Ever since Alexander Popov turned heads with his 2013 debut album ‘Personal Way’, he’s been looking for the right idea to turn into its follow-up. Inspired by the notion of human intention through modern philosophic books, the Russian DJ, producer and label owner translated his new-found insights into an assembly of peerless singles and amazing collaborations. The result is a wonderful second album able to shatter expectations: Intention.
We caught up with Alexander and spoke to him about how this album came about and loads more. Read our chat below.
T.H.E – Hey Alexander! Congratulations on the release of your second album. How much effort has gone into making it?
Alexander Popov – Thank you very much! It took around 10 months. We agreed with Armada for new artist album on ADE last year. And now the year after I’m happy finally to release it.
T.H.E – What is the meaning behind the title – ‘Intention’?
Alexander Popov – I have a few passions in my life, the first one, of course, the music, the second one is books. I can’t say I’m reading a lot but I love it especially when I’m traveling in the planes. One of the most inspiring ideas for me that I found in modern philosophic books is the idea of human intention as a life moving force in people society, and I decide to use it as a main idea in the album.
T.H.E – There are quite a few collaborators on the album. How did you decide whom to work with?
Alexander Popov – I always looking for good collaborations and it happening in different ways. Sometimes I have requests from other artists sometimes I’m trying to offer something from my side like it was with Armin for example. But anytime it’s an always a good synergy of musical vision and I love it.
T.H.E – How was it working with Armin on the ‘Popcorn’ and why did you guys name it as such?
Alexander Popov – As about the name it’s better to ask Armin about it :) For me, it’s a big honour to make collaboration with my favourite artist and it’s a good step in my career.
T.H.E – Way back in 2013, you solidified a definition for yourself, for your sound with your debut album – ‘Personal Way’. How different would you say ‘Intention’ is from it, and what kind of step does it represent for your sound?
Alexander Popov – My sound changed a little bit in this 5 years, but I still feel my roots and want to keep it in my music. That’s what somebody names Popov sound. I still love to put classical elements in my tracks and pay attention to the beautiful chords and melodies.
T.H.E – Overall, apart from the album, how has 2018 been for you?
Alexander Popov – This was definitely a great year for me. I played some huge shows like FIFA Fan Fest in Moscow for 50 000 people and of course album release is the biggest thing for me this year.
T.H.E – This is going to be tough if you had to choose, which 5 tracks would be your favourite from the album and why?
Alexander Popov – Let’s try:
Legacy – my favourite instrumental track on the album
People – proud of the sound and the mood of this track
Popcorn – is the most important collaboration on the album for me
Nothing Is Over – Probably my favourite vocal track on the album
Intention – I love how it works on the dancefloor and I think it reflects album idea musically
T.H.E – Thanks, Alexander and wish you the very best!
