Hailing from the Spanish mainland, but with a globally recognised sound, Marc Martinez Nadal, aka AFFKT, is the driving force behind fast rising label Sincopat, and for the last few years has been the leader of a new wave of producers with a colorful & empowering sound that is increasingly refined by his drive for perfection.
> So firstly, the question that everyone wants to ask you – what does your artist name mean, and how do you actually pronounce it?!
Hehe, yes many people ask me about the meaning I always say that with my AFFKT Alter ego I wanted to make music without borders or “cliche”. But at the same time and some years since the beginning of the project I just prefer to be open minded and leave some freedom to the meaning. I always like to ask “what does it mean for you?” instead of being the one who has to explain.
AFFKT is the imaginary world I create with my music, the feelings of the people who listen and enjoy my work.
That is something I like a bout the name, I have heard so many different ways to pronounce it depending the place and the person. I personally say it fast and without any E as some people do.
> And for the people reading this who haven’t heard your music before, how would you describe your style, are there any key elements that define it?
It’s hard from me to describe my sound, but I normally described it like colourful and influenced by so many different sounds and things, not just music.
> Could you talk us through the creative process and list any specific equipment you use to bring sounds to life?
I don’t have any certain way or routine to work in the studio. After all this years I have learned how to manage my time properly so when I feel more creative I record many different things and then afterwards I try to put all this ideas in order.
Lately I started recording more and more with microphones to add more organic layers to my sound. And I use a combination of analogue hardware and soft synths.
My time in the studio for my own music is limited at the moment so what I do also is just writing down many ideas and comments so once I’m ready to start I know where to go. Since I started doing this I feel that my sound is more mature and the creative process is never-ending; I just need to remember to write it in my notebook.
> Do you have any advice or words of wisdom for aspiring producers who would look to your music for inspiration?
Work hard and find your own sounds, don’t work with so many things rather learns well your tool, and the most important thing enjoy!
> One of your most recent releases was your remix of Pheremone Blue, a three piece electronica band – how did that collaboration come about?
I met his manager time ago and he introduce me his music, I was really amazed by his sound full of personality, so I thought and EP including a wide spectrum as we did could be interesting.
I really enjoyed remixing a song like “She Moves At Night” with so many good elements to rework with.
> The Pheremone Blue release came out on your own label Sincopat. Can you tell us a little more about the label? Whats the ethos, and so you have a sound policy?
Sincopat is our musical home, not just for, also for the most of the big family we have create along the 6 years of life.
We don’t have any certain rule or sound policy on the label, we like to release the music we love over hypes and styles, and to do it as good as we can… that is definitely our leitmotiv.
> So this year you will be showcasing the sounds of Sincopat at the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), alongside Constant Circles & Comport Records. What can people expect from the night?
Sure good music and good vibe, every label has his own signature but I feel we all combine together really good to create something new and exciting.
More info & tickets here: https://www.facebook.com/events/193821924493229
> For those who have never been to ADE before, what is your top tip for the event?
Take it easy and don’t stress, is not going to be possible to meet and go everywhere you planned. Even so if organise yourself well you will be go back home inspired and with a good feeling.
> Thanks for taking the time to speak with us today, we like to finish our interviews with a couple of questions that are a little bit light hearted… without getting too personal, could you tell us something many don’t know about you?
My pleasure! Not sure… After so much time in the studio everyday I have few time for other things apart of being with my family and friends. I don’t have so many hobbies but I would say I am foodie, like to cook much different kind of foods from sushi to smoke BBQ or paella.
I also love to read about history and economy, in fact I always think about coming back to the University to study something related but is just impossible at the moment.
> You don’t need to mention names, but what’s the most “outrageous” thing you have ever seen happen in a club… was it something outrageously brilliant, like a blindfolded DJ mixing seemly and scratching with his elbows, or something outrageously cringe-worthy, like some embarrassing drunk guy urinating on the dancefloor?
We in fact have a Dj in Valencia who plays with his legs because he has no arms and plays amazing. I have seen many different things a long so many years clubbing and Djing, but better not to talk, haha.
