After embracing a vibrant new chapter of music, electronic NZ producer-artist Sola Rosa recently released his newest album 'In The Mids'.
With over 65 million streams to his name, Sola Rosa's previous work has seen him collaborate with the likes of Tall Black Guy, DJ Vadim and Hermitude, while gracing the stages at esteemed events such as Secret Garden Party (UK), WOMAD (NZ), Kendall Calling (UK), Green Man (UK) and Shambala (UK).
Sola Rosa began work on 'In The Mids' during one of the final New Zealand lockdowns, embracing the ethos of making a new beat every day with no fear of judgement.
As the project grew, Sola Rosa spent time in studios between Melbourne and Auckland.
The list of album collaborators is also extensive, with Sola Rosa working with Iva Lamkum, Muroki, BRŪDE, Akosia, Blush'ko, Wallace and Wilson Blackley.
"This album began like all my others – I'd make a bunch of beats and see what stuck – but at first, I had no clear vision. I was still thinking in terms of a live band setup, and everything felt a bit rigid, too many rules," admits Sola Rosa.
"Then, during one of the final lockdowns in NZ, I watched a short video of renowned producer Decap saying 'just try and make a beat a day without judgement'. I gave it a go, and it was liberating – it brought real joy back into making music.
"Suddenly, it was okay to explore ideas that in the past might have felt outside my wheelhouse. After a few days, the music started pouring out in unexpected and fascinating directions. That's how most of this album came together.
"Once that approach became my norm, I had a much clearer sense of the sound I wanted – more dance-floor-friendly, heavy grooves, layered synths and arpeggiated textures, programmed beats, and strong vocal contributions.
"There's still a signature Sola Rosa touch in there, with a mix of tempos, subtle and punchy, but ultimately this became an album focused on my production style rather than a live-band framework.
"Influences from the dance music I'd been DJing and listening to heavily at the time naturally crept in, shaping the direction of the beats and the overall energy. While some key players still feature, this is very much me as a producer exploring new terrain."
Here, Sola Rosa shares five records that inspired the making of 'In The Mids'.
The Kount & Kaelin Ellis - 'Vignette'
Probably my favourite body of work from The Kount. I've been a massive fan of his productions and sample packs for ages.
His music was a huge influence throughout making 'In The Mids'. Some people just make you want to give up (if only briefly!). The Kount is one of those guys.
The production is organic, slick, like a warm hug, but also tough with maximum neck-snapping intent. Kaelin Ellis is amazing too, and the two of them together on this album are boss!
SiR - 'November'
Simply pure, hot, buttered, syrupy modern soul, with intelligence and super-slick hip hop production swagger.
BLK ODYSSY - 'Diamonds & Freaks'
The influence of this album ripples throughout 'In The Mids'. I was obsessed with it. Pure genius.
Deep and rich in textures, with incredible production and instrumentation. It's like a modern continuation of George Clinton and the P-Funk legacy. It pushed me to up my game on every level.
Labrinth - 'Ends & Begins'
Blush'ko recommended this to me, and I was blown away. The production, songwriting, and sheer creativity really spoke to me.
It's synth-heavy and production-heavy, and pulling off songs like this takes real skill and confidence, which inspired some of the bolder choices I made on 'In The Mids'.
The Goods - 'II'
Easily one of the most understated groups around. Their grooves and production are endlessly inspiring.
Intelligent dance music, soul music – they pulled me toward some of the dance-y moments on 'In The Mids'. I even reached out to the singer for a collab, but sadly it didn't happen.
