Riding high off the back of a hugely prolific inaugural year – a year which saw no less than four critically acclaimed label releases and a hugely successful debut showcase event in Tel Aviv – internationally celebrated record label and artist collective Scenarios steamrollers into 2023 with continued vigour, with the unveiling of its next huge single Side By Side. Released on Friday, January 13, Side By Side marks another delectable offering of immersive, avant-garde house music from the burgeoning imprint, which continues to carve itself a reputation as one of the most exciting labels on the international house music circuit.
Produced by founding crew members Sean Doron, MAGA, Emanuel Satie & Tim Engelhardt, the featuring artists make their combined intentions known from the outset, conjuring an uncompromising blend of hypnotic kicks, whirring synth lines and exquisitely layered samples. A refined production with a mesmerising groove that drives the record across its duration, Side By Side captivates from the off and sees the four Scenarios artists add to the label’s flourishing catalogue with yet another seismic dancefloor weapon.
We caught up with Scenarios co-found Sean Doron to discuss the new record, how he got into electronic music, plans for 2023 and more.
WWD: Hello Sean, Happy New Year and a very warm welcome to When We Dip! How are you?
Happy New Years guys! All is good here. I’m in Mexico now playing at a few shows around. Thanks for having me.
WWD: 2022 was a big year for you. Are you excited about the New Year ahead? What can we expect from Sean Doron?
2022 was such an amazing and fruitful year for me and I can’t wait for more of this vibe in 2023. You can expect lots of new original music coming out your way and some exciting shows too. Scenarios showcases in Japan, Bali, Paris and more surprising places. You can also catch me at EDC festival in Mexico City and it is definitely one to be waiting for.
WWD: Starting at the beginning, can you tell us how you got into electronic music?
I have been playing in my hometown, Tel Aviv, since I was about 16 years old. Electronic music was always in my life, as a raver I was traveling a lot for music festivals around the world. Later on, I co-founded the Monochrome events series in Israel and that was a huge success. I kept playing all around Israel and shortly after was invited by Guy Gerber to be a resident DJ at his Rumors Ibiza party on the island when I was only 23. After this experience, I started to produce my own music and release it on few of my favorite labels such as: Rebellion / Crosstown rebels, Flying Circus and more. Since last year, I’m mainly focusing on Scenarios and being a touring artist around the world.
WWD: Where did you grow up and what was the music scene like where you lived at the time?
I grew up in Tel Aviv, Israel, where electronic music is huge. I was lucky to listen to many of my favorite DJs and producers that came to play in my city. I have been playing in Israel for more than 10 years before I’ve started my international career. It has helped me a lot as a dj and producer. Tel Aviv has a huge impact of who I am and my career.
WWD: Can you share some memories from the days you started raving/DJing? Were there any particular parties or events you attending that sparked your interest?
I used to rave at the famous Block Club, Penguin Club, Haoman 17, but the one that impacts me the most was “The Cat & The Dog” where I used to play for many years.
WWD: You’re kickstarting the new year with a huge new single with your Scenarios collective, “Side By Side”. Can you tell us more about the project?
Yes, Side By Side was produced by all of us as a collective at our studio in Lisbon. The feedback on the promos we have sent prior to the release are very supportive. I think that this is the kind of track that almost every DJ can play in sets as it crosses genres. It is classic, timeless and works really well on the dance floors.
WWD: You are one of the founding members of Scenarios, alongside Maga, when the label and collective was established last year. What is the concept behind Scenarios and why did you decide to set it up?
SCENARIOS is a Collective, Record Label and event series with Emanuel Satie, MAGA and Tim Engelhardt. Together, we are united in our shared beliefs, dynamic and outlook. We represent a new generation of artists that functions as a whole while still maintaining our individuality. In this way, we can truly grow as one. The collective creates and implements a unique genre of music and offers an unparalleled event experience that characterizes our novel approach to the world of music and events. This is clearly showcased in our lively and detailed aesthetic; in branding and visual language, releases, event invitations, and the scenery and design of the events themselves.
WWD: What’s your favorite part of being an artist?
Favorite part for me is that I never really feel I’m working, because I really love what I do. I’m lucky to travel to new places I have never been and share my music with new cultures and people every weekend.
WWD: And your least favorite?
Long flights and dealing with lots of ego-filled people and others and their non-stop competition.
WWD: Top 5 records in your collection the moment?
1.Emanuel Satie, Maga, Sean Doron, Tim Engelhardt – Side By Side
2. Yulia Niko – I’m Everything
3. Maga, Sean Doron – Starlight
4. Anotr – Vertigo
5. Emanuel Satie – Mars theme
WWD: What do you like to do in your spare time when you’re not touring the world or making music?
I love to travel and meet new cultures and people. I love the beach and I practice yoga.
WWD: Any final words for our When We Dip readers?
Just to stop and say THANK YOU for the the endless love and support I receive.
WWD: Thanks so much for taking the time to chat to us Sean, wishing you all the best for 2023!
Thank you!
Sean Doron, Maga, Emanuel Satie & Tim Engelhardt – Side By Side is out now via Scenarios.