Suray Sertin is gearing up for the release of “WTP” on Altered States, and he swung by to chat about the track, Montreal’s scene, and more.
Montreal has been a hotbed for talented electronic music artists, and Suray Sertin has staked his claim as one to watch in the city. He’s been carving out significant space for himself each passing year as he’s grown from dropping self-releases to finding a home on Deadbeats and its sublabel, Altered States.
Tracks like “Someday,” “Work Things Out,” “Someday,” “U Left Me,” “Midnight Delivery,” and “People” have helped define Suray Sertin’s sound on Altered States. From the chilled-out soundscapes to house grooves, he’s left a lasting impression on listeners, which was bolstered even more by the powerful performances he’s had during this time.
On June 6, Suray Sertin will return to Altered States once again, but this time with a new style for his fans to groove out to. His upcoming single “WTP” is a shift toward a more energetic side of his mind as he picks up the pace with piano stabs, vocal chops, and a bassline that will thud in your heart. It’s a dancefloor-ready gem from Suray Sertin that is sure to win you over, and we caught up with him to chat about the track, his upcoming set at Deadbeats Backyard Jamboree, and so much more.
Stream EDMID Guest Mix 422 || Suray Sertin on SoundCloud:
Hi, Suray. Thanks so much for chatting with us today. Let’s kick this one off by digging into your musical roots in Montreal! Who were some of your earliest influences, and what led you to develop a passion for electronic music?
Hey! Thanks for having me. My earliest influences were people like Skrillex, Bonobo, and Dauwd. It was the energy and the endless possibilities of sound that pulled me in.
You previously mentioned to us that the electronic music scene in Montreal is “truly something else” and has allowed you to explore your creative side. Can you share what you feel makes this city so vibrant from a music perspective? Have there been any interactions with other artists that have stuck out?
Montreal’s electronic scene is unique because it’s a melting pot of cultures and influences. The city is always alive with festivals, underground parties, and an openness to new sounds. One recent interaction that I thought was sick was that I got to hang out with Jacques Greene and Skin on Skin, it was cool to hang out with such dope producers.
Moving to the present, your upcoming release, “WTP,” is due out on Altered States on June 6. Can you dig into how you created this funky house single?
“WTP” started as a late-night production session. I was messing around on Ableton and came up with this idea. The groove just took over, and I knew I had to make a full record with it. I wanted to create something that made people want to move, something nasty (in a good way haha).
Another single that stood tall this year was “Over The Moon” with Sabrina Konstas. It’s absolutely gorgeous. What was it like working with her again on a tune?
Working with Sabrina is always amazing. She has this incredible ability to bring emotion and depth to every project. Sabrina’s vocals were the perfect match for the dreamy soundscape I had in mind. We have this great synergy, and collaborating with her is seamless and inspiring.
The past few years have seen you receive lots of support from Zeds Dead and their labels. How has it felt to be given the opportunity to release on these labels, and has there been any additional assistance to help you hone your skills further since joining them?
Being supported by Zeds Dead and their label has been dope. It’s validating to have respected figures in the industry dig my music. The community and fanbase around their label are so supportive, which has been a big boost for my growth as an artist.
You recently dropped a bootleg of Soulja Boy’s “Kiss Me Through The Phone” that’s bright and bumpin’. How’d you decide to put your spin on this tune specifically?
That bootleg was quite fun to make. “Kiss Me Through The Phone” is a nostalgic track for many, including myself. I took that familiarity and gave it a fresh, energetic feeling that would resonate on the dance floor. The original has a catchy hook, and I think it’s interesting to have a version with a modern electronic vibe.
This summer, you’ll be taking the stage at Deadbeats Backyard Jamboree in Denver. Are you excited to play at this event? What can fans heading to the show expect to hear from you?
I’m super excited for the Backyard Jamboree! It’s going to be a blast. People can expect a great set filled with new tracks, lots of unreleased material, and of course, a few classics. I’m aiming to create an experience that will keep everyone dancing and vibing from start to finish.
Who are three artists you’re listening to right now that fans might not expect?
Right now, I’m really into Maribou State, Phoenix, and Washed Out.
Finally, what plans do you have in store for the future? What’s on the horizon for you in the rest of 2024?
The rest of 2024 is looking busy and exciting! I’ve got a few more singles lined up for release and some very exciting collaborations in the works. My focus is pushing my creative boundaries and connecting with more people along the way.
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