Dream Koala Roofies

Yndi Ferreira DaSilva is the man behind Dream Koala. I was introduced to this beatmaker working out of Paris by my best friend; he crafts a soft electro sound weaved with raw emotion and organic guitar bends. Looking back, damn, am I ever thankful for that introduction.

Most of Dream Koala's tracks (including the one I have chosen to feature, titled "Roofies") musically radiate without relying too heavily on vocals. When whimsical lyrics are present, they are minimal and feature DaSilvia's distinct voice.

Having released many highlight tracks since about ten months ago, including his groundbreaking XXYYXX "About You" remix, Dream Koala has arrived at his first EP, BLUR. Composed of five dreamwave, electro and shoeglaze compositions, DaSilva's electro approach is smooth, fluent and tranquil.

When did your interest in music begin?

Since as long as I can remember my parents always had music on at home. Until today, it has never been silent at home. I started making music by tackling the guitar about five years ago. I then began playing in a group called I The Omniscient with my bros, which lead me to start my own endeavor. I decided to start Dream Koala because of inspiration I acquired through listening to guys like Washed Out, Toro Y Moi, Flying Lotus... and now, here I am!

In a few words, how would you describe your aesthetic style?

Well... It's always been very difficult to describe myself as a musician. I tend to gravitate to a lot of guitar use and organic elements in my tracks so I don't know if I can call it electronic. I consider my BLUR EP like a kind of shoegaze-influenced beat music. With that said, I can't tell you how my sound is going to transgress in the future. I'd like to stay as open minded as I can and welcome change. I like to think I have my own genre.

Do you find that your young age is a drawback or an advantage in the industry?

When you're eighteen in the music industry, I find it has helped to motivate people to talk about Dream Koala. I think since Tyler The Creator and various blogs are constantly looking for young talent, it's been beneficial. But its kind of ridiculous when everybody jumps to talk about your age before even commenting on your music.

What is life like right now for you? Are you in school? Is it difficult to juggle work with music?

I dropped out of school this year. I couldn't stand it anymore, I found it to be so boring. When I stopped school, I found myself always wanting to make music. Since now I don't have to wake up at a certain time, I'm able to work on my own schedule. Right now, I'm beginning to work with a manager and a booking agency, which is a huge step for me. I'm really grateful that I'm now able to travel, tour and meet amazing people on my own time. It all came so quickly but I'm so glad it's happening. I'm definitely feeling 2013. I stay positive, thank you Based God.

BLUR has recently been released. What are your thoughts on the EP now that it's out for everyone to hear?

I've had some really cool feedback about BLUR. Thank you to all the people sharing that shit! I recorded this in my room with only my computer and my guitar with no expectations in my mind. Never did I think that I would play live shows and have that much support. It's crazy.

What are some musicians/artists that inspire you?

I like artists who are open minded and who have their own genre like Coltrane, James Blake, Flying Lotus and Toro Y Moi. I can say The Number Twelve Looks Like You is my favorite band this moment. Right now, I'm also all about that Captain Murphy stuff.

Do you plan on touring across the pond in the future?

I hope I'll be able to do a full blown tour soon! I love performing live in a place I am so comfortable in, but the thought of traveling to play in a place you've never been before is indescribable. When I envision performing in front of people who only know me through Dream Koala... It's some magical stuff.

Do you have any hobbies that influence your music?

I don't have any hobbies. I'm so lazy, but I think not having any hobbies influences my music. I love dinosaurs and talking shit on Twitter.

What song thus far are you most proud of?

I have no idea. All my tracks are very different to me, even if it may sound the same to people. My favorite tracks have not been released yet. You'll hear it soon guys!