Geneva-based artists Auguste Safar and Raphael Graham, are two rising electronic producers and label owners of 366 Days, a Swiss event brand and record label. From putting on huge parties in Geneva and beyond, the brand has stepped into the world of releasing records aimed at showcasing house, techno, and minimal techno sounds. Their debut release ‘Za Ria’ sees an EP of themselves featuring legendary Ricardo Villalobos and Dandy Jack resurrecting their Ric y Martin moniker on remix duties. We caught up with them on origins of the label, club scene in Geneva and more.
Can you tell us about the origins of 366 DAYS and what inspired you to start promoting music events in Geneva?
366 DAYS originated from our deep passion for electronic music and our desire to create memorable experiences for others. Growing up in Geneva, we were profoundly influenced by the city’s vibrant electronic scene, especially iconic venues like Weetamix, which has been a launchpad for many renowned artists. Our journey began with organizing small parties, and as our passion and following grew, we decided to formalize our efforts, leading to the birth of 366 DAYS. We wanted to capture and amplify the unique energy of Geneva’s nightlife, bringing together like-minded people and celebrating our shared love for music.
How did your backgrounds as artists influence the direction and vision of 366 DAYS?
As artists, our backgrounds significantly shape the direction and vision of 366 DAYS. We’ve always been surrounded by electronic music, with influences ranging from our families to the local Geneva scene. Our early exposure to different genres and styles has given us a unique perspective that we bring to our events. It has also given us a better understanding of the importance of curating a seamless musical journey, ensuring that every event we organize reflects our passion for diverse and high-quality music.
‘Za Ria’ is your debut release. Can you share the story behind this track and how it came to be?
‘Za Ria’ is a track that embodies the energy and creativity we strive to bring to our live performances. It was born out of intense studio sessions in Geneva, where we aimed to capture the essence of our musical journey. With the help of our mentor, Dandyjack, we managed to refine our ideas and bring ‘Za Ria’ to life. The track represents a culmination of our experiences and influences, serving as a perfect introduction to our sound.
You have veterans Dandy Jack and Ricardo Villalobos remixing ‘Za Ria’ under their Ricky Martin moniker. How did this collaboration come about, and what was it like working with them?
The collaboration with Dandyjack and Ricardo Villalobos (as Ric y Martin) was a dream come true. After producing our first two tracks, we asked Dandyjack if he knew anyone who could do a remix. He suggested working with Ricardo, his childhood friend, and reviving their alias, Ric y Martin. We loved the idea, and a month later, Dandyjack went to Berlin to record the remix with Ricardo. Working with such legends was an incredible experience, and their remix added an extraordinary dimension to ‘Za Ria.’
What can we expect next from 366 DAYS? Are there any upcoming releases or events we should look out for?
We have a lot of exciting plans for 366 DAYS. We’re working on several new releases that we can’t wait to share with the world. Additionally, we have some fantastic events lined up, including our residency at Audio Club in Geneva. We’re constantly looking for ways to innovate and bring fresh experiences to our audience, so stay tuned for more surprises.
What has been the most challenging part of launching a record label, and how have you overcome these challenges?
The most challenging part of launching a record label has been navigating the logistics and administrative aspects while maintaining our creative vision. Balancing the business side with our artistic goals required a lot of learning and adaptability. We’ve overcome these challenges by surrounding ourselves with a supportive network of mentors and collaborators, and by staying true to our passion for music. Each challenge has been a learning opportunity, helping us grow both personally and professionally.
How do you see the current state of the electronic music scene in Switzerland, and where do you think it’s headed?
The electronic music scene in Switzerland is thriving and continuously evolving. Geneva, despite its small size, boasts a rich array of clubs and venues that cater to diverse tastes. The scene is vibrant, with a strong sense of community and innovation. Looking ahead, we see it growing even more dynamic, with emerging artists bringing fresh sounds and ideas. There’s a strong foundation here, and we believe Switzerland will continue to be a significant player on the global electronic music stage.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists and label owners looking to make their mark in the electronic music industry?
Our advice to aspiring artists and label owners is to stay true to your passion and be patient. The journey can be challenging, but perseverance and a genuine love for music will see you through. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek out mentors, and never stop learning. Embrace your unique sound and vision, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Most importantly, enjoy the process and stay connected to the community that inspires you.
Lastly, what are the big 5 tunes you can share with our readers for this weekend?
- Villalobos – “Dexter”
- Carl Craig – “Throw”
- Mathew Jonson – “Learning To Fly (Dub)”
- NDF – “Since We Last Met”
- Funzion – “Pongisize (Original Mix)”
These tracks are timeless and always get the crowd moving. Enjoy!