Ghostlike is an electronic artist best known for his distinctively dark experimental sound which combines classical elements creating a ghostly emotional presence in modern house music. The project was started in 2015 and quickly grabbed international attention after his debut EP single ‘Cold Valley’ reached the top ten on Beatport’s electronica chart as well as being supported by DJs worldwide.
As a producer, Ghostlike has released records on numerous labels such as Armada Subjekt, Armada Electronic Elements, Parquet Recordings, Click Records, and others, as well as being featured on platforms such as Deep House Amsterdam, Electronic Groove, Liquid Youth, Rolling Tuff, and Pete Tongs Evolution radio show. As a performer, Ghostlike has shared the stage with some of the industry’s most prolific names including Carl Cox, Sven Vath, Tale Of Us, Dubfire, Guy Gerber, Ben UFO, Seth Troxler, John Talabot, and many others.
His well-architectured sets are as forward-thinking as they are enigmatic, transforming the very best of what underground house music has to offer onto the dance floor.
We have the chance to chat with Ghostlike to talk about his new release ‘Transformation Feat. Luke Coulson’ and current musical projects.
Electronic Groove: Hi Ghostlike, and thanks for your time today. With everything going now with the COVID-19 virus, what can you tell us about your last weeks? How has it affected you and what’s your take on the whole situation?
Ghostlike: Hello, and thanks for having me. Like the majority of the performing artists, I’ve seen my entire gig calendar wiped out by cancellations. What we’re facing is daunting, extremely humbling and it is important for us to keep ourselves and everyone around us safe and healthy. It also somewhat resembles a time not too long ago when Australia’s nightlife had lockout laws imposed upon already a fragile industry which damaged numerous businesses.
EG: What positive or negative outcome can come of this? And what do you think the industry should do to adapt to the current measures?
Ghostlike: A few of not many positive outcomes from this situation in my opinion would be a chance to have a break from gigs and touring by taking a step back and possibly spending some more time in the studio, releasing music, collaborating, etc.
However, the negative outcome would be that we would have to completely rethink and re-structure the way the entertainment and club industry operates in terms of live performances and large gatherings. This would be devastating for venues, production companies, and many other businesses heavily relying on the sector for livelihoods. I really hope that this is only a temporary period which we have endure.
EG: You just released ‘Transformation’ (feat. Luke Coulson) on Armada Electronic Elements. What was the inspiration to produce this track?
Ghostlike: ‘Transformation’ is the first of two records I did with Luke. The inspiration behind both records was that I had a few instrumentals sitting on my laptop, which needed as I would say: ‘a little more’. So after I came across one of Luke’s platforms I decided to reach out and see if he could do something for both of them. And, here we are!
EG: How was the production process between both?
Ghostlike: As usual with any collaboration, there was quite a bit of back and forth, and with Luke being based in the UK and me in Sydney so the time difference was also playing a small role. However, overall we have a great creative understanding and Luke’s contribution to both records was exceptional.
“We would have to completely rethink and re-structure the way entertainment and club industry operates in terms of live performances and large gatherings”
EG: Do you have other releases coming soon? Can you share some sneak peek with us?
Ghostlike: The next single, which is also with Luke as mentioned earlier, is titled ‘Pathways’. I have not got to sending it around yet, as I have been occupied with the current release. I am sure that it will be coming out sometime in the near future, so keep your eye out for that one.
EG: You host a monthly radio show ‘Visions’ on Data Transmission. What’s the show concept?
Ghostlike: ‘Visions’ is a residency I started 7 months ago, purely because I have always wanted to start a mix series and could never get around to doing it, or even knew where to begin. Data Transmission has provided me with a credible platform to showcase my sound as well as shining a light on some of my friends/artists I collaborate with. Also, just because I got sick of my friends asking me for new music, this way I can just point them straight to a fresh mix every month.
EG: Aside from music, what else do you enjoy or work on?
Ghostlike: Well, recently one of my best friends has moved into a new studio space and I’ve been lending a helping hand with his re-build. It’s a difficult, tedious process setting up a new space and it’s definitely something which requires a lot of patience and persistence. It’s one of Australia’s leading analog studios and has seen the likes of Anderson Paak, Boys Noize, MK, The Free Nationals, Theophilus London, Jamie Lidell, and many others come through its doors. If you are interested to see what it looks like so far you can check it out here.
EG: What would you like to achieve during this year?
Ghostlike: I have been working on some sketches for my album so I would love to get that finished.
Ghostlike’s ‘Transformation feat Luke Coulson’ is now available via Armada Electronic Elements. Grab your copy here.
Follow Ghostlike: Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud
