French electronic producer, Tanguy Destable also known as TEPR, has had quite a brilliant career. After being picked up by the likes of talented musicians, Yelle and Woodkid, the Morlaix native would eventually garner worldwide recognition, accompanying the latter on stage and in the studio.
Fast forward several years – TEPR has already made quite a name for himself, releasing a number of works on Wall of Sound, Idwet, and even Yuksek’s own Partyfine label.
FS: Good afternoon, all. Today, we’ve got a special treat lined up for you – an interview with Partyfine’s TEPR. Check out the full transcript below:
So, what exactly drove you to create electronic music in the first place?
T: The idea of controlling every aspect of creation, from writing to mixing to producing. I grew up in a small-town of Brittany in the 90s and it was hard to find band members to make music, so I decided to buy a sampler and synth to replace the drummer and bass player. I couldn’t find and do it all by myself.
FS: So, it seems that you’re quite independent as an artist then. You must have quite a few inspirations though. Were there any influences from other musicians that made you into the artist you are today?
T: The English electronica and club scene had a huge influence on me, as well as US Hip-Hop. The Warp/Ninja Tune/Wall of Sound artists from the 1996-2000 era were the very first influences that made me buy a sampler and computer, which eventually led to make starting to make music.
FS: Very interesting to see who influenced you back then. Let’s fast forward a bit – last year, you joined French label, Partyfine, and released your Hypnotease EP to critical acclaim. What’s it like working with the Partyfine guys?
T: It’s super easy! Pierre (Yuksek) is a really edgy curator and is super involved in the choice of tracklist for every EP out on the label, but he also trusts the artists to add their own ‘flavor’ to the labels roster.
FS: Wow, that’s exciting to hear. More often than not, producers are restricted in what they release, due to label constraints. So, it’s pretty powerful that Yuksek gives you that trust and control. Moving into present-day, anything new on the horizon, regarding music?
T: Yes, I’m about to release a remix of M83’s Do It, Try It, and my next single is ready and will be released this summer. My album is also 99% done and will be out this fall!
FS: Ah fantastic, we’re looking forward to what you have in store for us this year. We’ll make sure to keep our eyes peeled. Speaking of your remixes, which one is your favorite, thus far?
T: I love my Benjamin Biolay – Sous le lac gelé remix from 2013. Benjamin is a super edgy and talented French songwriter and I’m super honored that he accepted and released my remix! I’m also enjoying playing that M83 remix lately.
FS: What a first-rate release. That, alongside your remix of Yelle’s À Cause Des Garçons, is our favorite. So, we’re going to dig a bit deeper for these next few questions. What’s your opinion on the music streaming industry?
T: I think it’s now the most logical and obvious way to listen to/purchase music. For many years, I found the idea of buying a MP3 and storing it on a computer a bit odd and obsolete. The streaming platforms are more like your own personal radio, and I like this idea. Personally, I never really made any money from music sales, so I’m not going apeshit about the industry falling part etc. People still want new music and that’s a good thing.
FS: Quite an interesting way to think about it. What about physical music releases? Do you ever think the Vinyl or CD will be rendered obsolete?
T: A label manager once told me the other day that in France, when it’s about an artist’s album, CDs still represent about 70% of the sales. So, I guess CDs will keep on existing for a decade, even though I’m not sure a lot of 20 year olds own CD players these days. And about vinyl – I heard it’s going pretty great in terms of sales.
FS: A pleasant take on the subject matter there – it will be intriguing to see how the future unfolds. Last question, but certainly not least – you’re at a DJ set and you can only play THREE tracks to last about an hour. What tracks would you use to captivate the crowd for this long?
T: Tough one. I would say Boards of Canada – Amo Bishop Roden for the intro, Depeche Mode – Shake the Disease and Eric Prydz – Rymd for the outro 🙂 .
FS: Some fantastic choices – you can definitely tell how your musical influences have evolved overtime. Well again, thank you TEPR for taking the time to chat with us. Until next time!
To our readers – check out TEPR’s social haunts below and listen in on his latest Partyfine release, Half Below: