Transience Explored: An In-Depth Interview with DARKSIDE

In a realm where art and music take many forms, the duo DARKSIDE has resurfaced with fervor, challenging traditional music paradigms. Their latest album, Nothing, is not just a collection of tracks; it’s an encapsulation of artistic evolution and profound creativity born out of unexpected collaborations. This engaging exploration of transience through music marks a pivotal moment not only for the band but also for their listeners, as they navigate through a sonic journey filled with rich textures and moments of deep contemplation.

Their journey, from a chance jam session in a hotel room to the triumphant release of an album that refuses to adhere to convention, reflects both the power of spontaneity in artistic expression and the lessons learned from the passage of time. Joining us in this exploration are the members of DARKSIDE—Nicolás Jaar, Dave Harrington, and newcomer Tlacael Esparza—who delve into the ideas behind their creative process, the philosophy of ‘nothingness,’ and what the future holds for their collective vision.

The Unexpected Formation of DARKSIDE

The story of DARKSIDE started in 2011, quite serendipitously, when Nicolás Jaar and bass player Dave Harrington found themselves tinkering with instruments in a Berlin hotel room during a tour. This unplanned creative session sparked the beginning of something remarkable. Initially, they released an EP followed by a remix of Daft Punk’s album, paving the way for their iconic debut record, Psychic. The album quickly garnered a cult following, blending elements of kosmische music with electronic sounds, guitar licks, and immersive atmospheres.

A defining moment came in August 2014 when Jaar and Harrington announced a break, remarking on the need for separate creative spaces. This hiatus stretched on for six years, during which Psychic became a time capsule, symbolizing a fleeting cultural moment when the merging of guitar sounds with genres such as house and R&B felt revolutionary. Though they seemed to fade from the collective consciousness, the essence of DARKSIDE remained dormant, waiting for the right moment to be revived.

The Reunion and Creative Resurgence

In late 2020, after years of silence, DARKSIDE made a stunning return with plans for a new album, Spiral, and a series of live performances. It became evident during those shows that they had evolved beyond their original sound. The meticulous studio production that once defined them was replaced with an explosive energy that transformed their music into immersive experiences. This shift signaled a new era for the band, marking their transition from a duo to a trio with the addition of drummer Tlacael Esparza.

Esparza’s unique background as a pure mathematics major opened up new avenues for musical exploration. His innovative technology, Sensory Percussion, allowed for complex layering of sounds, revolutionizing their live performances and paving the way for their studio sessions. The trio discovered a synergy that revitalized the essence of DARKSIDE, culminating in the compositions that would later form Nothing.

The Philosophy of ‘Nothingness’

DARKSIDE’s upcoming album, Nothing, encapsulates the philosophical framework they developed during their studio sessions in France. The team dubbed their spontaneous creative approach ‘The Nothing Jam,’ where the focus shifted from trying to create something substantial to embracing the concept of potential and void—essentially allowing nothing to manifest into an expression of their collective consciousness.

Jaar elaborates on this idea: “It’s about letting things be, and understanding that within ‘nothing’, there’s an endless opportunity for creativity. We were not forcing a specific direction; instead, we were exploring the space around us, which led to thrilling results.” This organic approach appears to resonate in their latest tracks, showcasing a dynamic range of emotions that play with contrasts, from raw energy to introspective moments.

Exploring the Evolution of Their Sound

The evolution of DARKSIDE’s musical identity plays a significant role in understanding their new album. Each member brings a unique background that influences their sound. Harrington’s roots as a jazz musician, coupled with his love for jam bands, add layers and textures reminiscent of spontaneousness in their compositions. His philosophy embraces the idea of musical journeys that unfold organically, mirroring the live experiences of their performances.

Jaar’s commitment to sampling and looping further enhances this approach. During his early endeavors, he focused on creating live art through his performances, which paved the way for innovative soundscapes that are challenging conventional structures. This amalgamation of styles allows DARKSIDE to paint expansive sonic landscapes, compelling the listener on a visceral journey.

The Tracks That Define Nothing

With the release of Nothing on February 28, 2025, listeners will encounter a diverse collection of tracks that veer from the energetic pulse of ‘SNC’ to the reflective waves of ‘Are You Tired? (Keep on Singing)’. These selections highlight DARKSIDE’s newfound vigor and embrace of eclectic genres. The album traverse’s various styles, from dance punk to ambient Americana, showcasing each member’s unique talents.

‘Slau’, the album’s opening track, sets the tone with a distinct blend of rhythms and sounds, transitioning into an exciting auditory experience that emphasizes the band’s growth. Meanwhile, ‘Graucha Max’ jolts the listener with its pulsating urgency, before unraveling into a mesmerizing chaos that tests the boundaries of their sound.

The Conceptualization Behind the Tracks

Each track on Nothing carries a story and an intention, revealing the deeper meaning behind their creative process. For instance, ‘Hell Suite (Part II)’ juxtaposes euphoric instrumental sections with dark lyrics, creating a striking dichotomy that adds depth to the listening experience. This contrast also surfaces in closing track ‘Sin El Sol Noy Hay Nada’, which evolves from serene melodies to an explosive finale that encapsulates the essence of DARKSIDE’s musical journey.

As listeners delve into each song, they will discover the exquisite craftsmanship involved in its creation. The band’s focus on improvisation and spontaneity results in a collection that feels both familiar and groundbreaking, a reflection of contemporary art’s transience and the beauty of the moment.

Outside Projects and Future Endeavors

Beyond the tangible existence of DARKSIDE, each member is deeply engaged in personal projects that shape their creative identities. Jaar, for instance, has been venturing into writing, authoring short stories and conducting workshops globally. This multifaceted approach enriches his contributions to DARKSIDE, infusing them with a fresh perspective and a wealth of inspiration.

Harrington, on another front, has been active in the jazz scene, releasing multiple records while forming an exciting new jam band known as Taper’s Choice. These endeavors underline the diversity of experiences that inform their collective interactions as DARKSIDE, allowing them to bring their influences back into their main project, continually redefining it over time.

The Impact of Collaborations

Collaboration stands central to DARKSIDE’s creative process, adding layers to their identity and sound. The addition of Tlacael Esparza was a significant turning point that not only enriched their sound but also expanded their horizons. His expertise in technology fosters an imaginative exploration of their music, introducing revolutionary concepts that challenge and push the boundaries of what’s possible in sound exploration.

This dynamic has encouraged a reflective exploration of their musical tendencies, catalyzing a deeper understanding of the improvisational nature of their work. Understanding the essence of collaboration allows DARKSIDE to create an expansive world filled with intricacies that invite the audience to take part in their auditory journey.

Embracing Impermanence Through Art

As DARKSIDE prepares for the release of Nothing, they remain acutely aware of the temporal nature of life and creativity. Their music embodies a philosophy that embraces impermanence as a source of inspiration. Each live performance captures fleeting moments of connection with their audience, manifesting an experience where music transcends the confines of time.

Jaar eloquently captures this sentiment, expressing the joy found in transience: “The beauty of music is that while it exists in a moment, it allows us to relive those emotions whenever we come back to it. Each performance brings something new, something that won’t ever be the same again, which is profoundly beautiful.” This appreciation for the ephemeral drives their creative decisions in the studio, encouraging an exploration of sound that is both liberating and exhilarating.

Future Directions for DARKSIDE

Looking ahead, DARKSIDE is poised to continue their exploration of music, art, and the philosophy of existence itself. As they navigate this next chapter, the impact of their collaborative spirit and shared experiences will undoubtedly shape their journey. The band members express a keen desire to merge their individual paths into a collective future that is rich with possibility and creativity.

By embracing change and seeking innovation, DARKSIDE is set to redefine the structures of their art, and perhaps even their identity. Each new project is an opportunity for reinvention, capable of producing sounds that echo with the complexities of the human experience. Audiences eagerly await what these talented artists will unveil next, each release a window into their evolving artistic narrative.

Source: thequietus.com