Chris Farrugia / Chris Goa
Tell us more about yourself & your music career.
I was born in Malta, an island rich in history and situated at the heart of the Mediterranean, where I discovered my two main passions early in life: the complexities of the cosmos and the diverse realms of music. Growing up on an island that boasts some of the world’s oldest free-standing temples provided a unique backdrop for my formative years. Since the early 2000s, I’ve been actively involved in DJing, producing, and releasing tracks under various labels and monikers. Recently, I’ve returned to my roots with my Cosmic Dance sessions, connecting ancient wisdom with high-frequency sounds. I’ve released music on labels such as Café De Anatolia, Lump Records, Tibetania, Kosa, and more. I’ve also shared the stage with international talents like Infected Mushroom, Asian Dub Foundation, Groove Armada, and Dub FX.
Write a short paragraph about your RELEASE (your inspiration, process, genre, instruments used, and the story behind its creation.)
This track was born out of a collaboration with renowned Maltese artist George Curmi, also known as ‘il-Puse’. We met through a mutual friend and decided to create something together. I sent him a short loop featuring the main Oud riff I had written, and he liked it. Not long after, we were working together in the studio. It was pure magic; our chemistry was undeniable. In just 8 hours, we had crafted the first mix of the track, which we named the Emerald Mix. Later, I re-imagined the track by sampling bits and pieces from the original recording session with George to create a more aggressive version, the Obsidian Mix, featuring a harsher bassline and faster pace.
What is your connection with Cafe De Anatolia? (write about your release with Cafe De Anatolia)
Answered in the above question.
With technology constantly evolving, how do you leverage digital platforms and social media to connect with your fans and promote your music?
In today’s day and age, being only a musician doesn’t cut it. You need to back up your music with powerful imagery. Being a full-time freelance creative, working in the TV, Film & marketing industry for the past 12 years helped me immensely in producing an aesthetic that goes with my sound. Leveraging new technologies such as AI and having an extensive toolset—video-editing skills, motion-design, and graphic design—helps immensely in building a brand that makes me easily recognizable to my fans and potential new ones.
In your opinion, what is the most significant change the music industry has experienced in recent years, and how have you adapted to it?
One has to cater to the fact that the music landscape, along with many other art forms, has changed drastically. With technology becoming more accessible, the number of artists producing music has risen dramatically, and with it, the number of labels. It is now harder than ever to stay relevant. On a positive note, social media has made it much easier to connect with your fans, build a solid fanbase, collaborate with other artists, and get your music heard through the right channels.
How would you describe your style of music?
Traditional ethnic orchestrations meet hypnotic soundscapes, thumping basslines, and 303 riffs.
Describe how music is important to society.
Music can be our biggest friend, companion, and healer. It helps us in our lowest lows and lets us express joy in our highest highs. It also brings people together, creating a collective energy through dance and connection.
What is your best time of the day to create?
When inspiration hits.
Who are your musical influences?
Too many to mention. My biggest influences come from the many genres I grew up listening to and playing, such as old school psychedelic trance, 1980s New Beat, Hip-Hop, Italo Disco, Electro, House, and ethnic music. These influences helped me create a distinct sound. However, if I had to single out one influence that shaped most of my productions, it would be the TB-303 synthesizer. Most often than not you’ll always find it at the heart of my tracks.’
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
Sharing the stage and playing before Infected Mushroom & Groove Armada among other international artists in the same weekend was definitely one of them.
What are your latest releases?
A collaboration with French artist Madma, called Dezert Sun, which also has a rework by myself.
Are you working on something new?
Yes, I have a couple of tracks and collaborations coming out on different labels. I’m also working on a short film/music video for one of my tracks, which I wrote, produced, and directed myself. The track will be released in the coming months too.
Where and when is your next performance?
Vortex Festival at Vincent’s Eco Estate, November 1 & 3.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?
Always follow your dreams. When you follow them wholeheartedly, put in the hard work, and make the necessary sacrifices, everything will conspire in your favor to achieve your dreams.
“Jewel of the Nile” ft. George Curmi ‘Puse” – released on May 31st, 2024