AFFKT: The evolution of music is always connected to the evolution of the technology and techniques we use to produce it.

As the year comes to a close, AFFKT unveils his latest creative journey with the release of Mystery Box EP on his renowned label, Sincopat. Known for pushing boundaries and embracing the unconventional, AFFKT continues to captivate listeners with his signature blend of innovative soundscapes and emotional depth. This EP, inspired by the curiosity and wonder of a childhood fascination, promises to surprise and resonate with its unique storytelling and vibrant energy. Dive into the mystery and experience AFFKT\’s ever-evolving artistry as he reflects on his journey and offers a glimpse of what’s to come for Sincopat.

Since when are you closing the year with a new release on your own Sincopat label? Always a very special one, right? 

A few years ago, it all started naturally, and over time it became a wonderful habit. I’m not sure if it’s the most special, but with Sincopat, I usually release music that feels like it truly belongs to my label, often my most unique and unconventional tracks. This new release, Mystery Box EP, is without a doubt one of the most exciting and vibrant projects I’ve released on Sincopat so far.

What stories or ideas are behind this \’Mystery Box\’ EP? How did the concept come about?

When I was a child, I felt a kind of fascination with those mystery boxes where you never knew what you were going to get. The name of this EP comes directly from that idea, I want people to listen to it and feel surprised, to experience it as a fresh release, and to find music that doesn’t leave them indifferent.

I think this EP reflects a lot of the motivation and vibe I had back when I first started making music. It’s like revisiting who I was at that time and imagining what I would have created with the knowledge and experience I have now.

Listening to the three tracks, how was the process of deciding and merging these styles? Who have been your collaborators on this project? What did you look at when collaborating? We are looking forward to hearing more from Monaly!

The truth is, each of the songs that make up the EP wasn’t intentionally created to connect as a whole, it all came together almost like magic. Even though the tracks are very different from one another, I felt they connected in a truly special way. The process of blending and creating these songs, as I mentioned, came very naturally.

When I collaborate with someone, my main goal is to enjoy the creative process and, of course, to achieve a result we can both be proud of.
It’s been a pleasure collaborating with Monaly, an MC and lyricist of Congo-Canary origin based in Madrid. He has an incredible versatility and the ability to adapt to any rhythm while maintaining his authentic essence.

It\’s been a few years of a successful artistic career and music dig… What elements from your own musical background do you feel are making the strongest mark right now in your sets and productions? 

That’s a very good question. Over the years, I’ve learned many techniques while producing different styles, which have undoubtedly shaped who I am today.
I imagine those early years of producing music defined me then and continue to influence me now. They were years of dedicating a lot of time to exploring and discovering what I truly liked, this EP reflects a lot of that freedom, creating beyond styles and labels.

As for my sets, I feel increasingly open to different kinds of music. I aim to blend and connect sounds with the sole purpose of telling a story that moves you and doesn’t leave you indifferent.

How can sounds from the past keep your style fresh and innovative?

I believe innovation lies in fusion. While we often think the music, we listen to is new, the truth is that much of it (especially the most commercial) is often a reimagining of something that already exists.

The evolution of music is always connected to the evolution of the technology and techniques we use to produce it. However, to create with intention and authenticity, we must first understand and absorb the past.

Tell us about some specific routines or techniques that help you get into the creative flow? 

Over time, I’ve developed work routines that help me create more effectively and with better results. For example, I love working on my music early in the morning when there are fewer distractions. Lately, at the moment I also start my productions sessions listening a lot of different music or even watching interesting music tutorials that can offer new insights.

The truth is, I have many different routines. One I’ve mentioned before is starting a track from the end while simultaneously working towards both the beginning and the middle.

I also like to export the track once it has a structure, or even just a rough structure, and then work on the arrangements within that audio. Not being able to make changes, only adding new elements, is an interesting challenge that, for me, always brings valuable reflections. Honestly, I have so many personal routines, I might have to write a book one day, haha.

Looking ahead, 2025: Can you share anything about the upcoming releases on Sincopat, and what they represent for the label? 

After the first release of 2025, we’ll have the remixes of the Mystery Box EP, featuring fantastic reworks by Mila Jouerneé, Deomid, and Fel C. I can’t reveal too much about what’s coming next, but there will be some very special releases, including the return of Darlyn Vlys to the label, along with other exciting surprises.

Sincopat is constantly evolving, and next year we’ll be celebrating 15 years as a record label. We’re even more motivated than ever to keep releasing music, so stay tuned for what’s coming!

What new artists are grabbing your attention right now and why?

At Sincopat, we’re collaborating with several new artists, like Fel C, originally from Brazil, who brings a blend of influences and incredible potential. You’ll be able to enjoy his EP next year. We also have SLP, one of the winners of the remix contest we held this year. He’s definitely creating very special music that avoids clichés, which is something I truly appreciate.

From France, we have another exciting new artist, Lucye, who will be releasing on Sincopat early next year. She’s also making fantastic music.

By the way, how did you experience the catastrophe that occurred a few weeks ago in your region, Valencia? There is still a lot to be done, isn\’t it?

What happened in Valencia has been a true catastrophe, so many lives lost, and so many people who have lost everything. It will take years to recover, we don’t know how long, but for more than a month, the city has been in a spiral of chaos and sadness. Many family members, colleagues, and friends have been deeply affected by the tragedy.

What’s worse is that much of the widespread destruction and loss of life could have been avoided if it weren’t for the incompetence of those in power. By the way, if you’d like to support us, Sincopat has released a remix I did for the band GusGus, and all the proceeds will go towards helping with the recovery from this catastrophe. You can get it here:

Anything else you\’d like to add?

Not much more to say, just invite everyone to listen to my new EP Mystery Box with their ears wide open 🙂