Nicolas Duvoisin // Interview // Tzinah Podcast // October 2024 //

His sets travel between minimal, house, and techno, always with efficiency and class to the dancefloor. He gives to each set a ferocious elegance and efficacy. Nicolas gets the right groove and the right skills. Resident at Folklor in Lausanne, his joy and good humor are not innocent to his reputation.

His mastery of the stage makes him an excellent producer on labels such as Golden Gate, Highgrade, Wiggle, Metroline Limited, and of course on his own label Fantastic Friends Recordings. A unique style that mixes percussion, massive bass, and right groove with house beats are the signature of Nicolas. His releases receive massive support from the greatest DJs and producers of the moment like Richie Hawtin, Laurent Garnier, Luciano, Anja Schneider, and more.

Nicolas has recently released (2021) his first album on the occasion of the birth of his son and has obtained massive attention by press articles notably in DJ Mag, 6AM, and Faze Magazine.

Tzinah Records: To start with, please, recommend us something to listen to while we go through this interview. It can be anything.
Nicolas Duvoisin: Go ON Then Kate Simko, Jem Cooke

Tzinah Records: Could you remember when and where have you felt it for the first time that you were to become a music artist?
Nicolas Duvoisin: The first time I felt I wanted to be an artist was my first night at liquid de Genève 25 years ago (the club has since closed). The atmosphere was incredible, I was in front of the stage, and when I started mixing, I had a kind of revelation. At that moment, I knew I wanted to be part of that world, to create my own tracks and share that energy with others. It was a real turning point for me.

Tzinah Records: Why did you choose to create and play this particular type of music? Are there any artists that touched you deeply while developing your own style?
Nicolas Duvoisin: I chose to create and play electronic music because it’s a genre that allows me to explore an infinite range of textures and emotions. The ability to fuse sounds, play with rhythms and create immersive atmospheres fascinates me. Electronic music is also a space where experimentation is encouraged, which fits in perfectly with my artistic vision.

Tzinah Records: Please, briefly, describe for us, the current state of the underground music scene in the place you come from. Is it any good?
Nicolas Duvoisin: The underground music scene in Switzerland is very dynamic and varied. Today, it boasts a wide variety of genres, from techno and ambient to house and other experimental forms. Emerging artists find platforms in independent festivals, clubs and underground events, fostering innovation and experimentation.

Tzinah Records: Without giving out too much about your secret weapons, please tell us how does the magic work in your production routine. Software? Analog?
Nicolas Duvoisin: My production routine is a mix of digital and analog approaches, which allows me to take advantage of the benefits of each method. I mainly use Ableton Live for production. It’s an incredibly versatile piece of software that allows me to compose, arrange and manipulate sounds with great flexibility. I love its intuitive interface and real-time editing capabilities.

Tzinah Records: What are the aspects of your daily life that are influencing the shape and sound of the music that you currently make?
Nicolas Duvoisin: Aspects of my daily life play a crucial role in the shape and sound of my music. For example, sunlight has a huge influence on my inspiration. Sunny days make me want to create more upbeat, energetic tracks, with bright melodies that capture that positive energy. On the other hand, when the weather is gloomy, I tend to explore more introspective and melancholy sounds. What’s more, my current mood has a direct impact on what I produce. If I’m feeling calm and serene, I can indulge in more atmospheric and dreamy compositions.

Tzinah Records: Which underground house DJ or producer would you love to take out for a summer picnic? With which artist (from any music genre) would you spend 24 hours stuck in an elevator?
Nicolas Duvoisin: For a summer picnic, I would like to invite Ricardo Villalobos. His unique approach to house music, with its hypnotic rhythms and long transitions, would be perfect for creating a relaxed and festive atmosphere. I’m sure his insights on music and his experience in the industry would be captivating to share.

Tzinah Records: Have you already played in your most-dreamed about venue? Which one is that?
Nicolas Duvoisin: No, I haven’t yet had the chance to play at one of my favorite venues, which is the Fabrik in London. It’s a place I admire for its unique atmosphere and sound quality. I really hope to have the chance to perform there one day, as it would represent a milestone in my career!

Tzinah Records: What motivates you to be an active part of the underground movement?
Nicolas Duvoisin: What motivates me to take an active part in the underground movement is above all the spirit of community and sharing that reigns there. There’s something really special about these events, where you connect with people who share the same passion for music and dance, far removed from commercial constraints.

Tzinah Records: What’s your favorite type of breakfast?
Nicolas Duvoisin: British breakfast

Tzinah Records: What do you do when the music is not playing?
Nicolas Duvoisin: When the music’s not playing, I’m busy with my family, which is very important to me. I love spending time with them, creating memories together. I also enjoy life by traveling, exploring new places and cultures. These experiences enrich my creativity and give me a new perspective, which is often reflected in my music. It’s an essential balance that keeps me inspired and connected to the world around me.

Tzinah Records: What’s the story behind your Tzinah Family Podcast? How did you record it and are there released or unreleased tracks?
Nicolas Duvoisin: As I was working on a new project, in this case BOX62, I didn’t have a studio to record my podcast, so I was lucky enough that my friend Luca Mascolo offered to record it at his place THANK YOU!

Tzinah Records: Are there any of your plans/upcoming projects that you would like to share with us? Where can we see you play next?
Nicolas Duvoisin: Yes, I’m delighted to be setting up a new project with a group of ten people called. Le box 62 is a new socio-cultural space based in Lausanne, my home town, and I’m very excited about this new project. As for the next releases, several vinyls are planned with Purple Print, Fantastic Friends, Akta, and many others.

Tzinah Records: Supposing you come back reading this interview in 10 years from now; could you try saying something to your future-self?
Nicolas Duvoisin: Stay happy and listen to others!

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