Following the success of his February-released single ‘Barba’ on Bob Sinclar’s storied Africanism imprint, French DJ, producer and Anemos Dance label owner MAGLIA now returns to his burgeoning Mykonos-based imprint for the label’s first release of 2024, ‘U BE MINE’.

A mesmerising original production showcasing the Frenchman’s unique interpretation of stripped-back tribal house, Maglia’s ‘U BE MINE’ is an impressive slice of cutting edge electronic music from the in-form producer, who returns to Anemos Dance for his third label outing following the release of ‘Feggari’ in 2021 and his three-part ‘Unstuck’ EP in May 2022.

Having already enjoyed consistent support from the Keinemusik crue over the past few months, ‘U BE MINE’ is a sophisticated offering, underpinned by complex layers of intricate polyrhythms and intermittent vocal sample. Maglia’s trademark composite of forward-thinking club music shines front and centre, as he pulls out all the stops with another rousing dancefloor cut. Darting between organic timbres and ethereal pads, his unique mosaic of juxtaposed sound design elements makes ‘U BE MINE’ one of the most notable releases on the label to date.

“I’m extremely happy to be back on Anemos Dance for the label’s first release of the year, with U BE MINE. The record has been getting some serious love from the Keinemusik guys over the last few months, as well as in my own sets, so I’m really excited to finally share its official release with the world.”

MAGLIA

Anemos Dance was established in 2021 on the island of Mykonos, and is affiliated with the legendary club Moni. The label has been carving its own inimitable path over the past three years and now lays claim to thoughtfully curated catalogue of productions from the likes of Aera, Hardt Antoine, DJ Gregory, REj, Toto Chiavetta and Maglia. Known across the industry for its unique underground energy and instantly recognisable sound palette, the label has forged a trademark all of its own; one that is as organic as it is experimental.

Originally from France, Maglia’s background as a b-boy in his teenage years – along with the influence of dance and hip-hop culture – has shaped the artist he is today. With multiple production credits under his belt as Lodee Gruv (with three EPs released via his own label, Bordel Ensemble), his debut production as Maglia appeared on a compilation by Hardt Antoine’s Reculture London imprint, and has since been followed up by successful releases on labels including Anemos Dance, Rebellion, Crosstown Rebels and Africanism.

On the live front, residencies at many beloved underground venues in Europe have established Maglia as a versatile performer and critical selector. Over the past few years, he has dedicated time and energy into his own venue and music studio – Moni in Mykonos – where he regularly performs, produces and where he founded the new crew collective, Few Good DJs, with MĪMĪ x FY. Recent tour highlights include his residency in the Club Room at Hi Ibiza, as well as sharing the stage with artists such as Damian Lazarus, ÂME, Dixon, Adriatique, and many others.

We spoke to Maglia for a Q&A session and dived deeper into the inspiration behind ‘U BE MINE,’ his distinctive sound, and the dynamic journey of Anemos Dance and Few Good DJs.

What inspired the creation of your latest single, ‘U BE MINE,’ and how does it differ from your previous releases?

The inspiration came from different places… I was sitting on the beat, riffs and baseline for a while as I wrote the music for another project, actually. When I found this vocal, I dropped it in the session and played with the sample. Everything came together very nicely! I think it differs from my previous productions as it’s more romantic and definitely more listenable outside of the dance floor.

How do you approach sound design, and how would you describe your distinctive sound and style, considering its elements and influences, both in your productions and DJ sets? 

I draw inspiration from various influences and create a diverse range of music under the umbrella of electronic music. Personally, I avoid limiting myself to one particular sound or style despite industry preferences. Friends have mentioned noticing a certain sound signature in my tracks, even though they encompass different styles, but I struggle to see it. I hope it’s true! I believe your sound evolves from your workflow and ‘muscle memory’ when you’ve been doing it for so long! It’s a result of habits and techniques developed over time. 

Could you describe Anemos Dance’s journey since its inception and its role in the electronic music scene?

Anemos Dance, as a label, has followed its own path and timeline. Since its birth during COVID years, we have strived to maintain a certain level of quality and have many ideas for the future. I think in terms to having a ‘role’ in the electronic music scene, that is yet to fully manifest. However, I hope Anemos Dance has illuminated a different perspective on the island of Mykonos and demonstrated that there is more to it than the stereotype perpetuated by its international reputation.

Can you share any memorable insights and experiences from your residency at Moni in Mykonos and involvement with Few Good DJs?

So many memories in Moni are special! We have built this place with passion and tailored it to our needs as DJs, making it, in my opinion, one of the best nightclubs! The booth equipment, the sound system—everything.
If I have to highlight one memory, let’s tie it to Few Good DJs, our talent agency and artist collective. It was when I met Sanaz at Moni one night while MĪMĪ x FY were playing. From a five-minute conversation, the vision for a Few Good DJs was born! We are so happy and excited about this venture and love how it can be a little bit disruptive to the booking/agent industry.

Balancing live performances, studio work, and running a label and collective—how do you manage it all?

I am lucky! Being passionate about what you do and having the opportunity to make a living from it is a blessing. When you’re passionate, you’re never ‘not working,’ so by definition, you are always productive and getting things done. However, it’s never without the help of the people you surround yourself with. I am blessed to have amazing individuals around us who help with everything.

What’s next for you? Any hints on upcoming gigs, releases or collaborations?

The Moni 2024 season is about to begin, and we can’t wait to be back in our playground! We are also working on some very exciting releases with Anemos Dance including MĪMĪ x FY debut on the imprint and a remix release for ‘U BE MINE.’ As for gigs outside of Moni, we have a couple of outdoor shows planned in Paris with the DUST team, which is very exciting!