In the heart of Athens, where ancient history meets modern creativity, a unique electronic music story is unfolding. Born from a fusion of jazz, R&B, and soul influences, Sodade Records has emerged as a compelling voice in the underground electronic scene, bridging emotional depth with dancefloor energy.
Founded on the Portuguese concept of “sodade” – that bittersweet feeling of longing and nostalgia – the label represents more than just music releases. It’s a creative collective where sound, visuals, and storytelling converge, crafted by a tight-knit team of friends who share a vision for authentic, globally-minded electronic music rooted in genuine artistic expression.
In this exclusive interview, we dive deep with the co-founder, Chris IDH, into the creative process, the challenges of running an independent label, and the delicate balance between honoring musical heritage and pushing electronic music into new territories.
1. Growing up in Athens surrounded by Jazz, R&B, and Soul, how did you transition from these classic genres into the underground electronic scene?
Growing up, I was surrounded by jazz, soul, and R&B, which gave me a strong foundation in groove, melody, and emotion. The turning point came when I first experienced electronic music in a club setting. It had the same intensity and soul I loved in jazz, but translated into a hypnotic, modern form. That’s when I realized this was my calling. Those early influences still guide my productions today. I always try to keep that balance of rhythm, harmony, and storytelling in my tracks.
2. Tell us the story behind launching Sodade Records. What does the name “Sodade” mean to you, and what specific vision or gap in the electronic music landscape were you trying to fill?
Sodade started as a dream with two close friends, Michael-Angel who creates all our artworks, and Gio who DJs and works as our A&R. The word “Sodade” comes from the Cape Verdean word for longing or nostalgia. It represents both beauty and melancholy. For me, the vision was to build a label that merges strong artistic identity with deep, emotional club music. I wanted to create a platform that goes beyond just releases where music, visuals, and storytelling all live under one roof.
3. Athens has a unique position in the global electronic music scene. How would you describe the current state of electronic music in Greece, and what role does Sodade play in representing Greek producers internationally?
The scene here has been growing a lot with more events, more international DJs visiting, and more local producers starting to break through. There is a lot of creativity bubbling under the surface. With Sodade, our role is to contribute to that growth and to show that the music coming from here can connect globally. We want to give artists a platform that feels international but also true to their own voice.
4. Your latest release “My Mind” with Isidoros is described as a “stripped-back club weapon.” Do you always think of the dancefloor when creating?
Not always, but I do think about how a track feels in a room. With “My Mind,” the idea was pure dancefloor energy, clubby drums, hypnotic tension, something DJs can drop at peak time. Other times I produce from a more emotional or cinematic space. It depends on the moment.
5. Your sound combines pulsating basslines, ethereal textures, and percussion. Walk us through your production process.
I usually start with rhythm, percussion and groove are my backbone. From there I build basslines and let melodies and textures evolve naturally. I work mainly in Logic Pro X with plugins like Diva and Omnisphere, but I also use analog synths to bring warmth and character into my tracks. I love recording real instruments or vocals and then processing them into something new. That balance between organic and electronic is key for me.
6. How do you view AI’s role in electronic music creation?
AI is a tool like any other instrument. I have experimented with some AI ideas for vocals and sound design, and it can definitely spark creativity. But for me, it should never replace human emotion. The authenticity comes from the artist’s vision. AI can inspire, but the soul has to come from you.
7. How did the collaboration with Isidoros on “My Mind” come about?
Isidoros and I have known each other for a long time. We share similar influences and club experiences. One night in the studio we just started vibing on this groove, and the track flowed naturally. It was less of a plan and more of an instinct. That is the best kind of collab.
8. What’s your process for discovering and selecting new artists for Sodade?
A lot comes from personal connections and demos. Gio, who handles A&R, is always digging for new sounds. We look for artists who have their own voice, not just following the trend. The goal is to build a catalog that feels timeless.
9. How do you manage the demanding summer schedule while still producing and running the label?
It is a balance. Summer is heavy with shows, but I try to schedule studio sessions during the week and keep a consistent routine. Traveling helps too, I use time on flights to sketch ideas or manage label work. Rest is important, without energy, the creativity does not flow.
10. What’s next for Sodade Records?
We are excited about signing new artists and expanding the label’s reach with more international collaborations. There are upcoming releases I cannot wait to announce, plus we are planning special events where the music and visuals of Sodade come alive together. The long-term vision is to grow Sodade into a global label family that still feels intimate and authentic.