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Interview with Mercurial Virus about his track The Journey out on Fables/FSOE



Welcome to an exclusive interview with Mercurial Virus, the dynamic trance artist hailing from Birmingham, UK. Known offstage as Darren Jones, Mercurial Virus has carved a remarkable journey through the realms of uplifting trance, hard trance, and hardstyle. While Darren first made waves with his hard trance tracks under Fevah & Viper Traxx, and hardstyle anthems as D10, his evolution into the trance scene under the Mercurial Virus alias has been nothing short of electrifying.

With a portfolio brimming with solo hits, captivating collaborations, and remixes, Mercurial Virus has earned the support of trance heavyweights like Armin Van Buuren, John O'Callaghan, Aly & Fila, Sean Tyas, Darren Porter, Ferry Corsten, Paul Van Dyk, and many more. His standout track "Turning Point" on Subculture resonated across the globe, gracing iconic platforms like A State of Trance episodes 950, 951, 952, ADE, FSOE 636, and Transmission.

Darren’s creative synergy with fellow artists like Darren Porter led to chart-topping successes, with numerous releases on prestigious labels such as FSOE, FSOE Fables, Regenerate, Nocturnal Knights, AVA White, and beyond. Early gems like "Legacy," "Memories," and "Ethno" showcased his versatility and were celebrated with airplay on ASOT.

Rooted in the vibrant club scenes of Godskitchen and Gatecrasher from the late '90s and early 2000s, Darren brings an authentic trance spirit infused with cinematic influences to his music. His ability to craft distinctive tracks, each with its unique flavor, reflects his passion and deep understanding of the genre.

Join us as we delve into the mind of Mercurial Virus, exploring his musical journey, inspirations, and exciting future collaborations. Get ready to uncover the story behind the beats that have captivated trance enthusiasts worldwide.



  • Background

Let's start with your journey into the world of electronic dance music. Understanding your roots and early influences helps us connect with the artist behind the sound.

Dimitris: How did your journey into the electronic dance music (EDM) scene begin, and what were the key influences that shaped your style?

Mercurial Virus: My journey into the electronic dance music (EDM) scene truly began in 1986 when I first saw and heard Jean Michel Jarre’s "Rendez-Vous Houston." My dad played it on video, and that moment sparked my initial fascination with electronic sounds. It left an indelible mark on me, even though, at the time, I was more focused on pursuing a career in football rather than music.

As I grew older, I found myself drawn to chart-topping electronic tracks, particularly the vibrant sounds of Sash, which I absolutely loved. However, the pivotal turning point came when I was 18. A colleague at the dental lab where I worked suggested I listen to Judge Jules on BBC Radio 1. That recommendation was a game-changer.

Through Judge Jules’ show, I discovered tracks like Chicane’s "Saltwater," The Morrighan’s "Remember" (Lange Remix), and Binary Finary’s "1999" (Gouryella Remix). These songs captivated me completely, hooking me into the mesmerizing world of trance music. Soon after, I came across an advert for "Ministry of Sound Trance Nation 2," mixed by Ferry Corsten. Listening to that mix deepened my passion and solidified my love for trance.

Living in Birmingham, I was fortunate to have iconic events like Godskitchen right in my hometown. Attending these events fueled my enthusiasm and inspired me to delve deeper into the EDM scene, ultimately shaping the style and sound I create today.




Dimitris: What personal values or life philosophies do you carry that also reflect in your music?

Mercurial Virus:  My music is a direct reflection of my emotions and state of mind. I believe in staying authentic—true to oneself without conforming to external trends. Each track I produce is an honest expression of how I feel at that moment. That's why my music spans a diverse range of styles, from chill-out and trance to hard trance, techno, and hardstyle. Each genre allows me to convey different vibes, whether it's raw aggression, deep emotion that can move someone to tears, or calming sounds perfect for relaxation and meditation. My ultimate philosophy is to create with sincerity, letting my feelings guide my artistry.

Dimitris: How has your understanding of the electronic music culture changed from when you started to where you are now?

Mercurial Virus: When I first began, my perspective was filled with an open mind and excitement. However, as I delved deeper into the industry, I came to realize that beyond the passion for music, it is fundamentally a business. Understanding contracts and the intricacies of the industry became crucial.

Another eye-opener was discovering the prevalence of ghost production. This was disheartening, especially for artists like me who take pride in creating every element of our music.

The evolution of electronic music culture also took a significant turn with the advent of digital technologies like Pioneer CDJs. This shift led to an explosion of music releases, contributing to market saturation.

Reflecting on my journey, I feel fortunate to have experienced the era of vinyl. I had numerous vinyl releases under D10 and even some early tracks as Mercurial Virus. This period holds a special place in my heart, marking the roots of my musical journey.

Dimitris: Which piece of music equipment or software can you not live without, and why?

Mercurial Virus: That's a great question, Dimitris! Honestly, I can't live without my computer. It's the heart of my entire music production process. Without it, there's simply no music. Over the years, I've worked with various hardware synths like the Yamaha CS1X, Novation Supernova II, and Access Virus KC, so I definitely know my way around keyboards. However, my computer ties everything together, allowing me to create, edit, and produce seamlessly. It’s truly indispensable.

Dimitris: Can you share an unforgettable incident from your career—whether funny, unexpected, or challenging?

Mercurial Virus: Absolutely! One unforgettable—and quite funny—moment happened at an event in Birmingham where I was the closing act at Existence, right after Angelus. He had USB sticks in both decks, and hilariously, he couldn’t figure out which one was actually playing. I had to make a guess, and well, let's just say it was an unlucky one! The music abruptly stopped as I inserted my USB stick, quickly loading my first track. In the rush, I accidentally hit the wrong cue point, starting the track halfway through. Despite that rocky start, the energy turned electric, and the rest of the set was absolutely phenomenal. It’s those unexpected moments that make performances memorable!




  • Current Projects:
Now that we know a bit about your background, we'd love to hear about what you're working on right now. Your current projects offer a glimpse into your creative process and artistic evolution.

Dimitris: What inspired the creation of your track The Journey, and how does it reflect your current artistic vision?

Mercurial Virus: "The inspiration behind 'The Journey' stems from a deep connection to my musical roots. Recently, I've been revisiting the old-school trance sounds that first ignited my passion for music. This track is a reflection of that exploration, blending nostalgic elements with my current artistic vision.

The creative process began with a simple yet emotionally charged chord progression on the piano. This raw emotion inspired me to craft a complementary guitar counter-melody, adding depth and resonance. To enhance the emotional landscape, I incorporated vocal libs that seamlessly intertwine with the piano and guitar, creating a harmonious balance.

Building upon this foundation, I developed the trance melody, structuring the entire track around these core elements. This approach reminded me of how I composed one of my most significant originals, 'Turning Point,' released on Subculture. 'The Journey' embodies both a return to my trance origins and an evolution of my sound, showcasing a blend of heartfelt emotion and classic trance energy."



Dimitris: Could you describe your current approach to music production and how it has evolved over the years?

Mercurial Virus: My current approach to music production starts with crafting a melody on my keyboard. Once I feel connected with the chords, I develop them into a trance melody, layering pads, voices, pianos, and orchestral instruments around it. Although the foundation of my process remains consistent, when I switch to genres like hard trance and hardstyle, there’s a slight shift—I still start with a melody but focus more on creating dynamic kicks and basslines to complement it.

Dimitris: What are some of the challenges you face when producing music, and how do you overcome them?

Mercurial Virus: One of the biggest challenges I encounter is managing time effectively. Additionally, there are days when my creative mindset isn’t fully engaged, leading to creative blocks. When that happens, I pivot to working on other parts of the track that require less creative energy or step away from music entirely for the day to reset and come back with fresh ideas.

Dimitris: How do you stay motivated and creatively inspired amidst the fast-paced nature of the EDM scene?

Mercurial Virus: To stay inspired, I immerse myself in diverse musical genres daily. I draw inspiration from classic trance albums like Gatecrasher and FSOE, as well as from chillout tracks and film scores. This variety not only stimulates my creativity but also helps me discover new ideas to integrate into my own productions.



  • Future Plans:

Dimitris: Looking ahead, we're curious about your aspirations. What exciting plans and ambitions are on the horizon for you?

Mercurial Virus: I'm excited to delve deeper into old school trance sounds, blending them with chillout vibes and Enigma-inspired music. Alongside this, I plan to continue releasing my hard trance tracks, exploring new sonic territories. Additionally, I'm dedicated to developing more sound packs and soundbanks, expanding on the releases already available on my website.

Dimitris: What are your future plans in terms of new releases, collaborations, or live performances?

Mercurial Virus: I'm thrilled about my upcoming releases. Under my hard trance alias D10, "The Truth" will drop on May 23rd via my label, Viper Traxx. Towards the end of May, I’m collaborating with Les Hemstock from Hemstock & Jennings on an Egyptian-inspired track titled "Sekhmet." We've crafted original Egyptian melodies using Kontakt libraries, merging them seamlessly with trance elements.

As for live performances, my next gig is scheduled for December 27th at Evolve in Sheffield. I can’t wait to share my new sounds with the crowd!



Dimitris: Are there any collaborations you dream of, either with other artists or brands, that you haven’t yet explored?

Mercurial Virus: Absolutely, there are a few collaborations that I still dream of. I’ve had the pleasure of working with FSOE labels and Subculture in the past, and those experiences were truly enriching. However, I’d love to delve deeper with them in the future. Achieving my dream of collaborating with Darren Porter on ‘One Life’ was a milestone and an immense success. Looking ahead, I’d be thrilled to collaborate with Scot Project for my hard trance alias and also work with John O’Callaghan.

Dimitris: How do you incorporate new trends or technologies in your music while maintaining your unique sound?

Mercurial Virus: When it comes to new trends and technologies, I’m selective. If I find sounds or techniques that resonate with me, I blend them seamlessly with elements that define my signature style. Additionally, I have a fondness for revisiting and drawing inspiration from past sounds, which helps me create a balanced fusion of the new and the nostalgic.

Dimitris: What message would you like to share with your fans and the broader EDM community about your journey and vision?

Mercurial Virus: To my fans and the EDM community, my message is simple—support authentic trance music. Don’t just follow fleeting trends. It’s important to recognize that trance is becoming intertwined with other genres, and while evolution is natural, we must preserve the core essence and roots of trance. Let’s keep the spirit of true trance alive.



  • Music Industry & Technology:

The music industry is constantly evolving, influenced by technology and cultural shifts. Let's dive into your thoughts on these changes and how they impact your work.

Dimitris: How do you see the current state of the electronic music industry, and what changes would you like to see?

Mercurial Virus: I believe the industry could greatly benefit from reinforcing authenticity. Currently, many artists gain success through ghost production, which can be disheartening for genuine creators like myself. It would be ideal if labels prioritized signing artists who write their own music, establishing mechanisms that allow true artistry to flourish.

Dimitris: What role do you think AI technology plays in the future of electronic music production, and have you experimented with it?

Mercurial Virus: I haven’t extensively explored AI, though some plugins I use include AI-driven features. Interestingly, I tend to modify the AI-generated outputs to suit my style. While AI can be a helpful tool, it doesn't replace the need for solid music production skills. Without a producer’s expertise, AI-generated changes might disrupt the track’s mix and coherence.

Dimitris: How do you feel about the shift towards streaming platforms for music consumption—do you think it's beneficial for artists?

Mercurial Virus: Streaming platforms are a double-edged sword. They certainly help artists reach wider audiences, but they also contribute to music’s fleeting nature nowadays. Unlike the vinyl era, where anticipation for new tracks was palpable, the constant influx of new releases diminishes a song’s longevity.

Dimitris: How important do you find online tutorials and classes for aspiring producers, and do you engage in any form of music education yourself?

Mercurial Virus: Online tutorials are fantastic for beginners, providing a solid foundation in music production. Personally, I don’t engage in formal music education anymore as I’ve been producing for 19 years, transitioning from analogue to digital. However, I’ve occasionally turned to tutorials to grasp specific concepts. I’m largely self-taught but did complete a university course while actively releasing music.

Personal Insights:

Dimitris: How do you maintain a balance between your personal life and your music career?

Mercurial Virus: I ensure balance by diversifying my interests beyond music. I’m an avid football fan and a season ticket holder at Aston Villa, regularly attending matches. As a former semi-pro footballer, the sport remains a passion. I also unwind with films, my PS5, and outdoor activities like long walks and bike rides. Music is something I approach when I feel inspired and in the right mindset.

Dimitris: What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers looking to make their mark in the industry?

Mercurial Virus: Stay true to yourself and your roots. Originality is key—avoid chasing trends as it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. Moreover, if you’re interested in multiple genres, consider creating separate aliases to maintain your brand’s identity and keep your fans engaged.



  • DJ-Specific Insights: For Producers Who Spin the Decks
The Art of DJing: An Interview with Mercurial Virus

Dimitris: What inspired you to transition from producing to DJing, or did both passions develop simultaneously?

Mercurial Virus: My journey actually started with DJing before I ventured into producing. I was fascinated by the art of mixing, and the thrill of vinyl shopping added to that excitement. The moment I heard the crackle of the needle on vinyl, I was hooked. As my love for DJing grew, I felt an urge to create my own sounds, which led me to music production. I invested in synths, samplers, a soundcard, and software—Fruity Loops was my starting point. I learned a lot by reaching out to artists like Lange, who was incredibly supportive. I even used to drive to Passion in Leicester to hand him tapes and CDs of my early productions.

Dimitris: Can you walk us through your DJing process—from track selection to live mixing? How do you curate a set that resonates with different audiences?

Mercurial Virus: My sets are designed as musical journeys. I start with Progressive Trance around 136-138 BPM, setting a melodic and immersive tone. As the set progresses, I ramp up the energy with tracks that hit 140 BPM while maintaining emotional depth. I love blending remixes of classics with original tracks, ensuring there’s both nostalgia and freshness. It’s all about reading the crowd and adjusting on the fly to keep the vibe alive.

Dimitris: What are some essential DJ techniques you’ve mastered over the years, and how have they evolved with emerging technologies?

Mercurial Virus: Over the years, I’ve honed techniques like identifying the perfect cue points for seamless transitions. This has been crucial for maintaining flow and energy during my sets. Additionally, advancements in mixer technology, especially with improved filters, have significantly enhanced my ability to manipulate sound dynamics and create unique live experiences.

Dimitris: How do you handle unexpected challenges during a live set, such as equipment malfunctions or shifts in crowd energy?

Mercurial Virus: I believe in staying calm and even laughing off minor issues—it helps keep the vibe positive. Preparation is key; I always have backup USB sticks, CDs, and I thoroughly check each deck before I go on stage. For shifts in crowd energy, I stay flexible, adjusting my track selection or mixing style to re-engage the audience. It’s all part of the live performance adventure.




  • Mixing Styles and Techniques:

Dimitris: Which mixing style do you prefer—long transitions, quick cuts, harmonic mixing, or another technique? How do you decide which style suits a particular set?

Mercurial Virus: I prefer long transitions because they provide a smooth and cohesive flow. I generally avoid harmonic mixing, as I believe some tracks are better suited at the start of a set, even if harmonically they might fit better in the middle. My goal is to take the audience on a journey rather than maintain a constant, predictable mixing style, which can become monotonous. The genre I'm performing heavily influences my track selection and the direction of the musical journey.

Dimitris: How do you incorporate effects, loops, and EQ adjustments to add depth and dynamics to your live mixes?

Mercurial Virus: I strategically apply effects during build-ups and break-downs, where reverb or delay can enhance the atmosphere. I also use flange effects on snare rolls to add texture and excitement. Each effect is chosen to complement the moment and elevate the energy of the set.

Dimitris: Do you prefer beatmatching manually or using sync features? How do these choices impact your creative flow during performances?

Mercurial Virus: I prefer manual beatmatching because it gives me complete control over the mix. It allows me to execute precise chops in and out of tracks, maintaining full creative authority. The hands-on approach keeps me engaged and energized, making each performance feel dynamic and alive.

Dimitris: How do you seamlessly blend different genres or tempos within a set to keep the energy consistent and engaging?

Mercurial Virus: Seamlessly blending genres or tempos requires an intimate knowledge of my tracks. I set up cue points and familiarize myself with the original tempos. By gradually increasing the tempo during breaks, I can transition smoothly to the desired speed, ensuring the energy remains consistent and engaging throughout the set.



  • Unforgettable Sets:
Dimitris: Reflecting on your career, what has been your most memorable DJ set and what made it stand out for you personally?

Mercurial Virus: One of the most unforgettable sets for me was in Australia under my D10 alias. I performed in Perth, and the excitement was unparalleled, especially since I was followed by none other than my idol, Scot Project. I played vinyl, and the crowd’s energy was absolutely electric. My mixing felt flawless, and I could genuinely connect with the audience through every track. I even introduced some unreleased tracks on CDJs, which elevated the vibe. A standout moment was when a fan handed me money during my set, just to show how much they were enjoying it—an unforgettable gesture!

Dimitris: Have you ever been inspired or influenced by another DJ’s set that left a lasting impact on your approach to performances? If so, could you share that experience?

Mercurial Virus: Absolutely! Watching Darren Porter’s set at Transmission was a game-changer for me. The vibe, the emotion, the raw energy he exuded—it was everything I aspire to bring to my own performances. Seeing that level of connection and dynamism on the decks was deeply inspiring.

Crowd Engagement Strategies:

Dimitris: What cues do you look for in the crowd to gauge their energy and adjust your set accordingly?

Mercurial Virus: I closely observe how the crowd is dancing and whether they’re recognizing the tracks. It’s a great way to understand their energy levels. I also enjoy throwing in unexpected or unfamiliar tracks to surprise them and keep the experience fresh.

Dimitris: How do you create a unique connection with the audience beyond just playing tracks—do you use visuals, spontaneous track selections, or interact directly with the crowd?

Mercurial Virus: Connection is key for me. I always interact with the crowd—not just during my set, but also before and after. I love dropping tracks that people might not have heard before to keep things exciting and create memorable moments.

Dimitris: How do you handle moments when the crowd’s energy dips? What strategies do you employ to reignite the vibe?

Mercurial Virus: When I notice a dip in energy, I shift gears and dive straight into some high-energy trance. I also make it a point to dance like crazy in the DJ booth, genuinely vibing with the crowd. I’m all about facing the audience, not turning around for cameras—I want to be part of the energy, joining in with them, and lifting the vibe together.




  • Technical Preferences:

Dimitris: What DJ equipment or software do you consider indispensable, and why does it hold such significance in your performances?

Mercurial Virus: I consider the Pioneer CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 or newer models absolutely indispensable. They’ve become the industry standard, offering reliability and advanced features that align perfectly with professional setups worldwide. Additionally, Rekordbox is crucial for me as it streamlines playlist creation and track organization, ensuring my sets flow seamlessly and dynamically.

Dimitris: How do you integrate your own productions into your DJ sets to create a signature live experience?

Mercurial Virus: My DJ sets are a dynamic showcase of my musical journey. I love to kick things off with an intro crafted from one of my releases, setting the tone right from the start. Throughout the performance, I weave in a blend of unreleased bootlegs, exclusive remixes, fan-favorite tracks, and even some of my earlier works. By mixing in unreleased material, each set feels fresh and unique, offering a signature experience that’s never the same twice.




  • Balancing Production and Performance:

Dimitris: How do you manage the creative balance between producing new tracks in the studio and preparing for high-energy DJ gigs?

Mercurial Virus: My main focus is on producing since I don't have that many gigs. However, when a gig is approaching, I dedicate a few days beforehand to prepare thoroughly. Knowing the time slot I'll perform helps me craft a specific musical journey, ensuring the audience experiences an engaging and dynamic set.

Dimitris: Does your approach to music production change based on the feedback or experiences you gain from live performances?

Mercurial Virus: Not really. To me, being an artist is about authenticity and individuality. I believe in staying true to my unique style and artistic vision. While live performances are invigorating, they don't dictate my production approach. I create music that resonates with who I am—being yourself is the essence of true artistry.

Dimitris: This expanded section celebrates the dynamic journey of producers who thrive both in the studio and on stage, offering insights into the techniques, stories, and inspirations that shape their dual artistry.

Mercurial Virus: My journey in music has been deeply influenced by some iconic figures. Initially, Ferry Corsten inspired me with his legendary tracks, remixes, and projects like Gouryella, System F, and Moonman. Around 2001-2002, I discovered my passion for hard German Trance after witnessing Scot Project's performance at Gatecrasher, NEC. That experience sparked an obsession with Hard Trance.

In 2015, I faced an incredibly challenging period as I stepped away from music after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. During this time, while caring for my father, I found solace in Darren Porter's music. My father’s wish for me to return to music after his passing became a pivotal moment. He encouraged me to rebuild my studio, which I did in the larger bedroom of our home. Trance became the vessel through which I channeled my emotions, marking a heartfelt return to the genre that has always been my true passion.

  • Closing Statement:

Dimitris: Please tell us your final statement to our readers who will read this interview. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your journey, insights, and experiences with us. Your thoughtful responses will surely inspire and resonate with fans and fellow artists alike. We truly appreciate your contribution to the electronic music community and look forward to witnessing your continued success!

Mercurial Virus: Thank you, Dimitris, for this wonderful opportunity to share my story with your readers. To everyone out there, I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. It’s your passion for electronic music that keeps artists like me inspired and motivated. Remember to always follow your dreams, stay true to your sound, and let music be the journey that connects us all. Also, don’t forget to check out my latest release on the incredible FSOE Fables—'Mercurial Virus - The Journey' is now available on all platforms. Keep the vibes alive and see you on the dance floor! 

Check The Journey HERE

  • I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Darren for graciously participating in this interview.

  • Additionally, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to Stuart at FSOE for their exceptional efforts in organizing this interview. 




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