We had the privilege of sitting down with the prodigious Adrián Gázquez, aka OMEGA dB. This artist took us on a journey through his trajectory from childhood to the creation of a musical legacy that continues to vibrate on stage. Let’s tune in with the last decibel of his exciting story.
Could you share with us more about your journey and your project?
My journey in this project started in 2014, when we released the first EP. However, the seed had been planted much earlier; this project is actually a lifetime. Before that first release, I immersed myself in the world of electronic music as a DJ at various parties, stretching its boundaries. Music, especially of this genre, has been present in my life since I was very young. In the end, it has become my lifestyle and has always been by my side.
It’s fascinating that a child builds his musical path in electronica. What particularly attracted you to this genre?
It’s certainly curious, given that I’m the youngest of four siblings and all of them are rather rock lovers. I remember in the 90s, my sister visited a museum in Berlin and brought me a CD with a Paul van Dyk mix. At that moment, I felt like I had discovered a new universe; I got deeply connected to electronic music and I haven’t stopped since.
How would you describe the evolution of that key moment in your life?
Immediately, I started researching and collecting vinyl to become a DJ. It was a very romantic experience; you had to explore record stores in Barcelona to find sonic gems. The possibility of discovering music without relying on an algorithm is a wonderful thing.
In what years did you dive into the rave scene as a DJ?
It was in the early 2000s, specifically between 2002 and 2007. Together with a friend, Boris, we formed a collective called ‘I Love Techno’ and we would organize parties in hilly areas. We even included a space for hardcore. It was a fantastic experience; there was room for everyone.
However, there seems to have been a change in that scene. What happened?
With the arrival of the Mossos de Esquadra and other police forces, the situation became more complicated. Sanctions became more severe and our equipment was confiscated. Despite the stereotypes, we were very conscientious and careful. We collected all the waste and respected the environment. It’s sad that it ended because it was a beautiful way to connect with nature and music without restrictions. Also, electronic music is often wrongly stigmatized as being related to drugs or alcohol, which is not always the case. Personally, I’m sporty, and some people are surprised when they find that out in interviews.
Let’s talk about your creative process, do you have a routine or is it more spontaneous?
I always try to dedicate at least an hour a day to my music. Although I have a lot of machines, it’s important not to overdo it, as too much can block creativity. The process of machine learning takes time and can limit creativity. I always have two or three fixed ideas in mind, with the rhythmic bases, synthesizers and basses already synchronized.
Could you tell us how your collaboration with Teenage Engineering started? You are the first Spaniard to do so.
My entry into the world of Teenage Engineering happened when I started creating music and videos. One day, I was offered the opportunity to perform in London. There I met several members of the team, which eventually led me to become part of their mentoring team and perform on their behalf. In short, I became an ambassador of sorts.
What does it mean to be a Teenage Engineering ambassador?
It means that any interested artist can contact me, and I am here to show them how the products work and answer any questions they may have. I also attend official events in Spain and abroad. As a member, we collaborate with the improvement of the machines and the identification of possible failures.
What projects are you currently working on for OMEGA dB?
At the moment, I am working on a new EP, fine-tuning every detail. Also, I plan to create a short film together with my sister, with a script we have written together. I want this experience to be not only musical but also narrative and conceptual.
I am also involved in a video podcast of literature in Catalan, which aims to bring Catalan literature to a wider audience. Together with my sister and a friend, we are working on this project in which they, as writers and literature teachers, bring their experience to the team. The professionalism they bring makes us a very close-knit and passionate team.
OMEGA dB’s musical legacy continues to resonate as her career moves into new and exciting frontiers. We will be watching for his future creations and collaborations, knowing that this artist continues to take electronic music to new levels of innovation and artistic expression.