Todd Last is Sonic Radiation, an EDM artist from Dallas, Texas. With this Q&A, he tells us more about his music.
Skope: You’re from Dallas, which is probably more famous for its country music than its electronic dance music. What’s the scene really like there?
Todd Last: Hello! Thank you so much for the interview. Actually, I haven’t reached out to my local area like I should have. Unfortunately, Dallas isn’t really an electronic music hotspot. Unfortunately, I think the Dallas EDM scene is so underground that no one knows about it. If anyone knows where the door is, please let me know. I’d love to be a part of it!
Skope: Your single, “Roentgen,” is a word defined as: “a unit of ionizing radiation, the amount producing one electrostatic unit of positive or negative ionic charge in one cubic centimeter of air under standard conditions.” What made you give this piece of music that name?
Last: My newest release is another journey into and back from the unknown. Hopefully, it’s an interesting step forward in my quest for great electronic music. The single “Roentgen” as part of Dimixides, the next stage in the evolution of the story and ideas of electromagnetic transmission of sonic energy in wave form and function.
Skope: “Roentgen” sounds like it’s as influenced by disco music, as much as electronic sounds. Are you influenced by any disco music, and if so, which artists/songs?
Last: I love the disco vibe. I think my style kind of happens by making a sound that takes the best of what I like and enjoy in what I see and hear as a fan. I’m sure some disco molecules are in every Sonic Radiation track.
– https://www.sonicradiation.com/alert-roentgen
Skope: Your website lists Front 242 and Front Line Assembly as inspiration, which goes back quite a few years. Is there something about that era that you like more than what’s happening these days, and if so, what do you like about it?
Last: I think those bands were unique and innovative in their time. They had a big effect on me when I was introduced to electronic music and I’ve tried to be a worthy next generation. I think all my songs try to grab you by the ear. I hope each one takes you on a different journey through time and space. Each track really reflects my skill level and life at the time. I release each song when it’s finished, and I hope over time that will be interesting.
Skope: Building upon my last question, what are some of your favorite contemporary artists?
Last: I’m also a huge fan of Star Wars and sci-fi movies. Also, great bands like Rush, Depeche Mode, and many others.
Skope: What music do you like that might surprise people? Are there non-electronic musicians that also inspire you?
Last: I think my music is more influenced by the vastness of space and the smallness of within and the electronic music in-between. Traveling through the galaxy far, far away always brings me a new hope.
Skope: What’s the significance of the name Sonic Radiation?
Last: I think Sonic Radiation is all the things in EDM that I’ve always liked. The early dance music was cool and dark. I loved that. It was new and had a fun spirit. I try to keep that in my music. Sonic Radiation aspires to express hope, energy and reverence for electronic music and life.
Skope: In what ways are you keeping your career alive during our current pandemic?
Last: It’s been a strange and life altering year trying to stay safe and in good spirits. I hope everyone is figuring it all out and trying to make the best out of it. My hope is that Sonic Radiation music can be an escape from what’s happening in the world, news and politics. A journey into another dimension of time and space. I’m always thinking about, learning and working on trying to make the best sounds and visuals I can. Music is a really big topic with many different areas to learn about and include in my releases. I’m really fascinated and drawn to the world of music as a creator and a fan.
https://www.sonicradiation.com
-Dan MacIntosh
