We’ve been playing a lot of Human by Stefan Certic on Phoenix FM recently – and we caught up with Stefan to find out a little bit more about his life and music.
Tell us a little bit about your yourself?
I am entrepreneur. Music came as a hobby along the years. I am a guitar player and producer. When I finally got convinced to step back a bit from the business, I have immediately started developing my new passion. Creation of Album – which “Human” is just an announcement for.
When did you first start to develop a passion for music?
Since the early days. I played in couple of bands, most notable being Hexagram (Power Metal) but always wanted to pursue something that would bland the genres together. This is an attempt to do so.
Which artists did you listen to while growing up?
From heavy metal bands like Symphony X, Stratovarius, Adagio, to more synth pop ones such as Depeche Mode, A-ha, David Bowie, Eurythmics. I pack it all 🙂
How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard you before?
It’s exploration of genres. And a good exploration don’t punch you in the face. Whatever genre you like – I bet you can find some influences by listening to the track.
What music have you recorded and released to date?
FusionWorks was a progressive / power metal album. Likely the most notable one would be Guitar Works single. Yet it was focusing more on technique and it’s by no means POP album. Same applies with work with Hexagram.
Which artists do you enjoy listening to at the moment – and do they influence your work?
Need to admit I am poisoning myself with Depeche Mode. For sure there would be some influences. A bit less known globally is a local author called Nikola Vranjkovic that I listen a lot.
Who would your dream collaboration be with?
First and Foremost: Alan Wilder! That’s the guy to blame for overall feel of the song. I really enjoy every single note he wrote. There’s also a virtuoso guitarist Stéphan Forté from band Adagio – who was and is my biggest influence when it comes to Guitar playing. A famous composer from Finland – Timo Tolkki. Of course back to roots, Dave Gahan and Martin Gore. Locally, Nikola Vranjkovic (ex Blockout). Maybe Daniel Gildenlöw – a bit underrated producer who wrote some masterpieces.
What are your plans for the future?
See the reception of single Human – and move forward with next one. There’s a whole album being cooked in the kitchen. It’s a conceptual one. Human is just an opening. Whole thing get’s around of blending genres in non-intrusive way – but I really want to get listener on a journey. I think it comes important in heretic world we live where time span get’s lost after 30 seconds. If I manage to get someone to sit and listen conceptual album for an hour – I would consider I made it. I got some offers for gigs but I see that coming once the full album is up.
Where can we find out more about you?
You can find me on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Spotify.
