For the past ten years, David López and Carlos Cruz, together known as Lopezhouse, have been carving a path for themselves in the progressive house and techno scene. After a slew of solid underground releases, the duo broke onto the international scene following 2015’s single ‘Mude Tod’, released on prolific dance label Dirtybird. Since then, the duo have gone from strength to strength, teaming up with Berlin-based Exploited for several releases, and catching the attention of scene legend John Digweed, subsequently releasing on his label Bedrock Records.
With so much accomplished this decade, the duo show no sign of slowing down. With a mix for John Digweed’s Transitions podcast just dropping, releases already locked in for 2020, and a live show in the works, Lopezhouse are set to make the upcoming year their biggest yet.
We are pleased to present an interview with the dynamic dance-music duo alongside an exclusive mix.
Enjoy!
Set the tone for us. Why the arts?
The arts, especially music, are with us for a lifetime! Right from the early days of being kids, music affects us and is then involved in all aspects of our lives. When we are young, we feel the energy and emotions that music brings to us. It is that early feeling we get about music and the arts, that leads people to take on that means of expression later in life.
Which comes first when you’re producing – the sound or the idea?
One idea often leads to another brilliant idea, however, in many, many cases, the sound is what inspires us to start a new track.
Does your material feature any collaborations?
We have Angela taking part in many of our tracks and remixes from other artists. Now we are working with Eleonora for an upcoming EP. We are very happy with the results so far. We can’t wait to announce further details soon!
What’s on your current playlist?
It’s a mixture of new electronic and alternative rock bands. Classics also have their spot!
Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.
Seeing people love and enjoy your music makes you feel full and happy! It is a reward, and it’s the sense and purpose of our work coming to life!
What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?
Working on synthesizers is like working in a chemical lab where any parameter you touch can lead to an amazing and sometimes drastic change of sound. It is very important to experiment and to not always take the same method or procedure.
Take us through a day in the recording studio.
A studio day combines multiple tasks, such as: composing, recording, mixing and mastering. Recording is a delicate and fine matter. Getting into the studio takes time, patience and being able to handle any mistakes.
Was there a specific moment in your life where you thought, “this is what I want to do”?
This probably happened the first time we played or produced our own music. These are magical moments! We still feel this way every time we are in the studio.
What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?
Espe and Lara, our girlfriends!
Any emerging artists on your radar?
It’s difficult because there are thousands of new artists emerging all the time! Everything moves so quickly and people can jump from emerging to successful very quickly these days.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
The feeling of being in a production process, which is all about the music! The nature of a sound or a part of a melody that comes to your ears may produce a spark which we can start with.
Take us through your collection of gear, tech or software that accompanies your creative expression.
Cubase for bass and guitar. Ableton and Reason for the rest!
Any side projects you’re working on?
Yes! We are also involved in an electronic-indie-rock project, which is a new canvas to express other sounds, styles and concepts. The project is called: LOOZ.
How have you refined your craft since you entered the industry?
Of course! Getting in the studio over many years gives lots of experience. You have to face different challenges… troubleshooting from mistakes, improving work using new techniques and devices requires constant learning.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you this year?
This year we have an upcoming release with Vondreib. We also have the EP coming with Eleonora. We’re in talks with a label and another track coming on Bedrock. Watch this space! The team is also working on an important tour in North and South America. Exciting times ahead.
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