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In the ever-evolving world of contemporary techno, few labels have managed to capture the global spotlight quite like ARTCORE Records. Spearheaded by Indira Paganotto, 2024 was a landmark year for the label, cementing its reputation as a game-changer in the electronic music landscape. With boundary-pushing VAs, singles, and EPs, alongside sold-out shows across Europe, South America, and Asia, ARTCORE’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
As we step into 2025, ARTCORE’s first release of the year marks an exciting new chapter with a double EP format that showcases both returning talent and fresh faces. Among these rising stars is Becker, the Brazilian artist making his ARTCORE debut alongside Avan7 with their electrifying track Meru. Combining tribal-like ambience with ethereal melodies and cosmic, fast-paced percussion, Becker’s contribution introduces a thrilling new dimension to the label’s already dynamic sound.
Today, we’re thrilled to sit down with Becker to dive into his creative process, his journey into ARTCORE’s universe, and what this milestone release means for his burgeoning career. Let’s get to know the artist behind Meru and explore the mind that’s shaping the future of techno.
Can you tell us about your experience collaborating with Avan7 on the track ‘Meru’? What was the creative process like?
Collaborating with Avan7 is always amazing. We shared a great synergy during the creative process, combining our ideas and influences to craft a track that felt fresh and powerful. We focused on blending deep atmospheric elements with energetic grooves, making sure every detail aligned with our vision.
This release marks a new type of EP for the ARTCORE label. How do you feel about being part of this innovative label?
Being part of the ARTCORE label for this release is truly exciting. It’s inspiring to see how this innovative label is pushing boundaries in the scene, and I’m thrilled to contribute to its unique identity with ‘Meru’.
What inspired the sound and style of ‘Meru’?
The sound and style of ‘Meru’ were inspired by a desire to merge mystical and organic elements with a modern psy-trance aesthetic. The name itself reflects a spiritual mountain, which guided the track's atmospheric and uplifting vibe.
As a prominent figure in the trance scene, how do you see your music evolving with this new release?
With this new release, I feel like my music is evolving toward a deeper exploration of storytelling and sound design. I’ve aimed to incorporate more nuanced textures and emotions, pushing myself creatively while staying true to the essence of trance.
Can you share any memorable moments from your tours that have influenced your music or this particular release?
Things happen as they are meant to happen. This track was basically born out of a mix-up, hahaha. Avan7 and I were playing at the same event in São Paulo, and he forgot that he had asked the agency to book his flight for Thursday due to a podcast he was participating in, instead of Sunday, which would usually be the day a DJ leaves. When he was about to leave, the organizers informed him about the flight, and he had to stay in São Paulo at my place until Thursday to wait for his flight. So, we decided to start working on a track, and that’s when we found the vocal for Meru. If that hadn’t happened, Meru might never have been born.
What do you think sets this EP apart from your previous works and other releases in the trance genre?
I consider the track Meru to be a fusion of introspective and extroverted elements. I feel it has both moments very well defined, which ends up appealing to a broader audience. I believe it reflects the combination of my personality with Avan7's.
With the growing popularity of psy-trance, what do you think the future holds for this genre, especially in South and Latin America?
Psytrance was huge in Brazil 15 to 20 years ago, went through a low period, and I believe it has been steadily growing over the past 10 years. Of course, the pandemic was a pause in this growth, as it was for any sector in the entertainment industry, but it didn’t shake the foundation. Psytrance events in Brazil continue to grow. A great example is the Flor da Vida festival, which will take place on March 22nd. I’ll be performing there, and I’d dare to say it will be the biggest Psytrance event we’ve had in the last 15 years.
Lastly, what can fans expect from you in the coming year following this release? Any upcoming projects or tours you’re excited about?
I can say that 2025 will be my main year for releases. Ten new tracks are already scheduled, and I’m sure more will come along the way.
This will be the first time I’ll be releasing so many tracks in a single year, and I’m extremely excited about my next steps.
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