Mitch Oliver: Crafting Emotional Journeys Through Melodic House

Mitch Oliver’s journey into the world of electronic music is one of passion, evolution, and dedication to the art of storytelling through sound.

Known for his deep, melodic house tracks that weave emotional and atmospheric elements, Mitch’s music has struck a chord with listeners across the globe. With over 2 million Spotify streams, releases on prestigious labels, and performances at iconic festivals, Mitch has cemented his place in the electronic music scene. Here’s a closer look at his journey, creative process, and insights into what’s next for this talented artist.

The Beginnings: Discovering His Sound

Mitch’s love for music started long before he became a DJ and producer. As the go-to person in his friend circle for curating music at social gatherings, his passion for creating the perfect atmosphere through sound naturally led him to DJing in 2011. “I decided to dive into DJing to learn how to enhance that experience,” Mitch recalls. While he initially didn’t have a clear sense of where his sound would go, the vibrant music scene in Montreal, especially its underground clubs, helped shape his direction.

“Montreal’s music scene is incredible,” Mitch says. “The crowd is very passionate and won’t accept the mainstream approach, which pushes DJs to be more innovative.” This environment fostered Mitch’s evolution into a more daring and creative DJ, eventually gravitating towards the melodic house genre, which he describes as groovier and more mature than his earlier EDM influences.

Balancing Emotion and Commercial Appeal

In an era where music streams and commercial relevance often drive creative decisions, Mitch has managed to stay true to his artistic vision while still achieving widespread success. His most streamed track to date, an instrumental released in 2021, is a testament to this balance. “As cliché as it may sound, I believe the secret has been staying true to my heart and what it wants to express.”

For Mitch, vocal tracks hold a special place in his heart. He emphasizes the emotional weight they bring to a set, saying, “When used thoughtfully, vocals can profoundly influence the crowd’s experience.” However, his approach remains grounded in creating music that resonates on an emotional level first and foremost, rather than chasing commercial trends.

Creative Process: The Story Behind ‘Out of Space’

One of Mitch’s standout tracks, Out of Space, exemplifies his ability to blend deep emotional themes with captivating melodies. The track reflects Mitch’s own struggle with the hyper-connected world we live in, where time and space seem increasingly elusive. “My physical and mental health rely on pulling myself out of this battle for space and time,” Mitch explains, highlighting how movement, particularly running, helps him tap into his creativity.

The track’s pluck melody, which weaves through the entire composition, was a pivotal element for Mitch. “I tend to focus on melody first during the creative process. In this approach, less is more.” The song’s spoken word elements, recorded and pitched down by Mitch himself, add an extra layer of personal depth. “It felt natural to use my own voice since the track is so personal, even though I’m not a vocalist.”

Performances: Creating Journeys for Global Audiences

Mitch’s performances are known for their dynamic energy and ability to take audiences on a journey. Whether it’s at Burning Man, SXM Festival, or a club night in Montreal, Mitch adapts his sets to the environment and the crowd. “I approach DJing as an adaptive communication art,” he says. His method involves preparing multiple directions for his sets and adjusting based on the crowd’s energy in real-time.

One of his most unique performances to date took place at the Montgolfière Festival, where Mitch became the first DJ to play from a hot air balloon. Reflecting on the experience, he says, “It was super hot, but the view was remarkable, and playing my new release made it unforgettable.”

Looking Forward: What’s Next for Mitch Oliver?

With the melodic house movement continuing to grow, Mitch sees exciting opportunities for blending genres and collaborating with other artists. Recent collaborations with artists like SINCA, Tyler Mesa, and Ludo Lacoste have pushed him to explore new creative territory. “Collaborating brings out the best in us as artists,” Mitch notes.

As for what’s next, Mitch is excited about future releases on his label SLAPPED and a series of remixes for his current catalog. Technology, particularly AI, is another area he’s keen to explore in production, but he remains grounded in his belief that live music should prioritize human connection over digital distractions. “We are there to dance, disconnect from cyberspace, and connect in person,” he says.

Final Thoughts: Advice for Aspiring DJs and Producers

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Mitch’s advice is simple yet profound: “Listen to your gut feeling and don’t try to copy trends. Trust the creative process and don’t be afraid to break rules.” In a music world often driven by algorithms and trends, Mitch Oliver’s journey stands as a testament to the power of staying true to one’s vision and letting the music speak for itself.