T.H.E Interview – Clif Jack
In the world of electronic music, few stories are as intriguing as that of Clif Jack and his brainchild, MJA The Vision.
This narrative isn’t just about a label or an EP; it’s about a journey of discovery, inspiration, and the relentless pursuit of a vision.
Clif Jack’s tale begins in an unlikely place: within the pages of a book about Egypt during the pandemic’s isolation. There, an ancient symbol caught his eye – the ouroboros, a snake eating its own tail, representing eternal cyclic renewal and rebirth. This symbol sparked something in Jack, leading him to create MJA The Vision. “MJA is an acronym based on the Italian possessive ‘mia’ (mine) and the ‘J’ from Jack,” he explains. This wasn’t just a label; it was a personal manifesto, a declaration of his unique identity in the music world.
The influence of Jack’s extensive background as a DJ is palpable in his work. “I have a deep appreciation for dark, minimal, and industrial sounds,” he shares, tracing his stylistic preferences back to the early days of his journey, when the minimal scene left an indelible mark on him. This appreciation is not just a passive influence; it actively shapes his production style, creating a bridge between his past experiences and his current creations.
“The Vision” EP stands as a testament to this bridge. Crafted to make a strong impact, the EP encapsulates classic techno sounds while incorporating emotional breaks and impactful drops. “The Vision is a track I crafted to make an impact with a strong intro,” Jack reflects, highlighting his intention to connect with the audience on a deeper level. His approach is a dance between honoring the genre’s roots and infusing it with his signature style – a dance he performs with the skill of a seasoned artist.
One of the standout tracks, “Different Perspective,” is particularly notable for its use of vocals. Jack aimed to create a track with a strong hypnotic vocal that could induce a state of mental loop. “The voice keeps repeating ‘different perspective’ because this track shows you the other side of The Vision in a more aggressive tone,” he explains. This track isn’t just a piece of music; it’s an experience, a journey into a different realm of perception.
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The evolution of MJA The Vision in the techno scene is an ambitious plan that Clif Jack nurtures with the patience of a visionary. His long-term goals stretch beyond music production. “MJA the Vision is a long-term project,” he states, envisioning a community of individuals who resonate with the project both artistically and in event organization. Perhaps, he muses, it could even evolve into a festival.
But the road to “The Vision” EP was not without its challenges. The track underwent several iterations over six months, as Jack strived for the perfect balance between impact and aggression. This painstaking process highlights his commitment to quality and his unwavering dedication to his vision.
Jack’s plans for MJA The Vision are as diverse as the sounds he cherishes. He seeks tracks that evoke emotions, regardless of their specific style. “If a track is good and has the power to evoke emotions, both for me and the audience, it is welcome,” he says. This openness to diverse sounds underscores his commitment to not just creating music but curating experiences.
These experiences extend beyond auditory sensations. Jack envisions engaging his audience through events, merchandise, and even virtual reality, aiming to create a complete experience that transcends traditional boundaries.
The ethos of MJA The Vision is encapsulated in the powerful motto “THINK, BELIEVE, DREAM, BEAT.” This philosophy, inspired by Walt Disney’s story, reflects Jack’s resilience and determination. “I am someone who never gives up,” he asserts, a trait that has been instrumental in the realization of his dreams.
In selecting artists for MJA The Vision, Jack emphasizes a deep understanding and musical quality. He mentions collaborations with artists like VIKTHOR, AM.I, and GRAY COSMO, indicating a curated approach to artist selection.
Discussing the label’s second release, “All Together” by Vikthor, Jack notes the synergy between Vikthor’s work and the label’s vision. Vikthor’s tracks, recognized by figures like Carl Cox and Adam Beyer, align seamlessly with MJA The Vision’s ethos, blending innovative sounds with a respect for techno’s roots.
For Jack, techno music is more than a genre; it’s a way of life. His commitment to maintaining a balance between commercial viability and artistic integrity is unwavering. He aims to cherish and protect the techno movement, respecting its traditions while embracing contemporary elements.
To aspiring techno artists, Jack offers simple yet profound advice: “Do what you love, and what you love will take care of the rest.” This philosophy underpins his journey with MJA The Vision, a journey that is as much about music as it is about perseverance, passion, and the power of a vision.
In Clif Jack’s story, we find more than just an account of a label’s creation or an EP’s production. We find a narrative of personal discovery, artistic integrity, and the unyielding pursuit of a dream. MJA The Vision, with “The Vision” EP at its heart, stands as a beacon in the techno world, illuminating the path for those who dare to dream and create with conviction.
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