Tinlicker’s Bold Moves Shine on ‘Cold Enough For Snow’ – A Deep Dive

In their latest musical endeavor, ‘Cold Enough For Snow,’ Tinlicker shuns the conventional, embarking on a journey that not only redefines their sound but also boldly marks their territory in the electronic music landscape. Zach Salafia of Dancing Astronaut engaged in a candid conversation with Micah Heyboer, one half of the dynamic Dutch duo, to uncover the layers of their third album and the creative revolution it embodies.

Since their inception in 2013, Tinlicker, comprised of Micah Heyboer and Jordi van Achthoven, has been synonymous with innovation within the realms of house and techno music. Their latest release through [PIAS] Électronique on February 16, ‘Cold Enough For Snow,’ is a testament to their decade-long journey of pushing musical boundaries. Salafia’s interview with Heyboer sheds light on the duo’s relentless drive and the essence of their newest project.

Heyboer, along with his collaborators, including his brother Milan and high school friend Rene Verdult from Black Sun Empire, celebrated the album’s release modestly before diving back into preparations for their live shows. This work ethic encapsulates the essence of Tinlicker – a relentless pursuit of excellence with little time for rest on their laurels.

2023 and 2024 marked significant years of transition for Tinlicker. Moving away from Anjunabeats to sign with [PIAS] Électronique and evolving from DJ sets to live performances, the duo embraced change head-on. Heyboer elucidates that ‘Cold Enough For Snow’ symbolizes a pivotal moment of transformation, mirroring their own experiences of making consequential life decisions.

The album, spanning 13 tracks and over an hour in runtime, weaves a narrative that seamlessly transitions between the euphoric realms of melodic house and the gritty depths of techno. Tracks like “Glasshouse” featuring Julia Church and “This Life” featuring Tom Smith showcase their versatility, juxtaposed with techno-driven pieces like “In Your Eyes” and “Revolution.” This duality, as Heyboer notes, is a natural reflection of their creative process, unfettered by genre constraints.

Recurring collaborations with vocalists Julia Church and Nathan Nicholson add a layer of depth to the album, with Nicholson’s contributions being particularly noteworthy. Recorded entirely in the Dutch studio where the interview took place, Nicholson’s vocals on tracks like “Strawberry,” alongside the Metropole Orkest, highlight the album’s innovative spirit. This collaboration, born from a special performance at the Amsterdam Dance Event, exemplifies Tinlicker’s ability to transcend traditional electronic music boundaries.

While touring with an orchestra may be impractical, Tinlicker’s ambition to bring their live show to audiences across Europe and the U.S. underscores their commitment to delivering unique musical experiences. Heyboer humorously anticipates the challenges of touring, but it’s clear that for Tinlicker, the reward lies in the connection and fulfillment derived from live performance.

Their departure from Anjunabeats, as Heyboer explains, reflects a desire to forge a new path and explore uncharted territories. This bold decision, like the ethos of ‘Cold Enough For Snow,’ is driven by an intrinsic motivation to create music that is authentic and true to their artistic vision.

Tinlicker’s journey, as chronicled by Salafia, is a narrative of artistic bravery and innovation. ‘Cold Enough For Snow’ not only marks a significant chapter in their career but also serves as a beacon for the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music.

Featured image: Nick Gentry

Tags: cold enough for snow, Tinlicker

Categories: Music