Through our sound systems, Rodriguez Jr.’s unbridled creativity and innovation push the boundaries of sound with his unique blend of house, techno, and live instrumentation. With a career spanning decades, the French artist has carved out a distinctive niche for himself, captivating audiences worldwide with his mesmerizing productions and electrifying live performances. Join us as we explore the beats and story of our Artist Of The Month, Rodriguez Jr.
Born and raised in France, Olivier Mateu’s musical journey began at a young age, fueled by a deep-seated passion for exploration and experimentation. His early experiences with classical piano laid the groundwork for his intricate understanding of melody and harmony, which would later manifest in his evocative compositions.
Rodriguez Jr.’s breakthrough came with his debut album ‘Bittersweet’ on Mobilee Records, a tour de force that showcased his prowess as both a producer and live artist. Tracks like ‘Satellite’ and ‘Lila’ captivated listeners with their hypnotic rhythms and ethereal melodies, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following that has only grown since that moment.
A defining aspect of Rodriguez Jr.’s artistry lies in his seamless integration of live instrumentation into electronic music. Armed with an array of instruments, including synthesizers, drum machines, and guitars, Olivier Mateu creates immersive sonic landscapes that blur the lines between organic and synthetic elements. His live performances are a testament to his virtuosity, as he orchestrates intricate arrangements on the fly, captivating audiences with his dynamic stage presence.
Beyond his solo work, Rodriguez Jr. has collaborated with a diverse array of artists and labels, further expanding his sonic palette and artistic vision. His collaborations with luminaries like Stephan Bodzin and Tiga showcase his versatility and adaptability, while his releases on labels such as Systematic Recordings and Watergate Records demonstrate his ability to thrive in diverse musical environments.
A key aspect of his recent work is the fruitful collaboration with vocalist Liset Alea. Their partnership goes beyond the studio, as Alea is also Mateu’s wife. Their music pushes Rodriguez Jr.’s sound further, incorporating Alea’s captivating vocals to create a captivating blend of organic and electronic elements. Their recent single ‘Amplify,’ from his ‘Feathers & Bones’ album, exemplifies this fusion, with its driving basslines, celestial synths, and her alluring vocals injecting a new layer of depth and emotional resonance into his music.
Mateu’s influence extends beyond the confines of the studio and stage, as he remains committed to nurturing the next generation of electronic artists. Through his mentorship and educational initiatives, Rodriguez Jr. also seeks to inspire and empower aspiring musicians.
In addition to his musical pursuits, he is deeply invested in the intersection of art and technology, exploring innovative ways to incorporate visual elements into his performances. His collaborations with visual artists and designers push the boundaries of multimedia art, creating immersive experiences that transcend traditional notions of live music.
At his core, Olivier Mateu is driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to pushing the envelope of electronic music. His restless creativity, combined with his technical proficiency and innate gifts, positions him as a true powerhouse in the genre. As he continues to evolve and innovate, Rodriguez Jr. inspires us to embrace experimentation and look beyond what is as we aspire to become what could be.
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