Alex Messina’s music is something of an insight into his life and his creativity varies in style with every release. His latest release ‘The Light After Dark’ is an 80’s influenced dance track that has taken the scene by storm and due to Alex’s meticulous approach to his music he has given us an in depth behind the scenes look at the artistry behind his latest single.
Hi Alex, tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind ‘The Light After Dark’?
The initial inspiration of “The Light After Dark” comes from research and experimentation. To be more precise, for the development of this musical piece, I started from the construction of the sound and the progress of the initial synth. The inspiration for this trend dates back to the 90s, when I was fascinated by a progressive track that I listened to on a cassette, I can’t even remember the title of it now but the sound of that synth remained in my head and soul.
From here began “The Light After Dark”.
What idea did you initially have for the track?
I wanted to recreate the atmosphere, the trend and the sound of that synth, which was the initial input, as well as the starting point to immerse myself in the development of “The light After Dark”, to then continue and develop something in my style .
There’s a lot of 80’s sounds in this, talk us through some of your influences?
Yes, it is true, in this mix, as indeed in almost all those that I compose, I let myself be influenced by the soundtracks of the 80s films and TV series.
I can name a couple: the soundtrack of the movie Beverly Hills Cop and the soundtrack of the Super Car show were definitely key contributors to this track,
Did you have to overcome any struggles production wise with this release?
Yes, I must admit that in the long period spent in the composition of this of this song, I pushed and came across many experiments, without taking into account the conventional rules for production. I worked on the shape and construction of every single sound, as well as on the automation of volumes, Cut of, Lfo, pitch bend, EQ.
For example, I worked hard just to create the crescendo that heralds and leads to the final part of the piece so it took me quite a long time to get finalized.
What are you hoping for ‘The Light After Dark’?
As with all my creations I hope that “The Light After Dark” can reach as many people as possible and of all ages, to give them a small moment of “mental relaxation”, a small trip to disconnect from everyday life.
Which part of the track is your favourite?
I don’t have a favorite part … I personally like everything, from start to finish, also because I have multiple versions of this project and I chose the one that gratified me most.
How does this differ from some of your other releases?
Like all my previous versions, also “The Light After Dark” is unique in its kind and differs from all the others, while always maintaining a single and constant denominator: the style of Alex Messina.
Also in this specific case, like many of my other works, “The Light After Dark” tells a precise historical moment of my life.
How are you currently keeping busy?
At this moment I take my time to the fullest in the project that takes care of my artistic career more generally, or the “Alex Messina” project, which includes many processes. I’m actively trying to boost my socials and understand how to use the platforms properly and understand how they work. I’m focusing on online streaming platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, Facebook etc …
Finally, where can the people go to buy ‘The Light After Dark’?
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1505062289?ls=1&app=itunes
Apple Music: http://itunes.apple.com/album/id/1505062289