Discover
Meet Kieao
What first drew you into music production and bass music in particular?
In 2009 on my birthday, my friend suggested that I’d go to “How Sweet” which is now a festival called “Beyond Wonderland”. After my first show ever, I googled how to make electronic music sitting at my desk job. I started at Icon Collective a few months later obsessed by the scene and music.
My music tastes have changed a lot over the years. I wouldn’t say I’m into bass music but into music with a lot of energy.
You are one of the best up and coming future bass/dubstep producers we have encountered on the internet! And your latest remix of “Skeleton” is a masterpiece! How do you know if a track is a good candidate for a remix? Also, what is your creation processes when making one?
Before I start most remixes it has to stem from an idea in my head from the first time I hear the original song. For Skeleton I was actually reached out to by Icon Collective who was presented the opportunity by Inverness to give graduates and students an opportunity for an official remix release. I loved the original track and the vocals, but unfortunately I didn’t make the cut for the remix release.
My creation process varies by my inspiration at the time. Usually, I will take my favorite song at the moment and try to re-create the same energy.
Your remix of “We don’t talk anymore” is another great example of how capable you are as a producer! The mixing is on point and the melodies/ideas are out of this world! Could you tell us more about your studio setup and some of your favorite plugins?
My studio setup has always been minimal; Macbook,Alesis v-49 Keyboard,Monitors (Adam A3X) My go to plugins for every project are gross beat, effectrix/effector, the glue, and sausage fattener.
Your signature sound reminds us of the sound of some of the greatest EDM/Future producers in the world (Flux Pavilion, Virtual riot etc). How did you manage to achieve such a professional sound in such a short time? Can you tell us more about your musical background?
I would love to think that I have reached the quality of my idols such as Virtual Riot. I’m still learning everyday but over the past 8 years its definitely been a goal to reach that professional sound. Before attending Icon Collective, the only musical background I had was learning basic drums and violin in elementary school. I dabbled with an acoustic guitar for a bit but nothing serious.
Your music is very melodic and your harmonies sound very “Organic” Did you learn music professionally? Do you play a real life instrument?
Yes, I went to Icon Collective about 6 years ago to learn how to make electronic music professionally. I remember googling “how to make edm” at work. I learned keys at Icon but before attending Icon Collective, I didn’t play any instrument good enough for me to ever mention it.
What are your goals for 2019? Any upcoming projects we can get excited about?
Kieao being a new alias, my goal for 2019 is just to release twice as much music as last year. I have a couple signed tracks to “Be Happy” records pending release that I am really excited about. Also this year I will be releasing “Soulmate” which is my pride and joy. I have a couple teasers up for it on my Instagram 😉
Make sure to check out Kieao’s next release on “Be Happy” records on the 19th!
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