RIOT – In Case of Fire

By starrymag | December 21, 2022

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) Tell us the themes you explore on your latest EP, In Case of Fire.

 

A) This EP was our first step toward a new sound, that’s heavily influenced by Hip Hop and orchestral music. Together with heavy bass music, it makes for something we personally think is quite unique and interesting and can’t wait to keep exploring.

 

Q) What track off the EP holds a special significance to you and what makes it so personal?

 

A) They all do in one way or another, but I’d have to go with “Sharp Shooter.” It was quite an exciting challenge to stray away from the more aggressive, big energy drops we write typically and rely more on groove and feel as the driving force of the record.

 

Q) You’ve just reached your monumental 10th anniversary as a group. Please share one of your favorite recording stories from over the years.

 

A) While working on “Aiwa” we decided to record our own vocals in the studio for the intro and the outro! It was hands down one of the funniest studio sessions we ever had!

 

Q) For those just starting out in the music industry, what advice would you give that might help to lead to a similar accomplishment?

 

A) Do it for the right reasons. Rather in the music industry or in any other profession, you wouldn’t find happiness and longevity if you’re not doing it for the right reasons. Whatever it may be, do something that you have the utmost passion for because the end of the day, that will help you not only to feel happy but also keep you going through hardships.

 

Q) “Sharp Shooter” from the In Case of Fire EP is sonically different from its accompanying tracks, “Shank” and “Back Twista.” How did you find the inspiration to create such thematically similar songs that differ sonically?

 

A) As I mentioned in the second question, the goal was to produce a groove-driven track but still keep it loyal to the sonic characteristics of “Shank” and “Back Twista.” It was quite a challenge, but I think they work well together.

 

Q) In Case of Fire strays away from your typical sound while still honoring your genre-bending roots. What inspired you to take your music in a different direction?

 

A) During COVID we hit a point where we felt exhausted creatively. We felt that something needed to change. We went on a quest to explore new avenues and sounds. We owed it to ourselves and to our fans. Something about the hybrid of Hip-Hop and Dubstep just felt right. That’s how this EP was born. It’s groovy and fun for us both to produce and listen to. It’s different from anything we put out before!

 

Q) You play a heavy role in the writing, production, mixing, and mastering of your music. What is your favorite part of creating a song or melody?

 

A) The best moment of working on every track is when the initial idea suddenly becomes a record. It’s always the same, it happens out of nowhere and it never fails to excite me.

 

Q) You’re active on social media. What kind of fan feedback have you been receiving on the new release so far?

 

A) Overall, it’s been amazing honestly! We did notice that unfortunately, we disappointed a few fans with this new direction, but you can’t make everyone happy and that’s alright! We were very happy to witness how open-minded and supportive the majority of our fans are for this new era of RIOT.

 

Q) Who would you like to collaborate with most with a future song or record?

 

A) Skrillex, Noisia, Feed Me, Nero, Koan Sound, Knife Party

 

Q) How do you typically shake off a long day in the studio?

 

A) It can be gaming, watching TV or a movie or reading a book.

 

Q) What do you think it is about your music that has resonated so deeply with fans over the past decade?

 

A) We strive to make music that takes you on a journey from start to finish. We believe that our production and the structure of our records are outside the box whatever genre it may be. We think people notice that and appreciate that very much so.