Release Radar: Mike.D - Historia Mal Contada

Mike.D joins the Cadenza family with Historia Mal Contada, marking his debut EP on the label. Born in the Mexican town of Jaurez, he is now based in Guadalajara, where the house music scene is growing rapidly, and he along with it. His productions have been coming in thick and fast in recent years, attracting the attention of artists the world over, thanks to a unique blend that he channels through the obscure and melancholic. We sat down with Mike.D as he looks back at what led him to this moment with Cadenza, that he tells us might just be one of his proudest to date.

You’ve been an active player on the underground circuit in Guadalajara for some time - how would you describe the scene there and what is your involvement?

The house music scene here has been growing quite a bit in the past few years. Since I moved here, Guadalajara has received great artists all around. With Losh, which is the brand I am working with, we have had the opportunity to bring artists the likes of Shonky, Maayan Nidam, Chklte, Dandy Jack, Satoshi Tomiie and Michael James to name a few.

Things started for you in your hometown of Juarez - how did the local culture and music scene there influence your sound? Who were your biggest influences when you first started creating music?

The local music culture in my town, Juarez, has evolved well. We have one of the best clubs at a global level (Hardpop) where I had the opportunity to play many times. That’s what inspired me to begin producing. It’s actually a very special story because at that time I was just beginning to reach out to Cadenza, I was loving their sound. I never imagined I’d be releasing an EP here though; it seemed impossible. Luciano has played a fundamental role in my career as a producer.

Your releases have received support from a wide range of artists, including another recent addition to the Cadenza family, Arapu! At what point did you realise there was such an appetite for your productions?

To be honest, I never imagined my music would be playing in some of the best festivals worldwide. One of the first artists to support my music was Cosmjn at Citaderla Festival. After that, I worked hard to improve my ideas and sound. I started sending music to Arapu and I received good support from him as well. Soon after, my music was being played at Sunwaves and some of the best festivals around the world at the hands of Priku, Gescu, Sublee, Prichindel, YokoO, Rich Nxt - the list goes on!

Can you tell us a bit about your studio setup, what does it look like and what tools are you using to make music?

When I lived in Juarez I had an Arturia Beat Step Pro to do my drums, a Korg Volca Bass for my bass and a Volca Keys to create the melodies; all on Ableton. When I moved to Guadalajara I had to sell all my equipment, so now I just produce with my laptop and headphones. I mainly use the Vsts by Arturia V6 and Native Instruments in Ableton.

Soon your new EP Historia Mal Contada will be released on Cadenza - what does it mean for you to be releasing on the label?

Wow! I really don’t have words to describe how I felt when I got the news. I have been trying to get into this label forever until finally I nailed it! This means so much to me because it was a farfetched dream of mine considering the quality of artists that work with Cadenza. I really feel proud of myself for never giving up. I have been able to make it onto a label that basically marked my career and inspired me to do everything I am doing now in this beautiful industry, both as a DJ and producer.

How was your approach to producing these tracks different from your other releases? Are there any personal stories or experiences that helped shape this one?

I did have a different approach to this one because I went out of my comfort zone to create the entire EP. Historia Mal Contada does have an inspirational story behind it. At that time, I became sick with Hepatitis A and I was in bed for 15 days, without being able to eat or sleep. Definitely something I do not wish upon anybody. My girlfriend took good care of me throughout, and helped me get through it. Honestly, all I was thinking about was creating more music. LOL! As soon as I woke up with a bit of energy to function, I opened my computer, and got to work. That’s how Historia Mal Contada came to be. It’s definitely some of my best work. I play it all the time, and I have been getting a great response.

Aside from your Cadenza release, you for sure have a rapidly growing catalogue of productions! What would you say are the signature elements or techniques that you incorporate into your tracks that really define your sound?

I define my sound as obscure and melancholic. I like to use a lot of pads and effects to create a nice atmosphere. Of course, I love making tracks for the dance floor and this is something that I feel defines me as a producer.

When you’re not making music, how do you unwind or stay inspired?

When I am not making music, I am listening to music. Hahaha! I like to listen to hip hop, rap, jazz and rock, but I have to say my major inspiration is always my family.

What else can we expect from Mike.D, any upcoming projects or releases you’re particularly excited about?

Recently, my album came out with Vatos Locos,  which is another label I really like. I put together several releases on vinyl for which I feel really proud. We are also working on our first vinyl only VA with the Losh label,  where you will find one of my tracks alongside a bunch of great artists. Of course, there is much work ahead with Cadenza and I am more than ready to get my hands dirty!

Check out Historia Mal Contada which is available now on Beatport or Bandcamp.