Why Oliver Heldens Became HI-LO
In the dynamic landscape of electronic music, the creation of alter egos and anonymous aliases has become a captivating trend. Oliver Heldens, a prominent figure in the industry, embraced this phenomenon in 2015 with the birth of his mysterious alter ego, HI-LO. Delving into the motivations behind the inception of HI-LO unveils a narrative rich in artistic exploration, creative freedom, and a desire to push musical boundaries.
At its genesis, HI-LO emerged as an avenue for Oliver Heldens to venture into uncharted territory. "Crank It Up" on Mad Decent served as the catalyst, generating buzz and anticipation. The decision to adopt the alias was not merely a gimmick but a deliberate choice to carve out a space for a different sonic identity.
Fast forward to 2020, and HI-LO had transformed into a techno powerhouse, showcasing Oliver's proficiency in crafting deep and dark records. The thematic evolution inspired by Greek Gods, evident in tracks like 'Zeus' and 'Kronos,' demonstrated a commitment to narrative storytelling through music.
The success of HI-LO's releases, including 'Poseidon,' 'Athena,' 'Hades,' 'Saw of Olympus,' and collaborations like the 'Balearic Mornings' EP with Reinier Zonneveld, underscored the project's impact. It wasn't just about creating music; it was about establishing an alter ego that could breathe and evolve independently, exploring avenues distinct from Oliver Heldens' established sound.
The techno scene embraced HI-LO's darker and more experimental side, with tracks landing in the top 10 of the most supported techno tracks on platforms like 1001tracklists. This success not only contributed to Oliver Heldens' recognition as the #1 most supported dance artist but also affirmed HI-LO's position as a force to be reckoned with in the techno realm.
As HI-LO continued to thrive in 2021 with a remix for Nina Kraviz's 'Skyscrapers' and the debut EP 'Hypnos' on Drumcode, it became evident that the decision to create this alter ego was a strategic move. The techno community embraced HI-LO's unique voice, with support from luminaries like Adam Beyer, Dubfire, Joseph Capriati, and more.
The journey of HI-LO exemplifies Oliver Heldens' commitment to artistic exploration and the pursuit of sonic diversity. By adopting this alter ego, he not only expanded his musical repertoire but also provided fans and the industry with a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of his creativity. HI-LO is not just a side project; it's a testament to the artist's courage to step beyond the expected, challenge norms, and keep the spirit of exploration alive in electronic music.
In 2023, HI-LO, Oliver Heldens' techno alter ego, continues to make waves with standout releases. Collaborating with Eli Brown on 'RIDE OR DIE' showcases HI-LO's commitment to pushing sonic boundaries. The 'PURA VIDA' EP, released the same year, underscores HI-LO's versatility, offering a techno journey that captivates listeners. With these releases, HI-LO solidifies its status as a techno mainstay, crafting experiences that resonate with diverse audiences and leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music.
In essence, HI-LO stands as a canvas where Oliver Heldens can paint with a different palette, exploring the shadows and depths of techno without constraints. The evolution of HI-LO is not just about making music; it's about the freedom to reinvent, surprise, and leave an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of electronic soundscapes.
