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180 - The Journey of Neil Frances: From DJing to Music Production

Updated: 20 hours ago


In this episode, Jordan discusses his transition from DJing to music production. He also shares the formation of the Neil Frances duo with Mark. Jordan highlights his preference for analog gear and production techniques. He emphasizes the significance of feel in music creation. Furthermore, Jordan explains their all-analog live setup for the Club NF project. He shares details about their upcoming Club NF releases and much more.


Origins of Neil Frances


Neil Frances is an LA-based duo consisting of Jordan Feller and Marc Gilfry. They skillfully blend electro-indie rock with a love for dance music. This unique style was influenced by Feller's start as a DJ in Sydney. The duo first gained attention through their SoundCloud demos, which received support from KCRW. Their 2017 remake of “Music Sounds Better With You” became a massive hit. With over 360 million views on TikTok and 200 million streams, their music has reached audiences worldwide.


Major Achievements


Neil Frances has played at major festivals like Coachella and Bonnaroo. They created CLUB NF to remix their tracks for energetic, analog live sets. Their first volume reached over 640,000 streams, showcasing their ability to reach a diverse audience. In addition to touring, they continue to release new music under both the Neil Frances and CLUB NF names. This active engagement in the music industry has solidified their reputation as a prominent duo.


The All-Analog Live Setup


The transition to an all-analog live setup reflects their commitment to authenticity in music. Jordan believes that real instruments and analog gear contribute to a deeper emotional connection with listeners. This setup is vital for them, especially for Club NF shows, where they want to recreate that raw feel of live music. The audience can feel the difference when musicians use real instruments versus digital ones. Jordan’s passion for analog gear defines their sound and adds layers to their live performances.


Upcoming Releases


Fans can expect exciting new releases from Neil Frances and CLUB NF. Jordan hints at projects that showcase the duo's growth and evolution in the music industry. They are dedicated to pushing boundaries and experimenting with sounds. This commitment ensures that their music remains fresh and relevant. As they continue to evolve, listeners can anticipate innovation in every new track.


In between their performances, Jordan and Marc tirelessly work on new material. Their wide-ranging influences and experiences help shape their sound. Each new song, release, and project reflects their unique journey and growth as musicians. The duo aims to craft music that resonates with their audience while pushing their artistic limits.


The Influence of DJing on Production


Jordan's background as a DJ greatly influences his approach to music production. DJing has taught him about crowd interaction, energy flow, and selecting tracks that move people. These skills carry over into production, allowing him to create songs that resonate with dance music fans. The transition from DJing to producing has been a natural progression, blending the best of both worlds.


The skills he developed as a DJ enhance his production techniques. He understands what keeps the audience engaged and uses this knowledge to inform his creative process. This blend of experiences contributes to unique sounding tracks that capture listeners’ attention.


Fan Interaction


Jordan and Marc prioritize direct engagement with their fans. Through social media and live shows, they create a community around their music. This connection is essential in today's digital age. They embrace feedback and use it to inform their future projects. The supportive fan base has been a driving force behind their success. They appreciate the opportunity to share their journey with their listeners.


Neil Frances has committed to creating an inclusive atmosphere. Engaging with fans during shows deepens the connection and enhances the experience. Jordan believes that sharing their creative struggles and triumphs helps inspire others. This relatability is key to their brand and mission.


Future Directions


Looking ahead, Neil Frances plans to explore diverse sounds and styles. They aim to collaborate with different artists and producers to expand their sonic footprint. These collaborations could lead to exciting new genres and influences in their music.


As their journey unfolds, they remain committed to authenticity and artistry. Their work reflects honest expressions of life, love, and creativity. Neil Frances is poised to continue influencing the music scene, blending genres while staying true to their roots.


In conclusion, Neil Frances's story from DJing to music production is inspiring. Jordan’s love for analog sounds and live music shapes their unique identity. Fans can look forward to more vibrant sounds and eagerly anticipated releases. Experience the evolution of Neil Frances as they continue to make their mark in the music world.






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