Unleashing Global Rhythms: An Exclusive Interview with Tigerbalm on her ‘International Love Affair’ Remixes

Tigerbalm, a South London based electronic music producer, has worked her entire career to establish herself as a pioneer in the world which has yielded countless cross-culture collaborations with esteemed artists few others in her niche would even consider getting on a track with. 

Her debut album, ‘International Love Affair’, was a testament to this artistic ethos, bridging cultural gaps with an enchanting fusion of Afro-Latin, Brazilian, and Indonesian rhythms. Now, the ‘International Love Affair Remixes’ LP is set to redefine the originals with a fresh wave of creativity, showcasing a slew of eclectic artists who breathe new life into Tigerbalm’s dynamic compositions.

Tigerbalm’s approach to music transcends traditional boundaries, embracing the diverse influences that have shaped her unique sound over a decade of DJing. Through her albums, she curates a journey into a vibrant world laced with percussion, colourful melodies, and heart-thumping rhythms. 

This journey continues with the Remixes LP, which features an array of innovative artists such as Session Victim, Emperor Machine, Tulshi, and Mystic Jungle. Each remix offers an alternative perspective on Tigerbalm’s sonic journey, reimagining her tracks through the lens of Afro House, Brazilian Boogie, Dirty Disco, Balearic Beats, and beyond. Through this collaborative effort, Tigerbalm once again demonstrates her commitment to musical exploration, delivering an experience that is as global as it is personal.

1 – How do you feel the remixes have enhanced or shifted the meaning of the original tracks on ‘International Love Affair’?

The Remixes LP really opened up my Tigerbalm originals allowing them to cross into new territory. For me allowing the tracks to evolve and change to meet new ears is very exciting! I don’t always have to love them and am open to my music being accessible and approachable. Many of the remix’s take on a new genre for example Isaac Sotto and Mushrooms Project are low fi whereas Mystic Jungle’s remix has taken Cosmic Camel into a bouncy Italo Disco track. Session Victim’s remix has also been really exciting because it’s a completely different vibe.

2 – You’ve mentioned the exploration of Brazilian, Indonesian, and Afro-Latin sounds in your album. How did these cultural influences shape your artistic direction?

My love for Afro-Latin music has been ingrained since childhood. This is what my parents listen to. They love Latin, Soca, Afro-Disco; I guess these rhythms feels like part of me. I resonate with sunny music. The music I make is just the energy within me…if i’ve been to Mexico for a month or Brazil then this will influence the music i’m making. I’m researching artists i love, tracks I enjoy and breaking down which session musicians they used, which organ, synth etc…there’s so much to learn constantly…

3 – How do you find and select the electronic producers to remix your tracks?

I asked some close music friends for some recommendations, Ubiquity helped and i reached out to some of my favourite producers. I was really quite sad not to have more female energy on the remix’s but i love the record. I want to balance this out for my next album.

4 – Given your past decade DJing, how have your experiences and encounters influenced your current album and the remixes?

My music has entirely been shaped by my encounters. Honestly when i experience something ecstatic then i make a track for that moment. Waiheke; the single from my album was made after I played Waiheke Festival in New Zealand. Bahia Escapista after my first carnival in Brazil. I like to think about where i want to hear my music when i’m making it!

5 – What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the making of ‘International Love Affair’ and its remixes?

The biggest challenge was the delay in vinyl production; we had to push everything back from Spring to Fall which was a shame as we wanted to release much earlier in the year. Really everything else just flowed. The whole experience with Ubiquity has been really positive; they are like family!

6 – The next year is set to be your busiest yet. What are some of the plans and projects you can share with us and how do you see your music evolving to keep up with your ever-developing career?

I’m now working with FINA Agency so have some exciting gigs coming through and a pretty packed summer of releases. My NINA EP is out on Razor n Tape June 21st; the EP features vocals from Farafi & Les Amazones D’Afrique & remixes from Elado & Voilaaa. I’m flying out to NYC for the launch party at Public Records in Brooklyn!

Next up is an exclusive track i made for the next Crazy P presents Vol 4 with 20/20 Visions. This will be out July or Aug this summer. My track features Joy Tyson on vocals and percussion from Patrick Dawes. It’s been such an honour to be chosen for this alongside Ray Mang and Ashley Beadle…get ready…! Last thing in the diary is a remix i’ve done for Super Yamba Band which will be out with Ubiquity Records later this year.

In the meantime, my second album is well on the way after a one week music retreat in Portugal….this is going to be a new sound for me (2024 incoming)

7 – With this album being such a global affair, how have you navigated working with artists across different time zones and cultures?

Working with different timezones has been something i’ve adapted too; my best friend lives in NYC so really i’m used to making that work.…it does been i’ve had to work later than expected some evenings but i take a full day offline regularly for wellness time so i can re-energise. I take mental and physical health very seriously…can’t give out good vibes if i don’t feel great x