sabanero’ and the crowd lost it haha, my wife included (she is from El Salvador).

Exron Music: Looking back on the year, do you notice any common themes or motifs that run through your top tracks, or were they intentionally diverse in style and sound?

I like huge drops and big riffs, so I pay a lot of awesome underground Bass and Future Bass from UK artists such as Ombro and Nat James. I have been using a lot of Techno elements too.

Exron Music: How do you feel your music has evolved or changed over the past year, and do your top tracks, whether they are your own or by other artists, represent this evolution in any way?

I have been releasing Electronic music only for 2 years so far, something like 30 tracks. Looking back, I realize I was always trying to compromise and put “everything I like” in one song. I don’t make the compromises anymore, I realized that other DJs would play my tracks if they were more focused on one ambient, one dimension. A song like “Wasting Time” is pure Bass House / Future Bass, “Am I Right” is a “commercial track” haha, I am not trying to mix both “vibes” in the same song anymore. I also started adding live guitars in my sets and I can’t wait to share it live in 2024.

What message or emotions do you hope your audience takes away from your selection of top tracks, whether they are your own or by other artists, as they wrap up this year and move into the next?

I like to see music as a therapy. You need to be able to express all your emotions without holding anything back. My sets have a big energy, but they also bring you on a journey with long melodic build ups. I loved plying “Sky Fall” this year, people really connected to it. It was such an amazing year, I am extremely grateful.

As we conclude this interview, we’ve delved into Kallaghan’s top tracks and favorites of 2023, discovered his creative process, and explored his memorable collaborations and unexpected moments in the past month. For him, 2023 was a year filled with groovy basslines, powerful energy, and a touch of guitars as part of his signature sound. Kallaghan’s journey in the Electronic music scene continues to evolve, promising exciting developments in the year ahead, so stay tuned for more music and experiences as he continues to leave his mark in the Electronic music industry.

Kallaghan Online

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