Kid Francescoli, French 79, Greg Kozo, Thylacine

Q&A with thrilling music producer Greg Kozo

Image credit: Alexandre Lanier

Rich with its gripping premise and backstory, Greg Kozo has shared his unique EP The Story of Rita Faltoyano via Enchanté Records. A divine synth embellished work, packed with a laidback bass rhythm, this EP is a refined work from a man mixing his artistic background with vigor and an unbelievable story into one dynamic and thrilling masterpiece. A work that has redefined Greg Kozo’s sound, we look forward to his upcoming offerings on the way. In the meantime, we chatted with the French music producer and asked him a few questions about this new EP.

Stream / Download The Story Of Rita Faltoyano EP

What’s your “secret sauce?” What makes your sound stand out?

I think that’s maybe old vintage analog synths (Moog, Dave Smith, Studio Electronics…) combined with Ableton producing and some real instruments played (bass, guitar, …).

The EP was inspired by a thrilling backstory. What is the most surreal experience you have had as a musician?

One night, I was opening for Chemical Brothers in Singapore. I was almost at the end of my show when I looked back over my shoulder and the Chemical Brothers were waiting on the side of the stage for my set to end. That was pretty surreal.

Or that night in Rouen, France when a girl came on stage topless while carrying a small box and dancing on stage, as well as offering pills to all the dancers.

Define a successful day in your eyes.

Good food, a sunny day outside, and good ideas that makes you excited to go into the studio and switch on synths.

What made you decide to pursue a musical career?

That wasn’t a choice. That was my life from the beginning – composing and producing music. Music is the key.

This EP has a darker mood than your usual sound. In what ways has your production method evolved while making this EP?

I think this is because I finally found my sound. Maybe the lockdown has helped a little bit. I spent so much time working only on textures and kick sounds. I always tried to find a sound with power and energy, but also a sound that would make me feel warm inside. I think I’m closer to it now.

What would you be doing as a career if you never pursued music?

I don’t know, maybe a dog trainer. Or something that could let me live alone in a cabin in the woods by a lake.

Pros and cons of the industry from your perspective?

I think the industry is still managed by a few guys who open and close doors for artists that they like. I think it would need a little bit more democracy.

What were some of the most influential albums on your creative outlook and output:

Definitely Solaris by Photek, Fast Asleep by Funky Porcini and of course Homework from Daft Punk. And with more recent works, I’ve been influenced by The Code.

What key pieces of gear/software do you use to define your sound?

My Moog Voyager and my Mopho 4 by Dave Smith. These two are always there.

How do you prepare yourself mentally for performing or/and studio sessions?

On stage, I love to sleep 10 minutes before going on stage. In the studio, a pot of coffee and then the day can start!

How has music production changed your outlook on life?

Maybe the fact that you can control everything from the start until the end. And that’s a good lesson because in life it’s never a good idea to control everything. You have to let go, so I try to let go in music too.

Tell us about your upcoming releases or projects

I’m gonna release another EP called System this summer. It’s a track with a singer from London – Tim Moyo. I’m impatient to release it.

And my next album will be out in January 2023.

Listen to The Story of Rita Faltoyano on HOUSE_GROUND.fm