One of the great things about writing for EDM Sauce is the opportunity to interview producers and DJ's, and the timing of this latest interview couldn't have worked out any better. Rising Dutcho duo, East & Young continue to make waves with their remixes, and original tracks. Their sound is rooted firmly in the big room/progressive genre, but also draws on influences from far and wide. I figured to get the ball rolling it was necessary to get the question out about where the name East & Young originates. For East & Young it comes from their family names, Ivo the Jong (Young) and Marc van Oosterbaan (Oost = East). See, you've already learned something today.
As far as new tunes are concerned, East & Young's latest comes in the form of a remix as they took on Louis The Child & Icona Pop's new pop single ‘Weekend'. Since their debut, they've released tracks on leading labels such as Ultra, Big Beat and Strictly Rhythm. This new remix marks one of their highest profile outings to date, working with the vocals of one of the most distinctive and popular voices around in the form of Icona Pop. Click HERE to purchase via Beatport.
East & Young have previously remixed several Galantis tracks, and recently joined forces together with them on ‘Make Me Feel', a track which was featured in the Netflix original film ‘XOXO' . The relationship between East & Young and Galantis intrigued me enough to ask about how this track came together.
“We've known Linus and Christian for a long time now. We did some remixes for them and co-produced the track “Don’t Care” on their debut album “Pharmacy”. Last year we sent them a new idea of us and they loved it. Together we finished the track and the rest you can hear in ‘Make Me Feel'.”
East & Young have been busy this summer playing shows mostly throughout Europe but their latest shows occurred at Mysteryland in the Netherlands. Their first of two shows was hosted at their own area ‘Circus of Life', while the second was a Mainstage set on Sunday. It's no surprise that Mysteryland is one of their favorite festivals to play.
Check out East & Young's recap of last year’s performance and you’ll understand why they like Mysteryland so much.
The Netherlands has produced so many big time DJ's/Producers, Do you feel any added pressure to prove yourself? Who are some people that you look up to?
“Yeah, we sure feel some added pressure but not specific for the fact that we are from the Netherlands. Worldwide there are so many good quality productions released nowadays, so we always feel some pressure. But that’s ok, it keeps us focused and motivated. Producers that we really like are: Calvin Harris, Galantis and Flume, they are all known for their own unique sound.”
Your sound is very infectious in each and every track. How would you guys describe your sound and style for someone who may not have heard of you?
We would describe our music as melodic, spherical electronic music with an overall feelgood vibe with lots of indie pop influences. It’s kinda hard to describe it in one genre or specific style.”
Who and/or where do you draw your influences from?
“We get influenced by many things. Of course we get inspired by other dance music, but we are also listening to a lot of other styles. Also, quite regular situations like being with your friends or family, doing exercises, watching a film or something can give us much inspiration.”
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