6AM has joined forces with PFENNINGERxORTNER to bring you a bi-monthly DJ and live mix series that promises to be an immersive journey through the realms of upcoming and established downtempo electronica DJs and producers. With a global perspective and an initial emphasis on Switzerland and Los Angeles, USA, the NEXT series is set to be a melting pot of talent and sonic exploration from all over the world.

The core ethos of the NEXT electronic music channel is to celebrate the beauty of slower BPM electronic music, spanning across genres from enchanting electronica and mesmerizing trip-hop to the hypnotic grooves of downtempo and house. This series aims to shine a spotlight on the masterminds behind the music, unraveling their unique styles, and seamlessly merging different cultures through the artful selection of sound.

In episode 004 of the NEXT mix series, we feature Matija. Matija stands for ecstasy; his style is characterized by bouncing techno beats and hypnotic melodies that make the dance floor shake. As an artist of the worldwide music scene, he contributes to promoting and spreading electronic music in Switzerland. Behind the DJ desk of clubs and festivals worldwide, he refines his tunes for over 26 years and travels with you through the vastness of the universe.

Besides his career as a DJ, Matija also works as a producer and has released several tracks. His music has been featured on various labels like AkashaMX, CopyCow, and Monada. He is an integral part of Zurich's club culture and a popular DJ among many music fans in Switzerland and abroad.

We had a chance to catch up with Matija for this exclusive interview below.

 

Hi, Matija please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background in music?
I am Matija from Switzerland. My love for music started as a child because I have a much older brother who often listened to records. I first became a DJ when I was 19 and then started producing when I was about 22.

 

What characterizes your music (mixes or productions)?
I listen to so many types of music from cultural to pop, and you can hear it all in my mixes and productions. I'm always open-minded to new genres.

 

How did you end up in the downtempo genre?
For me, it all started with downtempo. My first gigs were under the name Chasma, and I just played downtempo 26 years ago.

 

Who do you think is the most exciting downtempo producer at the moment?
I find something special in everyone, but I always like to listen to M.Rux, Kermesse, and ABUELA more often.

 

Could you walk us through your creative process when you produced your NEXT mix?
For every mix or gig, I decide on the spot which track to start with, and the rest comes naturally.

 

With which artists would you like to work in the future and why?
Preferably with everyone together as the whole thing is about dancing together. Of course, there are always a few people you'd like to do something with like you.

 

What can we expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects, releases, or events?
There are some new tracks coming from my side project WeLoveYou and new Matija and the Ghost of Z tracks as well. Richard Elcox and I are also working on 2 EPs and some remixes for different artists.

 

Any parting words or messages for those listening to your mix?
Keep the galaxy safe and be kind to each other.

Connect with Matija: SoundCloud | Instagram | Facebook