Mixmag Asia Radio: Intriguant splashes intelligent textures across a 62-minute canvas

Textures, layers, spaces and perspective seem to the core ingredients to Louis Quek's musical output under guise of Intriguant. A bastion for Singapore's electronic scene, Intriguant has proved through performance and production that boundaries can mean very little if you simply remove them. Veering towards IDM sensibilities, with techno to broken-beat subtleties, Quek's ability to register sound through context is rather remarkable.

We're thrilled about the set he's concocted for this week's Mixmag Asia Radio. Hit play below and read on to find out more about the humble studio wizard known as Intriguant.

Where are you based and how did you get there?

I’m born and raised in Singapore.


What’s your favourite thing about the music scene there?

We have a diverse music scene here in Singapore, ranging from hip hop to house and techno to drum'n'bass s as well as experimental noise music.

The great thing about is that there are many different artist collectives and DJ / producer crews to showcase the wide spectrum of electronic music here in Singapore. We are a pretty tight-knitted scene where everybody knows everybody and at any given time, will come together and support one another.


In five words, what do your DJ sets sound like?

Energy-Driven, Familiar, Intriguing, Dynamic, Consistent.


And in three words, how would you describe yourself?

Always on the move (sorry, that’s four words).


What recent trends in music have you been paying attention to? Have you caught onto them?

Something that I have noticed recently is the resurgence of breaks, UKG, Jersey club music and jungle. The energy of these genres definitely never left but has been evolving to being at the forefront of forward-thinking dance music in the club.

In addition, I have also heard some of these influences in many recent releases and even in popular music. It has definitely grown on me and inspired me in my productions and DJ sets.


Are there any producers and DJs in Asia that have recently caught your attention?

First off, there's kuromoji from Osaka. I met kuromoji at an event where we were playing at organised by Mayumikiller (Loser/Dublab Osaka). He was this unassumingly quiet guy that was hanging around. But when he started playing his live set, it was one of the most complex, heavy and energetic sets I have heard as though someone playing at Low End Theory. I was completely blown away with his musicality and productions.

Then there's Frinla from Singapore. I have known Axel (Frinla) for a while now and seeing him evolve from playing in metal and mathrock bands to now making experimental-driven club sounds. His approach to sound design, music and life is inspiring and he is definitely one to look out for.


Describe one prediction you have about dance music in a post-pandemic world that’s being driven by new technologies.

One thing that became big over the pandemic is livestreams and video-recorded sets. Even now on YouTube, you can find all these channels with top-quality video and sound productions with proper visuals and set design. This has definitely helped people to tide them over during the pandemic and also inspired them to discover new music and learn about DJing and making beats. I say this with utmost appreciation for them for being curious about the music scene and wanting to experience it in person.


Tell us about the inspiration behind this mix - what drove your thoughts and emotions, and how did you curate your selection?

I curated this mix based on tracks that I have been listening to in recent years. Some of it are tracks that I have recently discovered and others are artists that I have been following for a while. There are also a few unreleased and forthcoming music in it as well. I try to keep the energy of this mix similar to when I’m playing a set in front of a crowd. The energy builds up throughout the mix but also creates moments of anticipation and surprises along the way.


What equipment did you record this mix on?

I have recorded this mix on my Pioneer DDJ RX1 Controller.


What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever seen happening from the DJ booth?

So this is a funny story. A couple of years ago, there was one event that I was playing together with Kiat from Syndicate called GOOD TIMES at Blu Jaz. While the dance floor was going, out of nowhere, a pair of briefs appeared on the DJ console. We were so stunned and started questioning if it belongs to someone and if it was used. The next thing I know is that Kiat picked it up and tried to put it over my head but eventually failed. Till to this day, the owner of those briefs is still a mystery.


Where can we hear you playing next?

I will be curating and playing at my bi-monthly event, UPLOADING on March 18 featuring some of the rising producers and DJs in the music scene at Headquarters, Upstairs. On the 23rd of March, I will be opening for Interplanetary Criminal and Main Phase (UK) at TUFF CLUB organised by North East Social Club. Then on the 24th, I will be making my debut for the night at Offtrack.

On top of that, I am also releasing some new music! I will be releasing a five-track EP in early April and the first single will be dropping soon. Hope you check it out!