Introducing Chesster, the versatile DJ and producer whose passion for electronic music is palpable in every beat. With 2024 off to a thrilling start, Chesster is immersed in crafting his upcoming “Tribute” EP for PIV, drawing inspiration from his Venetian roots and years of global experience. It’s a belter so we got in touch and wanted to find out more about him…

WWD: Hey Chesster, how has 2024 started for you so far?

Hey there! Great to be chatting with WWD! 2024 couldn’t have started any better, I’ve already put a lot of projects in the works both in and out of the studio. Definitely keeping myself busy for the year!

WWD: You have a “Tribute” EP coming up soon on the high-flying Dutch house label PIV. What does it mean to you to release on the label?

I’ve been a fan of PIV since the early days, so ending up working together feels like the perfect close of the circle. Over time, I’ve developed my identity as a producer, and this is probably my best work so far. I’m happy that it has found the perfect home.

WWD: How did you approach the EP – any different than usual? Did you try and make it with their style in mind?

The simple answer is: NO. I think it’s very important to make music without aiming at any particular label, but rather to express yourself without boundaries. That’s when the best things happen! To be honest, the tracks I thought PIV wouldn’t be interested in are the ones that got signed right away. So, there you have it.

WWD: What gear did you use to make the EP? Do you have any favourite tools in the studio?

I’ve been focusing on collaborating with many other artists lately – singers, musicians, other producers etc. Even this EP contains tracks with original vocals and harmonic elements that give it a good, organic feel. Some are more complex than others, but in general, I have kept the workflow fairly simple, working mostly inside the box.

WWD: Does your hometown of Venice influence or inspire the music you make?

I’ve been living abroad for about 10 years now, but I’m still very much attached to my hometown and its surroundings. The area I am from used to have a very strong culture for electronic music, especially during the 90s and 2000s. There were countless clubs, festivals and even radio shows where even a kid like me could get access to House and Techno. Although things have changed over time, I can definitely say that all that has shaped the way I perceive music up to now.

WWD: How would you describe your style as a DJ, and how has it evolved over the course of your career?

In simple words, when I play, the most important thing is that people have a good time. Obviously, crowds and events can be very different, so I always like to approach my sets with an open mind based on the environment. There’s nothing that I appreciate more than versatility and diversity in an artist. I think this is where I have also evolved the most over time.

WWD: As a DJ and a producer, do you find that one role influences the other in your creative process?

Yes. In the end, what I’m making is Dance Music, which is music for the people, the crowd, and I probably wouldn’t make a song knowing that it would empty the dance floor.

WWD: What has been your favourite DJ performance experience, and what made it memorable for you?

Off the top of my head, I’m going to mention my closing set after Kenny Larkin at The Cause, London (2018) for the unmatched vibe in the club at the time – and my gig in San Diego earlier this year, which was my first headline show in the US. The club sold out, and I received incredible support!

WWD: With the global scene continuously evolving, what do you see as the future trends or developments in electronic music?

Over the years, I’ve seen so many trends going back and forth in all genres of Electronic Music, whether it’s House, Techno, or the more mainstream stuff. But in the end, I feel like it all goes back to its purest form. It would be interesting to see some sort of total break from the past, just like when House & Techno were born back in the 80s, out of innovation and experimentation. Honestly, I can’t tell what that will be, but it’s eventually going to happen.

WWD: What is next for you? What else can you share with us that’s coming up over the next few months?

I already have three more releases set for this year, and I am finalising several projects with friends and artists whom I respect a lot, such as Oden & Fatzo, RUZE, Ranger Trucco, Romeo Louisa, to mention a few. The other major thing for 2024 is going to be the launch of a new label, which I am working on with my good friend THEOS. Watch this space! 🙂

Chesster: Instagram / SoundCloud

Buy Chesster EP ‘Tribute’ including Prunk Remix on PIV Records here