On several occasions at Killahbeez, we made mention to German electronica DJ, Alex Ridha aka Boys Noize.  I first came across Boys Noize’s music by way of Kitsune Maison’s only podcast.  The track was a remix to Feist’s “My Moon, My Man” on Kitsune Maison’s 4th CD compilation.  With a very distinct sound and Johnny “Guns” Love’s narrative, I was convinced to seek what other remixes were out on iTunes.  From Justice to Cut Copy, the man’s work is a wide array of epic tunes.  Busy P’s comparison of Boys Noize Records’ efforts to Ed Banger’s is not only a compliment, it’s the truth.  Between production work and gigs, Alex was kind enough to spare several minutes to answer questions we had for him.  Here goes…

Killahbeez: So Alex, can you tell us the origin behind the name Boys Noize?

Boys Noize: I was desperately looking for a “cool” name.  A name to scream and shout after a gig.  A name easy to remember.  A name considered more “prollig”.  A name that sells! A name that expresses the way I feel, the way I play, the way I love,  and MOST IMPORTANT the way I AM.  It had to be outstanding, innovative and timeless, too.  I came up with Laser Face and the single “Face the Laser” but I got into beef with DJ Tiga who wanted the same name for his side project :(  Boys Noize is actually the worst name because most of the people think of 2 guys and everyone writes the name wrong.  I also have other project names as Puzique, Morgentau, Eastwest, or 909D1SCO too.

KB: Who were some major influences in your career?

BN: Anything from Roule Records, Dance Mania, Kraftwerk and Tresor.

KB: Every dj/producer has a signature sound. How did you come about developing yours?

BN: After producing 10 years you get bored of a lot of sounds and I’m always look for something that surprises me.

KB: How important are lyrics in your tracks?

BN: I dont care about lyrics.  When I dj, I don’t like much vocals either.  It’s not easy to have cool vocals on a banging track.

KB: It appears you’ll be touring most of Asia in the upcoming weeks.  Do you have any plans on returning to the US?  We’d love to have you in DC.

BN: Yeah, I am coming back for sure.  For this year I only have dates in NYC & LA, but I’m gonna make a big tour in march09…aiaiai

KB: You’ve done a slew of remixes for artists such as Bloc Party, Depeche Mode, Feist and Justice.  What are all the processes involved in a remix?  Who approaches who?

BN: Its always different.  D.Modes manager contacted me saying that one of the band member is a big fan but it can also be the label that reaches out.  Then sometimes I do free remixes because I love the song.  In some cases, I’ll do swap remixes with other artists or you get asked by a friend like Housemeister…

KB: On the topic of remixes, I really enjoyed your version of Phantom. Will you be remixing anymore tracks for Justice in the future?  Perhaps Planisphere?

BN: Thank you! Well, probably not from the recent album…let’s see.

KB: If there is one artist you would like to collaborate with, who would that be?

BN: Gonzales (Note: Gonzales is Feist’s producer)

KB: What can one expect from your live sets?

BN: Fun!

KB: Lastly, what should we expect from Boys Noize for the remainder of 2008 and beginning of 2009?

BN: I’m mixing the next I LOVE TECHNO CD which will be out in October due to the festival.  I’m working on new stuff & collaborations…too hot to mention yet :=)

Also noteworthy, is the release of Boys Noize Records Volume 1.  Expect top notch floor smashers from Boys Noize, Shadow Dancer, D.I.M., Housemeister, Les Petits Pilous, Siriusmo, Strip Steve, Puzique, etc.  The two cd compilation is now available.  For those in need of a live Boys Noize fix, he will be headlining at Webster Hall alongside A-Trak on October 3rd.  Another reason why I heart GBH.  The “Attack of the Unibros” tour finishes off in Montreal on October 4th.