On the heels of the second Life in Color anthem release, David Solano proves once again that when it comes to feel good, club-ready hits, his music is a force to be reckoned with. This time around Solano paired up with the legendary Adventure Club to produce “Unleash,” a track that he says perfectly reflects the adventurous, unique nature of the Life in Color experience. We caught up with Solano to chat about the anthem, his surprising love for heavy metal, and his thoughts on the explosion of mainstream EDM. Read the interview below and try not to fall in love with the enigmatic, fun-loving character that is David Solano.
WRR: Combining so many sensory elements into one mega-production really puts Life in Color in a league of its own. What has it been like working on such a unique platform?
DS: It’s been a truly incredible experience working with these guys! They use the top of the line production and I have been a part of LIC since inception. It’s been really cool to see the whole thing grow to this level.
WRR: We love the LIC anthem you made with Adventure Club! How does the sound of “Unleash” reflect the LIC experience?
DS: Glad you like it! =). When I started the song, they told me they wanted a timeless type of song, like a big radio vocal track that gives the same incredible feeling that you get at the LIC shows. I think the song reflects this perfectly. It’s got a really “feel good” vibe the whole way through and it’s a very emotional and energetic tune. Everything about it represents the LIC experience down to a tee.
WRR: I read that at 13 you played guitar in a rock band. Can you share three non-electronic bands that have influenced you as a musician?
DS: Yes, absolutely! I was into heavy metal so you might not know some of these, haha.
- Pink Floyd – The atmosphere in their music is just incredible. I love music that has lots of atmospheric sounds. It’s the background to your song that kind of sets the mood. They where magicians when it came to this!
- In Flames – This band is just amazing, they are heavy but so melodic and the way they harmonize their instruments is just perfect. I’m big into harmonies, both with vocals and instruments.
- Cradle of Filth – This was my favorite band growing up. These guys showed me the beauty of darkness; in music that is haha! Their sound is very heavy but also musical. They combine all types of instruments into their songs like violins, cellos, and use both male and female vocals. It’s a true masterpiece!
WRR: When playing a live show do you go in with a set list or do you choose what you are going to play once you’ve felt out the vibe of the crowd?
DS: In a live show, I think it’s important to understand that every crowd is different, so planning your set before hand is not the way to go. Although it is important to be prepared and know what songs you have on deck so you can think fast while you play and call the songs based on the crowd.
WRR: You’ve partnered with so many amazing artists already, are there any emerging talents you’d like to collaborate with?
DS: Yes, definitely! I’d love to do something with Cash Cash. Those guys are making amazing music. Also, Henry Fong. He’s a friend of mine and has had an amazing 2013-2014. We will probably work on something soon
WRR: Can you choose one David Solano song you think should be on everyone’s iPod?
DS: “UNLEASH!”
WRR: The LIC podcast is such a cool way to get people pumped on the Life in Color experience. How do you choose the guest artist featured on each week’s show?
DS: I like to choose artists that have been playing LIC shows. I think it makes sense and it’s cool to give people a sneak peek as to what to expect when that particular artist performs in their town.
WRR: What is the craziest thing you have ever witnessed happening in the crowd at one of your shows?
DS: I’ve seen some cool stuff but one that stands out was when three kids in wheelchairs crowd surfed all the way from the back of the crowd to the front! This was a 10,000-person event, so it looked crazy. They were having the time of their lives.
WRR: I know you are no stranger to Miami Music Week, do you ever get tired of playing in Miami or does the scene get better every year?
DS: Miami never gets old to me! It’s my hometown and it’s always a special feeling playing here.
WRR: What do you think about the explosion of EDM in the American mainstream? Are you happy about the change or do you find the genre has lost some of its authenticity along the way?
DS: I think it’s great! I love to see EDM grow the way it has. As far as the genre loosing authentication, well, I think it’s the DJ’s job to educate the crowds and it’s the record label’s job to educate the DJs. So as long as everyone does his or her job we’ll be alright. I’m just glad to see EDM so strong in U.S.