First garnering attention with the anthemic ‘Sleepless’ (90 million Spotify streams), Alexander Björklund and studio partner Sebastien Furrer formed CAZZETTE as a Cassette helmeted duo during the progressive house boom of the late noughties, playing several shows worldwide, including Creamfields, and supporting Avicii on his worldwide tour.
Step forward 2018, and in what is to be a sad bit of news, Sebastian made the decision to break away from the CAZZETTE brand, and focus on the creative writing and Alexander has made the choice to go solo as CAZZETTE, with a slight rebrand, as proven by his recent single – Run Run.
Read our chat on the plans that Alexander has on the CAZZETTE rebrand, and why he prefers to be a hobbit.
T.H.E – Hi Alexander! How’s it going for you and what have you been up to?
CAZZETTE – Hey there, I’m excellent. I just got back from a much-needed vacation in Japan after finishing my upcoming EP “Stereo Mono.” The other day I played Echostage together with Dada Life and Valentino Khan. It was a fun set for me. Given the other headliner’s energy, I could adapt my set and go a little harder than usual.
T.H.E – We are sure a lot of CAZZETTE fans would have been devastated by the decision to go solo as CAZZETTE, with Sebastian no longer a part of it. What prompted it?
CAZZETTE – In fact, Sebastian is very much involved in the music. He strongly supports the production of every song I put out. I have always loved DJ-ing and performing as much as producing, so it makes sense that I tour and do what I like. For Sebastian, it made sense to focus all his energy on the creative writing of music. His decision to stop traveling was made a long time ago, and the road isn’t for everyone. And that is okay.
T.H.E – This decision also signifies a rebranding, if you will, of what CAZZETTE would stand for in terms of production. What can you tell us about that, and what can fans look forward to?
CAZZETTE – Over the years we have always moved a lot between different genres and sounds, but now that doesn’t feel as important anymore. We have proven our diversity over and over, so these days I feel more confident staying within the boundaries of house music. So that is what I am going for.
I find the thought of staying within one genre exciting rather than limiting (which I used to think). Our fans can look forward to a lot of great new dance music.
I have worked hard these past years to develop and make sure we deliver music that will make you move any time during the day or night. I found a balance between concert and at-home listening.
I’m beyond excited to release all our new music, which is coming soon and will speak for itself.
T.H.E – In terms of the future, could you share 10 tracks, that sort of define the sound that you will be looking to pursue?
CAZZETTE – “Stereo Mono” will lean towards a sound representing a mix of old school and future house. I’m also in love with how house music used to sound just before I started touring (think Laidback Luke around 2008) and always try to incorporate the feels that I would get from that era. French Touch also played an essential role in my life, there may or may not be tattoos of certain artists on my body. If you listen carefully, you will be able to make out some of the influences of my favorite bands.
Other than that, a bunch of artists inspire me, and I frequently play them in my sets. To name a few; Calvin Harris, MK and a lot of stuff from Heldeep (Record Label). Here are some tracks that I spin: Michael Calfan – Got You, Just Kiddin – Indiana, EDX – Jaded, Camelphat – Cola, Mike Millrain – Bump in the night.
Be on the lookout for the new Spotify playlist of my favorite tracks, make sure to follow us there!
T.H.E – You will also not be wearing masks at shows. What brought this about?
CAZZETTE – The mask is on ice for now. I have no reason to hide, and it often broke on the road. Touring is an essential part of my life and needs to be as stress-free as possible so that I can tune in with the crowd and create memories at every concert. I love every show that I play, and a broken mask is a buzzkill. At the end of the day ‘for now’ does not mean ‘forever.’
T.H.E – As a duo, you guys have accomplished plenty, and sure do have a lot of memories. What is your fondest memory, being a part of the CAZZETTE duo, along with Sebastian?
CAZZETTE – The best thing about Cazzette is that I now have a brother. Sebastian inspires me to grow beyond what I ever think is possible. It is hard for me to single out a specific memory because the time we spent together on the road was a lot of fun. Some of my best memories with Sebastian are everyday conversations in which we talk about life and further. We still talk often, and I am very grateful we could find a way for us both to be happy, keep the project alive and stay inspired (which hasn’t always been easy.)
T.H.E – What is the one thing that you refuse to hear?
CAZZETTE – Injustice, racism, and super-saw leads.
T.H.E – What is the one thing that you refuse to share?
CAZZETTE – I’m an open book. It’s awkward for me to try and be someone different on stage or in my private life. But I will never share anyone else’s secret.
T.H.E – Favorite TV show
CAZZETTE – Right now; Curb your enthusiasm. All time; The Leftovers.
T.H.E – If you could kill off one character from your favorite TV show, which would it be?
CAZZETTE – Dwayne (Season 1+2) in The Leftovers was hella creepy.
T.H.E – Would you rather be a hobbit or an elf for 24 hours?
CAZZETTE – Hobbit. So that I could hang Mid-earth style.
T.H.E – Thanks, Alexander! Can’t wait to see what you have in store for us, as CAZZETTE.
