Melodics - Melodics Magazine

THUGLI made up of Tom Wrecks and Pat Drastik, are an exciting production/DJ duo from Canada. Joining forces back in 2012 the pair have taken the trap scene by storm. Their unique live shows and affinity to Trap music long before it went mainstream are one of many aspects that set them apart.

This week THUGLI are releasing their first ever lesson on Melodics called ‘Overtime’. We wanted to ask them a few questions about this lesson as well as get some pointers on their music production process.

How did you find Melodics and what intrigued you about the project?

Tom: We discovered Melodics at Jazzy Jeff’s Playlist Retreat this past August. As soon as we heard the concept we were down. It’s such a creative an innovative way of learning pads, timing, flow etc.

What hardware and software do you use in your production and live shows?

Pat: For our production we use Ableton with a slew of plug ins. Live show were on 4 X Technic 1200’s, 2 X Rane 62’s and 2 X Pioneer SP-1.

A mix Thugli did for DJ City in 2014 showcasing their unique DJ set up and scratching prowess.

How have you used finger drumming as apart of your creative process?

Tom: It’s definitely starting to change our live sets creatively. It’s allowing us to incorporate more routines, tone play into the mix. Making us think outside the box a bit more about what we’re going to play and how we’re going to deliver it. Melodics has totally helped keep us sharp on the pads as well.

What is the most important bit of advice you can give to aspiring producers and DJ’s?

Pat: So cliche to say this, but be true to yourself. Make the music you want to make. Play the music you want to play. Let your personality shine through it all.

Tom: Also practice a lot!

You are about to release your first lesson on Melodics called ‘Overtime’. Tell us a bit about the track.

Tom: This track was originally a remix we did for ASAP Mob. It became one of our more popular remixes so we decided to make an instrumental version of it. It’s one of our personal favourites so we’re really excited about being able to recreate it with the lesson!

The remix that THUGLI did for A$AP Mob back in 2014. Click to around 0:55 to hear what part of this track has been used for the instrumental.

How did you guys first meet?

Pat: We both met in our teens at a park near both of our houses. We used to skateboard there with all the neighbourhood homies.

Tom: We were both really into music, Pat had already begun DJing and I was into making beats. I started DJing, Pat started making beats. It’s been quite a ride ever since!

What was the craziest gig you ever performed at and why?

Pat: We’ve had some pretty crazy ones. Really hard to pinpoint one. If we had to, maybe Digital Dreams in Toronto. It was one our first big shows at home to a crowd of a few thousand all going absolutely bananas the entire hour set. Very surreal.

You both have been producing Trap style music long before it hit was popular. Have you been surprised about Trap’s rise into the mainstream? Where do you see the sound heading to next?

Pat: That sound has had its feet planted for some time now but as it started to really grow it was surprise. Not that we didn’t think it could, We just didn’t think it would so fast. Not sure if there’s a definite route for it. It’s taking shape in many forms and heading down all kinds of different paths. That’s what’s dope about it. Constantly evolving and changing.

If you were stranded on a deserted island for a year and could only bring three albums with you what would they be?

Tom: Only a year. That’s not too too bad. We can at least return to more music later so… Home Alone soundtrack, Cast Away soundtrack and Survivor the TV show soundtrack haha.