Interpulse is a Melbourne-based trance DJ whose minimalist style is reminiscent of spiritual, tribal music.
You’re appearing at next year’s Rainbow Serpent Festival where you have played almost every event. What makes the festival so special?
Going to Rainbow is the kind of experience that changes people's lives. You meet amazing people, see beautiful things, hear brilliant music and generally get to appreciate and celebrate life. Once I experienced it for the first time in 2001, I was always so excited to go back each year. I often think of the festival when I've writing music, as it's so inspiring.
Are you planning anything extra special for Rainbow?
Well, rumour has it that I may be playing on the main stage again this year, which is extra special in itself. I will possibly include extra performers, however, I will make the final call on that closer to the time, depending on what I feel most inspired to do.
How has your live show progressed since you began?
It sounds 400 percent better! It's sped up a lot, and it's more dynamic and expressive. I'm in the process of developing some very cool ideas which may or may not be ready for Rainbow.
What’s your favourite part about playing at festivals compared to a club show?
Playing music out, in amongst nature has a therapeutic affect on me. I especially love playing under the stars, with great atmospheric lighting.
Do you enjoy the community/ camping atmosphere that events like Rainbow are able to cultivate?
Yes, very much so. Sometimes it's easy to miss a lot of the entertainment at Rainbow because there is so much enjoyment to be had sitting at camp in such a friendly environment.
Modern technology — how much do you like to immerse yourself in all the new gadgets, apps, etc that are available now?
I seem to spend a lot of time using computers, but I avoid extra gadgets unless there is a good reason to use them... I'm waiting for the gadget that does everything.
Your flavour of trance music appropriates aspects from lots of different cultures. How would you describe the style of music that you produce?
I don't actually fit neatly into any genre. Each one of my tracks has its own sound. I listen to my heart when writing music, rather than following other people's formulas. I came up with this saying: ‘Write the music that lives inside you, not the music they play next door’.
Having spent eight years as one half of the trance duo Mantrix, do you feel Interpulse reflects similar sounds?
Sometimes Interpulse reminds me of Mantrix a bit, but the fact that Mantrix was two people means that Interpulse is more a reflection of my own taste; and my sound production quality is also much more advanced now.
You refer to yourself as a ‘heartist’ as opposed to an ‘artist’. Could you elaborate on that?
Well for one, I like playing with words... I guess one could take me more literally than I intend a statement to be. However, that statement is referring to the fact that I write music from my heart, as opposed to writing music based on an interest or an experiment. The reason I became a musician was because I loved the feeling of playing with chords and melodies on the guitar. It's still that feeling that drives me to write my best music. I have to love it.
Interpulse brings his live show to Rainbow Serpent, in Lexton Victoria, January 24-27. rainbowserpent.net
