Ukrainian DJ and producer SHMN recently unveiled his highly anticipated “Neuromancer” EP, showcasing his unique blend of auditory innovation and technological prowess. Known for his ability to create immersive soundscapes, SHMN takes listeners on a journey through shadowy, profound realms with this latest release. Each track on the EP demonstrates his meticulous production methodology and mastery of all things in the studio.

In this exclusive interview, SHMN delves into the inspiration behind “Neuromancer,” revealing how seminal works of science fiction literature, particularly William Gibson’s “Neuromancer,” influenced his creative vision. The EP’s tracks reflect these narratives’ gritty, cyberpunk atmosphere, combining raw techno elements with the uplifting melodies of Trance. SHMN’s production skills shine through in tracks like “Burning Chrome” and “Peripheral Vision,” which paint vivid auditory pictures of future digital frontiers.

SHMN also shares insights into his creative process and the evolution of his music. Emphasizing the importance of experimentation and innovation, he offers valuable advice for emerging artists looking to carve their niche in the electronic music genre. With upcoming releases on Eklektisch and Joris Voorn’s Spectrum imprint, SHMN continues to push the boundaries of electronic music, promising a dynamic and exciting future for his listeners.

1. What was the initial inspiration behind creating your “Neuromancer” EP?

The initial inspiration behind the creation of my “Neuromancer” EP was deeply rooted in my profound admiration for seminal works of science fiction literature. William Gibson’s “Neuromancer” had a particularly significant impact on me, with its vivid portrayal of a cyberpunk future and its intricately crafted world. This novel, in conjunction with the dystopian visions presented by George Orwell in “1984” and the speculative future depicted in Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451,” provided the thematic foundation for the EP.

Sonically I sought to encapsulate the essence of these narratives through sound. The “Neuromancer” EP channels a raw techno sound, reflecting the intensity and gritty atmosphere characteristic of cyberpunk settings. Additionally, I aimed to integrate this with the uplifting and atmospheric elements of Trance, particularly in the melodic breakdowns, to evoke moments of hope and beauty amidst the often stark realities depicted in these literary works. The result is a sonic journey that intertwines the relentless drive of techno with the evocative, melodic essence of Trance, thereby paying homage to the enduring influence of these visionary authors.

2. Can you explain the significance of the title track “Neuromancer” and the themes it explores?

The title track “Neuromancer” is central to the EP, both in name and in thematic depth. The inspiration for this track is drawn directly from William Gibson’s groundbreaking novel, “Neuromancer.” Gibson’s work is renowned for its vivid portrayal of a dystopian cyberpunk future, where the boundaries between humanity and technology blur, creating a world rife with cybernetic enhancements, artificial intelligence, and digital landscapes.

Musically, “Neuromancer” seeks to encapsulate the essence of Gibson’s narrative and its core concepts. The rumbling bass lines in the track mirror the dark, gritty underworld of the novel’s setting, evoking a sense of foreboding and intensity that is characteristic of the cyberpunk genre. These bass lines are the heartbeat of the track, grounding it in the raw, industrial soundscape that reflects the mechanized reality of Gibson’s universe.

The use of pitch-bending synths further enhances this connection, symbolizing the fluid and often disorienting nature of cyberspace as depicted in the novel. These synths create a sense of movement and instability, echoing the protagonist Case’s experiences as he navigates through the digital and physical realms. The bending of pitches also parallels the distortion of reality and identity that is a central theme in “Neuromancer,” where characters frequently manipulate and transcend their own physical and mental limitations.

Additionally, the track incorporates intricate, layered melodies during its breakdowns, providing moments of clarity and introspection amidst the chaos. This melodic element reflects the novel’s exploration of human emotions and relationships, even within the cold, technological environment.

In essence, the title track “Neuromancer” is a musical embodiment of Gibson’s vision. It combines the relentless drive of harder techno with the narrative complexity of the novel, using sound to explore themes of cybernetics, artificial intelligence, and the interplay between humanity and technology. The track aims to transport listeners into the immersive and thought-provoking world of “Neuromancer,” much like Gibson’s novel has done for readers.

3. How do you see your music evolving after this release?

I envision my music taking an exciting and unpredictable path following this release. My passion for exploring new waters in music production drives me to create a diverse and eclectic body of work. I don’t confine myself to a specific genre; instead, I thrive on experimenting with fresh sounds and innovative ideas. This approach ensures that my music remains vibrant and dynamic, consistently surprising my audience with inventive solutions and genre-bending tracks.

As a listener, I cherish the moments when artists push boundaries and venture into new territories, and I strive to bring that same sense of discovery and innovation to my own creations. Predicting the exact direction of my musical evolution is challenging, as it is an organic process that unfolds with each project. Nonetheless, my commitment to experimentation and diversity remains unwavering.

Looking ahead, I am thrilled to announce upcoming releases on Eklektisch and Joris Voorn’s Spectrum imprint. These platforms are renowned for their embrace of eclectic and forward-thinking sounds, aligning perfectly with my artistic vision. I eagerly anticipate continuing this journey and sharing the evolution of my music with my listeners.

4. Did you learn anything new about producing music while making this EP? Shares some production tips you picked up.

Absolutely, I learned a lot while producing this EP. One of the key areas I focused on was sound design. I experimented with various synths and effects to create unique textures and tones. A big part of this was using pitch-shifting techniques to add depth and character to my synth lines. By adjusting the pitch, I could create harmonics that added richness to the overall sound.

Clarity in the mix was another crucial aspect I worked on. I found that by paying close attention to the frequency spectrum of each element, I could ensure that every part of the track had its own space. This often involved EQ’ing unnecessary frequencies and using sidechain compression to allow the kick and bass to coexist without muddying up the mix.

Movement in the track was something I achieved through panning. By automating the panning of different elements, I was able to create a dynamic listening experience that kept the track engaging from start to finish. This technique also helped in creating a wider stereo image, making the mix sound bigger and more immersive.

5. What advice would you give emerging artists looking to innovate in the electronic music genre?

For emerging artists looking to innovate in the electronic music genre, my primary advice is to focus on creating your own trademark sound. This often comes through experimentation and collaboration with other creatives. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and try new techniques in sound design, synthesis, and production. Working with other artists can also bring fresh perspectives and ideas that you might not have considered on your own.

Another crucial piece of advice is to broaden your horizons when it comes to the music you listen to. Drawing inspiration from a wide variety of genres can significantly enrich your own music. Pay attention to elements from other genres that resonate with you and think about how you can incorporate them into your electronic music productions. This cross-genre influence can lead to innovative and unique sounds that set you apart from the crowd.

You also cannot underestimate the importance of community and communication, especially when you’re just starting out. Connecting with like-minded creatives and collectives can provide valuable support, feedback, and opportunities for collaboration. Networking within the music community can open doors to new opportunities and help you grow both personally and professionally.

Follow SHMN 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shmn

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/shmn-25

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0coQMKjaF93ludIabGszMf?si=TScuKdqPSDWLYjdeiKf1HA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/shmn/1027666534

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