XDescend, a prominent figure in the Texas electronic dance music scene, has forged an exceptional journey within the realm of EDM, drawing inspiration from diverse musical influences and experiences. With a distinct approach to music production, Max Fotey, aka. XDescend has gained recognition for his innovative sound design and the ability to create immersive sonic experiences. “Brainstorm”, his recent standout track, holds significance in a special way, showcasing his talent for blending house genres and pushing the boundaries of electronic dance music. We had an engaging discussion about his musical influences, the inspiration behind this exceptional track, and his distinctive production and sound design. XDescend’s Background and Musical Influences EDM Texas: Could you share your journey with us, taking us back to your early life, musical influences, and how you found your way into the EDM scene? XDescend: My parents had the biggest musical influence when I was young. Around the age of seven, my favorite song was Steppenwolf’s “Born to be Wild” made in 1968. I listened to whatever they listened to, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones are bands that came to my mind when I was that age. As I got older my music taste started to change. I wanted something heavier. I wanted something that would make me feel more emotion. When I was 13, I remember listening to Drowning Pool's "Bodies” often. but after a few years, that sort of music wasn't heavy enough for me. By high school, I was listening to mostly Death Metal, everywhere I went. Even in class, I would sneak the headphone cable through the long sleeve of a black hoodie, so I could hold the speaker in my hand while hiding the cable. Only then, I could listen to my music in one ear without anyone noticing if I put my elbow on the desk and my palm over my ears. I also took singing lessons and practiced death metal vocals. I was the lead singer of a short-lived band that covered a couple of songs. The band wasn’t successful. I didn’t listen to any form of modern electronic until I came across an album Genesis by the French electronic music duo Called Justice. About a year later when I had just turned 18 I got asked by a friend if I wanted to go to a rave. I immediately thought, “They still have those?!”. I went with a group of people to a club in Dallas called Afterlife. It was a culture shock! The music, people, dances, clothing, the candy, but my favorite part was the LED gloves. I quickly stopped learning how to play the guitar and I picked up gloving instead. Looking back this is what truly marked my change from Metal into EDM. The friends that took me to my first rave never went back again but I found new people there that I could talk to. In the rave scene, I felt more welcomed and judged less. EDM Texas: Your unique style stands out in the EDM scene here in Texas! Could you talk about the musical influences that have played a pivotal role in shaping your one-of-a-kind sound? XDescend: My musical influences come from multiple genres and subgenres, including rappers, bands, and producers. Some of the greatest artists had one thing in common: they were all unique and sounded different from the other artists in their field. So, I didn’t attempt to sound like someone else. I simply aimed to be myself and strive to write music that I liked to listen to, aiming for distinctiveness. However, the music also needed to be similar enough to allow for mixing from one song to the next, making it appealing for DJs to play. It felt like a balancing act between these two spectrums. I was still learning how to strive the approrpiate balance, but I believed I was improving. If I could weave a meaningful message into the song, that would be a big plus for me. EDM Texas: Can you share some insight into the tracks that have been instrumental in propelling your recognition within the industry? XDescend: Almost two years ago, my release, “The Underground”, signed with Gangsta House Records was my first official release under the previous spelling of my artist name, XDezend. A few months later, I was invited to do a guest mix for the label, which was hosted in Israel. This release along with a few remixes the following year helped me but I didn’t stop there. I made videos for the tunes to help promote them as well. The Spark and Inspiration Behind “Brainstorm” EDM Texas: What sparked the inspiration for the track, “Brainstorm”? XDescend: When I saw there was a locals-only DFW music production competition hosted by Aftrlife Entertainment, I wanted to give it a shot! At that time, I was working on 3 or 4 different songs that started getting a little stale on the creative side, so I wanted to start something fresh. Instead of trying to think of something, I wanted to wait until a new idea “hit me”. Most of the time my best ideas come from out of nowhere instead of me trying to think of something right then, so I don't like to force creativity. Luckily, a few days later, in a spirit of creativity, the metaphor of “thoughts circling my mind, like water in the sky” came to me, and then I thought about how my thoughts could be almost like the water vapor in a cloud. Wanting to add an additional closing to the phrase I thought, “Boom, goes the Thunder”! The sentence contrasted harshly with the sentence before. I thought… wait a minute, that’s just like the thought patterns of someone with ADD/ADHD, like myself. However, this storm is inside the mind. When I was thinking about the song's title, the word “Brainstorm” emerged. The fact that it would be perfect for a play on words was a fantastic feeling for me. This put me on cloud nine and made me want to get started on the project in the studio. I jotted down the lyrics, planning to start working on the tune at a later date. EDM Texas: Were there any personal experiences, events, or emotions that helped pave the creative process? XDescend: I do my best to learn from every personal experience I encounter. I don’t want to be stuck in a mental state where I won’t grow as a person. I also want to treat others the way I would like to be treated, which is why I encourage others to grow as well. No one can force anyone else to think differently but you can show them other perspectives so that they may want to change themselves. Using metaphors and art is a unique way to describe something to someone they haven't seen or felt before. This is my motivation that keeps me moving forward in my creative processes and within my life as well. EDM Texas: With “Brainstorm’s” incredible groove, what was your initial vision, and how did it transform as you delved into production? XDescend: My initial vision was to put the listener in the middle of a soundscape that resembled a thunderstorm and the dynamics between calm and chaotic. When the storm rolled in, aka. For the drop, I opted for an A/B song structure. In this song structure, the beginning phrase (A) is typically 4 or 8 quarter notes long followed by the ending phrase (B) with the same number of quarter notes that was in the beginning phrase (A). This is a common type of structure within modern music whether it's one melodic phrase, a baseline, song lyrics, or even two completely different sounds: one on A and the other on B altogether, it's still an A/B structure. In Music theory, this can also be called tension and release or call and response. In “Brainstorm”, the first drop contained a recreated thunder sound (Phrase A). Then my recreation of what lightning would sound like if it made a sound (Phrase B) which was my call and response, thunder then lightning. Listen to “Brainstorm” below: XDescend’s Production and Sound Design EDM Texas: Could you give us a glimpse into your studio setup and the tools you prefer to use when crafting your electrifying beats? XDescend: Yes! The most important thing I use is Ableton, and I try to convert everything into audio files as quickly as possible. Even if I'm using a midi controller, or sampler like the Pioneer DJS-1000. If I have a plug-in opened up and its serum adds the main element in the song, but it’s still in the midi form, I can keep changing it and rearranging it. While this has its advantages, it also presents some drawbacks. If I keep changing it, the song will never get done. The audio file can be edited also but committing to an idea that I like is a good way to keep the music-making process moving forward. For audio monitoring, I have a pair of Krks speaker tops and an SSL 2+ USB audio interface, and for my vocals, I have a Rode NT1-A with an acoustic foam shield. However, the thing that helps me the most with my monitoring system is something called SoundID by Sonarworks. It will autocorrect your listening environment. It equalizes the room and alters the audio phase to minimize any phase cancellations as well! Making the studio sound as neutral as possible to the most ideal listening environment. EDM Texas: Could you share some insights into your sound design techniques? How did you achieve that distinctive vibe that sets “Brainstorm” apart? XDescend: To accomplish the soundscape that I wanted, I used the natural recordings of thunder, wind, rain, and hail then I placed the elements in their strategic places. For the thunder, I placed it just before the first downbeat to give the listener the anticipation of thunder about to strike. It was important to cut the low end off with an EQ so it wouldn’t muddy the mix. I added rain during the drop and disguised it as high hats. I accomplished this by wrapping the audio to make it have a repetitive musical pattern then added reverb, EQ, and compression to make it cohesive with the rest of the elements in the song. During the breakdown, I actually just ended up using the sound of Hail instead of rain, because with everything else going on in the mix, the rain sound didn’t cut through the mix like I wanted. The percussive sound of hail proved more effective, and with some EQ adjustments, it resembled the tranquil sound of rain. EDM Texas: The journey of creating “Brainstorm” must have had its share of highs and lows. Can you talk about any challenges you encountered during the production phase? Were there any breakthrough moments that truly pushed the track to the next level? XDescend: The production of “Brainstorm” came along fairly smoothly, but it wasn’t until the first version was finished that I noticed a couple of issues. The biggest problem was the sub-bass. The sound was muddy and unclear. I wanted to make the bass similar to the sound of thunder but I also wanted the sound to translate well in a club setting. After a lot of trial and error using different techniques, I decided to completely redo the bass so that it could still sound like thunder but also hit clean in a club setting. Personally, when I make a track there are often times when after the mixdown I get close to finishing but there is some element that could be added or changed to give it that extra 5 or 10 percent. I then have to go backward in the music-making process to fix it, but I believe that extra detailed work is what takes a song to the next level. Like everything in life: hard work, commitment, time, and dedication will produce good results over time. XDescend’s creative journey in producing “Brainstorm” has been a remarkable transformation from a background influenced by various music genres to finding a unique voice in the electronic dance world. His dedication to detail and commitment to pushing the track to the next level has resulted in an electrifying and impactful contribution to the EDM scene in Texas and beyond. This journey reflects his XDescend’s growth as an artist and his promising prospects in the world of electronic dance music. Follow XDescend on his socials below: Facebook Instagram Spotify

EDM festivals have become increasingly popular worldwide, and Texas stands out as a thriving hub for these electrifying events. With its vibrant music scene and diverse cultural landscape, Texas offers a range of unforgettable EDM festivals that attract music lovers from all over. From massive outdoor stages to immersive experiences, these festivals showcase the best of electronic dance music and provide an opportunity for attendees to lose themselves in the rhythm and energy of the music. Freaky Deaky Freaky Deaky is celebrated for its Halloween-themed ambiance, with elaborate decorations, haunted attractions, and costumed attendees. The festival offers a diverse range of EDM genres, ensuring there is something for everyone, from high-energy performances to hauntingly melodic sets. Prepare to be captivated by the immersive stage designs and particular production, creating a unique atmosphere throughout the event. Freaky Deaky showcases a wide variety of electronic music genres, including house, trance, dubstep, and more. The festival attracts both established headliners and rising stars, promising a thrilling lineup that spans the entire spectrum of electronic music. With a focus on Halloween-inspired performances and surprises, the festival ensures an unforgettable experience for all attendees. As Freaky Deaky relocates to Austin this year, it will take advantage of the vibrant music scene and venues the city has to offer. The festival is known for transforming its space into a hauntingly beautiful wonderland, featuring multiple stages, interactive installations, and themed areas. Attendees can expect top-notch sound systems, dazzling visuals, and a festive atmosphere that perfectly complements the Halloween spirit! Seismic Dance Event Seismic Dance Event is a house and techno festival that calls Austin home. Occurring twice a year, the festival focuses on underground sounds of electronic music, attracting a dedicated community of music enthusiasts who appreciate the audible designs of house and techno music. Seismic Dance Event prides itself on its dedication to house and techno music, offering a carefully curated lineup of internationally renowned DJs and producers. The festival embraces a more intimate setting, creating an environment where attendees can truly immerse themselves in the music and connect with like-minded individuals. The overall emphasis is on the art of DJing and the underground electronic music culture. Seismic Dance Event boasts lineups that showcase the best in-house and techno music, featuring both established icons and rising talent. From deep grooves to hypnotic melodies, the festival celebrates the diverse subgenres within the house and techno spectrum. Prepare to be entranced by the seamless transitions and expertly crafted sets that will keep you dancing throughout the event! Lights All Night Taking place in Dallas during the New Year, Lights All Night is a premier end-of-year electronic music festival. With its combination of world-class music acts and captivating production, the festival promises an exhilarating way to welcome the new year. The festival curates lineups that cater to a wide range of electronic music preferences. Attendees can expect an array of genres, from bass-heavy acts to melodic trance sets and everything in between. The diverse lineup attracts both established artists and emerging local talents, providing an excellent platform to discover new sounds. Lights All Night sets itself apart with its dazzling visual displays, including mesmerizing light shows, impressive laser effects, and immersive stage designs. The festival creates a high-energy environment, ensuring an unforgettable experience as you dance your way into the new year! Ubbi Dubbi Held in the heart of Fort Worth, Ubbi Dubbi is a two-day electronic music festival that immerses attendees in a world of sonic bliss. Known for its uplifting vibes and community spirit, the festival captures the essence of EDM culture. Ubbi Dubbi stands out for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The festival embraces a sense of unity, encouraging attendees to connect and create lasting memories. From interactive art installations, themed areas, and captivating performances, they all contribute to the festival’s immersive experience. Ubbi Dubbi takes place at the expansive outdoor venue, Panther Island Pavilion, allowing attendees to freely explore and dance under the open sky. The stages offer different atmospheres and musical experiences, while food vendors and relaxation areas provide moments of rest between dance sessions. The festival also showcases eclectic music genres, featuring both established and emerging artists. From mainstream headliners to underground acts, the festival celebrates the diversity of the EDM scene. Overall, Ubbi Dubbi creates a welcoming environment where music lovers can come together and celebrate their shared passion! Texas is proud of its thriving EDM scene, offering a diverse range of experiences for music lovers. From the magnificent Seismic Dance Event to the scenic Ubbi Dubbi, each event brings its own unique highlights and memorable moments. Whether you are a seasoned EDM enthusiast or a newcomer to the scene, these festivals provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the electrifying world of electronic dance music. Don’t miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories and connect with like-minded individuals at these must-visit Texas EDM festivals!

EDM has gained immense popularity in Texas, with its vibrant beats and energetic atmosphere captivating music enthusiasts. Nightclubs serve as crucial venues for EDM lovers to immerse themselves in live music experiences. We highly recommend visiting these four hottest EDM nightclubs in Texas that offer state-of-the-art sound systems, mesmerizing lighting effects, and unforgettable visual projections! Kingdom Nightclub One of Texas’ premier EDM nightclubs is Kingdom, located in the heart of Austin! This club has earned a stellar reputation within the Texas EDM scene, attracting both local and international artists. With its cutting-edge sound systems and enticing lighting effects, Kingdom creates an immersive ambiance that amplifies the music’s impact. Notable performances by artists like KAYZO, ARMNHMR, Daily Bread, and more have taken place on their stage, solidifying its significance in the EDM community. Attendees and industry professionals keep showering this club with testimonials and positive reviews, praising its energetic atmosphere and memorable experiences. 505 E 7th St, Austin, Texas 78701 Rise Rooftop Situated in Houston’s Midtown neighborhood, Rise Rooftop stands out in Houston’s EDM scene due to its unique atmosphere and unparalleled offerings. Its design contributes to a visually stunning experience, complementing the pulsating beats. Renowned artists such as TroyBoi, Ookay, Bonnie X Clyde, and more have performed on its stage, enhancing the club’s reputation and attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers! 2600 Travis St Suite R, Houston, Texas 77006 It’ll Do Club In Dallas, EDM enthusiasts flock to this popular yet intimate nightclub that has left a lasting mark on the EDM landscape! It’ll Do’s interior and layout provide a spacious and inviting environment, accommodating a substantial capacity for both passionate music lovers and partygoers alike. The club takes pride in creating an inclusive and vibrant atmosphere, making it a welcome place for everyone. Specializing in house music, It’ll Do caters to diverse tastes, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees! 4322 Elm St, Dallas, Texas 75226 The Green Elephant Located in Dallas, the Green Elephant captures attention with its unique charm and distinctive features. The venue has gained a reputation for hosting unforgettable events and performances, ensuring that every visit is memorable. The Green Elephant offers an immersive and marvelous experience for attendees with its exceptional sound system, expansive indoor and outdoor stages, and outdoor amenities. They actively support emerging artists while fostering a strong relationship with the Dallas EDM community, providing exceptional experiences and earning notable accolades! 5627 Dyer St, Dallas, Texas 75206 These four nightclubs illustrate the thriving EDM scene in Texas, contributing significantly to the state’s music culture. With their heavy sounds, captivating atmospheres, and high-profile performances, these venues provide unforgettable experiences for Texas EDM enthusiasts. Whether you are in Austin, Houston, or Dallas, be sure to explore these hotspots for an electrifying experience in Texas!

Electronic Dance Music has revolutionized the global music scene, captivating audiences with infectious beats, vibrant melodies, and immersive sonic experiences. Within the realm of EDM, subgenres have emerged as distinct branches, each with its own identity, production techniques, and fanbase. These subgenres not only serve as a way to categorize EDM but also embody the diverse creative expressions and artistic visions within the genre’s expansive landscape. The significance of subgenres in EDM lies in their ability to cater to a wide range of musical preferences and provide a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their unique styles. Each subgenre brings forth a unique fusion of rhythms, melodies, and sound design, allowing listeners to explore and immerse themselves in a multitude of electrifying experiences. Over the years, EDM has undergone a remarkable revolution, mirroring the ever-changing tastes and trends of its audience. What began as an underground movement in the 1970s and 80s, primarily influenced by disco, funk, and electronic pioneers, has now grown into a global phenomenon, with festivals, clubs, and streaming platforms dedicated to celebrating the genre’s diverse subgenres. Keep reading to learn more about these evolving subgenres that are taking the world by storm! House One of the most enduring and influential subgenres is house music. Emerging as an underground movement in the 1970s and 80s, deeply influenced by disco, funk, and electronic pioneers, EDM has now blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon, with dedicated festivals, clubs, and streaming platforms that celebrate its rich tapestry of diverse subgenres. House music embodies the spirit of inclusivity and unity, bringing people together on dance floors across the world. Notable artists such as Frankie Knuckles and Daft Punk have shaped the genre’s evolution, leaving a lasting impact on its sound and culture. Tracks like “I Feel Love” by Donna Summer and “One More Time” by Daft Punk represent the genre’s ability to create an uplifting and groovy atmosphere that transcends boundaries and connects people through music. Dubstep Dubstep, on the other hand, emerged in the late 1990s, originating from the UK underground music scene. It introduced a more aggressive and gritty sound, characterized by heavy basslines, intricate rhythms, and intense drops. Dubstep rapidly gathered a massive following, as artists like Skrillex, Excision, and Rusko pushed the genre’s boundaries and captured the attention of mainstream audiences. Tracks like Skrillex’s “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” and Rusko’s “Cockney Thug” became iconic anthems, showcasing the genre’s ability to create a high-energy and exhilarating experience. Dubstep’s unique sonic elements and powerful impact have solidified its place as one of the most distinct and recognizable subgenres within the EDM landscape. Trance Originating in the early 1990s, trance is a subgenre that transports listeners on euphoric and emotional journeys, immersing them in a realm of captivating musical experiences. It is characterized by its uplifting melodies, ethereal vocals, and driving beats. Trance music creates an immersive and transcendental experience, often taking listeners on a sonic voyage with mesmerizing progressions and climatic moments. Notable artists such as Armin van Buuren and Markus Schulz, have become icons in the trance world, elevating the genre to global recognition. Trance music’s intricate and uplifting qualities have made it a beloved subgenre among EDM enthusiasts seeking a profound and emotional connection to music. Drum N Bass Drum n Bass, commonly abbreviated as DnB, emerged in the 1990s as an evolution of jungle and breakbeat music. DnB, known for its breakbeat rhythms, intricate drum patterns, and thunderous basslines, draws listeners on an exhilarating, high-energy rollercoaster ride. The genre often features fast-paced breakbeats, syncopated rhythms, and pulsating sub-bass frequencies that create a powerful and exhilarating experience. Tracks like Andy C’s “Body Rock” and Pendulum’s “Tarantula” explain the intense energy and infectious rhythms that define DnB. From the fast and frantic pace of techstep to the melodic and euphoric vibes of liquid DnB, the genre evokes a wide range of emotions within listeners. EDM’s diverse subgenres provide an extensive range of sonic experiences, catering to a multitude of moods, energies, and emotions. Whether it is the infectious grooves and soulful vocals of House, the intense basslines and drops of dubstep, or the euphoric melodies and transcendental journeys of trance, each subgenre represents a unique surface of EDM’s evolution. Exploring these subgenres allows one to delve into the rich tapestry of EDM and discover the incredible diversity and creativity within electronic music.

Welcome to EDM Texas, the pulsating heartbeat of the Lone Star State’s electronic dance music community! We are thrilled to present a dynamic and vibrant online platform that celebrates the best of Texas’ EDM scene, bringing together music producers, venues, organizations, and enthusiasts alike. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and community, we strive to showcase the exceptional talent and vibrant energy that sets the Texas dance community apart. What Is EDM? EDM, short for electronic dance music, is a genre that has taken the world by storm. It is a diverse and ever-evolving form of music that incorporates elements of electronic music, such as synthesizers, drum machines, and computer-generated sounds. Originally created in the late 20th century, it paved its way to prominence, with pioneers like Kraftwerk, Daft Punk, and more representing its promising rise. With various sub-genres like house, techno, and trance, EDM has become a global phenomenon, captivating millions around the world with its infectious beats and electrifying performances. EDM Texas: The Platform for EDM Enthusiasts At EDM Texas, our purpose is to provide a dedicated platform that caters to the needs of the EDM community in Texas. Our goal is to foster a sense of unity and collaboration among music producers, venues, organizations, and enthusiasts, creating an inclusive space where everyone can thrive. Whether you are a seasoned artist looking to showcase your talent, a venue searching for the perfect act, or a passionate enthusiast seeking the latest news and events, EDM Texas is here to serve as your go-to hub for all things EDM in the Lone Star State. Key Features of EDM Texas Our website boasts an array of features and functionalities that cater specifically to the needs and interests of the EDM community in Texas. Here are some of the unique offerings that sets EDM Texas apart: Event Calendar: Stay in the loop with the most comprehensive event calendar in Texas. Find information about upcoming concerts, music festivals, club nights, and more, all in one convenient location! Artist Profiles: Discover the exceptional talent that Texas has to offer. Explore in-depth profiles of DJs, producers, and other EDM artists, gaining insight into their musical journey and creative process. Interactive Forums: Engage in lively discussions with like-minded enthusiasts in our interactive forums. Share your thoughts on the latest tracks, discuss production techniques, and build lasting connections with fellow EDM lovers. Exclusive Interviews: Delve into the minds of renowned artists through our exclusive interviews. Gain a deeper understanding of their inspirations, experiences, and aspirations within the EDM realm. User-Generated Content: Showcase your own musical creations and mixes by submitting them to our platform. Connect with your audience and receive valuable feedback from the community Connecting Texas EDM Enthusiasts Community lies at the heart of EDM Texas, and we believe in the power of connection. Engage with like-minded individuals, network with fellow artists and enthusiasts, and discover exciting opportunities for collaboration. Our platform offers a range of features to facilitate interaction and engagement, including forums, chat rooms, and social media integration. Connect with others who share your passion for EDM, exchange ideas, and forge meaningful connections that will elevate your experience in the Texas dance community. Get Involved With EDM Texas Ready to dive into the heart of the Texas EDM community? Joining EDM Texas is easy and rewarding. Here are a few simple steps to get started: Subscribe to the Newsletter: Visit our website and navigate to the newsletter section. Enter your email address and click on the subscribe button to join our mailing list. By subscribing, you will gain access to a wealth of insider information and be the first to know about upcoming events, artist spotlights, and exciting opportunities Explore Our Website: While you wait for our first newsletter to arrive, take the time to enjoy our website. Discover artist profiles, engage in community forums, and enjoy the diverse content we offer. Familiarize yourself with the platform and get a taste of the vibrant Texas EDM scene. Connect on Social Media: Follow us on our social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. By doing so, you will gain access to even more exclusive content, behind-the-scenes, and community updates. Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and connect with other EDM enthusiasts in the Texas area. Spread the Word: Help us grow our community by sharing EDM Texas with your friends, fellow music lovers, and anyone who would appreciate being a part of the Texas EDM scene. Stay in the loop, never miss a beat, and be a part of the EDM Texas community. We can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey with you!