Electronic dance music producer, designer and artist OVERWERK, also known as Edmond Huszar, recently released his captivating new EP, FURTHER. A collection of five polished tracks, each track in FURTHER is supported by a visually striking and impressive video comprising intricate and finely detailed sculptures. Played in order, the songs and videos tie into a deeply mysterious and compelling story.
The song titles on MORE tell a story when viewed in order: “WE”, “APARTE”, “FROM”, “SOMETHING”, “MORE” – US APART FROM SOMETHING ELSE. Each song takes a vocal sample from the title and integrates it into the layers of the music, so that when you get to the final/title track, “MORE,” the high-pitched vocals reveal the full answer to the “riddle.”
Before FURTHEROVERWERK released similarly innovative projects, notably “ORIGIN,” which incorporated digital sculpture and handmade acrylic resin sculpture, and the 22-minute work “VIRTUE,” released in 2019. Hundreds of brands have licensed their previous compositions and projects, including Prada, Vogue, BMW, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Comme des Garçons.
XS Noize spoke to OVERWERK to discover the inspiration for FURTHERhow he came to digital sculpture and what he wants listeners to feel when listening to his music.
What three things can't you live without?
The challenges of life, a healthy body and a balanced mind.
First, let me say that FURTHER It is excellent, a great work of art. What inspired you?
Thank you. I have a beautiful Discord community we call NETWERK. Ego Son is a top member who shares interesting music and ideas. The 'MORE' EP started with our collaboration on 'US'. The song inspired the artistic concept, which continued to evolve into a larger story.
The narrative link of the videos perfectly complements the music. Did the concept of unifying music with the visual come all at once or did it emerge in stages?
As that larger story developed, I began to imagine the artwork to complement the sound. As he created each song, the overall theme of the music and sculptures began to take shape simultaneously.
How did you get started and hone your skills in digital sculpture/digital art?
I have always immersed myself in art, exploring all available mediums. As 3D tools became more accessible, I developed a keen interest in adding them to my repertoire. I have experience in traditional sculpture, ceramics and digital art. Many of those techniques have been applied, but it has also been more than a decade of practice.
How did you get started in music?
Like 3D sculpture work, it evolved from other artistic practices. Growing up, I became familiar with video editing and used Adobe products regularly. This computer workflow gave me a good foundation once I started experimenting with music, editing, remixing, and eventually producing my own songs.
What musicians/singers influenced you?
In recent years, I have been especially influenced by my good friend, Black Atlass. Together, we have produced and conceptualized many songs. His talent and creative process have shaped my own approach to creativity.
What would you say if you had to explain your sound and style to the uninitiated?
I would describe my sound and style as sometimes danceable, sometimes over the top and sometimes laid back… but always reflective and emotionally moving. My goal is to describe a moment with each song or at least create a vibe that emotionally resonates with the listener.
Did your sound evolve naturally or did you deliberately push it in a certain direction?
As I've progressed in my career, my sound has definitely evolved. When I started the OVERWERK project, I knew very little from a technical point of view. At that time, I was simply looking for some electro sound that I could play at events. This sound was a reflection of my surroundings. However, as time has passed, my music has become more of a reflection of my life experiences and the variety of emotions that accompany them.
What can you share about your writing process?
My process is always changing… I work in a very wide variety of art. Every experience in any medium, as well as my own personal life, constantly feeds back into my music. I would say that I am a cerebral person, so it would seem that my writing involves a lot of “thinking” and consideration.
Which artists, in your opinion, are making waves right now?
In the world of music, Röyksopp has been releasing a wide variety of incredible songs lately. There's also something about the French… Apashe, French 79, Thylacine, Toxic Avenger, Worakls, Polo & Pan. In the art world… select anyone I follow on Instagram and you'll find a fantastic artist.
How do you define success?
Being led from an honest, naive and authentic place. When you are true to yourself, follow your calling, or work from a place of love, your accomplishments will enrich your life and the lives of those who experience them.
What do you want listeners to take away from your music?
It's interesting that you mention “remove” because this is what I want the listener to feel: “something.” I want the listener to get something out of the experience, like a better mood, a smile, or some encouragement and satisfaction. The world we live in now offers an endless stream of content, so I want to make sure that what I offer into the void is valuable and creates an experience for the audience.
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