Advocate of a groovy and powerful sound, ALNA has become known for her unique approach to music, pushing boundaries and delivering outstanding performances. With recent releases on Nodding Heads, Kneaded Pains and her own imprint OUT OF CTRL, ALNA constantly delivers solid productions that prove her authenticity. Her OUT OF CTRL imprint is a platform for authentic dance music, supporting remarkable DJs/producers and promoting events in the UK capital.
LISTEN TO THE PREMIERE HERE:
’90 Seconds’ delves deeper, incorporating a pulsating bassline, crisp claps, and intense vocals to elevate the track’s energy, exploring musical diversity with a punk-like edge. With its peak-time vibe, ’90 Seconds’ delivers an immersive experience with its trippy synth arrangements and relentless groove.
Closing the EP, ‘Virtual Reality’ which we are about to premiere, unfolds with a commanding bassline, looping drums, and a weighty kick, continuously evolving into a high-speed, hypnotic journey. Volster’s remix transports listeners to psychedelic realms with ethereal, otherworldly soundscapes and fragmented rhythms. The fusion of heavy bass and ethereal synths infuses the remix with cosmic energy, creating an infectious, driving groove that transports listeners to a sweaty dancefloor, where worries dissolve into the underground sound.
Hey, Alina! It’s great to have you here! Could you please tell us more about yourself and your journey in the industry?
Thank you, Keyi Magazine, for hosting me. Originally from Turin, Italy, my journey with music began at the age of 12 under the guidance of a vocal coach, a relationship that spanned over 6 years. Throughout my formative years, I performed with various bands and for a theatre company. Upon entering university, I established Zen It, my first venture into organising electronic music events. I then relocated to London to pursue my sound design studies, which led me to immerse myself in the UK’s house and techno scene. I naturally began composing music suited for the dance floor. Over time, my production style evolved, culminating in a sense of maturity through my techno compositions.
In 2018, I launched and promoted my inaugural techno parties in London under the name of Hypnosis. Following the challenges posed by the pandemic, I rebranded and established OUT OF CTRL in 2022 — a London-based record label and event series dedicated to pushing the boundaries of electronic music.
We’re excited to explore your newest EP. Could you share some insights into the creation process behind the track ‘Virtual Reality’? What does it hold for you, and what inspired the concept behind it?
I composed ‘Virtual Reality’ last autumn during a burst of inspiration. I found myself deeply motivated and spent all weekend in the studio. I like it when I am in a creative flow and get ideas down quickly. I used Rozer, a Max-built Step Sequencer, to lay down the foundation. Recording the synths, I then proceeded to construct the entire track around this initial framework. It was an ‘all in the box’ process.
Volster’s remix takes this journey even further, transporting listeners to psychedelic realms with ethereal, otherworldly soundscapes and fragmented rhythms that defy conventional boundaries. Could you tell us more about the collaboration?
I’m a huge admirer of Volster’s work, particularly his ‘Expositions’ tracks. Last year, I got obsessed with his music and decided to reach out to him. Fortunately, I received a positive response. Despite never meeting face-to-face, I’m excited about the prospect of collaborating with Volster. In fact, I’m already planning to invite him to perform at my upcoming OUT OF CTRL parties in the near future.
If you could tell us about your daily workflow, how do you usually get inspired and connect with music?
Lately, I’ve been feeling very inspired, especially since I’ve started incorporating vocals into my productions. This new dimension adds an exciting layer to my creative process. I consider myself fortunate to have a home studio readily accessible whenever inspiration strikes. I make it a point to spend dedicated time in the studio every week, nurturing my productions.
My studio is equipped with an Elektron Analog Rytm, TR8S, Electribe EMX1, a Behringer Model D, and a Behringer TD-3-AM. When it comes to my workflow, it varies. Sometimes, I’ll record an idea and then dive into arranging, editing, and mixing down in Ableton. Other times, I’ll explore samples that catch my ear or record my vocals, using them as the foundation of my track. This flexibility keeps my creative process dynamic and constantly evolving.
If you could tell us your ten favorite tracks from this year so far? What would it be?
Volster – Exposition D
Kǔetzal – Rhythm Performer
Funk Assault – That’s The Funk Assault
Nailbiter – Cut The Mid Range
ANNĒ – Heal My Soul
Colin Benders – Siren
Louwave & Splinter (UA) – Baby, Let’s Vibe
Billie Eilish – What Was I Made For
Aurora – Churchyard
Sophie – It’s Ok To Cry
(not all from this year, sorry 🙂
What are your further plans for this year ?
This year, I have two solo EPs scheduled for release, along with a collaboration EP with küetzal, the founder of Sticky Ground. Additionally, I’ll be playing at several parties both in London and abroad, including my own OUT OF CTRL label party on June 15th, featuring Bas Mooy, Rebecca Delle Piane, and küetzal. Furthermore, I’m currently working on a live set, so I’m hopeful to showcase it in a live performance very soon!
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