The Dallas-based DJ/producer’s unique sound described as a combination of “deep driving drums with dark melodies” has already made its way into sets by Tale of Us, Thugfucker, and Climbers, just to name a few. 2014 has already been a big year for Hands Free as he released his ‘Restless’ EP on Faceless Recordings. Hands Free also collaborated with good friend Jon Charnis to release a remix of Tim Paris’ track on My Favorite Robot Records in addition to the tracks he has in the works for Motek, and You Are Here Music.

Hands Free grew up in Washington DC and spent early years playing in Punk Bands. The transition was made to playing records when the young artist visited the former club called BUZZ in Washington DC and saw Sasha, Josh Wink, Carl Cox play. Other early inspiration came from old Sasha and Digweed mixes, having them on repeat in his car for weeks at a time. Later on, Sasha would play his ‘Tranquilizer’ track, part of Hands Free’s Faceless Recordings EP, during a show in NYC, a gratifying moment for the up and comer.

Connect with Hands Free:
Soundcloud: @handsfreeofficial
Facebook: www.facebook.com/handsfreedj
Twitter: twitter.com/handsfreedj
Beatport: www.beatport.com/artist/hands-free/316169

Where are you from and what are your musical upbringings?

Originally I’m from NY and have been involved in music for the majority of my life. I’ve been piano and guitar from a young age. In high school I was the guitarist for a couple punk/metal bands before discovering house music.

Can you tell us how you got mixed up in this crazy world of electronic music?

When I was16, I was traveling for a soccer tournament and some friends of mine told me about this rave happening close by. We snuck out and went. It was just a bunch of local djs from VA but it was one of the most memorable nights of my life.

You had some quality releases come out in 2014 so far. What is your favorite track of yours that is out at the moment?

I just had a remix come on Holmar from Thugfucker’s label called You Are Here (yahnyc.com). It’s a really cool indy label with artists like Gus Gus, Sasse, Adultnapper, Tigerskin, and Pan-Pot. I’m definitely honored to be in such great company.  As far as originals go, I recently had a track out on Dilate Records called 0.10. I wrote this over a year ago and had no idea how well it would do as it’s got some great support.

When you are not making music, what are you doing?

I work as a media planner at an advertising agency in Dallas. I also crossfit, snowboard, and try to stay active. Also we are expecting a daughter in 3 weeks!

What can we expect from Hands Free in the coming months and into 2015?

Currently I’m working on some music with my partner in crime Jon Charnis. You should be hearing some of this in the months to come. I also have remixes coming out on Motek and collaborations with Jay Tripwire.

What advice would you give to aspiring producers?

Work hard. Stay true to your sound. Don’t let the poor taste of the masses bring you down.

Who are some of your favorite producers/labels right now?

Jon Charnis is definitely one of the best producers I’ve seen. Expect big things from him in 2014. I’ve also been loving what I’ve been hearing from Low Tide, Thugfucker, Tara Brooks, Canson, Kosmas, and Balcazar & Sordo.

Drink of Choice?

Bourbon on the Rocks.

Can you tell us s little about this mix?

I decided to go a bit more organic with this mix. Lots of melodies and drums to create a groove that’s easy to dance to. Something not too deep but also not as aggressive as I can get sometimes.