The Culprit mainstay Lorenzo Dada & the label debutant Leo Benassi close out 2023 with the superb release remixed by the one and only French House music don, Dan Ghenacia.
The young Roman duo delivers two tracks that blend Lorenzo’s ethereal musicality with Leo’s percussive House drive. Dan Ghenacia’s first ever Culprit contribution is a special thrill. LA label’s comrade and inspiration since its inception, Dan brings his impeccable taste and class to the fore on the remix.
We caught up with Lorenzo Dada to dig a little deeper into this stellar release, and you can now listen to the full premiere of Dan Ghenacia’s remix exclusively on When WE Dip Radio. Enjoy!
WWD: Can you share a bit about your musical background and how you got started in the world of electronic music?
I studied piano, Harmony and Composition at the Saint Cecilia Conservatory in Rome then I started with electronic music for music score for movies. Following that I started to release electronic dance music / House / Deep House and Techno and I became resident for Goa Club.
WWD: Who are some of your major musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound as a producer?
Besides classical music; Brian Eno, Radiohead, Thomas Newmann are the main influences I had at the beginning.
WWD: Your latest EP, ‘Inner Voice,’ has received a lot of attention. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this project and the concept you aimed to convey?
I did this EP together with Leo Benassi – a young and very talented artist from my music academy in Rome “Electronic Music Division”.
He reminds me of when I started back in the days. We made this EP to try ti combine our musical skills. A more modern deep house let’s say that.
WWD: What motivated you to choose Culprit as the platform for releasing ‘Inner Voice’?
Culprit is my home is where I started my career as a producer. I think that was the right home for our music and for the remix of Dan Ghenacia. Me and Andrei are old friends when I use to live in LA we hang out in the studio a lot and his party Culprit Sessions were amazing.
WWD: ‘Inner Voice’ found its home on Culprit. What made Culprit a particularly suitable label for this release, and how do you feel your music aligns with their artistic vision?
I know Culprit very well having released many multiple times plus a full Album. I was sure that this EP for right for the label.
WWD: Walk us through your creative process for ‘Inner Voice.’ How did the ideas for the tracks come about, and how did you approach the production of the EP?
I usually work in full analog but for this EP we were using a lot of samples to make it also “Spotify” friendly not just for club. I have to say that the remix of Dan is extra club friendly, we have tried it out many times it works amazing, especially with big crowds!
WWD: Were there any unique challenges or breakthrough moments during the creation of this EP?
Me and Leo have tried many tracks and this when was the first time where everything went perfect in the studio. Leo is very good with vocals and drops. I worked mainly on the melodic parts and the bass line. We found a balance pretty quickly.
WWD: Can you describe your studio setup during the production of ‘Inner Voice’? Are there any specific tools, software, or instruments that played a crucial role in shaping the sound of the EP?
I have used Ableton live since 2006. For drums I love analog rhythm, for pads and fx I use Nord lead A1 and some Moog sub 37 here and there. As I said before we also use samples for make it more interesting .
WWD: Having Dan Ghenacia remix one of your tracks is undoubtedly exciting. How did this collaboration come about, and what was it like hearing his interpretation of your work?
We really like Dan Ghenacia we had a list and he was the first one on the list. So let’s say we were lucky. He did an amazing job for the big crowds and clubs.
WWD: In what ways do you think ‘Inner Voice’ stands out from your other releases on Culprit? Were there intentional elements that you incorporated to distinguish your EP within the label’s catalog?
I don’t usually collaborate often. I only did it once with Whitesquare, Benoit from Benoit & Sergio, Nitin from No.19 music but this time I was working alongside a talented young artist with a different vision from mine, so I am sure the result is interesting and complex compared to my solo stuff that I usually do for Culprit.
WWD: Looking ahead, what can listeners expect from your sound in 2024? Are there any new directions or elements you’re eager to explore in your upcoming music?
I have an album coming in spring on KOMPAKT so I am pretty excited about that. Regarding the music I’m currently digging, I really enjoy UK GARAGE for when I’m playing the clubs.