Rush Hour: A Dynamic Duo Transforming the EDM Scene

Joynt (Alex) and Zmoke (Andrew), two rising stars in the EDM world, found their paths crossing in the most electrifying way—at music festivals that inspired them to dive headfirst into production. Joynt, from Orlando, Florida, started his journey after attending EDC in 2019, drawn to the technical artistry of DJing. A self-driven learner, he dedicated his time to mastering DJing before transitioning to music production with aspirations to build a lifelong career in EDM.

Zmoke, hailing from Miami, Florida, took a slightly different route. Initially exploring music in high school to make friends, his interest in EDM was sparked later, thanks to Skrillex's groundbreaking sounds and a transformative EDC experience in 2021. Zmoke recalls being captivated by Louis the Child’s performance, which ignited his desire to explore and produce music that pushes boundaries.

Now collaborating as the duo Rush Hour, their combined passion and diverse musical influences drive their creativity and unique sound.

Musical Styles and InfluencesJ oynt describes his style as "deep with sexy undertones," drawing influence from artists like Prince, The Killers, and Peekaboo. His work blends minimalistic sounds with emotional depth, creating tracks that resonate on a visceral level.

Andrew, on the other hand, leans into an "old school and grimey" aesthetic, inspired by 2012 dubstep and UK baseline. With idols like Skrillex, Of the Trees, and Louis the Child, he channels both nostalgia and innovation in his music. Together, Rush Hour’s sound is a fusion of their individual styles, promising fresh, dynamic tracks.

Creative ProcessFor Joynt, creativity often begins with discovering a compelling sound, shaping it with modulation, and building a track around it. Resampling plays a significant role in his process, a technique he admires in Peekaboo's work. Tools like Serum and Ozone are integral to his workflow, ensuring polished, impactful productions.

Andrew’s process is highly visual, often sparked by imagery or videos that fuel his ideas. As a percussion enthusiast, he starts with rhythmic layers, crafting baselines and melodies that align with the track’s emotional arc. Like Joynt, Andrew values resampling as a transformative technique, often reshaping sounds to fit his unique vision.

Favorite Projects and Collaborations Joynt’s favorite project is "Make You Wait," a track created with Andrew as part of their Rush Hour collaboration. The pair share a natural synergy, producing tracks in marathon sessions filled with laughter and innovation.

For Andrew, his standout work includes a flip of Peekaboo’s "Reload," which challenged him to elevate his sound design skills. However, he cherishes his unreleased collaboration with Joynt, describing it as one of his most rewarding projects, born from their seamless creative chemistry.

Career Highlights and ChallengesBoth producers highlight their performances at HomeBass as career milestones, where they played alongside friends and industry icons. Joynt also recalls opening for artists like DirtySnatcha and Wreckno, experiences that deepened his passion for the craft.

Balancing life and music has been a shared challenge for the duo. Andrew, juggling a full-time job and relationships, emphasizes the importance of perseverance and growth. For Joynt, combating creative burnout has been a learning curve, with a focus on recognizing when to pause and recharge.

Upcoming Releases and AspirationsRush Hour is gearing up for an exciting future with numerous releases in the pipeline. Both Alex and Andrew are committed to perfecting their craft and curating a brand that reflects their high standards and vibrant energy. Long-term, they dream of turning their passion into full-time careers, performing at iconic festivals like EDC Orlando, and empowering the underground music scene through events and mentorship.

Advice for Aspiring ProducersFor new producers, both artists stress the importance of patience and consistency. Joynt advises embracing the learning process and trusting that success comes with time. Andrew adds that dedicating time to one’s craft and not succumbing to self-doubt are crucial for growth.

Beyond the MusicWhen not producing, Joynt explores his interests in computers, custom builds, and fashion. Andrew spends his downtime gaming with friends, climbing, and cherishing meaningful connections. Their shared love for authentic relationships and hobbies keeps them grounded amidst their growing careers.

Rush Hour represents the culmination of two unique journeys merging into a powerhouse of talent and vision. With their roots in friendship and a shared dedication to pushing the boundaries of EDM, Alex and Andrew are set to leave an indelible mark on the scene. Stay tuned as they continue to redefine what it means to create and connect through music.