Fast Talk with Carlo Lio

Exclusive

Editor Panos Karatzas

Sun 10 Apr 2016

If music is the Universal language then Toronto Native, Carlo Lio is surely multilingual. It is this universal appeal that has allowed Carlo to speak to so many people without ever having to say a word. His ability to capture sounds and emit them so expressively is a gift. Music has always been a priority in Carlo’s life; anyone who witnesses him gracing the decks can attest to this. Carlo can turn a careful observer into a dancer through the raw emotion and passion in his music. Music is a language; it is a means of connectivity, intimacy and communication and Carlo has brilliantly captured and shared this with his fans.

As a DJ, producer: & businessman. His continued efforts both in and out of the booth have paid off. Teaming up with studio partner Nathan Barato to create Rawthentic Music, Carlo has been pounding out numerous quality hits which have received plenty of local & International support. His unique signature style that’s driven by a relentless, sexy, hypnotic, techy groove is sure to leave you mesmerized.

Carlo has so instinctively tapped into that ‘human experience’ that millions of club goers have sought after and has taken so many on a journey into sound. With his flawless and imaginative mixing and his mind-blowing programming, Carlo preaches a gospel of repetitive beats. His fast, deep pulsing tech-house, or groovy, chuggy minimal are inspirational and he credits his latest sound to his most current influences; Dubfire, Marco Carola, Carl Cox and Loco Dice.

Carlo emulates great confidence and is a strong visionary and leader in Toronto’s club culture. If you have a yearning hunger for the beat, just open wide; Carlo will satisfy your mind, body and soul and leave you salivating for more.

What was the starting point of your career? How did you feel back then?
The starting point in my full time touring career began at the start of 2010. It was a pretty surreal time for me, because one weekend I was just a local Toronto resident DJ and then, the weekend of my birthday in February 2010, I was a touring DJ with an agency, travelling along side Dubfire! It was definitely an adjustment, as I was playing in Toronto three times a week, to now, maybe only 3 times a year. It was definitely an amazing feeling of accomplishment, because I’ve reached a level that I never thought I could.

Tell us about your party called UNION. How difficult is it for you to run a label, organize some of the biggest events in the world and still be productive?
So, UNION was born in Toronto at the famous Comfort Zone after hours. It’s a party that my three best friends (Nathan Barato & The Junkies) and I created. We basically do an open to close B2B2B2B set with 4 decks and 2 mixers. There is nobody else on the planet that we share musical chemistry with the way we all do. So, these parties are always next level and the vibe is really untouchable! As for juggling all these things, it’s really all about balance and not getting sucked into just one thing, where another is left behind. But it’s also a passion. I actually enjoy all aspects of this business, whether it’s being a DJ/producer, or doing our own parties, to running a label. Plus lets not forget the whole business end of it too! Without that passion, there is no way I could have done any this successfully. It’s a dream to be able to do what I do for a living.

What do you think about piracy in music?
Well, of course it sucks but I’ve come to terms with it. Technology is growing so fast that it was only a matter of time before this type of thing happened. I’ve accepted this and have come to terms that music is in a totally different place that it was 10 years ago. Back in the day, there was a ton of money in production and music sales where as today you make music to get gigs. It’s actually kind of sad, because producers put in a ton of time and effort into making great music and should be rewarded properly for this. Some artists, who make music are lucky enough to tour and make money, but I know many amazing producers, who don’t ever really have this opportunity, when they really deserve to be touring and showcasing their talents. So, it’s definitely a bitter sweet situation.

However, it is nice to see vinyl being strong in the market again and people re-gaining appreciation for a physical product, because it was lost for minute, that’s for sure.

As a respectful DJ-Producer and label owner, what would you say to young people, who are interested in electronic music in a more professional level?
Well the are many things that can be said, but some main things would be….
•    You have to give it full time attention and commitment to make it.
•    Requires a lot sacrifice, that come people just don’t realise.
•    Being impatient could drive you crazy. This business requires a ton of patience.
•    Its really rewarding but a very cut throat industry.
•    Know when you are ready musically and mentally. Don’t jump the gun and rush things.
   
Reveal to us some of your plans for the future. Where will you be this summer?
This Summer is looking super excellent at the moment. I have some really amazing events lined up, which I am excited for. I'm really happy to be playing Space Ibiza for Carl Cox’s final season - that’s really a massive honour for me. I’ve also been added to the SONUS Festival line-up, which I was always hoping to play this year. Also excited to be on B.My.Lake Festival this year, as I’ve been hearing some really amazing things about it. Also our annual Off Sonar SCI+TEC Showcase at City Hall this year. And of course, I can’t leave out Greece! I love coming here, the parties are always amazing! Plus so many more things in the pipeline. I’m happy to have another stacked summer ahead of me!

I know that this is not your first time in Greece. What do you love the most in here?
Yes, I have been coming to Greece since 2008 for vacation, before I actually started to play here. Greece hands down, is in my TOP favourite places on the planet. I love the culture, I love the people and I love the food. Everywhere in Greece I have visited, is always beautiful. I feel very at peace there. I am always welcomed to this country and feel a lot of love here, so I always make sure to visit every year, whether it's for music or a personal trip.

To conclude, what would you like to say to your fans here in Greece?
I would like to say THANK YOU for always having me, welcoming me and supporting me. You guys are true lovers of the music and the craft and it’s a big pleasure to play for you!! See you soon!

Thank you very much for your time! Enjoy your stay here.