A chat with Krafted's Simon Sinfield...

Simon Sinfield’s impact on the electronic music scene spans decades, from chart-topping productions under his Cloudshapers alias to co-running the acclaimed Krafted Records. With his new album Voyager, Simon blends downtempo, progressive house, and ambient soundscapes, showcasing both new creations and reimagined classics.

In this exclusive interview, Simon reflects on pivotal moments in his career, the evolution of electronic music, and the creative process behind Voyager. He shares stories of resilience, inspiration from icons like Kraftwerk, and the enduring passion that fuels his artistry. Simon’s journey is a testament to adaptability, collaboration, and a deep love for the craft.

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Voyager spans so many chapters of your career. Looking back, what’s one track or moment that really defines your early days in electronic music?  

In 2012, I was invited to remix a track for a major label based on some productions I’d done the previous year. I delivered it and got a call straight back from the Head of A&R saying he loved it, but they would not be signing it. What I’d done was create such a major rework that the label felt it was too far from the original and not the style they were expecting from me. However, they advised me to release it as a single under a pseudonym. That became my track "Obsession," under my Cloudshapers alias, which went Top Ten. It was a big turning point for me and such a boost to receive that level of support and belief from a major label.

You’ve been part of the electronic music scene for decades. What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry since you first started out?  

There are quite a few. The digital DJ revolution has been incredible—I love it. Having started my DJ career lugging flight cases of 12” records, it’s amazing that now we can just show up with a USB stick and a pair of headphones. I’m less impressed with the streaming landscape, but I do love the fact that vinyl sales continue to grow year on year. As a label owner, the transition from physical to digital was always going to be tough, but now at Krafted, we’re seeing requests for physical items again, which is why Voyager is available on double CD.

You mentioned failures and false starts along the way. Can you share one of those tough moments and how you got through it?  

Being dropped after a record deal was tough. The label broke promises and failed to support a group of us who had been so successful for them. That experience taught me a lot. I was able to turn that negative into a positive, which shaped how we run Krafted and how we support our artists.

‍The album brings together both old favorites and unreleased gems. Were there any tracks that were especially hard to leave out?  

It was so difficult. Including eight new tracks was a must, so the slots for older favorites were quite limited. It wasn’t just a case of leaving out favorite previous releases—some new tracks were dropped too. It’s just what you have to do to make the package the best it can possibly be.

What story are you hoping Voyager tells about your journey in music? Is it more of a personal reflection or a celebration of your evolution as an artist?  

I think the originals side of the album represents the reflective part, while the remixes are more of a celebration. It’s also a showcase of the incredible talent featured on the album. I’ve adored working with Ana Be on several projects, so having her on the album twice is wonderful. It allows us both to shine with those songs. Collaborating with the amazing PHILDEL has been a brilliant experience, and I’m thrilled to introduce her sound and audience to a different part of the musical landscape.

From co-running Krafted Records to remixing iconic tracks, you’ve worn so many hats. What’s been the most rewarding part of your career so far?  

All I ever wanted was to be involved in music. I started off playing in a youth orchestra as a kid, but I quickly became obsessed with synths and drum machines instead of my violin and piano. I got into DJing right as house music arrived from the USA and then began my journey into production, while also enjoying a career as a radio presenter. Each step has been incredible. That said, running the label alongside my friend and business partner Paul Sawyer has been hugely rewarding. It’s challenging, but we love it and are super proud of what we’ve achieved.

How did you first get into electronic music? Was there a particular track, artist, or moment that set you on this path?  

Like so many music fans of my era, it has to be Kraftwerk. I was also a massive fan of legendary producer Trevor Horn. His studio project, The Art of Noise, was a big influence. Their records showcased the earliest sampling technology—the Fairlight—and it was groundbreaking and exciting. It marked a pivotal moment in music production and pop music.

With Voyager covering downtempo, house, and ambient vibes, what draws you to these styles? Is there one that feels most like “home” for you?  

I’ve always been drawn to melodic and progressive house. The downtempo tracks come from my love of the genre and my classical music background. We’ve had great success with the chill side of our label, and it’s been amazing to see younger producers embrace the idea of stripped-back, chilled versions of their tracks for our yearly chill compilations. One of the most significant records for me and for Krafted was Paul Sawyer’s track with Jan Johnston, "One Step Beyond." I took a Balearic chill approach with my remix, which launched our BBC Radio 1 residency. That gave us the belief that more laidback releases were worth pursuing, so that style really does feel like home to me.

The title Voyager feels symbolic. What does it mean to you personally, and how does it reflect the music on the album?  

It feels like a journey that’s evolving into something new. I feel incredibly fortunate to reflect and present these tracks. I hope the listener finds joy in the melodies, feels uplifted by the soundscapes, and is captivated by the incredible talent I’ve collaborated with.

After decades in the game, what keeps you inspired to keep creating and pushing forward? Do you see yourself taking your music in unexpected directions in the future?

I’m always inspired by what’s next in music. Supporting younger and emerging artists is hugely rewarding—it re-energizes me. I’m always open to exploring new directions, so I hope that becomes part of my next voyage.

Pre-order the release here