Ilona Maras Returns with a “Boomerang” of Peak-Time Techno
Ilona Maras shares the passion behind her powerful new EP “Boomerang” and the global influences shaping her raw, melodic techno sound.
Ilona Maras is a Montenegrin artist based in Switzerland, and she drops her new techno release, “Boomerang,” following a recent debut on Alan Fitzpatrick’s We Are The Brave.
“Boomerang” comes via Clif Jack’s record label MJA the Vision, and features two of Ilona Maras’ original tracks. It’s a peak time release with raw percussion and intense melodies, and it has already gained support by people ranging from Pan-Pot to Drunken Kong.
She is also a skilled DJ who is resident at Zurich’s Hive nightclub, and we invited Ilona Maras for this interview to learn more about her music background plus latest release…
Hi Ilona, can you start by giving our readers a bit of background about you and your music style?
As I am from a mixed background - Montenegro and Russia, I have lived in different places around the world, so I believe my music reflects that diversity. I’m traveling through raw and peak time techno, interlaced with occasional melodies—yet always keeping that dry groove, just enough to shake up the floor. I really, really like to make people dance, and always aim to create tunes that will move you, physically and emotionally. I love dancing myself, and I’m constantly searching for that one track in a set that takes my breath away, leaves me full of emotion, and makes me dance like no one’s watching. It’s not easy, but I’m getting there :)
Can you remember the moment you fell in love with techno, and who are some of your main influences from the genre?
Sure! I fell in love during my first proper raves, which were mainly in Greece and Dubai back in my student days. I vaguely remember one small festival at a park in Montenegro, probably with some local DJs. I had no idea what the music was at the time, I just knew I couldn’t get enough of it, and I didn’t want to leave. When I moved to Greece for my studies, I dove into the sounds of trance, techno, and progressive from the Global Underground era. Some of my early influences included Nick Warren, Sasha, John Digweed, Hernan Cattaneo, and Paul van Dyk... it was a golden time for the genre. That opened the doors for me to discover other electronic music genres, and record labels such as Strictly Rhythm, R&S, and more.
You are based in Zurich (Switzerland), and are a resident DJ at the city’s Hive nightclub. Who are some of the DJs you have supported, and how would you describe the local scene?
I’ve supported a lot of amazing DJs including Chris Liebing, Joris Voorn, Kobosil, Nicole Moudaber, and many, many others. The local scene in Zurich is interesting, as it moves in waves, and the popularity of genres can shift fast. But I really enjoy playing here, because the crowd is open to my sound, no matter what’s trending around. Sometimes it feels like the hype goes ahead of the DJs, but one thing remains true: the crowd is always thirsty for good music with a good beat that makes them want to dance. When I get to be a part of that moment, and curate something special, then it’s a magical feeling!
You recently released an EP on Alan Fitzpatrick’s We Are The Brave. How much of an honour was it to have your music signed by Alan Fitzpatrick?
It was a huge honour! Alan’s been a major influence of mine for years, and his label has such a strong, fearless identity. Having my music signed to We Are The Brave felt like a big step, both creatively and personally. It gave me a sense of confidence, and made me feel like I’m moving in the right direction with my sound.
Your next release is an EP called “Boomerang” on Clif Jack's record label MJA the Vision. Please tell us more about those tracks and their concepts?
“Boomerang” represents the peak time side of myself. I tried not to overcomplicate things, because from experience, a good hook is unbeatable. For “Boomerang,” I searched for a long time to find a hook that had a unique edge. I wanted something with the kind of unnerving intensity that stays with you, and I found something that works nicely.
“2 Left Shoes” was built around a vocal hook that caught my attention. At first, I wasn’t 100% sure about it, and left it aside for a while. But once I tested it on the floor, the crowd went crazy, and that completely changed my mind. That’s been the case with so many of my tracks. I tend to underestimate certain elements, often thinking they won’t work, then I’m proven wrong by a crowd’s positive response. Testing on the dance floor is a must!”
This is your second solo release on MJA the Vision, do you have anything else scheduled on the imprint, and which other record labels are you currently working with?
I do! I’m continuing my collaboration with MJA the Vision, because there’s a real synergy there, as Clif Jack who runs the label truly understands and supports me. I have three more releases coming this year, and I’m thrilled about how my sound is being received. I try to evolve and learn with every release. My upcoming releases are on Kuukou, Reload, and the third one I’ll keep a secret for now, as I’m really excited about!
Thanks for running through our questions, is there anything you would like to add before we finish?
Just a big thank you to everyone who’s been dancing, supporting, and connecting with my music. Regardless of genre, I truly believe in the power of music, and its ability to bring people together in the most beautiful and meaningful way. Through all my channels, I try to share as many good vibes as possible, as I love to post mixes and sounds that move me and lift my spirit. I hope they do the same for other people, and I hope to see you all on the dance floor soon!