Mixmag Italy x Frank Storm

Today, we spotlight Frank Storm, the Italian chameleonic character who grew up in Ibiza and is helping define Italy’s electronic sound across the globe.

Frank, can you take us back to the moment when you first heard dance music in your uncle's car? What was it about that experience that hooked you into the world of electronic music and how do you look back on that moment now?

I was around 10/12 years old, and whenever I was out driving with him, I always listened to this music. That's when I started asking for CDs to listen to on my Walkman, and by the time I was 15, I got gifted the first two turntables.

Moving to Ibiza is a dream for many aspiring DJs. You mentioned that moving there was a pivotal moment in your career. Can you elaborate on how the island has influenced your music and career trajectory?

On June 5, 2012, I told my mom: "I'm going to Ibiza for a week and will be back after 7 months." Definitely, my sound was completely influenced by the island; before, I had a much darker and harder sound. Starting to play more frequently in clubs and after-parties, my sound here grew and evolved with much fresher and Balearic rhythms.

Your Unusual Suspects parties have gained a reputation for their underground vibe. What inspired you to create this event, and how do you curate such a distinctive atmosphere? How do you go about selecting artists and curating the music for your events to maintain the unique atmosphere that Unusual Suspects is known for?

Together with my partners Marco and Amodio, we tried to create something different where we prioritized the quality of music and the club's soundsystem, bringing DJs like Raresh, Rhadoo, Enzo Siragusa, Apollonia, Paco Osuna, Len Faki, and more.

You’ve been playing alongside the likes of Joseph Capriati, Marco Carola, Anfisa Letyago, and Ilario Alicante. Do you think DJs and artists in Italy generally support each other and help each other grow?

I definitely have to thank both Joseph and Marco for giving me space and the opportunity to perform at their parties Metamorfosi and Music On, and for always supporting me by playing my productions. Generally, in Italy, there is support among artists, but at the same time, I don't see the formation of the kind of crews that you can encounter in the UK or the Netherlands.

You have played in diverse locations, from Elrow in Campovolo to Mute Beach in Mar Del Plata , Music On at Pacha Ibiza and beyond. What has been your most memorable performance, and what made it stand out?

Surely, Mute in Mar del Plata was one of the most memorable gigs - over 10,000 people dancing in front of a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean in one of the best clubs in South America

Next is FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s The Penthouse Dubai. You’re set to play there this Saturday. What can guests expect from your set and what are you most looking forward to while you’re there

I've spent a lot of time in the studio, so we'll be testing out many new productions this Saturday, offering a truly exclusive DJ set.

We heard you also spent time in the FIVE Music Studio; FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s music studio, during your stay at FIVE. What was that experience like and what did you think of the studio?

I had the pleasure of working at FIVE Music Studio, where the sound treatment and equipment are top-notch, from the Barefoot monitors to various compressors and equalisers. It's definitely a very welcoming and professional environment.

You’ve mentioned that you like to be close to the crowd. How does this approach influence the way you structure your sets and engage with the crowd? Does that make you prefer club gigs over festivals?

I much prefer playing a long set in a club than at a festival. I can establish a connection with the audience and enter a real synergy, trying to understand if they are enjoying the music I'm playing.

How do you balance your time and creative energy between producing music in the studio and performing live sets? Do you find one more fulfilling than the other?

I usually spend much more time in the studio during the winter, or even during the week when I can in the summer. It helps me a lot to disconnect and retreat into my own world. I find both DJ sets and studio time equally rewarding.

As someone who has successfully navigated the challenging path of becoming a renowned DJ and producer, what advice would you give to young, aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the industry?

There are no shortcuts; music speaks for itself. So, being in the studio and producing is the only way to make your sound reach everywhere.