Brooklyn-based producer Brian Cid follows up standout releases on the likes of Knee Deep In Sound, Lost & Found and microCastle with a debut on Berlin’s Save Us Records (home to the likes of Jonas Saalbach, YokoO and Kris Davis). The two track release, which has already won the hallowed support of BBC Radio 1 legend Pete Tong, comes strapped with a remix from rising star Andrea Ljekaj.

The former pop/hip-hop producer took time out of his busy schedule this week to talk us through the release, his current projects and his motivation behind the move to the electronic underworld. What’s more, we got a special treat for When We Dip readers in the form of an exclusive full premiere of ‘Slowest Poison’.

WWD: Thanks for joining us Brian! Set the scene for us, what have you been focusing on this week?

Usually when I’m not traveling I am in the studio focusing on creating new tracks, finishing the ones I’ve started, mastering tracks for some clients and doing recording sessions. This week in particular I have a few remixes to finish which I will announce very soon.

WWD: Can you talk us through the new release on Save Us? The reception already has been massive.

I wanted to bring something a bit different to the table. Something very energetic but with a deep feel. Somewhat musical and intriguing. I am personally surprised to see the reception so far. I was not expecting it.

WWD: Why did you feel that Save US was the right home for this EP?

I had my eyes on the label ever since they launched and I really liked the musical direction they were taking. I reached out to them and said I would like to prepare something in the future. They liked the idea, so shortly after I sent Division and The Slowest Poison, which I felt fit the aesthetic of the label. They loved it and we immediately turned it into a project.

WWD: Has this become a full time project for you or do you still delve into production in other areas?

I stopped producing for other artists a few years ago. Ever since, I’ve only focused on my own productions full time. I give so much of me when I produce and it becomes so personal that it hurts to give it away to someone else. It saddens me. There is no price you can put on it. Absolutely none.

WWD: How do you divide up your week between your different projects?

I don’t like planning my week because I work depending on how I feel. How can you plan how you are going to feel? My work is based on creativity and that’s always unpredictable. One thing I know for sure is that I’ll spend my week in the studio either creating, mastering, editing or just listening to music to get inspired.

WWD: Your production prowess is well known, what has it taken you to get to this level?

I’ve put thousands of hours into my craft ever since a young kid. Lots of dedication and discipline. There are no shortcuts. Experience can’t be taught or bought. It’s as simple as that. I am always learning and I still think I don’t know enough.

WWD: Do you or did you have a mentor when it comes to the more technical side of sound engineering?

I’d say that legendary Hip Hop producer Ski Beatz taught me lots about attitude towards producing. Legendary House DJ/producer Todd Terry also taught me key things that I still implement today. I learn from everybody, even my interns at the studio. I’m always learning.

WWD: The one most important thing that anyone ever told you about making music?

Todd Terry told me to never ask for anybody’s opinion about my music. If it sounded good to me, it was good as is. Music is all about perspective. Everybody has their own opinion based on their expectations, so you will never fulfill everybody’s expectations. One thing though, is that quality music can be undeniable and that’s what I strive for every day. Making sure it’s quality and not trendy.

WWD: What was the central motivation behind the the shift into the electronic underground?

Freedom. Not having to depend on anybody to start and finish a track or project from beginning to end. The engineering and technical approach of the music attracted me a lot. It’s impossible to produce unless you understand sound.

WWD: The three most inspiring spots in New York for you right now?

Playroom Monday’s at Electric Room at the Dream Hotel. Always amazing music every week. It never disappoints. Flash Factory is bringing the grime to Manhattan which was much needed & Members Only in Brooklyn is always a favorite after hours spot where the vibe and music is rarely ever wrong.

WWD: You were touring in Argentina last month, can you tell us about some of your highlights?

Argentina showed me so much love, it was overwhelming. I had three successful nights so every night was a highlight and special on it’s own way. People understand the music and I was surprised to see how much they follow my productions. I came back inspired and very pleased.

WWD: Best meal you’ve had on your recent travels?

Argentinian asado without a doubt! proper meat!

WWD: Best take-out in Brooklyn when you’re feeling the hunger during a late night studio session?

Ok well let me tell you that I never usually eat late at night, but when I do, you can’t go wrong with a typical cheesy NY’style slice of pizza. Nothing beats it.

WWD: What is the most minimal set you’re happy to work on? Can you give us your essential production tools?

I don’t need much to produce a song. I’m good with a drum machine of any sort, or drum samples I can load up and tweak, a good and loud pair of speakers and a moog or keyboard with deep bass sounds. I will take it from there!

WWD: Where do to you plan to hit on your travels over the coming months? Will we see you in Ibiza this Summer?

I have a few places I’ll be hitting up in South America including Ecuador for the RotoFest. I will be also heading to the Middle East in mid summer and yes of course Ibiza for sure. How can I miss that?

WWD: One goal for 2016?

To continue to bring my music and inspire people all around the world. That’s my one and only goal. Everything else is secondary. Music can change lives and I’m all about that.

WWD: Production-wise what else do you have on the horizon?

Lots of cool interesting releases coming up in the next months as well as a big expansion on my imprint Extinct Records.

Release date set for May 9th, 2016

Follow: Brian Cid // Save Us Records