When I heard the single “Abyss,” I was hooked. I was listening to We Are Friends, Vol. 6 and it came on somewhere in the middle of the album. It immediately reminded me of the Tron soundtrack… It just screams Daft Punk. I really enjoyed the song, but I had never heard of the artist. So I reached out on Facebook and he agreed to an interview. It was so much fun learning more about him and his incluences. This interview was a treat. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Notaker.
I found you when I heard “Abyss.” Tell me more about that single and what your journey to this release has been.
That song was a bit of a step in a different direction for me when I wrote it. At the time I had been writing very heavy, abrasive music for a while and I wanted to write something that was a bit deeper and moody. I think it turned out very well, my favorite part of the song is getting to incorporate my sound effect elements, like waves and deep breathes, into the song. I feel this is something that really brings the listener into the world of my music.
What is We Are Friends, Vol. 6?
We Are Friends is a mau5trap compilation series that showcases music from new artists and old artists on mau5trap’s current roster. At least that’s what I think it is.
Tell me more about Monstercat.
Monstercat is pretty much my home as an artist. It’s a record label that’s full of really passionate people who care a lot about the music. Wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
You are originally from St. Louis, Missouri. Are you a Cardinals fan?
Yes, I’m not a huge sports guy but if my team’s on TV I’ll root for them.
Listening to “Abyss” reminds me of the Tron soundtrack… Daft Punk produced that soundtrack. Have you heard the soundtrack and does anyone ever compare you to those guys?
Yes, throughout most of my records I feel like I see at least one comment somewhere everytime that says something along the lines of, “reminds me of Tron” or “sounds like Tron.”
Tell me more about your relationship with ZEITLOS Entertainment.
ZEITLOS Entertainment is my TEAM! We’ve been working together for a little over 6 months now and they’ve truly been awesome to work with. Wanna take a second to say Steve, Daniel, Naad, love you guys!
You opened for Gareth Emery earlier this year. Tell me more about that experience. I’ve yet to see him live and he is high on my interview bucket list. Seems like a nice guy.
I’ve seen him live a few times and he’s always a great show. My first time seeing him live was Ultra 2010 and it was amazing. His set in L.A. this year was really great as well, he’s truly a solid DJ and performer. Getting to close out the night for him was very amazing as well, loved the energy of the crowd.
Your name is Dave Nothaker. Where did the name Notaker come from?
Nothaker is my last name, pronounced No-Tay-Ker. I just removed the “H” in my last name so that it was more intuitive to pronounce.
You did a pretty legit photo shoot in a black leather jacket. Who took those photos and where did you take most of those images?
My friend Isamel who runs his own photography company called Seeing Sounds took those photos.
You list guys like Eric Prydz and Above & Beyond as inspiration. Who else inspires you?
deadmau5, Hans Zimmer, and M83. Those artists I feel can really capture emotion in their music. It’s something I aspire to as an artist.
Your hit “Infinite” saw over 4 million plays on Spotify. Tell me more about that release.
It’s the first song that I signed with Mosntercat and I think it’s what a lot of people know me for.
What’s next for Notaker?
Bigger projects like EPs, LPs, and a full live experience.
In all of the interviews I do, I always give the artist the last word. Go.
Just want to say thanks to everyone out there supporting me, it’s a pleasure to have you along for the ride.
Connect with Notaker:
Website: https://www.notakermusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notakermusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/notakermusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/notakermusic
