Image credit: Bryce Givans
With a love for funk-infused beats and electronic music, Dillon Marinez shines with his latest EP No Pressure. Released via renowned record label Dirtybird, this two-track EP showcases the producer’s prowess for vocal electronic infusions. Raised in San Diego, this rising producer works as a software developer by day and turns the volume up on his DJ gear at night. Featured tracks ‘No Pressure’ and ‘Come On’ are equally invigorating with their upbeat but breezy textures: the perfect antidote for a quiet dance floor. We chatted with promising talent Dillon Marinez and asked him a few questions about the music industry.
What’s your “secret sauce?” What makes your sound stand out?
I have always been hooked on the idea of shocking people. I strive for that reaction in my music. I like to imagine myself as an audience member and see which sounds or vocals would hit home the most. That being said, I’m looking for a striking lead, catchy vocal, solid bass foundation and the rest kinda flows.
Define a successful day in your eyes.
To me, a successful day is when I get a lot of stuff done. I like to be as productive as possible. When I can crank out a bunch of loops and have a few projects to continue working on it feels really good.
What made you decide to pursue a musical career?
I am a huge fan of electronic music and I love making it. I originally had a goal to just have one record signed and then before I knew it all these opportunities started to come. It didn’t feel like work to me so I just kept doing it.
What would you be doing as a career if you never pursued music?
I actually work full-time as a software developer. It’s been a good balance for me. I use music as a way to decompress from a long day of coding.
Pros and cons of the industry from your perspective?
Pros – I love the camaraderie between producers and the different backgrounds of everyone. Music really brings people together from all walks of life.
Cons – I’m still new to the industry so I don’t have too many cons.
Please list some of the most influential albums on your creative outlook and output:
Ghettos and Gardens – Justin Martin
Houses of the Holy – Led Zeppelin
M. O. T. A. – Cultura Profetica
What key pieces of gear/software do you use to define your sound?
I use a Novation Basstation II (like most people) but I like using a lot of VSTs – Serum, Sylenth, Nerve, Battery, etc, the usual suspects.
How has music production changed your outlook on life?
It’s taught me that anything is possible. If you set a goal and work hard, it can be achieved. I learned that through music. Also, just embracing rejection, continuing through the hard moments, and having a genuine love for creating.
Tell us about your upcoming releases or projects?
My current projects are a stepping stone into a new style that is more bass and percussion focused. I was encouraged to dive further after getting positive feedback on my last EP with Basement Leak that incorporates a lot of elements from Latin American genres.
‘No Pressure’ features on the Spotify playlist BASS_GROUND
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