In conversation with Drivetrain

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In conversation with Drivetrain

Founder of Soiree Records International, a Detroit-based electronic music label with a primary focus on underground, intelligent rhythm science ranging from house, techno, down-tempo, experimental and beyond. Soiree Records has not only provided an outlet for Thompson to release his own material but has also become a musical launch pad for artists around the globe. Worldwide distribution in all formats, including vinyl, digital and streaming, has earned Thompson tremendous respect and notoriety in the industry. Establishing a sister techno label, Xplor Music has taken his already growing influence to even greater levels. With an endless repertoire of quality, ground-breaking tracks, Thompson secured a continuous demand for material from both major and independent labels around the world. As a touring dj/performer, Thompson has electrified dance floors around the planet. His dynamic, energetic mixing technique and his undeniably impeccable track selection have ignited crowds at the world’s most highly acclaimed clubs, festivals and venues. Derrick Thompson (aka Drivetrain) has truly validated himself internationally as a musical powerhouse and continues the relentless pursuit of producing and presenting quality music that reflects his roots.

feeder: What inspired you to found Soiree Records International, and what was your initial vision for the label?

Drivetrain: Soiree Records was founded as a means of getting my tracks exposed at a time when big labels were not interested, and opportunities were very limited as to how to get your music heard.

feeder: Detroit has a long history of innovation in electronic music. How has Detroit’s sound influenced your work and the aesthetic of your labels, Soiree and Xplor Music?

Drivetrain: Detroit’s music legacy spans across many genres. The music that I represent is an expression of many combinations of those influences from jazz to electronic and everything in between. It’s a mixture of those influences and the attitudes and atmosphere that permeate from social, economic and climatic situations in our city that produce our unique sound.

f: Your recent release, “Manufaktured”, includes tracks by both you and Jani Ho. How did this collaboration come about, and what makes Jani Ho’s musical vision unique for you?

D: Jani Ho lives in Melbourne, Australia. I first heard him perform at a party in Detroit, and I knew right away that I’d like to have his music on Soiree Records. The passion and authenticity of his sound cannot be mistaken. Jani’s music is 100% in sync with what Soiree is all about.

f: Can you tell us about the upcoming “QLine” compilation? What distinctive elements do DJ Cent, J. Garcia, and Blaktony bring to the project?

    D: The artists featured on QLine are all very diverse in their creative abilities. The tracks on this particular EP focus on more of the deep house character of their productive arsenal without discounting the dance floor appeal.

    f: As an artist with such a vast and varied repertoire, how do you keep your music fresh and innovative over time?

    D: I listen to many styles of music all the time. Not limiting myself to any specific genre keeps my mind open to new ideas with a perpetual fresh perspective.

    f: What challenges and opportunities have you encountered releasing music on vinyl compared to digital, and what keeps you invested in both formats?

    D: Vinyl and digital formats seem to attract different audiences. I’d like to reach both. Vinyl is more difficult in that there are much greater expenses incurred in manufacturing vinyl and also there are scheduling limitations due to availability and other constraints at pressing plants.

    f: During your international tours, have you noticed any differences in how people react to your music in different parts of the world?

      D: When I play, I am prepared to rock the people no matter where I may be performing. My sets may be tailored specifically for a particular crowd. But for the most part, people are people. If they come for the music, they will respond.

      f: Is there a particular experience that has marked your musical journey or a performance that stands out as especially memorable?

      D: I think the performances that stand out the most are those held in a unique type of venue. It could be in a castle or an ancient coliseum. Or on a beach or in the mountains. It could be on a boat, floating, or at a festival. These events stand out not only because of the location but also because the people are moved to another level, possibly because of the spectacular setting.

      f: Many of your works range from house and techno to downtempo and experimental. How would you describe your creative process across such diverse genres?

      D: I love music. I find something that moves me in just about any genre. As a musician, it inspires me to hear a great production or maybe an outstanding small element of a track that is not so great. There’s usually something to take away, and I challenge myself to find it.

      f: Which emerging artists or producers inspire you currently, and what qualities do you look for in an artist to consider signing them to your label?

      D: There are too many to mention. But when considering artists for Soiree Records, I have to ask the question, “Would I play this track at a gig?” Or “Would I listen to this when I’m driving?” If I answer “yes” to either or both of those questions, I may dig deeper to find out more about the artist’s productions, work ethic, etc.

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