Darin Epsilon is a Chicago native who has been involved in the ever evolving electronic scene since the early 2000’s. Hailing from the city where house music arguably got its start in the US, Darin has been an influence on the industry for some time now. His productions have appeared in mixes from artists like Armin Van Buuren, Paul Oakenfold, and Markus Schulz. Darin also hosts a monthly radio show and podcast called Perspectives. It got its start in 2006 and features an hour set by Darin and then an exclusive mix from a guest. The show has seen guests like Max Graham, Max Cooper, and Darren Emerson. The show will celebrate its 100th episode this month. He would later go down to launch his Perspectives Digital label in November of 2010. More than producing, Darin has a monthly column in Tillate magazine where he reviews news tech house and progressive house releases.
This multi talented producer recently unleashed his newest EP that marked the 42nd release on Perspective Digital label. Darin’s latest EP features a taste of multiple genres ranging from everything techno to melodic house. Fresh off his performances at BPM Festival and Miami MWC, Darin has been showing off new tracks from the four track EP for sometime now. Featuring a collaboration with legendary Israeli producer, Matan Caspi and Darin make for the perfect team with their hit track for the EP, “Thousand Winds”. After appearing on Nick Warren’s and Hernan Cattaneo’s ‘Never Get Off The Boat’ cruise, “Balaphonia” quickly became a hit song at Miami WMC. With a funky feeling that has traces of xylophone, this track is definitely one to check out off Darin’s EP. RaverRafting had the opportunity to talk with Darin about this latest EP and his future plans for music production, check out our interview below!
How did you originally get into producing electronic music?
Darin: Music has always been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up learning several instruments and wrote my first track at age 14. While attending high school I took an introductory course on MIDI/music production and that was my first exposure to synthesizers. My first official remix was completed during my senior year in college and I’ve been steadily releasing every since.
Tell me a little bit about your latest EP. What went into producing it and how long did it take to complete?
Darin: I actually didn’t have an EP in mind while creating these tracks. The release is a culmination of my work in the studio during the past 6 months. I’ve been releasing music since 2007 so it was nice to try something different and have fun experimenting and blending different genres together. For example, in ‘Jumeirah’ you’ll hear a rolling Techno bass groove combined with Deep House chords and a Progressive House atmosphere, a unique combination that I don’t believe has ever been heard before.
What’s you favorite track off it?
Darin: They’re all very different and unique. I’ve been supporting ‘Thousand Winds’ in all of my recent live sets. ‘Balaphonia’ has the biggest melody and is the most memorable.
You’re originally from Chicago and now based in LA. How do those two music scenes compare? Do you find regional differences across the US when you travel and play throughout the country?
Darin: Chicago definitely favors heavy grooves because of their history (it’s referred to as the birthplace of House music), whereas LA isn’t particularly known for a specific sound. You won’t really see too many Progressive House events happening outside of major cities. The good news is I’m starting to notice a lot of interest in places that have previously ignored the genre, such as Portland, Washington DC, and Texas.
What and where around the world are some of the most inspiring and memorable places you’ve played throughout your career?
Darin: Too many to mention! Off the top of my head…
Goa, India
Bali, Indonesia
Nairobi, Kenya
Omsk, Siberia
Mauritius
+ Cantacuzino Castle in Romania
Do you have any special memories that have stuck with you so far as an artist?
Darin: Playing with my idol Hernan Cattaneo at Ministry of Sound London. Being named one of the winners in John Digweed, Bedrock & Beatport’s last DJ Competition. Releasing my track ‘Shine The Light’ on Nick Warren’s 2xCD Renaissance compilation.
Can we expect any collaborations from you in the future?
Darin: Cid Inc. and I are wrapping up our 3rd collaboration, which will be released in the fall. Mat Caspi and I are also talking about doing a follow-up to ‘Thousand Winds’
Who are your favorite producers at the moment?
Darin: I’ve been picking up just about everything Einmusik has been putting out lately. He’s on fire! Also, I’m really into Cid Inc, John Graham aka Quivver, Kastis Torrau & Arnas D, Guy J, Third Son, Tim Green, and Max Cooper. I’m sure there are loads of names I forgot to mention…
If you could go b2b with any artist, who would it be?
Darin: Hernan Cattaneo
You have your own label – Perspectives Digital – what are your plans for the rest of 2016?
Darin: Next month we’ll be releasing an EP by Roger Martinez with a remix by D-Formation & Rick Pier O’Neil. We’re also beginning to compile our next various artists compilation. These are usually our best selling releases of the year. Any producers that want to participate can submit their music via our DemoBox: http://label-worx.com/demo/perspectivesdigital All submissions are welcome, we would love to hear from you!
And finally, anything you want to say to your fans?
Darin: Thank you guys for all of your support! You’re my inspiration and reason for sticking around after all these years 🙂
You can catch Darin at any of these locations this summer!
Upcoming Tour Dates:
06.19 – Be Playa – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
06.24 – Kava Lounge – San Diego, USA
06.27 – Monday Social (w/ Way Out West) – Los Angeles, USA
07.22 – Treehouse – Miami, USA
07.23 – Sandwich Bar – Orlando, USA
08.20 – Undercurrent – Los Angeles, USA
08.29 to 09.04 – Burning Man – Black Rock City, USA
10.08 – Habitat – Calgary, Canada
10.19 to 10.23 – Amsterdam Dance Event – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Connect with Darin Epsilon:
https://www.facebook.com/darinepsilonofficial
https://twitter.com/darinepsilon
https://soundcloud.com/darinepsilon
https://www.instagram.com/darinepsilon
https://www.beatport.com/artist/darin-epsilon