Posts tagged Bjorn Akesson

The trance movement shows no signs of slowing down here in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Clubbers and music lovers have been kept busy almost every weekend as international and local trance DJs make their appearances in venues around town.

We recently spoke to Bjorn Akesson to guestmix for Radio KUL after listening to his latest EP, and was extremely surprised when he mentioned that he will be playing a gig here very soon. Perfect timing.

Bjorn Akesson is best known for his international smash “Perfect Blue.” At only 23, his music has been supported by the world’s top DJs and signed to major record labels. Here at Radio KUL, we particularly love his remix of DT8 Project’s “Destination.” Proving his not another one hit wonder, he recently released another strong double EP titled “Without You” and “Flavour Park” on FSOE Recordings. It’s obvious that Bjorn has natural talent to make great sounding tunes that appeal to both the mainstream and purists.

Having recently recovered from a bad spell of a flu, we finally get hold of Bjorn Akesson for a chat as he packs his bags for Kuala Lumpur.

Bjorn Akesson

Hi Bjorn. Thanks for speaking to us today. How have you been?
Hi, I’ve been excellent thank you!

It’s been some time since your megahit “Perfect Blue.” Still you have kept your profile in the limelight with your new music. How have things changed for you since “Perfect Blue?”
“Perfect Blue” pretty much got things going for me, interviews, gigs etc. It was not easy to follow up for this track since it was so successful, but it definitely opened doors for me and got my name out there.

We think “Flavour Park” is a top tune. How has the response been to the EP?
Happy to hear that :) The response have been very good. I was a bit nervous at first because it was the first track after “Perfect Blue” and many people told me that they expected a better track or at least just as good. The track received plays from Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Ferry Corsten, Above & Beyond, Aly & Fila to mention a few so it’s really been excellent!

What gigs have you played recently?
I recently played in Iceland and on the legendary Monday Bar Cruise in Sweden. The cruise was my best gig so far, so many people, a lot of well known names to meet and chat with plus a lot of fans to meet as well.

Who are your top 3 favourite producers/DJs at the moment?
Bryan Kearney, Aly & Fila and Simon Patterson

What inspires you to make these wonderful tracks?
Mostly feelings, when I think of it I’ve been sad every time I’ve made a big track. But the technical inspiration comes from everywhere. I think it’s important for producers to really put their heart into their music, that’s what separates the successful ones from the amateurs.

Are there perhaps any plans to collaborate with a vocalist soon? If so, who would you like to sing on your record?
Yes I am working on a vocal track as we speak. I would really like to work with Tiff Lacey, she has been my favourite singer since early days. I haven’t found a singer just yet, but hopefully soon.

What’s currently playing on your iPod?
The latest episode of Threshold!

What do you think will be this year’s trance record of the year?
Philippe El Sisi – You Never Know (Aly & Fila Remix), this track speaks directly to me.

What do you do when you’re not making music?
I’m an engineering student at Lund University, aside from that I try hitting the gym as often as I can. I also play video games when I need a break from everything, really puts me in a better mood. A very popular event is dropping down by the local pub, have a few beers and abusing the slot machine.

How do you think trance music has evolved this year, and where do you think it’s headed to next?
It really has, but I would say it changed since a few years back. Most producers go two different ways, either they go softer proggier or they go harder and techier. But there are still some producers that stick with the trance roots like myself.

You’re also an engineering student. Do you intend to practise engineering full time or focus on your music?
Actually I have no idea, I think the ultimate thing would be to work at a company that works with audio products, wouldn’t that be nice? But if a genie appeared and granted me three wishes I would for sure go for a music career. Traveling all over the world and playing the music that I love would be a true dream come true.

Will you be coming to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia soon?
Yes, I will be playing at MIST Club on the 5th of December, hope to see you there!

What are your current and upcoming plans like?
To keep on producing tunes and try some new styles. I try not to plan so much and just go with what I feel like.

What do you hope for people to receive when they listen to your music or watch your performance?
The feeling I want for my listeners are to get that chill feeling down their spine. That’s what “Perfect Blue” was about. I also want to make people feel what I felt when I produced a track. I always put down my soul and heart in my melodies and I hope people can feel that.

And lastly, any message to fans reading this!
Thank you very much for reading this interview and thanks for supporting my music. As for the Malaysian fans, I hope to see you on the 5th of December!

Catch an exclusive guestmix by Bjorn Akesson on Radio KUL 115 with Simon Lee and Alvin. The first hour will be mixed by Simon Lee and Alvin, followed by the guestmix from Bjorn Akesson. Airs Friday, 4th December 2009 at http://www.simonleeandalvin.com/ and available as a podcast on iTunes and on Mugasha. Radio Hi-Tec Netherlands will air the show the following week, see website for schedule.

Volume presents Bjorn Akesson on Saturday 5th December 2009 at MIST Club, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Click here for more info.

“Without You” and “Flavour Park” are out now on FSOE Recordings.

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