After years of shaping Athens’ electronic music landscape from the shadows, The Gosha made a bold pivot in 2020 – trading the security of programming for others to pursue an uncompromising artistic vision. Now, with the release of “Iluminado Apagado” on Brazil’s Melodic Therapy, this Greek producer is carving out a distinctive space in the melodic house and techno world, balancing refined elegance with visceral intensity.
In this interview we discuss the Athens scene’s current resurgence, the philosophy behind his minimalist production approach, and why building your own identity matters more than ever in electronic music.
1. You spent years curating the sound of Athens’ nightlife before stepping behind the decks yourself in 2020. What was the moment that made you realize it was time to stop programming for others and start creating your own music?
At some point, nothing fulfilled me anymore except stepping on stage, playing music, creating and building my own artistic vision. I felt a deep need to express myself through my own sound. So I made the decision to sacrifice comfort and stability and fully commit to my dream, no matter how difficult it was even though at the time, I was in a very comfortable position.
2. What’s the electronic music scene like in Athens right now? Are there emerging artists or movements there that you’re particularly excited about?
Right now, the electronic music scene in Athens and Greece in general is in a very strong phase. There’s a lot of energy and growth. That said, the real peak of the scene happens during the summer, especially on the islands, where electronic music truly comes alive.
3. The title “Iluminado Apagado” suggests duality – illuminated yet switched off. What does this contradiction mean to you, and how did it shape the creative direction of the EP?
“Iluminado Apagado” translates to “illuminated yet switched off,” and that duality is intentional. We wanted to suggest a track that feels relaxed and introspective, but at the same time works perfectly in a club environment. It’s calm, yet powerful enough to move a dancefloor.
4. How did the collaboration with Abrão come about and how did you work together on this track? Was it in the studio or remotely?
I have a very special appreciation for Abrão. I was the one who reached out to him. I searched for him, sent him a message, and that’s how our collaboration began. We’re actually working on a second track together right now. The collaboration was done remotely, as he is currently based in Israel and I’m in Greece.
5. How did you connect with Melodic Therapy as a label, and what made them the right home for this particular body of work?
I sent a demo to Melodic Therapy, they listened to it and connected with the sound. From there we moved forward naturally with the release. Being a Brazilian label also played an important role, especially considering the language and spirit behind “Iluminado Apagado.”
6. Your sound is described as walking a tightrope between elegance and danger. Could you elaborate on what you mean by that?
When we say our sound walks a line between elegance and danger, we mean that there’s intensity and rawness, but never at the expense of quality or aesthetic. I keep a premium feel music that has edge, but remains refined and accessible to different kinds of listeners.
7. Can you walk us through your current production setup? What’s your core gear—both hardware and software, and are there any particular tools or techniques that were essential in crafting the sound of “Iluminado Apagado”?
My home setup is very minimal. I intentionally keep things simple. However, I collaborate closely with two studios one in Greece and one in Berlin which help shape the final result. Over time I’ve realized that less is more. I don’t need excessive gear clarity and focus are what matter most.
8. AI tools are increasingly present in music production. What’s your perspective on how technology should or shouldn’t be integrated into the creative process for electronic music?
At this stage, I don’t believe AI tools can fully replace high-quality music production. They may be useful in certain areas, such as vocals, but overall they can’t yet capture the depth and emotion required for top-level electronic music, at least not for now.
9. For aspiring producers and DJs trying to break through right now, what’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you earlier in your journey?
My main advice is simple: do exactly what you want and build your own identity. Of course, it’s natural to be influenced by other artists and projects but true freedom in creating the music you feel is what will ultimately set you apart. For me, Innervisions is a perfect example of this philosophy. I deeply admire every artist associated with that collective.
10. With “Iluminado Apagado” out now, what else can we expect from you this and next year? More music, tour dates?
At the moment, I have one completed project that we’re currently searching for the right label to release, as well as another project in progress with Abrão, as mentioned earlier. There’s definitely more music on the way, both this year and next.