Headline photography Paul Husband 

Suddi Raval, a seasoned Manchester music producer, has experienced a remarkable journey through various music genres.

His recent successes in electro have reignited his passion and led to a series of fortunate events, reflecting both his dedication and the cyclical nature of music trends.

In this engaging interview, Suddi Raval shares an intimate look into his musical evolution and the unexpected resurgence of the electro genre. Raval’s passion for music is palpable, tracing his journey from the early rave scene Hardcore Uproar success to dabbling in house and techno to his recent successes in electro.

His dedication to the craft, driven by pure love rather than commercial gain, has resulted in a series of releases that resonate with authenticity and innovation. The conversation with Mike Mannix reveals Raval’s genuine excitement and gratitude for the opportunities that have come his way, highlighting a career that thrives on creativity and a deep connection to the music.

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Mike Mannix: Good morning man, how are ya?

Suddi Raval: Yeah man, really good, yeah. It’s been a while, hasn’t it? I think the last time we spoke, I was saying to you I’ve written millions of music in this new genre, and it’s been an incredible journey, really.

Just going from having the spark to seeing if I could put some of it out and the crazy run of release after release. It’s been just really incredible, signing to one of my favorite labels, which I’ve been buying music from.

It’s something I don’t really talk about publicly because I don’t want to look like I’m showing off. There’s a fine balance, isn’t there?

A lot of labels have been popping up and asking, “Can you do me an EP?” It’s a bit of a dream situation for any artist or producer, actually having record labels coming to you asking, “What have you got?”

”I decided to run with it and make all the music that’s been trapped in me for years.”

Yeah and I’m like, “I’ve got loads of stuff. Where do you want me to start?” It’s been incredible.

You know, before I started doing this, I thought in a dream situation, I’d love to get this sound out. I couldn’t quite crack the electro sound in a way that I felt was up there with the stuff I loved for a long time. I made house, I made techno, and I remember thinking my stuff wasn’t there yet.

But then, there was a moment where I thought, “I think I’ve got it.” So, I decided to run with it and make all the music that’s been trapped in me for years.

Mike Mannix: It was germinating, that’s what it all was.

Suddi Raval: It was crazy. It just popped. I send my stuff to a mastering engineer who works for loads of big labels, and he was asking how I was sending so much stuff.

I was just writing it, and it carried on. He said, “You’ve literally sent me many albums’ worth of material. I can barely keep up with the mastering.” I thought, let’s make that sound happen, assign some labels, and start at the top with my dream labels.

If they say no, I can work my way down. But people were saying yes, and I got cool gigs without chasing them. Electro was my first love, the thing that got me obsessed with music as a kid. It’s amazing how it’s become popular again after I started messing around with it.

Mike Mannix: So, it’s come full circle.

“Electro was my first love, the thing that got me obsessed with music as a kid.”

Suddi Raval: Yeah, absolutely. And people ask how I knew it was going to blow up. I’d love to say I’m one of those people who can see what’s next, but it’s just a fluke.

I’ve fluked stuff a few times, made house before it exploded, made ravey stuff, and even acid. I do it for the love, not because I think it’ll get big or because I want to be part of the scene.

Mike Mannix: That’s probably why you’ve lasted so long. It’s obvious with everything you do, any interview, any clips of videos, that your heart’s in it. If money comes along, all good, but your passion is clear.

Your energy comes through your music, your personality, and all the ideas you’ve laid down over the decades. It’s like now is the right time, and it’s manifested for you.

“It’s always been just about making records we love. When things grow out of control, it’s nice to have a new wave in a different sound.”

Suddi Raval: Yeah, sure. It’s great that people can see that. It’s always been just about making records we love. When things grow out of control, it’s nice to have a new wave in a different sound.

Mike Mannix: Didn’t you play recently in Manchester in a spectacular Monastery gig, run by Jay Wearden and Rosie Romero?

Suddi Raval: Yeah, that was amazing. I played a small gig around the corner from that one first, went back to Manchester, and maybe forgot the extent of the love for it. I played a set in Hyde, rehearsing a lot at home, trying to get a solid sound, and the crowd went crazy for it. It was a small gig, but the energy was incredible.

Then, the monastery gig was buzzing. I wrote a new track, and the crowd loved it. The surroundings, the crowd, and the energy were just mind-blowing.

”I love the spacey feel of electro, and the name reflects that. We’re creating a relaxed, otherworldly atmosphere.”

The atmosphere was euphoric. The building, a monastery, was spectacular. The crowd was friendly and buzzing. It felt like the old rave days. The vibe was just incredible, Jay and Rosie did an amazing job!

Mike Mannix: Amazing. So, tell us about the new gig or project you have coming up.

Suddi Raval: It’s called SIOS, which stands for Sunbathing in Outer Space. I love the spacey feel of electro, and the name reflects that. We’re creating a relaxed, otherworldly atmosphere.

I’m working with an incredible artist on the logo and merch. The music policy is top-notch, featuring some of the best electro artists. I’m very excited about it.

Mike Mannix: That sounds fantastic. I can’t wait to see how it all comes together.

Suddi Raval: Nice one Mike!

The interview provides a glimpse into Raval’s latest project, SIOS (Sunbathing in Outer Space), which promises to bring a fresh, otherworldly experience to the electro scene. The enthusiasm surrounding this project reflects Raval’s continuous drive to push boundaries and explore new musical landscapes. His reflections on recent performances, particularly the electrifying atmosphere of the Manchester gig, underscore the timeless appeal of his music and the enduring connection with his audience. This interview not only celebrates Raval’s achievements but also serves as an inspiring testament to the cyclical nature of music trends and the enduring power of genuine artistic expression.