A chat with Alex Font...

Alex Font is a dynamic force in the electronic music scene, known for his deep connection to Romania's vibrant underground music culture and his global influence as a DJ, producer, and label owner. With roots in both Spain and Romania, Alex has performed at some of the most iconic venues in the world, including Amnesia Ibiza, Fabric London, and Supermarket. His passion for minimal music, particularly within Romania's bustling scene, has fueled his rise as a key figure in the genre. Alongside his label, Acmé, and collaborations with top artists and labels like Cadenza and Playedby, Alex continues to shape the sound of the underground while mastering and producing for a wide range of international artists. His commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in both his performances and productions, making him a true ambassador of minimal and underground music worldwide. We caught up with him recently to learn more…

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How would you describe the current electronic music scene in Romania? We've noticed you're closely connected to the Romanian scene and performing there more frequently.

I believe Romania is a vital hub for minimal music globally. With its vibrant clubs, record stores, talented producers, and active press, it really stands out. While discussing underground music can be challenging today, having a dedicated club where top DJs perform every weekend is essential for sustaining the scene and fostering its continued growth.

You collaborated with Playedby, a well-known underground label in Romania, for their 10th anniversary on a six-record box set. How do you feel about this major release, and what are your expectations for it?

I’m confident this will be one of the standout releases of 2024. I've been following this label since their beginnings, and the work the Playedby team has done over the years is truly remarkable. I’m really excited to be a part of it!

You recently released "Rumbasa" with Guy From Downstairs on the Cadenza label. What does this release mean to you, and what inspired you when creating it?

I’ve always been a huge fan of Cadenza, especially after hearing “Bomberos” by Luciano—what a masterpiece! Growing up listening to records from the early 2000s was the best underground music education I could have asked for. Being part of this label’s resurgence is incredibly meaningful, not just for me but for the underground scene as a whole. I’m also thrilled to release one of the few tracks we created in my studio with GFD, a talented artist who is both an inspiration and a joy to work with.

You're currently working with Fam Bookings Agency on your Latin American tour. What are your upcoming plans for LATAM? How does the experience of performing in South America compare to playing in Europe?

I always appreciate the authentic Latin flavor whenever I travel to the Americas. Fam Booking is a highly respected agency that has been growing rapidly in recent years. I’m excited to share that we’re already planning our next tour between January and April.

When you're preparing for a DJ set, what is your process? Do you have a specific approach, or do you let the moment and the crowd influence your performance?

Preparation is crucial; no two gigs are ever the same, and things can change in an instant. Staying adaptable and maintaining a connection with the dancefloor is essential for delivering a great set. It’s not just about me—it’s about the experience we create together with the crowd.

Your vinyl label, Acmé, has received strong support from many well-known artists. Can you tell us more about this project and how it has impacted your career? How many releases have you put out so far?

Acmé represents my personal vision and plays a fundamental role in my musical journey. It’s a space where I can freely release and collaborate with the artists and friends I admire. Next year, we’ll celebrate 10 years, and I promise something big is on the way!

You've released music on labels like Minimaler Factory and Purple Print. How did these collaborations come about, and how have these labels helped shape your sound and brand?

These two releases are incredibly significant for me, especially the one with Minimaler—it’s been the most important release of my career. Purple Print is a label that every artist aspires to be part of, so I’m truly thrilled to join their roster!

You've performed at iconic venues like Amnesia Ibiza, Fabric London, and Supermarket. How do the crowds in different cities affect the energy and flow of your sets?

The three clubs you mentioned are my absolute favorites, and I’m thrilled to be part of their lineups. I’ve learned so much from each visit—probably over 150 times across all of them. They truly represent the best of the best!

Having one of your tracks remixed by Arapu is quite an accomplishment. How did you feel about his reinterpretation of your work, and what does it mean to you to be remixed by such a respected artist?

Absolutely, this record performed exceptionally well and sold out quickly—everyone involved did an amazing job. As for Arapu, I have a wonderful, long-standing relationship with him. He’s not only incredibly talented but also a genuinely kind person. I admire him deeply, and his music keeps evolving and improving year after year. For me, he’s truly one of the most important artists in the scene.

When you're in the studio, how do you typically start a new track? Do you have a specific workflow or favorite tools that spark your creativity?

That’s a great question! I don’t have just one approach, but over the years, I’ve found that starting with the most important or distinctive element helps me stay focused on what truly matters. Most of the time, that means starting with the main melody or hook. It really helps to anchor the track and keep the focus on what’s essential.

You've been doing a lot of mixing and mastering for various labels and artists. What’s next for you in this area? Do you have any new releases, collaborations, or exciting projects coming up?

I’ve been mastering for over 15 years, helping many labels and artists achieve a better sound—it’s truly inherent to who I am. I’m quite obsessive when it comes to audio quality, constantly seeking the best tools, techniques, and methods to capture and manipulate sound effectively. Interestingly, sometimes achieving the best results means doing very little to the audio. While that might sound controversial, my years of experience have taught me the value of subtlety and precision in mastering.

How does playing at a large festival compare to performing in a more intimate club setting? Do you prefer one over the other?

I love playing records in front of a crowd, and I enjoy both—neither is better than the other. However, I do prefer extended sets over shorter ones. They allow for a deeper connection with the audience and give me the chance to explore my record selection more fully.

Romania’s underground scene is known for its unique vibe. How do you stay connected to that while also building an international presence?

I feel a strong sense of brotherhood between Romania and Spain; both cultures share that vibrant Latin vibe. In Spain, we often have many people from Romania, which makes us feel like stepbrothers. Ultimately, it’s all about the music—we’re vibing at the same frequency, and that connection is what truly matters.

As a DJ, producer, mixing & mastering engineer, and label owner, how do you manage to balance your busy schedule with your personal life?

That’s a great question! Hehe. If you want to make a living from music today—unless you’re one of the top-tier artists—you really need to be open and flexible, exploring a wide range of options for a steady income. Most importantly, I do love music, whether it's the technical aspects, the theoretical side, performing, or teaching. That passion for music and sound fuels everything I do.

You’ve played at Fabric in London, a venue known for its special underground energy. What was your experience like playing there, and how does Fabric stand out in London’s electronic music scene?

You're spot on—Fabric is truly special. I’d say it’s the cathedral of underground music worldwide. I've probably been there over 100 times! I lived in London for three years back in the early 2000s, and I made it a point to visit nearly every weekend to soak in the music. Those Fabric birthday weekends were absolutely unreal! Playing there was a truly special moment for me—a dream come true. The energy and atmosphere are like no other, and to be part of that legacy is an incredible honor.

What advice would you give to emerging DJs and producers trying to make a name for themselves in such a competitive global industry?

The music scene today, like many things, is oversaturated. Unfortunately, many clubs are closing for various reasons, which means there are fewer spaces to perform.

First and foremost, I would advise aspiring artists to be patient—success doesn’t happen overnight. Dedication and knowledge are crucial. Instead of buying the latest synth on the market, which you might not even know how to use, consider investing in online courses or books to deepen your understanding of topics in music that interest you.

Creating your own party and developing your brand can also be incredibly beneficial. It’s a great way to showcase your work to an audience and attract the attention of other promoters. Building your own events allows you to establish a presence in the scene and connect with like-minded individuals.

"Your value is determined by what you produce."

Stay connected with ALEX FONT on (linktr.ee).

@alexfontmusic

@acme_music_

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