How was 2018 for you?
Thijs de Vlieger: 2018 was a very intense, but good year. I’ve learnt a lot about myself this year, both good things and recognizing my shortcomings. Also in my music career it’s been a heavy year. I accepted a job to write almost two hours of music for an interdisciplinary contemporary dance performance called “Sleeping Beauty Dreams.” I am writing this from Miami, in a warehouse where we’re rehearsing and putting all the disciplines together for the premiere on December 7th!
Highlights?
No doubt one of the highlights of this year will be the NYC premiere of “Sleeping Beauty Dreams.” Writing this music is the biggest professional commitment I’ve done on my own. I’m very proud of what I’ve made and I’m quite sure the end result will be brilliant when it takes the stage. Another highlight that comes to mind: holidays on a paradise island in Croatia (especially the cuttlefish risotto!).
Lowlights?
Climate change and politicians in power making stupid decisions. Pretty generic I know, but it’s pretty bad these days.
Song of the year?
Rosalía – De Plata. It’s from her previous album. Her new album is also stunning, but this one is song of the year for me. I’ve even been mixing it in my DJ sets. (See NOISIA’s Let It Roll stream from January for proof.)
What’s your New Years resolution?
First: to properly rest and recover from this hectic year. Then I want to write a piece for string quartet and electronics, and get in the studio with Nik and Martijn to work on new NOISIA material. And later I want to make a solo album out of the material from the score for “Sleeping Beauty Dreams,” but I’ll need a couple of months away from the project to be able to approach it with fresh ears again!