Canadian DJ and producer Weska continues solidifying his place in the electronic music sphere with his latest two-track EP, Mudcat, released on Truesoul, the more melodic sibling of Adam Beyer's iconic Drumcode label. Known for straddling the lines between groove-heavy techno and progressive house, Weska uses Mudcat to explore indie and melodic influences, marking another milestone in his journey of artistic evolution. Download/stream it here: https://truesoul.ffm.to/true12176.
Crafting Mudcat: A Fresh Perspective
The Mudcat EP presents two distinct tracks: Yeah and the title track Mudcat. Both bring unique energy, with Yeah leaning into bounding beats and Mudcat delivering a hypnotic, relentless vibe. Reflecting on the creative process behind these tracks, Weska shared: "'Yeah' came together in just a few hours," he revealed. "The vocal stabs on the downbeat inspired the rest of the call and response, and the snappy snare added an indie disco feel." Meanwhile,
Mudcat emerged from a different spark of inspiration. "Mudcat started out when I discovered a kick with an 80s vibe that I really liked. Combined with the offbeat bass and vocal sample, everything else fell into place. Adding a suspenseful synth that rose and fell throughout the track gave it the energetic vibe I was aiming for."
Both tracks exude an 80s-inspired aesthetic, blending modern electronic textures with retro charm. Weska attributes this to the influence of legendary acts from that era: "New Order, Phil Collins, Bronski Beat, The Human League—to name a few. There's just something about a synth bassline, soft pads, and a gated snare, haha."
From Collaborations to Independence
While Weska's past work often involved collaborations—most notably with Bart Skils and Oscar L—Mudcat is a testament to his independent creative vision. "I think the 1/8 bassline pattern is what drives the track and gives it that chugging feel that's different from my Oscar and Bart projects," he explained. This distinct approach is helping Weska carve a space for his unique sound in the industry.
His style, which bridges progressive house and techno, remains rooted in the genres he grew up with. "Progressive is my roots. It's the genre I was into before I even started making music, so I think I naturally lean to it. I love having a sound that exists between multiple genres and the ability to blend the best parts together."
The Vision Behind HYPERWAX
In addition to his releases on revered imprints such as Filth on Acid, Cocoon, and Factory 93, Weska has been nurturing his own label, HYPERWAX. "HYPERWAX is ever-evolving; I just want to push the envelope and not think about genres and release what I feel," he shared. For Weska, the goal is clear: "Dance music is super exciting right now. Good music is just good music, regardless of what genre it falls into. I want to prioritize good music."
Weska: Shaping 2025 and Beyond
As Weska looks toward 2025, he focuses on expanding his sonic horizons. "It's my goal to be seen as a dance artist rather than a specific genre artist. It's too much fun making and playing all kinds of music," he said. Fans can expect more vocal projects, collaborations, and further releases under Drumcode and HYPERWAX.
Weska also hinted at some exciting, yet-to-be-announced projects: "I'm wrapping up some vocal projects, a few collaborations, some HYPERWAX releases, finalizing some stuff for Drumcode, as well as some stuff I can't quite talk about yet. I'm pumped for 2025 and beyond."
Live Energy Fuels Studio Creativity
Weska's dynamic touring schedule feeds his studio creativity, including major gigs at Creamfields, REALM New York, and a North American tour with Bart Skils. "Sometimes I get ideas mid-DJ set for a song and wish I could teleport into the studio right then and there," he laughed. "Other times, I'll play a track that worked really well and want to make something similar."
Bridging Genres and Pushing Boundaries
In an industry where genres are increasingly fluid, Weska thrives on blending and experimenting. "I feel like people are thinking less in the studio and just writing what they feel," he observed. "Producers are becoming so well-versed in the sonic spectrum; there are some insanely cool sounds coming out. It's really exciting to watch and hear, and I'm totally here for it."
Weska is also monitoring emerging artists like Max Styler, Enamour, and Layton Giordani. "They're really pushing the envelope and making killer tunes," he said, showing his enthusiasm for the future of electronic music.
The Mudcat Era
With Mudcat, Weska explores new sonic territories and reinforces his commitment to pushing boundaries. As he continues to evolve as an artist, fans can expect more innovative projects and collaborations that blur the lines between techno, progressive, and beyond.
Weska's Mudcat EP is out now on Truesoul.
Weska
Truesoul
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