KTRL, a duo of EDM artists based out of New Orleans, kicked BUKU Music + Art Project off with a rainy, yet rowdy, Back Alley performance on March 11.
Formed in 2013, the duo is composed of Chicago producer Adam Kishanov and New Orleans native Wesley Strain.
This was the group’s first performance at BUKU.
The Daily Reveille: How do you try to set yourselves apart from other producers in your genre?
Adam Kishanov: The genre we’re doing is a bass house type thing and that’s currently taking off right now. We just try to be a little bit different by using sounds other people aren’t using. We try to switch it up.
TDR: When did you first develop an interest in electronic music? When did you first start working together?
AK: We went to college in St. Louis. I’m from Chicago and he’s from New Orleans so we kind of met in the middle. We started producing in late 2013 and we took off from there.
TDR: What can you tell me about the EP you’re working on right now?
AK: The EP’s going to be four tracks. It’ll be released on Buygore, Borgore’s record label. It’s going to be a mix of bass house, trap and dubstep. We’ll mix it up a bit.
Wesley Strain: It’s going to be pretty short. It’ll be our first official big release besides singles, so it’ll preview some of the work we’ll do later. It’ll be dropping late summer or early August.
TDR: What’s the most memorable performance you’ve ever had?
AK: Today, no doubt. This was our first major festival. Earlier this year we opened up for Carnage at a sold out show at Republic. It was about 1600 people.
TDR: What artists have had the biggest influence on your style?
AK: Dr. Fresch for sure. He’s like the godfather of house even though he’s so young. He’s definitely been a big influence.
WS: I’ve really been following AutoErotique lately. I’ve listened to all of his tunes. His last EP was incredible.
TDR: Do you have any upcoming performances?
AK: We’re actually booking a tour with our friend Space Race right now. We released a track with them late last year called “Mischief.” That tour will start in late April and extend until early June.
TDR: What festival or event would you most like to perform at?
WS: Honestly, I want to be able to play EDC Vegas one day. That’s my goal.
AK: I’m looking to play at Electric Forest. I’m trying to bring my mom out on stage one day.
WS: That’s what I’m saying, man. I want to get my parents at a show.
TDR: Are you going to be sticking around for the rest of Buku? What sets are you looking forward to?
AK: Feed Me. No doubt. Future and Fetty Wap, as well.