Joël Fabrice stands for modern, melodious and groovy Deep as well as Tech House and embodies a new generation of promising producers in the landscape of electronic music.
Already before entering into his contract with the renowned Swiss label Hieronica (2011), the club scene in Zurich served as both a source of inspiration and stepping stone for appearances in well-known national and international locations. Ranging from regular bookings in the legendary OXA and Kaufleuten Club (Zurich, Switzerland) to international gigs at World Club Dome (Frankfurt, Germany) or Miami Music Week (Miami, USA) – Joël Fabrice consistently delivers a characteristic groove with an undeniable recognition factor. Various performances at different festivals (Motion Openair 2012, Street Parade, Holi Festival and Vibez Festival 2019) lead to the next breakthrough: he was signed by the Sirup Artist Agency as the home base of EDX, Antonio Giacca and Nora En Pure.
Stemming from a very musical family, the trained carpenter tends to reach less for the hammer and more for the synthesizers. Joël Fabrice discovered his affinity towards hard as well as softer bass lines at young age, which soon blossomed into his first appearances as a DJ. Since then, he has stayed true to House Music as his musical roots, yet developed his own signature mix of eclectic and multi-faceted Tech House and Melodic Techno.
Best of 2023
1-a) Best track(s) from other fellow artists of 2023. Why you choose this particular track, please share with us the reasons?production techniques & crowd reactions on it.
Joël Fabrice: Two standout tracks from 2023: "The Rhythm Of The Night" by EDX & Frey impresses with its ingenious modernization of a classic, blending nostalgia with a fresh twist. Meanwhile, "The Day After" by Maxim Lany & AVIRA stands out for its impeccable production quality and compelling musical narrative. Both tracks showcase the artists' skills in creating engaging and captivating music for contemporary dancefloors.
1-b) Best of 2023 personal productions and for what you reasons you choose these particular tracks, is it because of technical challenges, crowd reaction in the club or was it your most successful single/album?
Joël Fabrice: "Héroïde" tops my personal productions in 2023, a favorite that gained plays from artists like EDX and Nora En Pure. It's humbling to see the resonance it holds within my musical identity.
"Icendies" is my standout release, garnering over a quarter-million streams in six months. Its success goes beyond commercial metrics, with a captivating vocal element that resonates with listeners. Seeing its positive impact on the audience reinforces the transformative power of music.
2) Best Artist of 2023(DJ & producer). Tell us why you believe he/she is the best, the factors that have influence you to choose this particular artist. What you appreciate the most from that artist.
Joël Fabrice: Paradoks stands out in 2023 for his talent, humility, and close friendship, promising a bright future. His unique style and down-to-earth nature make him exceptional.
EDX, not just an artist but a mentor, has been invaluable to my growth. His guidance extends beyond music, emphasizing relationships in the music community.
3-a) Best Remix(es) from other fellow artists of 2023. For what reasons you chose this particular remix, i.e. production proficiency, technical reasons creativity and imagination of the remixer :
Joël Fabrice: Paradoks' remix of "Between The Lines" by Modera & Lewyn is my top pick of 2023. From its exceptional production to the extraordinary bassline, this remix stands out in every set I play. Paradoks' creativity consistently gives me goosebumps, a testament to its emotional impact.
3-b) Best Remixer(s) of 2023 with short comment, for what reason u believe he/she is the best remixer? Technical professionalism and technological proficiency? the elements that stand out in it.
Joël Fabrice: In 2023, Asher Swissa (Skazi) and DJ Giovi are standout remixers. Skazi impresses with machine-like production and explosive dancefloor impact. DJ Giovi's housier remixes, infused with groovy elements, are versatile and regular features in my sets.
4) Best New Talent of 2023 (DJ or producer), for what reasons you choose this particular artist? Do you know him/her personally?
Joël Fabrice: The best new talent of 2023, in my view, is the duo "Sonus In Homine." Their impressive rise this year, marked by widespread hype and top-tier gigs globally, sets them apart. Recognition from artists like Innellea, Chris Avantgarde, and Magdalena attests to the quality and appeal of their music.
5-a) Best electronic dance music compilation of 2023. Please explain the criteria behind this choice? is the quality and proficiency of the mixing process, imagination/creativity in the choice of the track listing :
Joël Fabrice: My pick for the best electronic dance music compilation of 2023 is "Pro-Tech-Tion." Exceptional tracks from DJ friends like Hollaphonic, David Novacek, Valentina Ignacio, and Läder&Läder make it stand out. Despite being unmixed, the imaginative track selection creates a compelling listening experience, showcasing the variety and depth of electronic music in 2023. Highly recommend exploring this curated collection of standout tracks.
5-b) Best artwork about single / album/compilation or promotional campaign of 2023. The criteria you applied to do this particular choice?
Joël Fabrice: I would choose the artwork for my single "Incendies." The burnt wood aesthetic not only aligns with the song's title but also reflects my passion for wood. The cover is visually striking and beautifully encapsulates the essence of the music, making it a source of pride for me.
6) Best electronic dance music label of 2023. Please explain the reason behind your choice? what you particularly like or appreciate about this particular label?quality of tracks, great rooster of artists, personal connection?:
Joël Fabrice: Sirup Music is my top choice for the best EDM label of 2023. As my home base, I'm profoundly grateful for their support and guidance. Their commitment to excellence is evident in track quality and personal care, making "Sirup Music" a standout label in fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
7) Best music composition software and hardware of 2023 with short comment. Why you believe this particular software/hardware deserves to be named as the best? great new features, easy to navigate, compose & produce? The advantages of this particular software & hardware that makes it to stand out.
Joël Fabrice: Ableton remains my top choice for music composition software due to its user-friendly interface and powerful features. In hardware, the Roland JD-XA leads with its versatile capabilities and potential for creativity.
8-a) Your Best personal DJ Gig & DJ performance of 2023. Where and when did you perform there? any funny incidents happened during particular performance; great crowd reactions. If there is video or sound recording please provide the link.
Joël Fabrice: A memorable DJ performance in 2023 was at Kaufleuten Club in Zurich, opening and closing for Robin Schulz. The crowd's response was phenomenal, with screams creating an unforgettable energy. Three short videos from that night are on my Instagram, capturing the lively moments and the electric atmosphere.
8-b) Best DJ set from other fellow DJ (actual or online) of 2023. Why you believe is the strongest and best DJ set? great mixing/track selection/development of the mix:
Joël Fabrice: Nora En Pure's set at Tension Festival in Switzerland tops my list for the best DJ set of 2023. Her consistent delivery of exceptional performances, inclusion of unreleased tracks, and unique talent for making each night special set it apart. I continually learn valuable insights from her impeccable mixing and track selection.
9) Best technical tips/production skills that you learnt in 2023 in relation to your DJing or music productions:
Joël Fabrice: In 2023, I discovered the importance of using more hardware in my music production. This not only improved my studio flow but also added a distinctive soulful quality to my music, enhancing creativity and authenticity.
10) Best piece of personal or music business' advice you got in relation to your career in 2023 and has helped you to progress even further and can help others who will read this interview:
Joël Fabrice: An invaluable advice shaped my career: avoid overthinking, embrace a natural flow, and trust the process. Working with passion and allowing growth over time has been key, emphasizing patience and genuine love for the craft, essential for meaningful progress.
Dimitris: Do you have any concrete plans for 2024 regarding future releases, tracks, albums, collaborations, DJ gigs? Please provide us the juicy details.
Joël Fabrice: Absolutely, Dimitris! 2024 is set to be exciting. I'm thrilled for the January 5th release of my new track "Silence" on Pinkstar Black. With a finely tuned studio, I'm eager for creative immersion. Miami Music Week is a highlight for connections and performances. Anticipate more releases, collaborations, and DJ gigs – 2024 promises a dynamic chapter in my musical journey.
Dimitris: Your message & wishes for 2024.
Joël Fabrice: Entering 2024, my message is simple: Take care of yourself and loved ones. Let's spread more love through the universal language of music. May we dance all night, creating moments of joy and connection. Cheers to a year of health, happiness, and the transformative power of music.
Thanks to Joel for his brilliant interview.
Thanks to team Sirup for arranging this interview.