Oliver Smith is a name that speaks volumes for itself. The Anjunabeats stalwart has been associated with quality trance for years now has been described as “an excellent DJ” by Armin van Buuren, “the best thing to happen in trance” by Mixmag and “sensational” by DJ Magazine.
Apart from being an adroit producer, he has also managed to establish a career as a trustworthy DJ delivering an impeccable performance at every event. This year, he was entrusted with the mixing duties on the 8th edition of the legendary “Anjunabeats Worldwide” compilation. Released earlier this month, the compilation was received with much adoration and is seen peaking on charts around the world. On this occasion, we sit back with the man of the hour and get his insights on how the album came about, which one of the earlier compilations he enjoys listening to the most and a lot more! Check it out below!
Shivani – Hi Oliver! It’s an absolute pleasure to be speaking with you! How has 2018 been treating you till date?
Oliver Smith – Very well. It’s been pretty busy so far!
Shivani – You mixed the legendary “Anjunabeats Worldwide” compilation series for the 8th edition, which was recently released. Congratulations! How did it all happen?
Oliver Smith – Last year I took part in the 250th episode of the Above & Beyond Group Therapy radio show, recorded live in front of 25,000 people at The Gorge Amphitheatre in Washington State. I included a lot of brand new material in my mix and the label was interested in how we could build upon the success of my appearance. I was delighted to be offered the opportunity to mix the next edition of the Anjunabeats Worldwide compilation series.
Shivani – What was your creative process behind the compilation and how did you finalize it?
Oliver Smith – I was working on a lot of new material before being asked to do the compilation, so I already had quite a few of my own tracks to choose from. The Anjunabeats team also sent over a great selection of new tunes from other artists on the label. It was important to me that the compilation should have a lot of great unreleased music and also a good flow overall. Some of the tracks were late additions, so I was tweaking the mix right up to the last minute.
Shivani – Was there a lot of pressure or expectations to with regard to the compilation? How have your fans received it?
It was a bit of a challenge because this is the first time I’ve done a proper mix album, and I wanted to make something that would stand the test of time. Thankfully it’s been very well received and it went to number one on the iTunes Dance charts in quite a few countries.
Shivani – You will also be heading out on the “Anjunabeats Worldwide 08” tour! Any particular places you are looking forward to playing at?
Oliver Smith – I’m playing at a lot of my favourite clubs on this tour. Sound-bar in Chicago is always a highlight, Exchange in LA is another good one, and I’ve also made my first appearance at Hi Ibiza.
Shivani – You recently played at the Anjunabeats stage at Tomorrowland! How was that experience like?
Oliver Smith – Tomorrowland is an amazing event on a huge scale, and the production is amazing. We had our own Anjunabeats stage this year and it was a lot of fun. One of the highlights was arriving at the stage by speedboat!
Shivani – Apart from your own compilation, which one of the earlier 7 compilations do you enjoy listening to the most?
Oliver Smith – Grum did a great job last time with his trademark sound. I’d have to say they’re all pretty strong mixes though, each being a snapshot in time.
Shivani – Earlier this year, you also released “Lovingly” with Amy J. Price, which was beautiful! What was the idea behind the track?
Oliver Smith – This track was about combining trance and house sounds in one track. It’s all about contrasts, and it really makes an impact in the clubs. Amy did a great job on the vocal and it’s been one of my most successful tracks to date.
Shivani – What does 2018 hold in store for you?
Oliver Smith – I’m getting back in the studio to work on lots more music. Planning on doing some more vocal tracks, and I’ll also be touring around the world as well.
Shivani – Any message you would like to give your fans?
Oliver Smith – Thanks for your support. It’s great to know my music resonates with so many people and makes all the hard work feel worthwhile!
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