Nordfold’s journey into the world of electronic music was shaped by a deep appreciation for rhythm, harmony, and the artistry of sound. With roots in traditional instruments like drums, piano, and violin, Nordfold seamlessly transitioned into the electronic genre, creating a unique sound that blends influences from different eras and genres. From his early days experimenting with loop stations to his recent work with renowned labels like Anjunadeep and Stil Vor Talent, Nordfold has carved out a distinctive voice in the electronic music scene. In this interview, he shares insights into his creative process, inspirations, and where his evolving sound is headed next.
You grew up surrounded by professional musicians. How did that shape your understanding of music from an early age, and when did you realise you wanted to pursue it as a career?
I can’t remember anything other than music being played around the house where I grew up. The house was filled with instruments which made it easy to just pick an instrument and try things out, or jam along with music being played on CD. This formed my general feeling for rhythm and harmony.
I never really questioned if I would pursue music as a career or not. After secondary school, it just felt natural to go for a music study to have as much time and network to create music with likeminded people.
With a background in drums, piano, and violin, how do you feel those instruments influence the way you approach producing electronic music today?
I think it influences every stage of creating music for me nowadays. It made it so much easier to add chords to whatever melody I’m playing around with, for example. Also, concepts like call and response, counterpoints and polyrhythm that I learned about when I was younger, makes it easier to create interesting ideas.
Transitioning from traditional instruments to electronic music is a big leap. What first drew you into the electronic genre, and how did you find your voice within it?
I was always looking for a way to combine all of my musical knowledge and skills. I mostly played around with loopstations at first. When I discovered FL studio and later Ableton, I could finally turn everything into full tracks. Around the same time I started clubbing in Amsterdam, mostly going to house and techno parties at ‘Trouw’. I also discovered trance and felt so inspired by these genres that I naturally started making it myself.
Your music blends elements from different genres and eras. Can you share more about your creative process when it comes to fusing these diverse influences into something cohesive?
Over the years I created a huge playlist of music with a certain sound or elements that inspire me. Old and new, and from classical music to hardcore house. At some point during the process I listen to, or sometimes sample these tracks. This helps me to have a certain framework and kind of play around with ideas of these different genres at the same time.
Your work with Anjunadeep and other influential labels like Watergate and Stil Vor Talent has garnered a lot of attention. How has working with such renowned labels impacted your development as an artist?
It’s so motivating to get confirmation of your music being released by an established label. Also, it’s very inspiring to meet other artists and teams behind the label.
You’ve had strong support from BBC Radio 1 and big names like Black Coffee, Rampa, and Hernan Cattaneo. How do you feel when you see artists you admire supporting your work?
I envision the younger version of myself that makes music in the attic. I was so determined for my music to gain the quality that could be played by artists that I looked up to, that I still feel a lot of fulfilment from that perspective.
Could you tell us about your latest mix and what it means to you? You mentioned it was a “trip down memory lane” while also looking ahead to the future—what was your vision for it?
Since the mix is quite long, there was freedom to include a lot of different tracks that I collected over the years. The idea was to blend these older ones together with my latest releases on Flores and Anjunadeep.
Looking at your recent and upcoming releases, what themes or sounds are you exploring? Has your sound evolved recently?
My latest releases are definitely more clubby than usual. Lately, I’m really into finding a balance between dreamy and grounding elements. My latest release has quite some trance influences. At the same time I tried to keep it soulful and deep.
As someone with such a deep-rooted appreciation for various forms of music, what’s something new you’re experimenting with in your productions or live sets?
Currently, I’m experimenting with using vocals. I’m trying out ideas with a few singers and it’s been a lot of fun to work together with other musicians.
Please add two tracks to our Flow Suggests Spotify playlist, they could be tracks you’re currently obsessed with, all-time favourites, or hidden gems you think more people should hear!
Budakid – Promised
Nordfold – Machine
Finally, with a career spanning both musical heritage and modern electronic evolution, where do you see Nordfold heading in the coming years? Any goals or projects on the horizon?
I mainly want to continue on shaping my sound as an artist. Find my niche where I’m still able to explore and try out different things.
From a childhood filled with music to making waves in the electronic scene, Nordfold’s journey reflects a seamless blend of heritage and innovation. With support from industry heavyweights and releases on top-tier labels, he continues to push boundaries while staying true to his artistic roots. As Nordfold experiments with new elements like vocals and explores deeper, more soulful sounds, his passion for storytelling through music remains unwavering. With a focus on shaping his niche and connecting with listeners worldwide, the future looks incredibly promising for this rising star. Stay tuned for what’s next on his inspiring journey.
