Jan 10

The Element: "Music is a language that transcends words and connects people"

The Element is a Maltese artist with over 30 years of experience in melodic house and techno. He has performed alongside top global artists and gained recognition after signing with Afterlife in 2019. His debut single "Ryder" on Afterlife boosted his international career and brought attention to Maltese artists worldwide. Now signed to Zamna Record Label and part of the Zamna Soundsystem trio, The Element continues to evolve, proposing innovative musical experiences and solidifying his place on the global music scene.

"Flames Of Emotions" marks a new chapter in your career. What emotions or messages did you aim to convey through this EP, and how does it reflect your artistic evolution?

With "Flames Of Emotions", I wanted to capture the raw, transformative energy that guides both personal growth and the creative journey. Each track channels a spectrum of feelings—from hope to nostalgia, from tension to release—reflecting how I’ve evolved over the decades. It’s less about a single narrative and more about crafting a deeply emotive space where the listener can find their own story. Musically, I’ve balanced my signature melodic touch with a progressive sonic palette, embracing subtle shifts in tonality and texture that mirror my continual growth as an artist.

Being a pioneer of the Maltese music scene and collaborating with Afterlife and Zamna Records has undoubtedly transformed your career. How do you see your role in elevating Malta’s music landscape on the international stage?

Malta is a small island with a rich cultural tapestry, and I’ve always believed it deserves a louder voice on the global stage. My role, as I see it, is to bridge the gap between the local underground and the world’s premier stages. By working with influential labels like Afterlife and Zamna, I’m able to shine a spotlight on Maltese talent and aesthetics. It’s not just about my personal growth; it’s about inspiring other Maltese artists to push boundaries, embrace their unique sonic identity, and join a larger conversation in the international electronic music community.

With over 30 years of experience in the music world, how do you keep your inspiration alive and continuously innovate your sound within the melodic house & techno genre?

Longevity in music comes from a willingness to be a perpetual student. Even after all this time, I’m always listening—tuning in to evolving trends, fresh collaborations, and experimenting with new technologies. I find a spark in everyday life: a distant melody in a city street, the rhythm of footsteps in a crowd, the interplay of natural soundscapes. I use these influences to expand and refine my sound. The melodic house & techno genre allows for a wonderful interplay between melody and groove, and I’m drawn to its ability to express deep emotions through subtle shifts and layers. Each new project gives me a reason to reinvent and add new facets to my sonic identity.

Your collaboration with Zamna Soundsystem is an exciting addition to your journey. What’s the vision behind this project, and how does it align with your artistic identity?

The vision behind collaborating with Zamna Soundsystem is to merge immersive, world-class production values with the emotional depth of melodic house and techno. Zamna’s ethos aligns perfectly with my own: we both want to create environments where music becomes an all-encompassing experience, weaving sound, visuals, and atmosphere into a cohesive narrative. Working with them allows me to step beyond the role of a producer or DJ and become a curator of sensory journeys. It’s about offering something transcendent—spaces where people can momentarily lose themselves and discover new personal insights through music.

Looking ahead, what are your main goals as an artist? Can we expect new collaborations or immersive experiences in your upcoming live sets?

My main goal is to deepen the connection with my audience by pushing the boundaries of sonic storytelling. I plan to continue forging meaningful collaborations, whether with rising talents or established names, to ensure my sound remains dynamic and globally relevant. Upcoming live sets will be more than performances; I envision them as full-scale experiences—integrating live elements, interactive visuals, and perhaps multidisciplinary art forms that complement the music. It’s about evolving from a traditional DJ set into a narrative-driven encounter, where each show feels unique, personal, and unpredictable.