Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Morillo, a producer and drummer whose music weaves electronic, dub, trip-hop, and world music into a unique sonic tapestry. In this exclusive interview, Morillo opens up about his creative process, musical influences, and the fusion of genres that define his signature sound. As he prepares for an electrifying performance at the Fox Theatre in Boulder on Saturday, October 26th, 2024—The Psychedelic Hoedown featuring David Satori of Beats Antique & Dirtwire—Morillo shares insights that will excite both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Join us as we explore the rhythms and emotions that drive his music and get a glimpse of what to expect at this must-see show.
Grateful Web: Your music is described as a fusion of electronic, dub, trip-hop, and world music. What draws you to these genres, and how do you blend them to create your signature sound?
Morillo: My sound as a producer is simply a blend of the musical styles I was drawn to growing up. During my high school and college years, I listened to many different genres, and as I began to create my own music, I drew inspiration from the songs and styles that resonated with me over the years. I’d say the genres that had the biggest impact on me were reggae, dub, and trip-hop, with the electronic element emerging from the tools I had available to create my music, primarily a computer. As a result, my music naturally infused that electronic element.
GW: When composing, do you start with a particular emotion or theme in mind, or does the music guide you organically?
Morillo: I would say that I always have a theme in mind when creating a new song. That theme could be a general genre, tempo, or energy level, or it could be another song I have in mind to draw inspiration from.
GW: Your catalog ranges from dancefloor anthems to vibe-infused tracks for intimate settings. How do you balance these different energies in your performances?
Morillo: I’d say that my live sets lean more toward the dancefloor side of things, as I generally play high-energy events where people come to dance. However, I’m always looking for opportunities to showcase my more vibey “chill” tracks, as they can be a great and exciting way to take the audience on an unexpected and interesting musical journey.
GW: Can you share any insights into your creative process when producing new music?
Morillo: When creating music, I always follow what feels exciting and inspiring to me. I don’t often make music to follow trends or what is popular at the time. Instead, I aim to discover vibes and sounds that I feel haven’t been explored much. I love to combine two unlikely genres to create something new or to find obscure instruments or recordings to incorporate into my tracks.
GW: What messages or feelings do you hope listeners take away from your music?
Morillo: I want to uplift my listeners and create songs that engage both their minds and bodies. My goal is to craft music that not only resonates on an emotional level but also encourages movement and connection. I strive to create an immersive experience that transforms the space in which it’s being played, whether it’s a lively dancefloor or a more intimate setting. By blending captivating melodies with infectious rhythms, I aim to transport my audience, inviting them to fully immerse themselves in the music and the moment.
GW: How do live performances influence your music compared to studio recordings?
Morillo: As a drummer, I often take note of moments during live performances that feel like something I could bring back to my studio as inspiration for new music. Especially when participating in improvisational performances, like with The Psychedelic Hoedown, you never really know what will happen during the show. Often, I find exciting, new, and unexpected musical territories to explore when I return to the studio.
GW: Are there any particular artists or experiences that have significantly influenced your musical journey?
Morillo: I have been incredibly fortunate to be part of some amazing tours and live shows that have inspired me greatly along the way, including performances with RHYE, Groundation, and Childish Gambino. Being on stage so often and witnessing the power of music and its ability to move people all over the world is truly inspiring.
GW: What are you most looking forward to about performing at the Fox Theatre alongside David Satori?
Morillo: I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to share both aspects of my musical offerings on this night. In addition to playing drums with the Hoedown, I will be opening the show with a DJ set where I will showcase a variety of original music and remixes. It’s going to be a great night!
Get your tickets for the show in Boulder: Click here
About Morillo:
Morillo's passion lies in the exploration and creation of a distinctive sonic landscape—a fusion of electronic, dub, trip-hop, and world music. At its core, his sound embodies both rhythm and emotion, weaving a tapestry that resonates deeply with listeners. His catalog spans the spectrum from pulsating dancefloor anthems to introspective, vibe-infused tracks ideal for intimate settings, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in his musical journey.
