Just around this time last year, we introduced you to a German producer that goes by the moniker Persian Empire. His signature sound is like a Salvador Dali painting – bizarre and exotic melodies that melt and swell into a fine piece of art. At only 23, Persian Empire is one of our very favorite unheard of producers. We got a chance to briefly talk with him as he gets ready to release his new EP, Mongo Maracuja on October 6th and celebrate his birthday this month.
When Sam Khatam (Persian Empire) isn’t studying as a student, he’s gently fusing together the oddities of sound and eerie vocal samples that will give goosebumps. After dropping a couple of years of piano lessons, the producer picked it up again when moving to a different city.
“Actually I started making music because of isolation. The town I study in is super small – its like a very very shitty version of London. A lot of rain.”
He produces whenever he can – there is no “golden routine” as he says in making music.
“It could start with a crunchy clap sound, a vocal idea or with my piano compositions. It really depends on my daily mood.”
His favorite inspirations don’t come as a surprise to us since they are just as unique and have a delicately detailed style like PE. Thom Yorke, RJD2, Ifan Dafydd, and Jawjam are just some of the few of many artists that make his eccentric favorites list. As for his moniker, Persian Empire, actually has nothing to do with the country.”Perserreich” (german translation for persian empire) was kind of a nickname he got from his friends. We think it’s extraordinarily fitting.
I love coffee. I love red wine. I love offbeat claps. I really love the warm buzzing sound of a brass instrument and I love sad music which makes you want to dance.
His music is just…beautiful. Warm, haunting soundscapes are made with dripping melodies that transport any listener into a lush and secret world. We’re holding our breath until the release of his new EP on October 6th. The EP will be open to all hands as it will be a free download. I think you know what to do from here.
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