NEWS
EVENTS
Guestlist meets: upcoming DJ talent Siege
When it comes to Belgian electronic music, musician Sieg Motmans has been leading the charge for some time now.
Whilst that name may not ring any bells, under the moniker Siege, Motmans has began to establish himself as one of the country’s leading lights with an impressive catalogue of releases that have seen him grace an impressive variety of releases, having rolled out some serious dancefloor delights on the likes of Strictly Rhythm, Glasgow Underground and Pete Tong’s FFRR Records imprint thus far.
It’s a strong start for the producer, who’s become a household name in his native land and helping to build the scene thanks to regular club shows & sets at the likes of Tomorrowland this summer. With an exciting new release on ABODE to his name, we caught up with Siege to talk us through the EP, his music upbringing, what the Belgian scene is really like and what’s to come.
Thanks for taking the time out to talk to us today. You’ve just released your latest EP My Lady on burgeoning label ABODE to a great reaction. We love the versatility of the EP, what was the idea behind the vibe and how did your relationship with ABODE come about?
Usually, in the studio I’m just jamming away – that’s how the main groove from My Lady came about. I loved the groove but it felt like something was missing to make it better. I’d also had the idea to sample those keys from an old disco record. It was my manager who actually told me to try those keys on that groove and boom there it was. As for Sloeber – that one is a bit darker. I thought it would be nice to counter the happy disco vibes from My Lady.
As for ABODE – we love what these guys are doing. They’re a new label but the music they’ve been releasing is great and they’re doing so well. I thought it would be the right fit for this EP, sent it over and luckily for me, they loved it.
You’ve released on an impressive selection of labels including Strictly Rhythm, Amplified Records to Pete Tong’s FFRR Records and Glasgow Underground so far, what’s the advantage of working with new labels?
When I'm in the studio I just do whatever I’m feeling at the moment tbh. Sometimes it’s something melodic, on other days it’s a solid groover, or in the case of My Lady, it’s a disco sample-based record. All these labels have their own sound, so for the way that I work, It’s good being able to go to release on different labels is perfect.
You're often referred to as an influential act in your native Belgium. What’s the scene like there? Are there any artists, in particular, we should be keeping an eye on?
Scattered is the word that comes to mind first to be fair. There’s a Flemish speaking part, a French speaking part and you have Brussels. It feels like all of these parts have their own scene. For example, it feels hard to tap into the scene in Brussels when you’re not from there. As for artist’s we have plenty of talent.
People like Ramon Tapia who’s been consistent in his productions for years and Lost Desert who’s putting out quality stuff – his latest single was even crowned essential new tune by Pete Tong. In my opinion, they should be on every line up in Belgium. Charlotte De Witte and Amelie Lens are storming the techno scene in and outside Belgium – which I think is great. This year I’ve seen Niels Feijen and Nico Morano making big moves in Belgium as well so I expect a bright future for them!
Who are some of your own musical influences?
It’s really hard to pick one. Growing up I listened to all sorts of music. From Andrea Bocelli to happy hardcore, from disco to Eurodance, hip-hop to rock - I’ve been through all of them, to be honest. I just get inspiration from everywhere. I think it’s important to go with the flow and let your creativity run. Do whatever you’re feeling.
You've remixed for Disciples and collaborated with Illyus & Barrientos, amongst others. Who have you got your eye on to work with in the future?
I’ve just finished remixes for X-Press2 and James Campbell on CR2. I’m also reworking a classic Sharam Jay track for Toolroom. I’m doing collabs with some exciting acts but going to keep them a secret for now J.
When it comes to deciding what tracks to re-work, talk us through your selection process.
I think, its all about hearing that killer hook or element that I can flip and put my own stamp on. Doesn't really matter what the record is, if there's a part in there I can use I am on it.
This year you got to warm up for Hot Since 82 at Belgium's Fuse club. What was that experience like for you?
One of the greatest club gigs I’ve had so far, to be honest. I was the opener that night but luckily enough I got a 3-hour slot. After about an hour the floor was filling up nicely and the people were having it. The crowd in Fuse is amazing – they’re up for everything so I could really do my thing and play what I really want to play without having to be too obvious.
You also played on the festival circuit this summer. What were some of your stand out moments?
Tomorrowland the Gathering no doubt. There was such a big crowd and a positive energy. I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about that gig. Also, the week before opening the Claptone stage on Tomorrowland was a great moment. It’s a big honour getting on a line-up with Mat.Joe, Black Coffee, Pete Tong and Booka Shade.
Having played at some impressive locations as of late, where would be your dream shows moving forward?
I definitely want to be in Ibiza more next summer ;) That’s been a dream since I started making music so want to make that happen for sure.
For those wanting to catch you perform live, where will you be playing in the near future?
During ADE I’m playing the Amplified records showcase and the Glasgow Underground party. There’s also some nice shows coming up later this year in Belgium later this year. For NYE I’m heading to the Netherlands to host an event with my own concept Bandar with the guys from Rave Atelier.
Follow the DJ on SoundCloud - Facebook - Twitter
