Luis Dubuc's electronic journey returns to illuminate the track of the Indie Rocks Forum! with new sonic frontiers.
Mystery Skulls is the innovative project of Luis Alberto Dubuc Jr.who after leading The Secret Handshakefounded this proposal of electronic pop with hints of disco, funk, soul and synthes — a hybrid that has captivated global audiences. With albums like forever (2014), One of Us (2017), Back to Life (2019) and his most recent The Gold Album (2023), Mystery Skulls has demonstrated his ability to reinvent himself and explore dark, melodic and danceable sounds. Next October 18, Dubuc will bring your vibrant mix to the Indie Rocks Forum!promising a visual and sound experience that fuses nostalgia, dance and emotional exploration.
Indie Rocks!: We know that Mystery Skulls has a strong fan base in Mexico. What does it mean to you to return to play here and what do you expect from tonight at the Indie Rocks Forum!?
Mystery Skulls: I am very excited to return. It's great to be able to play two places this time. Last time it was just a show and this time there will be two, so I'm really excited and looking forward to seeing people. The energy and singing from the crowd last time was really special, and I'm looking forward to this experience.
GO!: You adopted the name Mystery Skulls after your time with The Secret Handshake. At what moment did you decide to take this new direction to your music and what changed in your creative proposal?
MS: It's a good question. At the end of The Secret Handshake I had a metal band that we toured with. Between the first and second tour, I started making the first songs of Mystery Skullsalthough I wasn't sure of the name. I posted it online and at the end of the second metal tour the drummer asked me if there would be any more shows. I was hesitating, because I felt that Mystery Skulls It was starting to take off. That was in 2012. It wasn't something planned, but rather it flowed naturally, like a moment in time.
GO!: Your album forever (2014) was one of your most celebrated releases, with collaborations such as Nile Rodgers and Brandy. As time goes by, what musical evolution do you think Mystery Skulls has had since that album until The Gold Album?
MS: I've definitely loved it and I'm grateful to be a part of that evolution. It has been an incredible reality, with very beautiful albums and very positive and good music. Now I have a new album called Maximum Joy. I already play some songs at shows and the audience is really enjoying them.
GO!: In your compositions, many recognize a mix between funk, disco, electronica and soul. What are your strongest influences when producing new songs?
MS: Many come from life experiences. On this album, the main inspiration is the desire to experience the maximum possible joy in life. My songs have always had big themes, and in this case it's a celebration of love and joy.
GO!:The album Back to Life (2019) and Now or Never (2020) showed a more introspective and emotional side. How do you balance that depth with the danceable and celebratory aspect of your music?
MS: That dichotomy is interesting. There is very danceable music with a little deeper or heavier themes. There are songs with those themes on this album as well, but energy and celebration predominate.
GO!: Electronic music has a very powerful visual component live. How do you conceive the design, lights and visuals for a show from Mystery Skulls?
MS: I have been lucky enough to work with very talented people to make incredible light shows that complement the music and atmosphere. I've been very interested lately in lighting and visual propositions, and I'm very grateful for that.
GO!: After more than a decade making music under this project, what would you say is the secret to continuing to innovate without repeating formulas?
MS: It is a good question and a constant challenge. I think the key is to enjoy it, because I still love making music all the time. Creating is a joy, and shows and traveling are an additional motivating extra.
GO!: What is the difference between Mystery Skulls in the studio and in a live show?
MS: In the studio I usually make more introspective and slower songs. Live, although there is some of that, the energy goes through the roof; It's much more rave, high energy, with techno and club vibes, it's a lot of fun.
GO!: If someone has never listened to Mystery Skulls, what song would you recommend as a gateway to discover your sound world?
MS: I would recommend “Magic”. I think it's a pretty special song.
GO!: In closing, describe Mystery Skulls in three words.
MS: It's hard…kind of like Emo French Touch.
Stay tuned for Indie Rocks! for more details.
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