With plenty of love going out to Enrico Sangiuliano, we put rising hard-techno phenomenon Alex Farell through our revamped Q&A - diving into his journey, influences, and what’s ahead.
Alex Farell is one of the UK’s youngest forces in hard techno and hard dance. Starting production at 12 and playing clubs by 14, he quickly rose from Liverpool newcomer to international standout. His early releases gained major DJ support and led to a viral Boiler Room debut at 16, followed by key signings with Teletech and standout tracks on Reckless, Taapion, HEKATE, and We Are The Brave. With major festival appearances and a debut album on the way, Farell champions the idea that age is no barrier to making an impact in electronic music.
Why music?
I’ve always listened to music religiously since I can remember. My mum and dad always had music playing in the house so i always had a very good ear for it.
If you weren't making music, what would you be doing?
I really don’t know, to be honest. I kind of gave up in school from the age of about 13. Once I found out what DJing and music production were, I think I kind of self-sabotaged myself, so I felt I HAD to make it as a DJ or producer, since I didn’t really have any other skills.
What's the best advice you’ve ever received?
Adapt or get left behind. In the climate of this scene, where everything is changing pretty much every few months, it’s easy to try to stick to one sound, but these days it doesn’t seem to work.
What sparks your creativity?
Hearing good new music is always very good for inspiration and creativity.
Who’s the next name everyone should know?
MXGN - he is a crazy producer from Liverpool, my hometown, and he uses lots of analogue and live equipment in his productions.
Best moment in a club or studio?
My favourite moment in a club was probably my international debut in Maaschricht, Netherlands, when I was 15. It was just so crazy to be so young playing my music in a foreign country.
What's the worst job you’ve ever had?
I have never had a regular job, which is kind of crazy. I’ve managed to make good money from music since I was about 14 through various means
How do you know when a track's finished?
I usually try to finish my tracks as quick as possible, that way I don’t get hung up on the small things. If you overwork a track, you will find that the original version is always the best and the purest.
How do you like to finish your sets?
I usually close with a big ravey tune - or something with a lot of emotion that people are gonna go home and remember.
What was your last day job before going full-time in music?
Like I said before, I haven’t had a job
Which track do you wish you’d made?
Enrico Sanguliano - "Astral Projection".
What’s the easiest way to break into music?
Producing is the best way to break into music - nowadays anyone can DJ - it’s really easy with the technology. But producing is a completely different ball game and takes years to master.
What’s the worst track or set you’ve ever done?
I don’t really think there is a worst set, I’ve probably dropped a set that isn’t up to usual standard. But I’ve never car crashed a set or anything.
How do you organise your music coll