Hi, I’m a producer, artist, and composer from Gävle, Sweden. I make music under several aliases, with my main focus being Moist, where I create electronica and pop, as well as numerous remixes. Under the name Árstraumur, I explore electronic instrumental music, from ambient to downbeat. I started playing drums when I was four and have been active as a musician since the 1980s. Today, I work full-time with music and my label, I/O Music, which I’ve had since 2011.
What’s the one piece of gear you couldn’t live without?
I could live without most gear except my computer. Over the years I’ve shifted more and more into working “in the box” and that’s really helped me get more music finished. But I do love gear, so I think I’ll always keep my little Casio VL-Tone close by.
What’s the weirdest or most unexpected thing in your studio right now?
Probably the Mute Synth 1. A strange little touch-and-tilt synth created by Dirty Electronics together with Mute Records. It’s even shaped like the Mute logo, and makes the most unpredictable sounds.
What advice would you give to someone setting up their first home studio?
My best advice is not to overspend on gear right away. Build your setup slowly and take the time to really learn each piece of equipment or software before adding more. That way, you’ll get the most out of what you already have, and you’ll understand better what you actually need as your skills develop. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of monitoring. Good speakers or headphones are crucial.
If your listening environment is poor, it doesn’t matter how much time you put into a track, you’ll still be working with the wrong perspective.
