IN FOKUS: Bloodhound
Bloodhound comes at us with a set that’s nothing short of original, hyper-aware, and rife with emotional dynamics —- it’s the type of on-off planet dance floor release we need right now. As one half of fokus global duo Channel One you can clearly hear the influence of future-perfect latin rhythms, dance-experimental hooks, and industro-tropical influences that marks Bloodhound’s signature sound - and dare we say it’s a sound that’s parting the urban jungla seas on NYC’s finest dance floors right now. We’ll not say too much about the enigmatic bloodhound who sniffs out the bangers we so need in our ears and hearts right now and let the sets + MUSIC speak (and hound) for itself.
What inspired you to construct a set like this?
I wanted to create a form of hypnosis with this one. My approach to producing, DJing, and even listening has been to become absolutely lost in the sonic elements. Obviously, this is a very dance-floor inspired collection. But, I try to approach consuming and creating mixes as an all-encompassing experience to ground oneself and be as present as possible, in whatever form that may be.
Who are some of your favorite artists and why do they motivate you?
Aurora Halal has been a huge inspiration of mine lately. She's able to create that sort of meditation in music better than almost any other artist I’ve come across, both in her productions and performances. Miami-based INVT has been a huge inspiration for me in the world of percussion and latin-inspired rhythms. Their live set is mind-melting.
Antpuke runs some of the best parties in NYC and does some amazing work for the community at large. Hardest working person I know.
What impact do you think DJ's are having right now as opposed to say, 2 years ago?
I think at this point it’s almost cliché to mention how the Pandemic has changed the DJ community but it’s impossible to avoid. I think DJ’s have a huge impact now and it’s recognized. Since the reopening of clubs and parties, everyone seems hyper-aware of the impact of the music and the people around them. The DJ’s are the facilitators of that. It’s beautiful in a lot of ways really.
What are some of the key super powers / elements that you think makes a good set and/or dj set in front of an audience?
I find the term “reading the room” to, most of the time, be irrelevant. Wedding DJs read the room. I much more prefer when a DJ dictates the room. It’s noticeable when a DJ is confident in bringing out the new discoveries and experimental blends that define their sound and who they are. That’s what really sets us apart.
Why are you making music and bringing it into the world?
Dance music is beautiful in the way that it feels egoless. And, while that’s obviously an idealistic way of thinking, it really is made to be a smaller slice of the greater picture. To use a part of myself to contribute to that feels endlessly rewarding.
Tell us why you love Fokus Global.
I love Fokus’ emphasis on the weird, the unpredictable, and the undefinable. They’re really doing some amazing work in the global fokus of what music can and should be.
Tell us why you love Fokus Global.
I love Fokus’ emphasis on the weird, the unpredictable, and the undefinable. They’re really doing some amazing work in the global fokus of what music can and should be.
