HIELE (BE)

deep electronic music

The Antwerp-born electronics producer and multi-instrumentalist Roman Hiele is undoubtedly the one to watch on the Belgian music scene. Classically trained double bass player who subsequently chose to play synths and electronics, Hiele is currently extending his knowledge of his music at the Red Bull Music Academy (RBMA), a travelling music academy that selects budding talent every year for a series of workshops (former ‘participants’ include Flying Lotus, Katy B, Jamie Woon and Aloe Blacc).

His music is often compared to Aphex Twin on account of the drum ‘n’ bass sounds in his extremely eclectic dance. Roman Hiele is your and our man when it comes to dreamy melodies, heavy drums, acid house and sharp footwork. Addictively good. It makes a racket, but sounds fantastic.

In a nutshell: The music, alternating between freezing showers and wonderfully soothing bubble baths, is created by the fledgling Antwerp electronic plumber Roman Hiele (24), who manages to translate his love for Aphex Twin, Luke Vibert and Drexciya into exciting tracks with a unique identity. (Humo)

Team Panini (BE)

hip hop

Team Panini is a partying rap tandem from Antwerp, nicknamed Nasty Nag and Lil' Panini. They work under the Eigen Makelij label, a fast growing record company to which Safi & Spreej are also signed.

Recently, producer Arne Van Petegem chose them as emerging talent in his vi.be On Air-selection on Studio Brussel and he had the following to say:
This is so delightfully in your face! In this genre, the beat on a track is everything, and Team Panini got it just right. Dark, deep bass, outer space sounds and wonderfully wacky lyrics. The jury was completely into it! Damn it! I smell of Saka Saka!

Faisal (BE)

dj set

Faisal is the rising star among the new generation of Belgian DJs. This young chap (only 22!) brings a surprising mix of genres and styles, ranging from new school house and future beat, right through to hip-hop and r&b. He brought the roof down at Tomorrowland, Laundry Day, Houza Palooza,… and in clubs, such as Culture Club, Muziekodroom, Fuse and Petrol. It’s therefore hardly surprising that he has been nominated as Breakthrough Artist at the Red Bull Elektropedia Awards. He’s also a regular guest on Playground, the Saturday evening programme of Studio Brussel.

And if that’s not enough, his tracks and bootlegs are being picked up and played internationally by big names like Gilles Peterson, Boys Noize, LeFtO, Mr. Oizo, Kissy Sell Out, DJ Mehdi and Erol Alkan. The future’s bright for Faisal!