California-born, Tokyo-based Derek Ryan has made a name for himself in the trance and progressive scenes with an emotional and captivating sound that’s based on a simple mantra - blissfully heartbreaking music. With electric and eclectic productions on Pure Trance, FSOE, Monster, Outburst, and Regenerate among others and his own label Ascent, Derek focuses his productions on songs with soaring emotional notes that hit the heart as well as the feet. As a DJ, his energetic sets have lit up floors from California, where he was a resident at Ruby Skye, to Burning Man, to Japan’s best clubs, such as ageHa, Womb, and Warp.
Time to get to know better Derek Ryan as he has recently released on Future Sound EP his track Immutable. The well known series that features the most promising upcoming talents curated by Aly & Fila. Enjoy reading his great answers.
1-Dimitris: It would be nice to start by telling us your 3 most important achievements or goals fulfilled in your career so far that you very are proud of.
Derek Ryan: 1. Every play on ASOT and FSOE. Even though it's happened a few times it NEVER gets old and is the best feeling to wake up to (when you're in Japan time =)).
2. Getting releases out on my absolute favorite labels - FSOE, AVA, Outburst, Regen, etc
3. Starting my own imprint! I co-own Ascent Recordings with my cofounder Sach, who also produces with me under our Codeswitch breaks alias.
2-Dimitris: Why and under which circumstances did you took the decision to start DJing or producing electronic dance music?
Derek Ryan: Funnily enough -- a random event in Paris. Back in 1998 there was a Love Parade associated street festival when I was living in town, and I randomly stumbled upon it with my dad when going to by some random bits downtown. I'd been into electronica before that point (trip hop etc from KCRW in the US), but had never seen what the power of dance music could really be like. Being in that space, among all those people, really hit hard. I knew I had to be part of it.
3-Dimitris: Can you note down the top 3 producers that have influenced your decision to get involved in the electronic dance music scene and you admire and respect them very much?
Derek Ryan: 1. BT - Almost a standard answer in a way but he was so influential to shaping sounds. Movement In Still Life is a monument
2. Jondi & Spesh - They were my mentors when I interned at Loöq Records back in San Francisco, and really were my start in getting into SF's progressive scene. The weekly Qoöl event was massive and my start at professional DJ gigs
3. Andy Moor - Incredible artist and still my favorite DJ. Name a better track than Daydream, I dare you...
4-Dimitris: Can you tell us the top 3 tracks from the past that have influenced your sound the most and why?
Derek Ryan: 1. Endre - Kallocain (Robert Nickson Remix) - This song stopped me in my tracks when I first heard it, and it still does. This was my first real cybertrance track and I've never gotten over it.
2. Mike Koglin - The Silence (John B Norman Remix) - Equal parts boshing and emotional, when the lead hits it's just so damn good.
3. Luminary - Amsterday (Smith & Pledger Remix) - And I miss you...
5-Dimitris: It would be fantastic to talk about your latest release Immutable as part of Future Sound EP. Please tell us how this track came about and what was the idea behind it.
Derek Ryan: Immutable is based on a feeling of love given without ask of anything in return. The title is a bit of a nerdy word, but the meaning is simple - it just means unchangeable. I wrote the melody when I was feeling at peace, and I hope it brings that feeling to others as well.
6-Dimitris: How long it took you to produce it and can u describe the production process in simple steps?
Derek Ryan: All in all, probably around a week of production, but not continuous. I tend to write melodies every day and just pick the best ones (thanks Mike Monday for the inspiration here), so that came together relatively seamlessly, but then I'd work for a few hours adding elements, then letting it sit and coming back to it. The difficult part with trance tracks is there's always so much you COULD add, but you also need to keep the core message.
7-Dimitris: Did you had any particular difficulties accomplishing that particular track or any specific technical challenges or obstacles that you had to overcome during its production.
Derek Ryan: A big a-ha moment was the glitchy pause before the hands up melodic portion of the breakdown. Everything was working in the track without it, but it lacked a bit of impact, and that really made it hit home. Certainly not a new idea - pausing before slamming something in is a known quantity. But it really worked wonders here.
8-Dimitris: If you would have the opportunity to change something in your track and maybe to do a new remix what elements are you unhappy with and you are going to change? Is there any artist that you feel would be fantastic to remix this track and why?
Derek Ryan: I'm happy with the shape this came out in, but I'd love to do a mix with a different flavor -- maybe a techier one, or even in a different genre. I also produce DnB so that could be fun, and sometimes even...I guess you'd call it trance step. Would be fun to have a different take.
9- Dimitris: Which music composition software or hardware you prefer and why? What is your opinion of the latest movement to produce music with more analogue equipment and with less or without any digital software?
Derek Ryan: I'm a dedicated Logic user, and have been for 10+ years. I was all software synths until around 4 years ago or so, when I bought my Virus TI Snow off Mercari, a secondhand shop here in Japan. I was hooked and now also have a TD-3 (303 clone by Beringher) and a Moog Sub37. I love using it all - I still use software too, primarily Spire, Zebra2, Sylenth, Massive, and Diva, but alongside the hardware. Different vibes and results and combining it is fun!
I think everyone should go with whatever is FUN for them to use. If you're into modular, awesome, if you use stock plugins, awesome.
10-Dimitris: Do you prefer vocal or instrumental tracks? If there are vocals on the track we discuss about tell us about the singer you work with?
Derek Ryan: Both. I love writing topline, and have done so on a few tracks with Melissa Kaplan. My favorite vocalist in the scene to work with though is Sarah De Warren! She's insanely good, and a great human to boot.
11-Dimitris: Are there any vocalists/singers on electronic dance music you aspire to work with?
Derek Ryan: I'd love to work with JES. I love her vibe; she's still doing her own thing that's like nobody else.
12-Dimitris: Please choose the most powerful lyrics ever included in a dance track and why these lyrics have touched you so deeply and have a special meaning for you?
Derek Ryan: I'd say JES's Awaken. The song itself is an awakening on the dancefloor, and really causes you feel your own inner self. It's simple, as all great things are, but "don't let it slip by you" is a profound statement on the ephemeral nature of every moment, and how they're gone before you know it. The Ronski Speed mix of this song is a religious experience on the dancefloor - and you can see it in people's eyes.
13-Dimitris: Do you believe that artwork on your latest track is good and do you believe that artwork can attract listeners or record buyers? Can you mention the best artwork of a track ever released?
Derek Ryan: Needless to say, FSOE know what they're doing haha. I actually really love that in a world of covers generated by AI Art, sticking with simple, effective recognizable branding is an awesome move, and it's one we aim for at Ascent too. I love the artsy techy feel FSOE bring to the Future Sound EP series.
Artwork can be eye catching, but I love what artwork promises - if you open an FSOE cover you KNOW what you're going to get - beautiful melodies and relentless beats.
My favorite ever? Probably the classic Platipus record sleeves. You always knew you were in for a treat.
14-Dimitris: Can you pick your favorite top 3 record labels including the one released the track that we discuss in this interview and give us a short comment about why these labels are important to you and the music scene too?
Derek Ryan: 1. FSOE - Not only are they massively contributing to the worldwide popularity of the genre, but they're also moving things forward, and releasing a wide variety of tracks -- dreamy stuff like Noble Six through heavy stuff like Stoneface & Terminal. Incredible, and they're keeping the sound alive.
2. AVA (White) - AVA through all it's incarnations really. They're a prime destination for emotional vibes, and aren't afraid to go full on raver where it matters.
3. Regenerate - I just love the renegade feel of what Sean and David are doing. It's indy, it's bold, and it's emotional all in one.
15-Dimitris: Do you have your own record label? if yes tell us when did you set it up, the reasons behind this decision and your top 3 releases on the label so far plus 2 or 3 releases that we should look after from your label.
Derek Ryan: I do! I run Ascent Recordings with my friend and collaborator Sach here in Tokyo. We started around 2 years ago in the middle of the pandemic, because we wanted to contribute more to the scene than just our own music, for one, and second we wanted to make an impact to the dance scene here in Japan. I think we're doing that, and there are some incredible Japanese producers we're getting out on the scene this way, as well as just awesome worldwide talent.
Top 3 releases:
- Releji - Home -- this is just such a perfect example of what makes trance good. it's perfect
- Dominant Space ft Jennifer Sumire -- Spread Your Wings (Sam Laxton Remix) -- A cover of a classic Ferry track, this just oozes style and substance. Jennifer's vocals are perfect, and Sam took Yuji and Masaya's top notch production and made it TWISTED.
- Derek Ryan ft Sarah De Warren - Starts Tonight -- Sarah makes this track SING, in more ways than one. Her topline is incredibly emotive; I've never seen anything be so introspective yet relatable at once.
16-Dimitris: Are you planning to complete an album or mix compilation soon? if yes please give us all the details about regarding tracks and how will look and sound like?
Derek Ryan: Haha, yes! Working on an album right now. It's not just trance, but also progressive house/techno, downtempo, and maybe even a DnB tune or two =). Making prime use of hardware to get some different sounds into the trance vibe, and working with my favorite vocalists to realize the vision. Should be out on Ascent in the first half of next year...you'll start seeing singles drop early in the year.
17-Dimitris: Can you pick up your all time favorite album or compilation and tell us why you adore it so much?
Derek Ryan: Album - BT's Movement In Still Life. Even in 2023, still nothing like it. The gentle caress of the way Brian works with sound is just unparalleled.
Compilation - A State of Trance 2006. I swear, the first time I heard Emotional Void I had to lay down for a while.
18-Dimitris:How much time do you spend promoting yourself in your social media and you see this as essential tool for self promotion and getting bookings too? Which social media is the one that seems to work better for you?
Derek Ryan: A few hours a week, between myself and the label. One thing I love about modern social media is that it doesn't have to be so serious! When people make it about numbers it's lame. Just have fun!
I used to enjoy Twitter alot (even worked there for a spell), but it's certainly changed. I think Insta is the most 'alive' platform to me.
19-Dimitris: Do you have your own radio show/podcast/twitch stream or Vlog(video blog)? If yes please give us a comment about it and how long it take you to prepare for it and if you are always excited to produce it?
Derek Ryan: I don't stream regularly, though I should. We've done some streaming events for Ascent, including one promoting Pride Month this year alongside a Japanese charity (Nijiiro Diversity). As an ally, I see far too many of my LGBTQ+ friends not getting the recognition and visibility they need here, and I wanted to help how we could. We have a tune out (Thrive, same as the event name) that Jaytech was kind enough to remix, and all sales of that, along with the donation drive from the event, all went to Nijiiro Diversity to support LBGTQ+ rights and visibility in Japan.
20-Do you post videos on tiktok? If yes please reference for us your favourite? What is your opinion about the power of tiktok to promote music releases?Is there any tiktok video created by fans of you with your music worth mentioning?
Derek Ryan: Nah, just not my vibe! Props for all who dig it tho.
21-Dimitris: Do you have any gigs/festival performances confirmed so far for 2024 in which ones are you most excited to perform and why?
Derek Ryan: I'll definitely be doing some gigs in Tokyo and Fukuoka this year, a few things coming together. Would love to do more international as well.
22-Dimitris: Please share your most funny and most serious incident that happen to you during your DJ or LIVE PA performance?
Derek Ryan: Dunno if this is funny or serious, but DJing one warehouse party in San Francisco, the person on before me had unplugged one of the CDJs to connect their laptop...and had neglected to tell me when I went on. I was sweating bullets (and making heavy use of the looping function) to get things hooked back up in time.
23-Dimitris: Are you happy about the quality of the tracks released in your preferred music genres? Please justify your answer with your opinion about it!
Derek Ryan: Yes. So much music out there and I discover more every day. Love what's happening in trance, but DnB, progressive, and techno are absolute fire. Also, people are doing some really interesting things in pop too, not to mention progressive metal / djent etc.
24-Your current Top 3 tracks with short comment:
Derek Ryan: 1. Sam Laxton - Into Me. I love the combination with pitched vocals and trance to be honest. And that is one heck of a satisfying melodic line. Not to mention the techy ravey groove.
2. Revolution 9 - Tundra. Dave really hit it out of the park with this one. The melody is familiar but totally original, and the move from slow/fast stabs is a stroke of brilliance.
3. Yuji Ono, Masaya & Discordia ft. Casska - Reverie. This is an absolutely perfect progressive chugger. I love reesey basslines to begin with, but this pairs it with the exact right sparkling melodics and bittersweet melody.
25-Dimitris: If you expect to have a steady income from your music productions are you satisfied with the way that royalties system works particularly regarding streaming revenue? Do you believe that artists get what they deserve from streaming providers/DJs playing your tracks in gigs/radio and selling music in physical formats like CDs/Vinyl or digitally.
Derek Ryan: It's certainly not consistent, but royalty checks do come. I think Spotify's latest move is pretty bad, but primarily in an emotional sense -- realistically, under 1k plays won't give you any money, but for them to take that little and reallocate it to the biggest players is a middle finger for alot of smaller folks. I'm lucky enough to be over the threshold with many tracks, but this is a terrible change for the industry.
26-Dimitris: Please note for all the new talents that read this interview to get some inspiration from you any technical tips in relation to your DJing or music productions. Also any piece of personal or music business' advice that has helped you to progress even further and is worth telling to the new upcoming talents.
Derek Ryan: For production -- remember that you're making SONGS not productions =). It's easy to focus on polish without SAYING anything. Of course you need both, but if you have to pick one, musicality wins hands down.
Also, don't get attached to any one melody, or any one song.
Always ask yourself -- if this wasn't my track, would I play it? What would make me reach for THIS record in my box? If there's not a good reason, either fix it so there is one or move on to a different track. You can always make more.
27-Dimitris: Many producers and DJs offer online masterclasses or teach to music production & DJing courses. Do you believe is essential to take part in any of these courses to develop your skills? Are you are offering any of these services? or other related services like ghost-producing or mastering? please tell us about these activities
Derek Ryan: I think you can get to wherever you want to be 100% on your own, but you'll need to fight to get there, and it's a difficult road.
Courses can be cool, but whether you take a course or just have friends to bounce stuff off of, having a tribe of mentors makes all the difference. I didn't realize this until way way late in the game. Life is just better and way way easier if you have folks to work with.
For me, I still use external mastering for the most part as a check against my internal barometer -- having a second set of ears really helps.
I've done some ghost producing for a few folks, though it's not a regular thing. Usually I'd rather focus on my own music, or Ascent.
28-Dimitris: Is there a club classic that you would like to remix or rework in 2023? Do you attempt often to do your own bootlegs of classics?
Derek Ryan: Oh man, I would LOVE to do Greed's progressive classic Gentle Rain. Absolute chills. In fact, maybe we should do that as Codeswitch...(frantically writes note).
Bootlegs - sometimes. I did one of Xpander way back and am working on another now. Codeswitch has a secret James Holden one =P.
29-Dimitris: Please choose the best and worst remix of club classic and tell us why you like or dislike them.
Derek Ryan: Best: Greg Downey's version of Rapture (Nadia Ali) - perfect way to modernize the sound and give even more emotionality to an already emotional tune.
Worst: I just can't accept any mix of Karen Overton - Your Loving Arms that isn't the original Jose Amnesia one. Nothing stands up. The original is too good. Remixes here are bad not because they're badly done (they're not, the recent one is very well produced), but because expectations are too high haha.
30-Dimitris: How much do you care if your fans or followers like your productions? Do you struggle with the audience reception of your tracks and is this thought adds extra pressure on you and discourage you too?
Derek Ryan: Music is meant to be heard and connect people, and I always want to be moving towards being able to provide that for more and more people. And I welcome feedback! Anything I can do to be better I want to.
31-Dimitris: Can you describe your music as certain music genre such as trance, house, techno or your music exempts these categorizations? What is your opinion about hybrid styles and artists who are attempting to mix influences from various genres in their tracks?
Derek Ryan: Haha, I do genre swap but my own tunes are primarily trance. The upcoming album will have a bunch of proggy stuff tho as well as DnB and downtempo. I love mixing things, and a bunch of my recent tracks have had house influences even though they're trancey.
I also can't resist adding guitars liberally...
32-Dimitris: Is your music business your full time occupation and are you able to make a leaving out of your music business (DJ/producer/label owner/teaching or mastering tracks)? If not what other jobs are you doing in order to support your income?
Derek Ryan: I may or may not work as a software development manager =).
33-Dimitris: Do you believe that audience should be banned from constantly taking photos or videos during DJ sets or are you happy with these activities?
Derek Ryan: I don't think people should be banned from most things. But I will say it's important to stop and enjoy the moment.
34-Dimitris: Do you prefer small clubs or huge festivals to perform? in which festivals or clubs you aspire to play in the future?
Derek Ryan:I think it all depends on the crowd and vibe. Larger events can be great when it's on, but so can smaller ones. I think my fave are probably proper underground raves though. They have that extra something.
35-Please choose for us your favourite holiday destination and share with us your most unforgettable holiday experience(good/bad)
Derek Ryan: It's a toss up between Hawaii (Kauai and Oahu) and Bangkok. Both are amazing places to unwind, Hawaii for the beaches and Bangkok for the food!
Most unforgettable bad would have to be at Whistler, the ski resort in Canada. There's a gondola that goes between the two mountains super high up in the air, and some friends and I were riding it hungover. Some rowdy types were riding too, and started daring each other to see how far they could rock the gondola...over a ridiculously long drop to the bottom! And not to mention which, the floors are see through. Both sickening and terrifying.
Most unforgettable good would have to be when on my honeymoon with my wife in Tahiti, we had dinner at a place that had the most unbelievable Pink Floyd cover band. They were quite old, but damn did they shred. It was so on point I think they'd make the original members comfortably numb!
Dimitris: Your message & wishes for Flux Bpm Online readers.
Derek Ryan: Thank you to everyone who listens to our music, and makes this scene what it is. We're only able to make and share music because of you and I'm incredibly grateful to get to share this beautiful world with you!
Thanks so much to Derek for the most complete and insightful interview so far.
Thanks so much to Stuart at FSOE for organizing this interview.
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