14 FAKTS INTERVIEW WITHIllyus & Barrientos

Illyus & Barrientos have a long and hugely successful history with Toolroom, having released with them over a decade as well as playing Toolroom shows all over the world. This new single, D.A.N.C.E. comes off the back of some self-released music via their ‘Stay Busy’ label and a sold-out US tour that saw them grace the decks at Marquee in Vegas, San Francisco, San Diego and Tulum.

Q: Please introduce yourself

We are Illyus & Barrientos, a DJ/production duo from Scotland. We’ve released on amazing labels like Toolroom, Defected, and Snatch. We’ve had the privilege of recording a BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix, toured the world, and played in places like Medellin,Bangkok, Barcelona, New York, and Mexico City. We love writing house music! 

Q: One person you'd dream to have a coffee with?

Illyus - I’d like to spend a few more moments with my grandfather. I moved back toScotland for him but didn’t get much time with him. I know it’s a bit sentimental, but he had such an effect on me, and I’d like him to see who I am today. He was one of a kind!

Barrientos - Maybe someone like Kamasi Washington. I got to meet him a few years ago after one of his shows, and I thought he was the coolest guy. 

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Illyus - I’d want super speed because I do too many things at once. I need more hours in the day, as I’m always on the go. Not sure how that would help or hinder DJing.

Barrientos - Mind reading, easily. I need to know what you’re thinking… 

Q: If you would have been given the chance to do a film score, what movie would you choose and why?

Illyus - Jaws. I feel like that score has had more impact than any other when it comes tobeing effective.

Barrientos - Blade Runner 2049. I know the original score doesn’t need to be rewritten, but the cinematography is just unreal, and Denis Villeneuve is a genius. 

Q: Who has been the most influential in your music career? And why?

Illyus - When I was growing up in Frankfurt, one of my friends, Hicham, came over with a tape of radio recordings of hip-hop tunes—records from Eric B & Rakim, OutKast, IceCube, and more. I must’ve been around 10 or 11. It blew my mind! The sounds, the flow…I genuinely feel that moment started my musical journey. Thanks, Hicham!

Barrientos - Probably my older sister, Pauline. She always had new bands to listen to and had a varied taste in music. She was huge on death metal but loved to throw in a curveball. 

Q: Tell us about your journey, what got you to where you are today?

Illyus - A lot of hard work, lots of lows, but a constant thirst for music. When I started DJing, I never thought about becoming a producer at first, but you have no choice but to evolve. I also want to pay massive homage to Barrientos because without him, I wouldn’t be in this position. We’ve always had each other’s backs, and with that, you gain massive confidence.

Barrientos - A lot of hard work, luck, and education. We’re always learning. 

Q: Everyone goes through ups and downs, what’s one habit you adopt to push through the downs?

Illyus - In music, everyone should know there are plenty of downs, but you need to be in it for the right reasons. I learn from downs and disappointments and try to take something positive from them. There always is something positive, I’m sure of that. I just pushthrough because you have to. There’s always someone worse off, so when I step back, Iask, “Is the situation really that bad?”

Barrientos - Just keep writing the music I want. As long as I enjoy writing, that helps push through the tough times. 

Q: Can you recall a DJ set or performance of yours that remains unforgettable to you? Where did it take place, and what makes it stand out among all others?

Illyus - Medellin is a standout. The vibe in that city was unbelievable. Small club, great people, dancing all night. The atmosphere was something we’d never experienced before.It was such a feel-good party. I could’ve played a 24-hour set.

Barrientos - I love coming to Mexico City. The people are amazing and generous. Everytime we go, we leave with new friends and memories. 

Q: How has your music style evolved over the years?

Illyus - We’ve become more decisive in our sound choices and rely heavily on mood to make the right music. Our music is more and more aimed at the dancefloor rather than worrying about the noise around us.

Barrientos - I’ve become hyper-fixated on sound design. I’m obsessed with making sure the sounds we use are the right ones. I think it’s helped us evolve to a point where thequality is really high. 

Q: If you were to venture into another music genre, which one would you choose and why?

Illyus - Easy listening RnB and soul vibes. I enjoy listening to artists like Tom Misch and Kaytranada.

Barrientos - Jazz. The jazz scene is arguably the best it’s ever been. The talent, thewriting, the production are all at a sky-high level. 

Q: Could you name 3 tracks that got you into electronic music and why?

Illyus - Armand Van Helden - "You Don’t Know Me", Daft Punk - "Around The World".

Barrientos - Roman Flügel - "Geht’s Noch", Soulwax - "E Talking", Tim Deluxe - "It JustWon’t Do".There’s just something about these that had us hooked immediately! 

Q: Can you recommend a hidden gem in your home country that would be perfect for a rave?

Illyus - Many years ago, we had a festival called Rockness. The main stage sat right onLoch Ness. It was one of the most picturesque festival sites I’ve ever been to.

Barrientos - The Isle of Skye. Stunning! 

Q: Could you tell us about your upcoming releases and plans for the year?

Illyus - "D.A.N.C.E" is a huge dancefloor anthem with an infectious sound. We wanted to make something big and impactful, and it seems like we nailed it. We’ve also got more releases lined up with Toolroom. One, in particular, might be special if we get the vocal we want. We also have a release with Insomniac—something a little different for us.

Barrientos - We’ve got some great records lined up with Toolroom. We’re also pushing our record label, Stay Busy Records, and getting some amazing talent on board. 

Q: Can you share a fun fact about yourself that most of your listeners are probably unaware of?

Illyus - I coach kids' football, and it’s one of the most enjoyable things I do. It’s amazing being part of young footballers’ journeys.

Barrientos - I don’t look it, but I love playing different sports. My current obsession isbadminton and golf!