Israeli producer Shahaf Efrat brings his cutting-edge psy-trance project Freedom Fighters to Australia for Earth Frequency.
One of the world's most in-demand live DJs, Shahaf delves into the dark side of progressive, psychedelic trance to take audiences on a journey of light and sound.
Last year he released his second studio album 'Edge', which saw Shahaf explore the deep potential of Freedom Fighters.
What have been some of the highlights of 2017 for you?
[Shahaf] Rainbow Serpent was by far the highlight of 2017 for me. I fell in love with the people, the vibe and the amazing energy that this festival has.
On the musical end, I finally released my second album 'Edge' and I couldn’t be happier with the result. Last but not least, I collaborated with one of my childhood heroes Astrix.
The track ['Burning Stones'] is still #1 on Beatport as we speak.
2017 has been nothing short of amazing. You released your second studio album 'Edge'; being your sophomore album, what did you set out to achieve with it?
I had no plan or goals to be honest.
I just sat down, locked myself in the studio for almost two years. Just me versus my synthesizers. No agenda besides keeping it musical, fresh, analog and real.
Looking back, do you feel you accomplished those aims?
Yes, but I can always improve. I always try to improve myself, both as a musician and as a human being.
How are you feeling about performing at Earth Frequency Festival?
I couldn’t be more excited. Ace Ventura told me so much about Earth Frequency. Can’t wait to bring my sound to your ears.
What can we expect from your set at EFF18?
A showcase of 'Edge' along with new collaborations and remixes. It’s gonna be deep, dark, heavy at times, but very dancefloor oriented.
There are lots of great acts on the line-up; is there anyone you're hoping to see live?
Opiuo (click here to read our January 2018 cover story with Opiuo) is one of my all-time favourites; can’t wait to see him live.
Along with Loud (my fave psychedelic project in the last couple of years as well as very close friends), Tetrameth, Merkaba, Liquid Stranger and the list goes on and on. Great job on the line-up (click here to read our November 2017 interview EFF promoter Paul Abad).
You also perform under other aliases with other artists; and have written many number one Beatport tracks as collaborations. How do you separate the various projects you work on so that they are unique from one another?
I don’t really have an agenda.
I just go in the studio with friends and musicians, and let music do its thing. Art needs no forcing or agendas in my opinion. As long as you keep it true.
What are you hoping to achieve with your music in 2018?
I’m happy with the way things are going. 2018 is going to be an amazing year. Loads of releases, amazing shows (did someone say Earth Frequency?) and travelling around the globe. What more can a musician ask for?!
