Q&A: Levente Bálint (Drive) Enters A New Era
“Well this is like asking a father to choose a favorite child (haha).” - Levente Bálint (Drive)
It was so nice to catch up with my friend Levente Bálint (aka Drive) recently. With the release of his second album "Sketchbook Stories, Vol.1. Dusty Tales" earlier this month, I wanted to see what’s changed since we’ve last talked. Below is our interview.
1.) Tell me about your new album "Sketchbook Stories, Vol.1. Dusty Tales". What is the significance of the title?
This project started as a collection of beatmaking practice sessions - it was like writing sketches in a book, so you could later use them to develop something. I was trying out a lot of new things, experimenting with new ideas, techniques and sounds. For me, it is like having 10 scenes of 10 different movies, but they all take place in the same city. Basically, these are 10 short stories with a really monotonous vibe and dusty atmosphere.
2.) How does this second album compare to your first album and previous projects?
I switched up my workflow a lot: on my previous album I was mainly using a DAW, for this one I was sticking to my MPC for as long as it felt comfortable for each song. I really feel inspired when I use hardware and I'm already working on Vol. 2., which will feature more beats from my SP404A. Also, the beats are more monotonous compared to my previous projects, simply because this is what I currently vibe with. I also made a beat tape style mixdown of the tracks, which I'll probably release on YouTube soon.
3.) What is your favorite track from the new album?
Well this is like asking a father to choose a favorite child (haha). It's hard to pick one, but I'd choose Dedication because that was actually the last song I finished for the project. For me it feels like it's wrapping up the album.
4.) You've experienced an incredible growth in daily Spotify listeners since the last time we've spoken. What do you think has been the most important reason for this?
I think the most important thing to grow today on streaming platforms is to keep releasing music consistently, but always be cautious about the quality. I also worked with more labels than before and more people from the lofi community on features.
5.) What do you want the listener to take away from this new album; a certain feeling or mood?
For most people, I think this album can be a good companion if you need something for the background and you want to have a consistent vibe. Have a coffee, study, code or read... I got you!
6.) What are your music goals for the rest of this year?
I have a couple new singles scheduled for the next weeks and months with @yawn.label, @magiccalm and @chillmoon_music. I'm also working on Sketchbook Stories Vol. 2., and scheduling some more singles.
7.) If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I love italian cousine, so I'd say pizza. But it has to be a GOOD pizza!
Be sure to check out the playlist below for a wonderful selection of his songs including his latest single “Simmer”!