Hiya Idan Ben-Tal, thanks for joining us in the virtual RGM lounge today. Grab a brew and take a seat.
What made you decide that music is the thing for you?
Since I can remember, the only thing I was truly curious about was music—any kind of music. I would sit in my childhood room and listen to music for hours and hours. I feel like I had no choice; from a very young age, I knew that my life would revolve around music in one way or another.
Introduce us to you and your musical history.
I never received formal musical education; I guess you could say I’m a self-taught musician. I was always curious about discovering new music, and I think that’s my education—I just know a lot of music.
What’s the electronic music scene like in Tel Aviv right now? Anyone we should be looking out for (besides you, of course)?
Tel Aviv has a very diverse music scene with many talented people. It has suffered a big blow in the past two years, but it’s slowly starting to recover. People in Tel Aviv are always thirsty for knowledge and new things, and I guess that’s what keeps the scene alive despite the hard times. There are so many talented artists, but one name that stands out to me is Gzardin—an up-and-coming star with a bright future.
I’ve seen a lot of people struggling for support recently online. What’s your view on the industry?
I guess I never focus on the industry. For me, releasing music is a personal journey, and I don’t have any expectations from anyone about it. Maybe people should focus more on making music rather than worrying about the exposure they’re getting.
Where do you feel you currently sit within the music industry?
With electronic music, it’s a bit different. It’s a niche within the industry, and a very small one, so I can’t even compare myself to anything or anyone. As I said, I see it as a personal journey, and to be honest, just releasing music feels unreal sometimes.
Tell us two truths and a lie about you.
I never lie.
Do you ever worry about people taking things the wrong way or cancel culture? Discuss…
That’s a good question. I guess I’m somewhere in the middle. I think that in the public sphere, artists and people should take responsibility for their actions or words, but I still listen to music from artists I don’t necessarily agree with or find problematic.
Do you sign up to any conspiracy theories? If not, why not?
I’m a very critical thinker, so I doubt everything all the time. At the same time, I know that when I don’t understand something, there’s a big chance I just don’t know enough about it. So I always try to educate myself before forming an opinion or deciding that something is wrong.
What was your best experience on stage?
It’s hard to pick just one, but I feel like every time I see people dancing and vibing to my music, it’s the best feeling in the world—one I’ll never take for granted.
What was your worst experience on stage?
When you feel misunderstood. In the beginning, I used to say yes to every gig, and it comes with a price. Sometimes you play in front of a crowd that expects something you can’t offer.
Tell us something about you that people would be surprised to know.
I’m a big 18th-19th century history nerd.
What are the next steps you plan to take as an artist to reach the next level?
I feel like I’m on the right track. I just want to continue making music that excites me.
I hear you have new music. What can you tell us about it?
“Words” is a track I’m very proud of. It has a very housey and minimalistic groove at the same time. I feel like I’ve managed to implement myself into the track.
What was the recording process like?
It was very improvised and quick. That’s how I always do it—I start with the smallest idea and then just let it come to me.
What was the biggest learning curve in writing the new tune?
I think it’s all about not forcing yourself on the music. You need to understand what you have in front of you and try to make the best out of it—really listen and understand the music instead of trying to control it.
Would you change anything now that it’s finished?
I always want to change things, but nothing will ever be perfect. Over the years, I’ve learned that being able to release something you find imperfect is a major part of being a good artist.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
Be kind to each other.
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