After a short break to recharge, Culprit returns with a series of releases from his core group of young producers. The first is the new EP by French/Swiss artist Maxime Laffon, his second for the label. Funky Queen also marks the release of Culprits’ 100th EP since its inception in 2009. Far from simply looking back and taking stock, the revamped Los Angeles label opens a new chapter in its adventures. Laffons Classic House and Electronic Funk are two road-inspired tracks.

We have had the pleasure of interviewing him and this has been the result.

Hi Maxime, great to have the chance to speak with you today. Congratulations on the release of your Funky Queen. How does it feel to be the 100th release on the label?

Being the 100th release on Culprit can be seen as a significant milestone and accomplishment for me as an artist. I feel proud, excited, and validated by reaching such a Milestone.

What makes Culprit such a good fit for your sound?

Culprit’s aesthetic and vibe align with my artistic vision and the overall atmosphere I aim to create with my music. Culprit’s reputation within the music industry is an important factor to consider. Culprit is well-respected, have a strong track record of successful releases, and has built a loyal fan base.

Can you tell us a bit about the creative process behind the two tracks?

My electronic music sound has evolved into a mature and captivating experience, seamlessly blending mental depth and dancefloor allure. With precision and intention, I have crafted a sonic landscape that resonates with both the mind and the body.

Through intricate melodies and pulsating rhythms, my compositions engage the listener on a cerebral level, provoking introspection and evoking a profound emotional response. Each layer of sound intricately weaves together, creating a tapestry of textures that immerse the audience in a thought-provoking journey.

Simultaneously, I have embraced the power of the dancefloor, infusing my music with infectious grooves and driving beats. The rhythmic pulse ignites a primal energy, compelling bodies to surrender to the kinetic flow and immerse themselves in the primal release of movement.

This evolution represents a refined and calculated approach, where the fusion of mental and dancefull elements becomes a symphony of synthesis. The music becomes a conduit, transcending conventional boundaries and transporting the listener to a heightened state of euphoria.

In this new chapter of my sonic exploration, I invite you to experience the convergence of sophistication and allure. Let the captivating allure of my sound envelop you, guiding you through a dynamic landscape where intellect and physicality intertwine in perfect harmony.

What more can we expect from you over the rest of the year?

For years to come, my musical journey will continue to unfold as I produce new tracks across various record labels. This prospect fills me with an exhilarating sense of anticipation, as I embark on a path of exciting innovation and enigmatic creations.

With every new release, my aim is to inject a breath of fresh air into the music industry. I thrive on pushing the boundaries, taking risks, and exploring uncharted sonic territories. Innovation is my compass, guiding me towards unexplored realms where the mysterious and the captivating intertwine.

Each track I produce will be a testament to my insatiable curiosity and artistic vision. I strive to captivate audiences by crafting intricate sonic landscapes that defy conventional norms. Drawing from a vast array of influences and inspirations, I seek to weave together an auditory tapestry that evokes emotions and sparks intrigue.

While the future holds endless possibilities, the touch of mystery remains a constant companion. I embrace the unknown, leaving room for the unexpected to shape my creative process. It is within these enigmatic spaces that true magic is born, inviting listeners to embark on a sonic journey filled with surprises and hidden depths.

As I continue to collaborate with diverse record labels, I relish the opportunity to connect with fellow artists, amplifying our collective creative energy. Each partnership offers a new palette of possibilities, allowing me to infuse my sound with fresh perspectives and collaborative brilliance.

The excitement of producing new tracks on different record labels propels me forward, fueling my passion to leave an indelible mark on the music industry. With every release, I strive to provoke thought, evoke emotions, and transport listeners to a realm where innovation and mystery intertwine.

In the years to come, I remain committed to pushing the boundaries of sound, consistently delivering innovative and captivating compositions. With a touch of mystery, I invite audiences to join me on this thrilling musical odyssey, where uncharted territories are illuminated, and the sonic landscape is forever transformed.

How has your sound evolved so far?

From my humble beginnings in the realm of tech house, my sound has undergone a remarkable evolution, embarking on a journey that has led me to the joyous realms of disco house. This transformation has infused my music with an infectious happiness and a funky groove that gets the dancefloor moving and spirits soaring.

As I delved into the depths of electronic music, I discovered a newfound love for the vibrant and uplifting energy of disco-infused sounds. The infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and buoyant basslines captured my imagination and ignited a fire within me. It was a musical revelation that propelled me to explore this exuberant genre and let my creative spirit soar.

With each composition, I sought to infuse my tracks with an undeniable sense of happiness. The pulsating beats and lively percussion intertwine with shimmering synths, creating a vibrant sonic tapestry that invites smiles, toe-tapping, and unbridled joy. It’s a celebration of life, an invitation to let loose and surrender to the groove.

Funky elements became the lifeblood of my sound, infusing it with a playful charm and a groove that is simply irresistible. The infectious basslines and captivating melodies interplay with soulful vocal samples and shimmering disco-infused instrumentation. It’s a fusion of past and present, bridging the gap between nostalgia and contemporary production techniques.

This evolution in my sound has been an exhilarating journey, one that has allowed me to explore new creative horizons, infuse my tracks with happiness, and embrace the irresistible allure of funky disco house. It’s a sonic transformation that has brought smiles to faces, happiness to hearts, and an undeniable desire to dance to every beat.

As I continue to evolve and explore the endless possibilities of music, I am excited to push the boundaries further, crafting melodies that are even more infectious, basslines that are even more groovy, and delivering a sound that resonates deeply with the souls of those who listen. With each new track, I aim to spread the joy and happiness that defines my journey in disco house, leaving a trail of smiles and funky footprints on dancefloors around the world.

Let’s jump into the studio, what is your most used piece of equipment, be hardware or plug-in?

In the heart of my studio, amidst the creative chaos, stands my most cherished piece of equipment—an embodiment of sonic exploration and endless possibilities. This prized possession is none other than my trusty Mac, serving as the pulsating core of my electronic music production.

Powered by the versatility of Ableton, my digital playground comes alive. With an extensive collection of samples at my fingertips, I effortlessly summon a kaleidoscope of sounds, weaving them into intricate tapestries of sonic bliss. The Mac becomes a gateway to a realm where imagination meets technology, allowing me to shape and mold every sonic element with precision and finesse.

As I venture deeper into the sonic realm, my arsenal expands with a plethora of VST effects. These virtual marvels add layers of depth, texture, and movement to my compositions. From lush reverbs to mind-bending modulation, each plugin becomes a brushstroke in the sonic masterpiece I’m crafting.

But amidst the digital marvels, a touch of vintage allure beckons. Enter the Roland SH-101, an iconic piece of hardware that exudes warmth and character. With its unmistakable analog charm, it breathes life into my productions, adding an organic and nostalgic essence that transcends time.

The harmonious marriage of the digital and analog realms fuels my creative fire. It’s a symbiotic relationship, where modern technology and vintage charm intertwine, giving birth to sonic landscapes that evoke both familiarity and innovation.

What are your most played artists in your DJ sets?

In my DJ sets, I gravitate towards a selection of exceptional artists who define the genre. Laurent Garnier, Purple Disco Machine, Martin Buttrich, Etienne de Crecy, Steeve Bug, Kaiserdisco, and others in the same vein dominate my playlists. Each artist brings a unique flavor, from Garnier’s pioneering spirit to Purple Disco Machine’s infectious disco-infused house and Buttrich’s intricate soundscapes. With their tracks, I create dancefloor experiences, immersing listeners in a sonic journey that transcends boundaries and captivates the soul.

What mark would you like to leave on the music industry?

As an electro artist, my mark in the music industry would be defined by a harmonious blend of humility, creativity, and pushing boundaries. With humility as my guiding principle, I would approach my craft with a deep sense of respect for the art form, fellow artists, and the audience.

Creativity would be the driving force behind my musical endeavors. I would constantly seek innovative ways to craft mesmerizing soundscapes, experiment with unconventional techniques, and fuse diverse genres to create a unique sonic signature that defies categorization. My aim would be to surprise and captivate listeners, offering them a fresh and thought-provoking musical experience.

Pushing boundaries would be at the core of my artistic expression. I would challenge the status quo, daring to explore uncharted territories and embrace the unknown. By fearlessly breaking through artistic limitations, I would strive to inspire others and expand the horizons of electronic music. Through collaborations, interdisciplinary projects, and sonic experiments, I would redefine the possibilities of the genre, pushing it beyond its perceived limits.

Yet, throughout this journey, I would remain grounded in humility, acknowledging the vastness of the musical landscape and the contributions of those who came before me. I would celebrate the richness and diversity of the music industry, recognizing that my mark is just a small part of a larger tapestry. I would approach every opportunity and interaction with gratitude, valuing the power of connection and the collective spirit that fuels the industry.”