From his roots as a rock musician in France and Spain to becoming a trailblazer in the electronic music scene, Pier Mood has always embraced evolution. With a style that fuses atmospheric textures and driving rhythms, he has carved out a unique space in electronic music. As the founder of Mood Nation, a label and creative movement, Pier Mood is dedicated to pushing artistic boundaries while staying deeply connected to his emotional core.
With his latest release, “Let It Ride”, Pier Mood explores contrasts and emotions, creating tracks that resonate both on and off the dance floor. In this interview, he reflects on his journey, the challenges of balancing innovation with audience connection, and his aspirations for the future.
Your beginnings in music were as a rock musician in France and Spain. How did that stage influence your transition to the world of electronic music and the formation of your identity as a DJ and producer?
Pier Mood: My time as a rock musician was foundational in shaping my artistic identity. It taught me the importance of emotion in music, as well as the raw energy of live performance. Those experiences translated seamlessly into electronic music, where I could explore a broader palette of sounds. I took the intensity and dynamism of rock and channeled it into the textures and rhythms of electronic music. This fusion became the cornerstone of my identity as a DJ and producer.
What inspired the themes and sound design of your latest release, “Let It Ride”?
Pier Mood: Let It Ride was inspired by the duality of motion and stillness—how life can feel like a constant journey while also offering moments of reflection. The sound design mirrors this theme with lush, atmospheric layers that evoke introspection, juxtaposed with driving, energetic beats that push forward. It’s a celebration of contrasts, designed to resonate both on the dance floor and during personal moments of solitude.
Your EP combines atmospheric elements with rhythmic energy. Could you describe your creative process for crafting such dynamic tracks?
Pier Mood: My creative process starts with a concept or emotion I want to convey. I often begin with atmospheric pads or textures to set the mood, then build the rhythm section to add energy and drive. I experiment with blending organic sounds, like percussions, with synthetic ones to create a rich, multidimensional sound. The final step is refining the arrangement to ensure the track evolves and maintains the listener’s engagement.
As an artist navigating the electronic music scene, what challenges have you faced in balancing artistic vision and audience expectations?
Pier Mood: One of the biggest challenges is staying true to my artistic vision while also creating music that resonates with audiences. It’s easy to feel pressured to follow trends, but I believe authenticity always wins in the long run. I focus on creating music that feels genuine to me while keeping an ear on what connects with listeners. Striking this balance requires constant self-reflection and a deep understanding of my audience.
What are your aspirations for Mood Nation in the coming years?
Pier Mood: Mood Nation aims to grow as both a label and a creative movement. I envision it as a platform that pushes boundaries, showcasing innovative music and providing a space for emerging talent to shine. In the coming years, I plan to expand our reach with global events, interdisciplinary collaborations, and a stronger emphasis on sustainability. The goal is to create a legacy where Mood Nation stands as a beacon for creativity and conscious music-making.
How do you approach blending innovation with familiarity in your music?
Pier Mood: For me, it’s about finding the balance between experimenting with new sounds and maintaining elements that listeners can connect with. I often start with a familiar structure or motif, then introduce unconventional elements to challenge the listener’s expectations. It’s like taking them on a journey—they may recognize the path, but the sights along the way are entirely new. This approach keeps my music grounded yet fresh.
“Let It Ride” marks a new chapter in your career. What do you think sets it apart from your previous work?
Pier Mood: This EP represents a deeper dive into exploring contrasts and pushing my creative boundaries. While my previous work laid the foundation, Let It Ride feels like a culmination of everything I’ve learned so far, coupled with a willingness to take risks. There’s a tangible evolution in the sound, from more intricate arrangements to bolder production choices. It’s a statement of where I am now as an artist and a glimpse of where I’m headed.
