“My greatest regret? Putting my university degree on pause. DJing and making music just took hold.” Sabb opens up in our quick-fire Q&A.
Why music?
Without sounding too cliche, I think it’s because it’s one of the only ways that I’ve found to express what or how I feel and think at a specific time. I can be in a great mood and make a really happy record, or maybe having a bad day and make some seriously moody techno.
If you weren’t making music what would you be doing?
Oooh, that’s a tough one. Probably being an architect, as I’m really into architecture – as well as football, so maybe being a football coach or some sort of sports teacher.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Simplicity is key to success.
What inspires you?
I take inspiration from everything a little to be honest, but mostly nature, because it’s simplistic and that keeps everything in perspective.
Best club experience?
This one is quite easy. My good friends Animal Trainer run Hive Club in Zürich and it’s just great. No matter when I go there’s always a positive vibe, so much fun and it’s where I feel at home.
What’s the worst job you’ve ever had?
This is probably the worst, most boring job, ever in the world: I had to service money counters in a bank when I was 17. Worst job ever.
How do you know when a track’s finished?
When you work on a track for so long, it becomes a game of: “If I can’t add anything to anything, anywhere, anymore, it must be finished!”
What was your last day job and when did you realise you could give it up?
It was exactly this job I mentioned above, back in 2006-7, and I was getting a lot of gigs. When I realised I could give it up it was the best day ever! But on the positive side, I bought my first laptop with the money I earned from that job and made my first beats!
Which song do you wish you wrote?
Paul Kalkbrenner – ‘Sky & Sand’. I mean, what a record!
What’s the easiest way to make it in the music industry?
There’s nothing easy about it unfortunately. You just have to do everything you can to make it work and graft.
Recommend us a film.
Forrest Gump. Just brilliant!
What are you addicted to?
Food. Simple but true!
What is your greatest regret?
Putting my university degree on pause. DJing and making music just took hold.
What one thing would most improve your life?
More food!
Collaboration: rich creative experience or pain in the ass?
It can be both honestly, but you get out of them what you put in, and nine times out of ten they work out great.
If you could only listen to one more track, what would it be?
The Cinematic Orchestra – ‘To Build a Home’.
How do you relax?
If you’ve ever been to Zürich, you’ll know how beautiful it is. So, lying with my lady at the Zürich Lake, it’s breath-taking.
What one piece of software/kit could you not do without? Why?
Ableton. I just love how simple and effective everything is on this DAW.
Art or money?
Good question. I think we need both.
Strangest place you ever wrote a track?
While I was being driven to a gig, in the back of a car. It was a long drive and there’s only so much chat you have after a long flight.
What’s your motto?
What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
Tweet us a tip. What’s the best production advice you can give in 140 characters or less?
Less is more. Keep it simple!
Sabb’s ‘Enclose’ featuring JUDGE is out on March 21st on Hive Audio. Find Sabb on Facebook, Twitter and SoundCloud.