56 WILL SPARKS

56 WILL SPARKS
UP 2

Style:
EDM
Best known for:
“Melbourne sound.”
Tune of the year:
“David Guetta ‘Let’s Love (Future Rave Remix)’.”
Rising star DJ/producer of 2021: “Shortround.”
Like so many people in the electronic music industry, for Will Sparks, lockdown offered a rare opportunity to reflect, recharge and put things into perspective. The result is a re-energised return to the touring circuit, ensuring first-class performances that offer more than adequate payback to his famously loyal fanbase after spending more than a year apart.
Of course, his revered studio work helped keep audiences connected when the world closed its doors and society shuttered itself as the pandemic took hold. Tracks such as ‘Stand By Me’ and ‘My Company’ are rightly considered some of his finest work to date, tangible signs of how much he has developed as an artist in lockdown, building on a highly impressive back catalogue of tracks that had already cemented his reputation as a leading light of the Melbourne bounce and global electro-house scene. What happens next remains to be seen, but it would be nothing short of an understatement to say we expect huge things from the man in question.
How was your first gig back after lockdown? 
“About 30 people sitting down, so pretty average. The larger-scale ones since have been a dream.”
How have the last 18 months changed how you view your work/life balance? 
“I didn’t realise how important it was to slow down. I’ve appreciated every day being able to recharge and focus on bettering myself as a person and in music.”
What further steps should the industry take to combat climate change? 
“Promote and spread awareness.”
What’s the best bit of tech you’ve added to your studio or DJ setup this year? 
“Moog Subsequent37.”
What’s the best album you’ve heard this year? 
“Masked Wolf is a great artist coming out of Australia, including his producer Tyron Hapi.”