GUTI Interview: "In hard times, your passion is the only thing you've got"

Argentina’s classically trained GUTI was once in a nationally adored rock band. But by the time 2006 came round he decided it was time to swap the hooks and riffs for something a little more down-tempo. 

Post-2006, you’ll find this South American son behind the decks melding sonic sounds right before your very eyes. He doesn’t source music, he creates it; out of the club or in the club – it’s all the same to GUTI. His perfectly structured house-tunes are lightly laced in the sounds of his heritage while hypnotic jazz inflexions weave in and out. Debut album Patio de Juegos, out on Desolat in March, is a tightly constructed opus of sun-soaked synths and summer high-hats.

Berlin based GUTI speaks to Jasmine Phull about his homeland, playing live and the 14 aural nuggets that came direct from the heart.

Did you have to experience ‘struggle’ to get to where you are today? Is that an important factor in making a ‘great’ artist?

Every story is different, you know? But yes I did, and I think it does help make an artist. In hard times your passion is the only thing you’ve got and it keeps you alive.

Explain how you source your tracks that you play?

I make them! I just play my songs, as I’m a live artist…

Prior to 2006 you were in Argentinean rock bands. Can you draw any parallels between the music you created then to the techno music you are involved in now?

For me it is just music, it is all the same and all part of the same journey. Maybe in some years I will be in a band again or write music for movies.

What’s the most expensive thing you ever bid on eBay?

I have never done that! I’m a bit old school in that respect. I like to touch things before getting them, so I love to go to the shops and spend time there first!

Is there something in the music industry now that didn’t used to be there?

Everything changes and it’s part of life. I must say the whole digital aspect has changed everything. You can make a track so quickly, and the control of the quality is missing a bit but this also gives kids the opportunity to show their art. It has completely changed the rules and I truly believe that there are no bad changes only good changes.

One track that makes you feel elated? Why did you choose that particular song?

Sin Luna - Daniel Melingo. I love that song, it just touches me every time. He is so talented and a good friend.

What’s coming up next for GUTI?

My album debut Patio de Juegos on Desolat is coming out in March, and I’m super happy about that! It is a big thing and the most important project for this year. The label has been so good to me, giving me total freedom on the music, artwork, and concept. It is nice to know they trust me as an artist. They are 14 songs made from my heart; some to listen to on the couch, some for the clubs, but every one has a story behind it.

One great - recently deceased - artist?

Mercedes Sosa. So sad. She was the voice of my country and an extraordinary artist. R.I.P

What should the crowd expect from your My Bloody Valentine’s gig on 12 Feb? Describe your live set.

I will play some songs from my upcoming album, plus new things and new versions of songs that people know. I’m sure it will have a great energy. See you there!

Interview by: Jasmine Phull

twitter.com/j-fool

Patio de Juegos features all new productions from Guti, plus collaborations with Guy Gerber, Grünbox, Ryan Crosson and Anthea Marie Nzekwu. 

Tracklist

01. Una Tarde Con Pedro

02. Patio de Juegos

03. My Whole Thing feat. Anthea Marie Nzekwu

04. We Shall Overcome feat. Guy Gerber

05. No Promises feat. Ryan Crosson

06. Miraloo feat. Grünbox

07. Lucio el Anarquista feat. Daniel Melingo

08. Shame

09. Ohsu

10. Wanna Be

11. Sun

12. All the Girls

13. Still Here

14. Al Viento

15. Como No Fuimos feat. Fosky (Digital Bonus)

Patio de Juegos will be released on Desolat on March 21st, 2011.

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