Biography

Emerging from the artistic streets of Florence, Italy, is music producer Matteo Martinelli, a versatile creator embodying authenticity by blending introspection with an insatiable passion for his craft. His musical journey, from initial exposure to pop and rock in the early 2000s to evolving as a producer focused on ambient techno and minimalist tendencies, mirrors the dynamic nature of life itself.

Matteo’s debut EP at Plazma Records, titled “Drones & Dragonflies“, was released in late 2018, featuring four tracks, including two originals by Matteo and two remixes by Verv and Danny Wabbit. This EP soared to 11th place in Beatport’s Top 100 minimal/deep tech chart, garnering significant support from influential figures like Fabio Florido, Florian Frings, and Carl Ruetz.

Now, after five years, we are thrilled to welcome Matteo back to Plazma Records with his forthcoming solo release, “Will”.

Interview

In 2019, we had a playful interview with Matteo Martinelli. Dive in to discover more about the artist behind the music.

What did you want to be when you were a child?
Good question. I’ve never had clear ideas.

When and where were you when you discovered what you wanted to do / what you do now in terms of music?
I’ve spent a long time clubbing and listening to tracks and sets on the internet. When I arrived at a certain point, I’ve wanted to understand the art of djing and then the art of production. So almost 3 or 4 years ago, I think, I’ve downloaded a trial version of Ableton Live and I’ve started working on it in my bedroom. I’ve made so many bad music in the first couple of years. Trust me.

What does success mean to you?
Simple. Have a satisfying life. In music, be able to correctly express my ideas. I think it’s the first step to happiness. Be happy with yourself.

Who or what inspires you to do what you do? People who you look up to?
I have a lot of inspirations but I’m trying to be me. 🙂

What is the biggest challenge/sacrifice you have made or have to make in doing what you do?
I’m not able to live making music at the moment, so my challenge is to find the right time to dedicate to production and to learning and mastering techniques.

What would you like to achieve during this year, what is ahead in 2020?
I’m currently working on sound engineering and mix-down techniques. I want my music to be as similar as possible to my ideas. Then it’s time to learn some mastering, I think.

You just released your four track EP on Plazma Records. What can you tell us about the inspiration and production behind both tunes, up and down sides?
It was a very creative period. I was able to do about a dozen of tracks in term of one month. I let the music go. I always start jamming and I don’t know where to go. It’s hard to explain my creativity moments. I don’t know. They arrive and then go away.

In terms of gigs, what is planned in the coming months, where and which gig of yours was latest?
I’m not into djing at the moment. I want to strictly concentrate on production.

Tell us where you come from and what type of electronic/underground music scene your city has?
I’m lucky. Here in Florence, the city were I come from, we have Tenax club. It is one of the biggest in Italy and I’ve been lucky to see there all of the most famous artists in the scene.

What do you think makes a great DJ?
Musical taste and empathy with the crowd

Who are your biggest influences in electronic music right now?
If I have to do some names, I admire Richie Hawtin’s forward thinking mind, Recondite’s production abilities, Fabio Florido’s purity as an artist and as an human being. I forgot. I admire all the artists that take position about the world problems and take advantage of their position to send positive messages to the fans and the audience.

Aside from music, what do you like to do in your free time?
Free time??? (laughs). I’m a sporty guy. I train almost everyday. ”Mens sana in corpore sano”, they say.

Can you finish this sentence, “Music is …” ?
Music. What else?