Daniel Maze gives us his 5 For Insight

Another featured artist on netBloc Vol. 17 was Daniel Maze. His excellent "Herons Are Mellow" brought a quiet thunder to the release. Read on for your fix of insight…

01 Why free music? Basically because I was getting tired of shopping my music around to record labels and pounding the pavement - I figured I’ll just release it for free, at least everyone can hear it that way. At first I was a little concerned that it would be a complete waste of time and energy, but over the years I’ve received nothing but praise, I’ve met lots of interesting and talented people, and more recently artists have been approaching me to produce their albums and record soundtracks to their independent films, which I’m usually very happy to do. So I’m very pleased with all the feedback and opportunities that have arisen.

02 Something that I feel plagues electronic music is the fact that a lot of the time you hear a lot of rehashed rhythms, melodies and ideas. That’s something that hasn’t befallen your music. It has a strikingly unique sound. Do you find yourself stepping away from an idea if it starts developing in a way that seems all too familiar? I suppose a melody or bassline has reminded me of somebody else on occasion, but for the most part I’ve never really struggled with maintaining a unique sound.

03 Who are some of your favorite electronic artists? You know, I have to say I don’t really listen to all that many electronic artists. Whenever I feel inclined to listen to music I usually find myself reaching for an old jazz record or something else unrelated to electronic music.

04 What was the last free netaudio album you downloaded and listened to? That would have to be the "So Much Achieved. So Much Left To Do" compilation. Good strong music, overall.

05 At home, in your car or out with friends? I would have to say at home with friends, out with friends and in my car with friends.