Next up here on Amsterdam Trance Records, Suncatcher & Exolight step up with their remix of Kaimo K's 'Hold of You'. With their signature melodic touch and driving energy, the duo elevate the original, adding soaring synth lines and a vibrant atmosphere. It's the kind of remix that reminds you exactly why Vocal Trance hits so deep.
Dimitris Kechagias Review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Kaimo K - Hold Of You (Suncatcher & Exolight Remix)[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Suncatcher & Exolight's remix of Kaimo K's "Hold of You," released under Amsterdam Trance Records, is a meticulously crafted piece that perfectly exemplifies the modern Vocal Trance soundscape. The track operates at a brisk 136 BPM, providing an energetic backbone that is both driving and uplifting. The remix opens with tightly compressed kick drums layered with rolling basslines, creating a rhythmic pulse that is both powerful and clean. The duo masterfully employs sidechain compression to ensure the kick punches through the mix, allowing for a dynamic interplay between the percussive elements and melodic layers. As the track progresses, lush atmospheric pads and shimmering synth arpeggios are introduced. These elements, drenched in reverb and subtle delay, build a spacious soundstage that feels vast yet intimate. The use of high-pass filters during transitions adds to the suspense, making the drop into the main melody even more impactful. Suncatcher & Exolight showcase their signature melodic prowess through carefully crafted chord progressions that evoke emotional resonance. The orchestral strings in the breakdown add a layer of sophistication, blending classical influences with electronic textures. This melancholic yet hopeful interlude allows the vocals to shine, with pristine EQ treatment ensuring clarity and presence without overshadowing other elements. The climax is a euphoric surge of energy, where the lead synths—rich in harmonic content—soar above a foundation of tight basslines and punchy drums. Advanced modulation techniques, including automated filter sweeps and dynamic reverb tails, keep the energy fluid and evolving, maintaining listener engagement throughout. This remix is a testament to the duo's ability to balance technical precision with emotional depth. The meticulous attention to detail in sound design, combined with their innate sense of musicality, results in a track that is both a dancefloor anthem and a deeply moving auditory journey. It's a shining example of #PureGold in the Vocal Trance genre. #LoveIT[/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
Suncatcher's journey began in 2003, when he discovered LEVEL magazine and the demo version of Fruity Loops 3.5. His first release, Solaria, came five years later, but it was Epic that really launched his career after Above & Beyond played it multiple times on Trance Around the World. This led to signings with top labels like Enhanced, FSOE, Amsterdam Trance, Euphonic, AVA, and Subculture, plus remixes for iconic artists like Tiësto, Adam Nickey, and John O’Callaghan. His tracks quickly made their way into the sets of Armin van Buuren, Above & Beyond, Aly & Fila, Paul van Dyk, John O’Callaghan, Sean Tyas, and many more.
He’s since performed at major festivals like Untold, Luminosity Beach Festival, Afterhills, BeeFree, and in countries like the Netherlands, Spain, the UK, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Slovakia, and Romania.
In recent years, Suncatcher has teamed up with Exolight, releasing countless bangers together and launching a new project, Sunlight State, with a bass-heavy, energetic style. He’s also exploring new sounds in the progressive realm, continuing to push his creative boundaries.
Best of 2024 with Suncatcher
1-Best of tracks from other artists in 2024.
a) Identify the most exceptional tracks from other artists released in 2024. Explain your selection, highlighting production techniques and audience reactions.
Suncatcher: This year, more than ever, I’ve been listening to A LOT of progressive. And it’s been showing in the episodes of Critical Exposure Radio that I’ve been putting out. There are many of them that are 100% progressive from the first track to the last. So it only feels fair that I give the #1 spot to Hel-sløwed & Amber Revival - If You Only Knew. This song has everything I’m looking for. Great melody, standout vocals and is just overall an amazing track.
But of course there are a lot of amazing songs released this year, like Andrew Bayer, Rob Tirea - Fear Of Losing You, Ashley Wallbridge & John Grand - Echoes or the brilliant Daniel Kandi Remix of Ruben de Ronde & Farius feat. David Frank - Radiant. Solid productions, all of them, and each unique in its own way.
1-Best self-produced/personal tracks of 2024
b)Explain your choices for the best 2024 personal productions. Were they due to challenges, crowd reactions, or success on download shops/streaming services?
Suncatcher: I’ve gotta go with Change the Horizon here. Exolight’s brilliant melody coupled with Ana Criado’s amazing vocals, it’s just a winning combination. Super solid production from us and I dare say even better that Water Colour Memories. 😁 And releasing a song with Ana Criado is definitely one bucket list item that has been checked!
2) Best Artist of 2024 (DJ & Producer)
Analyze why you consider the selected artist the best in their genre. Explain the factors that influenced your decision and highlight their most appreciated aspects.
Suncatcher: You know what, I’m gonna give this to Exolight. And I’ll tell you why. Every song that we released this year has his melodies. And this year, we have had some really solid releases. So I can say with certainty that he’s the machine driving this duo! 🍻
3-a) Best Remixes of 2024
Provide a detailed explanation of your remix selection, including your reasons. Consider factors like production proficiency, technical aspects, creativity, and imagination.
Suncatcher: I’ve gotta come back to the brilliant Daniel Kandi Remix of Ruben de Ronde & Farius feat. David Frank - Radiant. Of course, super track, but you wouldn’t expect anything less from Mr Kandi. But it’s just that drop, oh man!
3-b) Your best self-produced remix of 2024
Explain why you believe your 2024 remix is your best work. Include any technical challenges or unique difficulties you faced during production.
Suncatcher: No remixes this year, I’m afraid. It’s getting harder and harder to remix songs these days.
3-c) Best Remixer(s) of 2024:
Provide a concise commentary on the best remixers of 2024, supporting your assessment with specific reasons highlighting their exceptional talent and expertise.
Suncatcher: Well, if the #1 remix is from Daniel Kandi, then it’s only natural that the #1 remixer spot goes to him.
4) Best New Talent of 2024 (DJ or Producer):
Explain your award selection in detail. Do you personally know or collaborate with the artist?
Suncatcher: Honestly I’m not really following who’s new and who’s old. If you release a song that I like, you’re going in my playlist 😁
5-a) Best Electronic Dance Music Album of 2024:
Provide a detailed explanation of the criteria used to select the best electronic dance music album of 2024. Also, highlight the standout tracks that showcase its exceptional quality.
Suncatcher: Farius - Synapse. I love Farius’s tracks! There have been episodes of Critical Exposure Radio where I play 2 or 3 tracks from him.
5-b) Best Electronic Dance Music Compilation of 2024. Please elaborate on the criteria used to select this compilation. Are the mixing processes of the tracks high quality and proficient? Is the track listing imaginative and creative?
Suncatcher: Anjunadeep Vol 15. All of the deep compilations are brilliant, and this no exception!
5-c:Best artwork of 2024: singles or albums.
Suncatcher: Above & Beyond - Crazy Love. I love the artworks that they put out for their singles.
6) Best Electronic Dance Music Label of 2024
Explain your choice. What appeals to you about this label? Is it the high-quality tracks, the impressive roster of notable artists, or something else?
Suncatcher: Gotta go with Enhanced Progressive. They generally release amazing tracks and I end up playing a lot of them in our radio show. I’ve been mentioning a lot of releases from them throughout this interview so it’s only fair to give them this title. 😉
7)Best music composition software and hardware of 2024. Explain your selection.
Suncatcher: FL Studio is getting better and better, and they have lifetime free updates. How can you not love it?
8-a) Your Best Personal DJ Gig of 2024:
Suncatcher: Definitely Singapore. Such awesome people, from the organizers to everyone who came to see us. You don’t see so much love for the music in many places. We’ve also received some awesome anime-style portraits of ourselves from an amazing fan! 😁
8-b) Best DJ set from another DJ (real or online) of 2024. Explain why you think it’s the strongest. Highlight exceptional mixing, track selection, and overall mix development.
Suncatcher: Hel-sløwed @ Untold Festival. Amazing set and just beautiful melodic songs throughout it.
9)Share your most valuable technical advice and production techniques from 2024, specifically related to DJing or music production.
Suncatcher: Don’t be afraid to look for guidance. Even if you’re an experienced producer, you still have things to learn. Also, don’t be lazy. Quality music requires a lot of work.
10-Share the most valuable advice you received in the personal or music business that significantly contributed to your career advancement in 2024. This guidance can help others grow professionally.
Suncatcher: You do you!
11-Could you share your plans for 2025, including future releases, tracks, albums, collaborations, and DJ gigs? We’d love the details.
Suncatcher: We’ve got a new release coming out January 2nd, so right after new year’s. I’m super proud of this one as well. Also, Sunlight State will be back, and we have plenty of vocal tracks and remixes coming.
Dimitris: Please send your message and wishes for 2025 to our esteemed readers.
Happy holidays, happy new year and let’s make 2025 at least as great as 2024 was!
Thanks so much to Suncatcher for his fantastic interview.
Summary: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Best of 2024 Interview with Suncatcher[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Suncatcher highlights the best tracks, productions, and artists of 2024, including Hel-sløwed & Amber Revival, Exolight, and Daniel Kandi. Suncatcher also shares their favorite DJ gigs, production techniques, and plans for 2025, including a new release and Sunlight State’s return. The interview concludes with holiday wishes and gratitude for the opportunity. [/content]
Cristian Moga, known professionally as Exolight, is a renowned trance music producer based in Romania. Renowned as “The Romanian Uplifting Wizard,” he has achieved international acclaim for his compositions featured on esteemed labels such as FSOE Fables, Always Alive, and Pure Trance. His music consistently ranks on prestigious playlists, including Armin van Buuren’s “A State of Trance,” Aly & Fila’s “Future Sound of Egypt,” Ferry Corsten’s Countdown, Paul van Dyk’s Vonyc Sessions, Solarstone’s “Pure Trance Radio,” Alex M.O.R.P.H.’s “United Nation,” and numerous other radio shows. Additionally, he has performed at various renowned trance festivals worldwide, including the globally recognized Untold festival in his home country. Access his exclusive interview featuring his top 2024 tracks, artists, and labels from the global trance scene. His insights are both informative and inspiring, so it is highly recommended that you commence reading.
Best of 2024 by Exolight
1-Best of tracks from other artists in 2024.
a) Identify the most exceptional tracks from other artists released in 2024. Explain your selection, highlighting production techniques and audience reactions.
Exolight: It’s always hard to choose from so many great tracks. I think the track I like the most this year is Digital Drift - You Don’t Mind. It’s a very solid production with amazing vocals. I remember listening to this one for the first time when I was in Greece earlier this year. Sitting on the beach and listening to this track was just amazing.
Another track that caught my attention this year is Lostly - Freedom of Movement—this is exactly the type of uplifting trance I like: simple and super melodic.
1-Best self-produced/personal tracks of 2024
b)Explain your choices for the best 2024 personal productions. Were they due to challenges, crowd reactions, or success on download shops/streaming services?
Exolight: I think it’s Change the Horizon with Suncatcher and Ana Criado! Although I really like all of my productions this year, as I focused on quality rather than quantity. I have always wanted to collaborate with Ana Criado because she is my favorite vocalist, and this year it finally happened. I had the privilege of playing the track at Untold Festival, and the reaction was wild—even from backstage, haha. One of the DJs actually asked me and Suncatcher while we were playing if he could do a remix of the track. So stay tuned—you might hear a remix of it in the future!
2) Best Artist of 2024 (DJ & Producer)
Analyze why you consider the selected artist the best in their genre. Explain the factors that influenced your decision and highlight their most appreciated aspects.
Exolight: It’s hard to pick just one artist, to be honest, but I’ll mention two of my favorites this year.
One is Lostly—I only discovered his music this year, and I think it’s amazing. His productions are very clean and powerful.
The other artist would be Farius. His music is so good, and his album this year is just amazing.
3-a) Best Remixes of 2024
Provide a detailed explanation of your remix selection, including your reasons. Consider factors like production proficiency, technical aspects, creativity, and imagination.
Exolight: My favorite remix this year is definitely the one made by Numind for my track with Suncatcher, On The Run. While we are really proud of our original version, I think the guys from Numind took the track to another level. I was surprised to receive such amazing reactions to the remix, including support from Armin van Buuren on A State of Trance (ASOT) and Tomorrowland’s One World Radio show.
3-b) Your best self-produced remix of 2024
Explain why you believe your 2024 remix is your best work. Include any technical challenges or unique difficulties you faced during production.
Exolight: I didn’t release any remixes this year, although I did finish one. It probably won’t ever be released—but who knows? I’m currently working with Suncatcher to remix a beautiful vocal track for Amsterdam Trance. I can’t share any details about the track just yet, but stay tuned!
3-c) Best Remixer(s) of 2024:
Provide a concise commentary on the best remixers of 2024, supporting your assessment with specific reasons highlighting their exceptional talent and expertise.
Exolight: For me, Daniel Kandi is one of the best remixers ever. Ruben de Ronde & Farius & David Frank - Radiant (Daniel Kandi Bangin' Mix) is one of my favorite tracks this year. I think Kandi did an incredible job remixing this amazing track.
Also, Marsh created a stunning remix of Estiva - Via Infinita. Another masterpiece this year! Or maybe it was from last year? I can’t remember exactly.
4) Best New Talent of 2024 (DJ or Producer):
Explain your award selection in detail. Do you personally know or collaborate with the artist?
Exolight: I would say my friend David Jovian. He had his first release this year, Embrace, which was a collaboration we did together. He has more tracks coming in the near future, so make sure to follow his music. He’s a very talented lad, and he reminds me of myself when I first started my musical career.
5-a) Best Electronic Dance Music Album of 2024:
Provide a detailed explanation of the criteria used to select the best electronic dance music album of 2024. Also, highlight the standout tracks that showcase its exceptional quality.
Exolight: I have two choices here: Digital Drift - Droids—a really good album with beautiful tracks.
You Don’t Mind is one of my favorite tracks this year. My second choice would be Farius - Synapse. This album is simply beautiful. I’ve always loved albums that tell a story, and this one really feels like it does so exceptionally well.
5-b) Best Electronic Dance Music Compilation of 2024. Please elaborate on the criteria used to select this compilation. Are the mixing processes of the tracks high quality and proficient? Is the track listing imaginative and creative?
Exolight: I think In Search of Sunrise is the pick for this year. I've been listening to this compilation series since 2003, and I still think it's a solid one. The Super8 & Tab CD is my favorite—it’s like a journey, blending some great old tracks with new and modern productions.
5-c:Best artwork of 2024: singles or albums.
Exolight: I really don’t look at the artworks that much haha. I only listen to the music.
6) Best Electronic Dance Music Label of 2024
Explain your choice. What appeals to you about this label? Is it the high-quality tracks, the impressive roster of notable artists, or something else?
Exolight: I think Dan Stone’s Argento is the pick for me this year. The label consistently delivers solid productions—tune after tune after tune.
7)Best music composition software and hardware of 2024. Explain your selection.
Exolight: FL Studio for life. I don’t say it’s the best but it’s the perfect one for me.
8-a) Your Best Personal DJ Gig of 2024:
Exolight: Definitely the one I had with Suncatcher in Singapore earlier in May. It was my first gig outside of Europe, and it exceeded all our expectations. The crowd was absolutely amazing, and we honestly didn’t realize we had so many fans and friends in Singapore. They were vibing with our tracks in a way that left us speechless. Just wow. I want to thank Daniel, Brandon, Joshua, Haszalii, and the entire Singapore crew for all the support and for the amazing memories, and of course for making this possible.
8-b) Best DJ set from another DJ (real or online) of 2024. Explain why you think it’s the strongest. Highlight exceptional mixing, track selection, and overall mix development.
Exolight: I think Ahmed Romel's set at Untold Festival is my favorite. I love his music so much—it’s very melodic and emotional, and I believe he delivered an amazing set at Untold. His tracks resonate deeply with my style, and his mix was absolutely on point.
9)Share your most valuable technical advice and production techniques from 2024, specifically related to DJing or music production.
Exolight: Don’t overlayer your leads and basslines. Keep it simple!
10-Share the most valuable advice you received in the personal or music business that significantly contributed to your career advancement in 2024. This guidance can help others grow professionally.
Exolight: Keep doing what you love and follow your own style. Don’t try to copy other producers, and don’t follow current trends just because labels want that.
11-Could you share your plans for 2025, including future releases, tracks, albums, collaborations, and DJ gigs? We’d love the details.
Exolight: I have a few tracks already scheduled for 2025, including two vocal tracks and an instrumental one with my bro Suncatcher, under our alias Sunlight State. Yes, Sunlight State will be back next year! I also have some other tracks planned for 2025, but they aren’t finished or scheduled yet. It’s going to be a great year. Stay tuned!
Dimitri: Please send your message and wishes for 2025 to our esteemed readers.
Exolight: Thank you all for the amazing support this year! I wish you all Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year! See you in 2025. :-)
[review top="1"] [item value="10"]Best of 2024 Interview with Exolight[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Exolight, a renowned Romanian trance music producer, shares his top picks for 2024, including tracks, artists, and labels. He highlights his favorite productions, collaborations, and performances, emphasizing the importance of following one’s style and not copying others. Exolight also reveals his plans for 2025, including new releases and collaborations, and expresses gratitude to his fans for their support. [/content][/review]
Thanks so much to beloved Exolight for his wonderful answers.
Dimitri Kechagias review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [item value="10"]Suncatcher & Exolight & Frank Waanders - Watermelon [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]When three very talented and beloved artists collide then u are pretty sure that something extra special is prepared and finally is served beautifully as a nice summery slice of Watermelon. Suncatcher & Exolight & Frank Waanders have done an exceptional uplifter with the usual tried and tested pumping driving basslines, pounding drums, energetic kicks and euphoric anthemic hands in the air epic synths with Ibiza splashed all over the place. With heavenly voices and luscious synthy plucks the mesmerizing cast its spell on the curious listener who is ready to experience something totally unforgettable as the big summery synthy hook is unleashed to take us by the hands towards the epic euphoric feel good climax when trance is the only language that unite us all. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
For Suncatcher, it all started in 2003 with a LEVEL magazine and the demo version of Fruity Loops 3.5. It took 5 years for his first release, the lesser known ‘Solaria’. But then, Above & Beyond played ‘Epic’ 3 times in TATW, and his career received the kickstart it was waiting for. Numerous signings at highly respected labels such as Enhanced, FSOE, Euphonic, AVA or Subculture, just to name a few and remixes for Tiësto, Adam Nickey, John O’Callaghan or Neptune Project have found their way into the playlists of DJ’s such as Armin van Buuren, John O’Callaghan, Sean Tyas, Aly & Fila, Above & Beyond or Paul van Dyk. These releases were naturally followed by gigs in Spain, UK, Holland, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Slovakia, and Romania, joining big festivals such as BeeFree, Luminosity Beach Festival, Afterhills and, most notably, Untold Festival.
In the recent years, Bogdan started experimenting with collabs and found a new friend and perfect collab buddy in Exolight, with which he has released more than a dozen tracks and started a new project, Sunlight State, tackling the more bass-heavy and bangin’ style. And on the flip side, he continues to expand his horizon, even more, venturing into the progressive area as well.
Dimitris: Your biggest music career achievements in 2019:
Suncatcher: Playing at Untold Festival
1) Best track(s) and short comment for each track from other fellow artists in 2019
Suncatcher: One comes to mind first: Solis & Sean Truby w/ Audrey Gallagher - Skin Deep (Solis & Sean Truby vs Ultimate Remix) - it just has all the ingredients of a perfect uplifting trance track. Awesome melody, huge energy, amazing vocals.
Also love the new Above & Beyond w/ Zoe Johnston - Reverie, although I’m not sure that one comes out this year...
Andrew Bayer had an amazing year with 2 superb EPs. That guy, I don’t know how he does it...
Ah, let’s not forget Daniel Kandi’s return to his classic style. JP8080 Paradise is a masterpiece.
2) Best of 2019 personal productions with short comment about them:
Suncatcher:That Summer Afternoon, w/ Exolight. Super proud of that beachy vibe we managed to achieve with this.
3) Best Artist in 2019(DJ & producer) with short comment:
Suncatcher: Andrew Bayer, hands down. I’m in love with almost anything this man produces!
4) Best Remix(es) from other fellow artists in 2019 with short comment :
Suncatcher: Probably the one I mentioned before, Solis & Sean Truby w/ Audrey Gallagher - Skin Deep (Solis & Sean Truby vs Ultimate Remix) - just because it’s also one of my favourite tracks of the year.
5) YOUR Best Remix which you have produced in 2019 with short comment?
Suncatcher: I have to choose both my remix for Driftmoon’s Please Don’t Go and the S&E remix for Aurosonic’s Ask Me Anything. I thing these are tracks with different emotions and I’m very proud of both.
6) Best electronic dance music album in 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: I think Neptune Project did an awesome job with A Question of Reality. Really enjoyed it.
7) Best electronic dance music compilation in 2019 with short comment? :
Suncatcher: Euphonic 300 - you’ll really like our new track on there! ;)
8) Best electronic dance music label for 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: I think Anjunabeats is re-becoming my new favourite label. The’ve finally mastered their style and it’s just quality all over the place.
9) Best music composition software in 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: FL Studio 4 life! 😂
10)Best Club event /Festival/music conference in 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: Luminosity Beach will always hold a special place in my heart.
11) Your Best personal DJ Gig & DJ performance in 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: Untold Festival - seeing all those people stay with us till the end was an absolute thrill and completely unexpected. The fans are the best!
12) Best DJ set from other fellow DJ in 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: Giuseppe Ottaviani is killing it right now with his Live sets. I also loved Above & Beyond’s set at ABGT350z
13) Best radio show/podcast or Vlog(video blog) in 2019 with short comment. It can be yours or from other artists you respect:
Suncatcher: Critical Exposure Radio, of course.
14) Best production or DJ equipment (a)software & (b) hardware) in 2019 with short comment:
Suncatcher: Fl Studio and Spire- you can do basically anything with just these 2. 😁
15) Best sound sample that has been used frequently in electronic dance music tracks in 2019 (personal or from other artists):
Suncatcher: Whoooooooosh pow! 😂
16) Best technical tips that you learnt in 2019 in relation to your DJing or music productions:
Suncatcher: You’re always gonna screw up at least one transition in your sets, no matter how much you practised before, so prepare for that. 😂
17) Best piece of personal or music business advice you got in relation to your career in 2019 and has helped you to progress even further:
Suncatcher: Don’t be afraid to talk with fellow artists. Shyness never gets you anywhere.
18) Best travel tips in 2019 to survive the long travelling hours and jetlag:
Suncatcher: I’ve got nothing. I’m terrible at surviving jet lags. I needed 2 weeks for getting over my jet lag from returning from the US. 😂
19) Best ever electronic dance music track(s) of all times with short comment?
Suncatcher: Oh, man, come on, seriously? 😂
20) Best hobby or creative activity except music production in 2019:
Suncatcher: Travelling.
Dimitris: Do you have any concrete plans for 2020 regarding future releases, tracks, albums, collaborations, DJ gigs? Please provide us the juicy details.
Suncatcher: Got some awesome releases with Sunlight State coming up, among a few solo releases. So stay tuned.
Dimitris: Your message & wishes for 2020.
Suncatcher: Don’t do drugs and stay in school! But I guess this applies every year...
The young producer from Romania, Bogdan Cupcea (a.k.a. Suncatcher, Suncatcher pres. Sensu), was born in 1986 and started learning the insides of producing in 2003. He always felt an attraction to the trance genre and his romantic side got him into making beautiful melodic-uplifting trance. Bogdan experienced a great rise since his debut single, back in August 2008. He got massive support from great names on the trance scene, like Above&Beyond, Daniel Kandi, Tiesto, Ferry Corsten, Armin van Buuren, Dj Shah, Signalrunners, Manuel Le Saux and many others.
Dimitris: Can you rate 2018 for you as a year with 1 being very bad until 10 that is perfect year!
Suncatcher: 8 very good year. Great gigs and lots of releases!
1) Best 3 Tracks from other artists in 2018, please give us a short comment for each track:
Suncatcher:Maywave - Madura -> has that classic trance feel with a goosebumps melody
Andrew Bayer - Immortal Lover (In My Next Life Mix) -> absolutely love this guy’s attention to detail in his songs.
Aurosonic & Ana Criado - Ask Me Anything -> perfect blend of progressive and best voice in trance imo.
2) Your 3 Best of 2018 personal productions, give us more background info about them:
Suncatcher: Exolight & Suncatcher - Siren Song: Classic feel for this
Suncatcher & Exolight - Water Colour Memories: Exolight made the chord progression here and the way the voice fits on top is just legendary
Suncatcher & Caitlin Stubbs - Closer Than Close: A year in the making, so I was really proud of this
3) Best Artist in 2018(DJ & producer) please explain why you pick him/her up:
Suncatcher: Giuseppe Ottaviani - this guy releases hit after hit!
4) Best Remix in 2018, please explain why you liked it so much:
Suncatcher: John O’Callaghan ft. Josie - Out of Nowhere (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix) - this is a classic that I absolutely loved back when it was released, and i’m happy that Giuseppe kept the original feel of the track.
5) Best Remix that you have produced in 2018, please tell us why you believe is your best work(please provide the listening link for our readers)?
Suncatcher: Roger Shah & Susie Ledge - A Different Part of Me
6) Best electronic music album in 2018? Please explain your decision why you think is the best album?(b) Do you believe that albums are still relevant or you prefer singles:
Suncatcher: Driftmoon - Invictus - I just love how it tells a story, and it has narration throughout the entire album. Although it’s a sad story, I felt like I was playing StarCraft while listening to it. :))
Yes, albums are still relevant, but they have to bring something special. Just gathering up a bunch of tracks without a specific purpose, they’re better off as singles
7) Best vocalist/singer featured on electronic music track in 2018, please tell why you appreciate this singer/vocalist and why:
Suncatcher:Ana Criado - she has an angel’s voice. It sounds so warm and perfect!
8) Best Club event or Festival that you have performed there or you would love one day to perform there, please explain the reasons that influenced your choice of the event & festival:
Suncatcher: Tomorrowland - it’s just a magical place, isn’t it?
9) Your Best personal DJ Gig for 2018 (if you are active as DJ) and why you believe is the finest:
Suncatcher: My set at Luminosity Beach Festival - just love the crowd there. Best thing is I can have real conversations with people, when i’m not playing.
10) Best DJ set from other fellow DJ in 2018 and why you believe his/her set was so fantastic?:
Suncatcher: Exolight @ Luminosity Beach Festival 2018 - just because we have such similar styles, so he plays tracks that I love :D
11) Best radio show/podcast or Vlog(video blog) in 2018, please explain why you think this is the best radio show or vlog?:
Suncatcher: Critical Exposure Radio, because it’s our show! 😁
Dimitris: Do you have a radio show or vlog? Have you produced any YouTube tutorials for fellow artists to learn from you? If yes please tell us here the details and choose the best episode from your radio show/vlog/YouTube tutorial for 2018.
Suncatcher:Critical Exposure Radio on AH.fm. Best episode, not sure, I like them all, since they’re all my babies (yes, even the one that Exolight makes)
Dimitris: Can you mention briefly your plans for your future releases, tracks, albums, collaborations, DJ gigs for 2019!
Suncatcher: Unfortunately I can’t share any details, but I have a couple of big gigs and releases lined up, so keep an eye on my Facebook page for news!
Thanks to Suncatcher for replying in this interview. Thanks to Rory at Enhanced Music for organising this interview.
