Exclusive Interview with Koster: The Rising Star of the House Music Scene

Exclusive Interview with Koster: The Rising Star of the House Music Scene. Listen to ‘Trapped’ out now!

Koster, also known as Alysson Costa, is a name that is making waves in the House music industry. With his first love for House music back in 1995, Koster moved to London in 2002 to gain more experience in the music industry. Since then, he has been involved in the underground music circuit at some of the most iconic clubs in London, including Ministry of Sound, Egg, Lightbox, Koko, Fire, Brixton Academy, and Electric Brixton.

Koster’s musical agility and skills have made him widely acknowledged in the London music scene. He has had guest slots warming up for big names in the industry, such as Carl Cox at Electric Brixton, Miguel Campbel at Bootleg Social’s showcase at Sankeys in Ibiza, and spinning for the Cafe del Mar tour in Brazil. He has also performed to an audience of thousands of people at the Together Winter Music Festival alongside John Digweed, Pete Tong, and others.

Koster first made an impact on the deejaying scene through his DJ/producer duo, M!5CHIEFZ. Their music was played and supported by big names in the scene such as Marco Carola, Black Coffee, Paco Osuna, Leftwing-Kody, Renato Cohen, and Stacey Pullen, among others. M!5CHIEFZ even had the honor of performing twice at the iconic Space Ibiza, as well as gigs from London to Portugal, Brazil, and beyond.

Currently, Koster is focusing on his new project. He has been spending loads of time in the studio, working on music that is contorted with elements of House, a hint of progressive melodic atmospheres, groovy drums, and a fierce bass line. His latest release, Trapped, is the second part of his previous release “Keep On.” Inspired by a night out in London, Trapped features a quirky bass line and a sexy, funky female vocal that gives a nice touch to the track. With all the sirens and noises, the track creates an unexpected atmosphere that has received overwhelming feedback resulting in support from Paco Osuna, Joachim Garraud, FreedomB, and WD2N, among others.

Listen to ‘Trapped’ on Spotify

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

How did you first get into DJing and producing electronic dance music? 

As a teenager growing up in Brazil I came from a background of rock music, heavy metal, nu metal and rap rock. But once I’ve moved to London I used to go out every weekend to clubs such as Ministry of Sound, Egg, Turnmills, The Cross and naturally were overwhelmed by the influences of such a inspirational landscape. As a result of engulfing myself on this scene, I had a friend who was selling a set of old Numark turntables in 2004 so that’s when everything started. Spending hours lost in the mix in my bedroom in east London. Producing only came 7 years later as result of a journey where I really wanted to create sounds of my own.

Who are some of your biggest influences in the industry?

From the very beginning, influences such as Jeff Mills, Carl Cox, Sven Vath, Mark Knight, Roger Sanchez, Loco Dice, have played a crucial role in my career and the new wave of artists that keep inspiring me and reflect my new project are among Leftwing : Kody, Gorgon City, Paco Osuna, and Vintage Culture.

Can you walk us through your process for creating a new track?

I’m drums starter person, I always like to have solid drums as foundation of a new idea then I would move on to other elements. Once I have a groovy solid drum loop the rest kinda come easier, melody would be next, and to complete finding the right vocals is quite challenging but I’m working with a few vocalists at the moment so it’s quite fun to get to this point. Next arrangement and detailing is the part I most spend time in the studio getting the right flavor for each track.

How do you prepare for a gig? Do you have any pre-performance rituals or routines?

Not much of rituals but I like meeting up with my friends before hand and getting to the club earlier to check the vibe then from there I only let the magic happen 🙂

What has been your favorite gig or event to play at so far in your career?

It was my first proper gig warming up for Felix B (Basement Jaxx) I was really nervous and knew that I couldn’t fail however the Dj before me was smashing it so that was a bit frightening but once the time came, I jumped on the decks all the stress just gone was just me the music and the people, it went really well!

What do you enjoy most about performing as a DJ?

The connection with the floor gotta be the most satisfying feeling once on the decks, seeing people’s smiles and non stopping dancing to my music is the reason that make it all worthwhile.

Can you share any memorable experiences or anecdotes from your time as a DJ and producer?

Once I was meant to Dj in Ibiza and on the afternoon previous to my flight I’ve fell off my motorbike and really hurt my shoulder. But that didn’t stop me from catching a flight on the next day and making it to the gig. Once I got back to London my doctors said I had to be operated, that’s was crazy that I managed to travel abroad to Dj but I know it’s all for the love of music.

How do you stay current and find new music to play at your gigs?

Nowadays is much easier finding music that it used to be. I have my ‘go to’ list of artists and labels on beatport to keep me updated also I like to dig promos from unknown artists to find some real gems, but I also like to explore social platforms to find new music.

What’s next for you in terms of new projects or goals?

I have only kickstarted the project Koster 6 months ago, so now all the focus is in making music and travelling to Brazil for a summer tour, well excited for that.

In your free time, what do you like to do outside of music? Do you have any hobbies or passions outside of the industry?

I enjoy going to the gym, trekking also big fb of yoga all these helps keep my mental and body health. I’m professional chef so cooking is a big part of my life.

How do you adapt your sets to fit the energy and vibe of the crowd at each gig?

The secret It’s all in the bag! 20 plus years collecting music had me prepared for any occasion. I like to research the artists playing on the bill, the venue and time slot to better fit my set.

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a DJ and how have you overcome them?

Having a breakthrough is the most challenging situation on a Dj/producer career imo. But one gotta keep going and focus entirely on the music and the result will flourish.

How do you think the electronic dance music industry has changed since you first started out?

Well nowadays DJs are not only DJs they gotta multitask, be good on many areas to help develop they careers. Mainly because how internet revolutionised the marketing of such industry you gotta have online presence, personally I prefer to stay in the studio and spend time on my music rather than making videos for TikTok but well one gotta adapt and learn how to use it in your own unique way.

What do you hope to achieve with your music in the long-term?

Eventually start an event brand in Brazil, a record label and the biggest dream is to start a Dj Academy to share my experiences with new wave of the aspiring generation of Djs.

Can you share any tips or advice for aspiring DJs and producers who are just starting out in the industry?

First of all keep focused on your Dj and producer skills. Refining them will allow you to stand out in the industry. Secondly, networking; is essential finding the right people to walk this journey with you surround yourself with like minded people and you’re on your way to succeed.

Koster’s new project is making big waves in the House music industry. His unique sound and style have bestowed support from massive names in the industry, such as Joseph Capriati, Marco Carola, Richie Hawtin, Paco Osuna, Paul Van Dyk, Joachim Garraud, and many more. Be sure to check out his forthcoming releases and keep an eye on this rising star of the House music scene

Connect with Koster

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