Syncia, named after the term “Synesthesia” (a condition where sounds are visualized), is an emerging talent in the electronic music scene. He effortlessly transitions from intimate venues in Berlin to captivating large-scale international festivals.
Photo credit: SYNCIA – Facebook
With an impressive portfolio of releases on renowned labels such as Sankeys, 338’s Release LDN, Dense & Pika’s Kneaded Pains, KMS, and Centralised, Syncia’s distinctive sound stands out in the global mainstream with a blend of captivating tones.
Taking inspiration from his British roots, Syncia proudly demonstrates his skill as a curator of house and techno music. His tracks incorporate clever sampling, modern synthesis, and an exceptional hybrid studio setup that includes analogue equipment. By pushing musical boundaries and drawing from the past, his releases serve as a testament to his unique approach.
In a recent interview with EG, Syncia shared insights about his latest release on Kneaded Pains, ‘Travelling,’ and provided exciting details about upcoming projects on the horizon.
EG: Hi Syncia! Welcome to EG. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us. How have you been? Where are you right now?
Syncia: Hey, I am currently in my studio which is based in the UK. I’m back here after a summer of gigs in Ibiza and all over the place.
EG: So, what has your summer been like? Any memorable shows or moments?
Syncia: Summer has been great. A real highlight was Pikes in Ibiza. A real revitalizer of a gig that renewed my faith in the scene. Total commitment from the crowd to be taken musically anywhere.
EG: By the way congratulations on the recent release of ‘Travelling’, your latest EP for Kneaded Pains. What was the reception like? What can your fans expect to find on this one?
Syncia: This is a real milestone release for me as Kneaded Pains is such a well-respected label from Dense & Pika, and to be alongside heavyweights like Charlotte De Witte and Kink is really exciting.
EG: We also know there are some forthcoming releases on CENTRL Music, right? Is there anything you can anticipate on that front?
Syncia: I’m really looking forward to these releases as I get to work with some amazing artists and have the opportunity to show off different musical styles.
“This is a real milestone release for me as Kneaded Pains is such a well-respected label from Dense & Pika”
EG: Having broken into the scene this year…What’s the end goal for Syncia? Is there a dream show or milestone you’d like to achieve as an artist?
Syncia: I’ve been making and releasing records for many years under many pseudonyms, but Syncia has been a vehicle for me to express a much darker and tougher sound whilst still maintaining groove and funk sensibilities that my other tracks encapsulate.
EG: Right now, social media seems to be shaping careers in a way that the music, or the actual content can’t…What is your relationship with social media like? How do you navigate these murky waters?
Syncia: It’s a love-hate relationship that I am sure many people and artists can relate to. My particular bugbear at the moment is the sense of unpaid labour that these platforms embody. Millions of users are making content and feeding the machine but there is no exchange of cash for doing the work. It’s all based on a “you might get paid one-day” vibe. Sadly it’s convinced the world that we all need social proof provided by these companies in order to be deemed a success. Other than that I love posts about animals.
EG: Speaking about visual aspects…What do you think about the current trend that has seen these larger-than-life visuals take center stage? Are they overwhelming the musical aspect instead of just “enhancing” the musical experience? Are they the future of electronic music?
Syncia: You make a good observation, but society has always loved the spectacle of larger-than-life. From the days of the circus big top and Victorian curios to the sphere in Vegas, everyone’s expectation is to have the best night and be wowed at every turn, film what they see and put it on social media. I don’t feel like the massive visuals like HOLO from Eric Prydz represent the underground club culture that I grew up on, but I don’t rail against it. Although I prefer a dark basement, a massive system, no phones and sweaty dancing to amazing music that I’ve never heard before, I can still appreciate the visual spectacle and the artistry behind these installations.
EG: Also, the incorporation of AI in electronic music seems to be on the rise, whether it is on the music, the album covers, and beyond. Do you have a particular stance on this?
Syncia: I am a massive fan of technological advances, if it wasn’t for sampling, advanced DAW’s, and VST’s I wouldn’t be here. I’m not cranking out concertos on my grand piano and scoring it on manuscript paper. I do however have vintage valve processing because I like the sound although it’s a pain to use, maintain and there’s no recall button for the settings. AI is just another tool and if you choose to use it to make a song then so be it. I know plenty of people who use ghost producers and put their names to tracks. It’s the same thing really, just not artificial. If folk are worried about the loss of jobs in the industry then I can certainly appreciate that and sympathise but there will always be a market for high-quality human-made things.
“I prefer a dark basement, a massive system, no phones and sweaty dancing…”
EG: What’s next for Syncia? Where can your fans catch you next? What’s still in store for the rest of the year?
Syncia: The rest of the year is gonna be pretty sweet. I’ve got trips to Barbados and Mexico, remixes for Inner City coming out as well as Sgt Slick and INXS, more releases on ReleaseLDN and gigs with Roger Sanchez and New Year’s Eve at 338 in London.
EG: Thank you for your time, Syncia! We’re excited to see what’s in store for you. Take care!
Syncia: Sweet, see you in a bit.
Syncia’s ‘Travelling,’ is now available via Kneaded Pains. Stream and download here.
Follow Syncia: Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram
