💿Dreamstate 2024 DJ Set [Exclusive!]
⏳12PM (US Pacific Time) NYE
🔊existinsound.com & Tranceplayer
In case you missed it this year, we're broadcasting Kevin's DJ set from Dreamstate 2024 for our EOY special.
Thanks to Kevin & Insomniac Events for the green light. 🚀
Kevin Cornine - "Shift" [OUT SOON]
Our first label drop for 2025! 🌎
Tell us about a project you worked on that you are especially proud of.
That’s a tough question. I know most producers probably hear this frequently, but I approach each project with a new technique. Whether I learn it through reading, watching production live streams, or just listening to music, every track teaches me something new that elevates my skills. With that in mind, I’d have to say the track I submitted and won the Dreamstate Discovery Project 2024 with, called "Contact," makes me proud. It represents the biggest milestone in my music journey. I’ve released tracks on labels before, but this is the first project I get to share with my family. Experiencing that next level of music production, especially on stage with some of my biggest role models in the industry, is truly special.
What's the biggest misconception about DJing and producing?
I like this question because I overcame this misconception quite rapidly in my journey: that your music has to be perfect before you share it with the world. I used to think you needed to be completely satisfied with your music, but I've realized that if even one person likes your production, that's a step in the right direction. Your next track might resonate with two people, and so on. Many artists who have been in the scene for a while are open to various styles and genres of electronic music. That’s what the journey is all about—where you came from, where you are now, and where you’re going. So release your music; you'll be glad you did!
How would you describe your music production style and genre?
My music production style is focused on the drive of the track. I tend to lean towards rolling basslines and acid sounds that get you moving—before you know it, 32 to 64 bars have passed. I’ve always loved a good driving intro that energizes me and a breakdown that takes you away when you close your eyes. I strive to incorporate that emotional depth in my trance style, hoping others feel it too.
What styles of music do you usually DJ?
Don’t laugh, but my main goal was to produce music, and I didn’t want to DJ because being with my family is my priority. DJing is relatively new for me as an adult (I DJ'd in high school), but after diving into production, I realized that if you’re going to embrace one side of electronic music, you might as well embrace the other. I bring my listening and production style into my DJing. If a track makes me want to move and transports me somewhere else, I'm all in, regardless of the genre—be it drum and bass, techno, trance, tech-trance, or progressive trance. But my heart and soul are in trance music; it has carried me through some of the hardest times in my life.
As a DJ, analog or digital, and why?
Oh man, are you going to make me talk about this? Haha. I’m all for both. There’s always that debate of old vs. new, but I think the purpose gets lost in that—it's all about the experience of music. I own both vinyl and digital equipment and love using whichever allows me to get lost in the music. It doesn’t matter where it comes from, as long as you can share that experience with others.
What do you like most about music production?
Another great question! What I love most about music production is its complexity and the subjectivity of the process. After talking with several producers recently, I've realized we all approach problems differently but often arrive at similar outcomes. That’s what makes the process beautiful and rewarding. Additionally, being part of a group of like-minded producers has greatly improved my production journey.
How long have you been producing and DJing?
I’ve been regularly producing for about three years, spending 2-5 hours a day on it. I started experimenting with DAWs as a teenager on my family computer. It wasn’t until I graduated with my undergrad in psychology that I learned about how humans learn and process information, which I’ve been able to apply to my production journey. I began DJing in high school with two Gemini CD 15X’s and a mixer, but in a town where country and rap were prominent, I eventually stepped back to focus on my career as a firefighter/paramedic.
What's your typical work process when producing a new track?
I haven't formally learned music theory or how to read music, which I wish I had. Instead, I approach production from a frequency perspective. I start with the kick and mid-bass, getting the rhythm I like, and then fill in the sub to create a solid groove. Each step builds on the last until I have a strong rhythm, allowing the melody to practically write itself. Honestly, with four kids running around and my studio in the living room, I envy those who can start with the melody and take their time with the track!
Tell us about your studio setup.
As mentioned, we live in a pretty tight space with four kids, so I don’t have a dedicated studio room. I have a corner in the living room with my laptop docked to my desk and two HS8s. I have a JP-8080 and a rack-mounted mixer on the desk, along with a TB-03, JT-4000 micro, and a TD-3MO. Mounted on the wall are a Moog Subsequent 37, Bass Station II, an RD-9, and a Roland System 1. It’s tight in there, but I have a lot of different gear to inspire me.
Can you share one DJ tip?
Be yourself. At the end of the day, you'll find an audience that appreciates you for who you are. When you change yourself to meet others' expectations, you risk losing your authenticity. Play the music you like and produce what resonates with you; people will naturally gravitate toward the DJ and producer that is uniquely you.
What other musicians or music producers inspire you?
Many of my producer friends laugh when they mention big names I don’t recognize, but then I look them up on Spotify and realize I love 10-15 of their songs! Some artists that have stuck with me throughout my years of listening include Sean Tyas, Kenny Palmer, David Forbes, Marlo, Giuseppe Ottaviani, and Metta and Glyde. Ultimately, if a track sounds good, I’m all in.
What are some upcoming events or projects you are excited about?
I feel extremely fortunate to have won the Discovery Project at Dreamstate 2024. That event is currently occupying my time as I practice for my set while balancing schoolwork and family time. I'm excited to share this experience with my wife, who jokingly thinks all my equipment was gifted to me (kidding)! It still feels surreal, but I couldn't be more thrilled about the opportunity.
Where can we find out more about your music and DJ schedule? Please follow me on all streaming platforms and social media—SoundCloud, Spotify, Instagram, Facebook, etc. I’m a huge fan of community and knowledge-sharing, so I’m always looking to connect with others who want to collaborate. I wouldn’t even be typing this if I didn’t have friends who showed me the ropes. I probably should consider getting a simple website, haha! I love connecting with people, and I’d love for you to keep in touch and follow along.
Artist IG: https://www.instagram.com/kevin_cornine/