Exclusive Interview with Daniel Kandi
Daniel Kandi is one of only a select few artists to have been personally selected by Armin van Buuren to play at the A State of Trance 400, 450, 500 and 550 parties, Daniel has also performed at the biggest events in the world such as events such as Trance Energy, Global Gathering and Tomorrowland. Hailing from Denmark, Daniel has been around the world and back again, playing the largest club shows from Pacha, Buenos Aires to Ministry Of Sound London, and at leading cities such as Sydney, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Moscow, Singapore, Rio De Janeiro and everywhere in between, earning himself consecutive appearances in DJ Magazine's coveted 'Top 100 DJ's' poll. Daniel is a leading artist on world renowned labels such as Anjunabeats, Armada and Enhanced, and also one of the most in demand remixers for the trance genre, handpicked by the biggest names, such as Above & Beyond and Gareth Emery.
Siam2nite had the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with Daniel Kandi, shortly before his performance at Sonic Ekamai on 6th September.
You have won the Danish snooker championship for five consecutive years from 2004 to 2009. As if that would not be impressive enough you are also a highly successful trance DJ/Producer. How did you get in touch with electronic dance music in the first place?
I started out listening to a lot of Eurodance. It later became a bit harder and bordered both in Trance and Hardtrance. I gradually got more and more into uplifting trance, ATB, A&B and a lot more names, got my interest. So started off with that!
You began producing trance music in 2000, were ranked #77 in DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs Poll in 2010 and nominated at the 2011 Danish DeeJay Awards in the category Danish DJ of the Year. How would you describe your music in just a few words?
Melodic, energetic, and tight production ☺
You entered the trance scene with your first solo release “Breathe“ in 2006. In 2010 you released "Symphonica", a track that was selected by Armin van Buuren as the best track of 2010 on his personal Top 20. What other tracks would you recommend to those that are not yet familiar with your music?
I would recommend for the harder lovers, to check my Remix of Cosmic Gate – Human Beings. I did a recent remix of that. For those liking the softer stuff, probably listen to my Remix of Andy Moor – World to turn. Or listen to my original “3 Strikes UR In”! And not to forget “Arigatou” by me and Jack Rowan!
In 2013 you already had several successful releases, for example “Trancefamily” and your Remix of Estiva & Cardinal - Wait Forever. What are you currently working on? What’s on your agenda for the near future?
New vocal tune in the near future. Both uplifting and proggy stuff coming. Ranging between 130 to 140 bpm!
Every 2nd wednesday of the month you host your own radio show "Always Alive". What can you tell us about the concept of the show and where can people listen to it?
The people who wish to follow the show, can tune in at Afterhours.FM. Afterhours delivers commercial free trance 24/7! The show is 60minutes each episode filled with what I consider to be the most interesting and exciting tunes at the moment.
You travel a lot. What are the essential things you need to have with you at all times and what are the things you miss when you are on tour?
An absolute travel essential is a good pillow. A lot of economy seats are bad and with poor recline, so a pillow can work wonders! Also need eyepads to remove light around the eyes for sleeping easier! Oh and earplugs! I miss my family, and my moms food a lot when I’m on the go. Her cooking is amazing! Haha!
What was the best and the worst gig you ever played and what was the funniest thing ever occurred during any of your performances?
Hmm, funniest thing … Must’ve been some of the crazy stuff we did at Luminosity Beach over the years! No drugs, but just good friendly fun on decks, and girls stripping around you haha.
The worst gig was probably at Syndicate in Blackpool, as the promoters didn’t promote it properly. Very few turned up, and that club was huge, but me and the rest of the lineup (Zo, Lange and a few others) still managed to have a good joking night! Since joining Assured Artists. 95% of the gigs have been really good though! So I can’t complain at all!
Are you adventurous if it comes to food? Do you try the local dishes of the countries you travel to, or do you usually eat what you know from home? Will you give spicy Thai food a chance?
I LOVE trying new stuff. But I also eat with my eyes. IF it doesn’t look somewhat appetizing, I will avoid it. But I like Thai food already! So bring it on! Do note, I do like it, but not too spicy hah ☺
What can Bangkok expect of your performance?
A crazy funny guy, who will DJ with energy and the WILL to please! Get ready!