Inside the sonic architecture of DEMOBAZA’s worldbuilder.
In the shadows of the Namib desert and the pulse of distant galaxies, a sound emerges – cinematic, tribal, alien, sacred. It doesn’t just accompany the visuals of DEMOBAZA. It breathes with them. Unders, the nomadic composer behind the brand’s iconic soundtracks, doesn’t write music – he channels it.
From sunrise sets at Burning Man to silent meditations before a show, Duncan (aka Unders) navigates the threshold between chaos and stillness, weaving frequencies that echo beyond fashion. His collaborations with DEMOBAZA are not briefs – they are transmissions. In this rare, soul-baring exchange, we step inside his process, his rituals, and the unseen forces that shape the sound of a futuristic now.
Duncan, you are the mastermind behind the soundtracks for most of DEMOBAZA’s video projects. How would you describe the feeling you aim to convey through your music in these projects?
This is often a co-creation that comes to life. DEMOBAZA pushes boundaries with its designs and intricate textures woven together. Each fabric contributing to the unique whole. The soundtracks are designed to mirror this, layering sounds that build into something out of the norm, immersive and transformative.
The feel is interplanetary, adventurous, bold, and empowering. It’s about stepping beyond the ordinary into a realm of depth, upliftment, and transformation, like a superhero stepping into their power.
I’m grateful to collaborate with Noraj Cue, Ricardo Kondo, Zohar, and Ape Chimba, who bring immense life to these soundscapes.
Is there a particular DEMOBAZA project or video that has been the most challenging for you as a composer?
The latest collection was the most challenging one so far. Since I’m not accustomed to producing African-inspired sounds, translating and executing the desired vision proved to be a greater challenge. However, this pushed us beyond our realm of creation patterns and encouraged us to experiment in new ways. In the end, this led to something truly unique and special.
It also taught me the importance of gathering clearer details during the briefing process. Aligning expectations before jumping into conceptualization. Looking back, I could have saved time by asking the right questions upfront, ensuring more clarity on what was needed to match the vision.
How would you describe your musical style to someone who has never heard your work before?
I don’t feel identified with a particular music style. My approach to music is to show up to the studio as a clear channel to create and transmit whatever comes up in those moments. Oftentimes influenced by and reflecting my personal life experiences at the time. As a result, my sound is fluid and ever-evolving, making it hard to categorize within a single genre. I’ve felt a strong pull toward the cinematic/score world, while I was always tied up in club scene productions. Over time, these two influences have naturally merged, adding a cinematic depth to my electronic palette, evolving my sound, and expanding my range beyond the traditional 4x4 club framework.
For a proper impression I invite everyone to check out my soundcloud and spotify account and experience the range that I bring to the world.
Who are your biggest influences—both musically and beyond music?
My parents, for giving me the space to follow my dreams and raising me with love and support. As I get older and see my friends become parents, my respect for them only deepens.
Norman Soares, one of the first to recognize my talent and push me toward a serious music career. His generosity, stamina, and massive inner power pushed me to get the most out of myself. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him.
Teachers like Jay Shetty, Yung Pueblo, Burgs, and Mooji, who have been instrumental in guiding me toward deeper inner connection and self love.
Rick Rubin, an inspiring guide to understanding the creative process and tapping into true artistic expression.
DEMOBAZA, for its unwavering dedication to craft, precision, and pushing creative boundaries. The focus on the work is awe-inspiring—fully aligned with purpose, free of distractions, and fueled with passion.
If you had to compose the soundtrack for an unknown, futuristic world, how would it sound?
I would draw from the frequencies I create and share through the ‘underneath’ project. Musical pieces that evoke harmony, sensitivity, light and beauty in their essence. The soundtrack would be free of rules and boundaries, designed to transport listeners to other realms, helping them transcend the constraints of the mind.
How do you start working on a soundtrack? Do you begin with a concept, or a visual idea, or does the sound come first?
The briefing of what Demobaza envisions becomes the starting point which provides the foundation and direction for the concept. From there, I strive to take a fresh approach from everything we have done before to ensure originality, knowing that at its core, it will have our sound signature as the red thread tying everything together. Beyond that, the music I collect and sort daily serves as a constant source of inspiration, shaping and influencing my creative process in unexpected ways.
What role does silence play in your music?
I try to place moments of silence between sounds to give each element space to breathe and thrive. This can be challenging the busier the projects become. Silence is a tool, a pause that elevates the experience with the return of sound.
Working on DEMOBAZA scores has deepened my appreciation for silence, inspiring me to explore a creative world where it plays an even greater role. My creative process focuses on eliminating rather than adding, embracing addition by subtraction.
How do you know when a track is "finished"? Or is art always in a state of evolution?
It’s a rare occasion that I can confidently say a track is truly finished. I always see elements of improvement and evolution, especially when it comes to the mixdown. However, this can be a slippery slope as you can overproduce and lose the essence or add too many layers that mask the brilliance underneath. Creativity is an endless evolution, and perfectionism often gets in the way of completion. There’s a level of vulnerability in deciding a track is finished when you could keep tweaking it forever. When working with a client, there are clearer boundaries. Deadlines and a shared vision help define when a track is complete, making it easier to conclude the creation.
With new technologies and AI shaping the future of music, do you see this as a threat or an opportunity for artists?
You can’t resist the evolution of technology, learning to adapt is key. Feeling threatened by AI often comes from a place of scarcity. Nothing can replace the authenticity of my personal expression as a human; that’s something uniquely mine. But AI can enhance that expression in interesting ways. For example, stem separation has allowed me to subtract layers I don't feel the music needs and in addition add new layers, and a level of dynamicness to my performances that wasn’t possible before. Instead of resisting it, I see it as an opportunity to push creative boundaries and evolve as an artist.
Is there a sound you’ve always wanted to create but haven’t been able to yet?
Yes, I have an admiration for the piano and witnessing others play the instrument has me melt. Fortunately, I find myself increasingly surrounded by talented musicians. The new underneath ensemble project gives me the opportunity to share these beautiful pieces with a wider audience and explore creative realms where this music can come to fruition.
I feel I am on the brink of a new wave of creative expansion as I am taking a strong stance on redesigning how I spend my time. Smarter travelling, prioritizing rest and self-care, removing unnecessary noise from both my environment and mind, and experimenting with different techniques to deepen my creativity and strengthen my connection to the source.
As a DJ, you’re constantly on the move. What does movement mean to you—freedom, inspiration, or sometimes exhaustion?
In the beginning of my career, traveling was exhilarating, I loved the constant movement and the excitement of discovering new places. I still find a lot of fulfillment in touring, but as I’ve grown, I’ve come to understand that what I value most is time at home. The relative stillness allows me to maintain healthy routines and a lifestyle that keeps my creative channel open, something that’s much harder to do on the road. That being said, I still feel incredibly blessed to travel, connect with
beautiful people, and experience different cultures around the world. It’s all about finding the right balance.
Is there a city or festival that has completely changed the way you see music and connect with an audience?
Without a doubt, this has to be Burning Man. Being surrounded by 70,000 beautiful humans who connect and engage on such a supportive high frequency creates spaces where music can be expressed as authentic as possible with instant feedback. The acceptance of the audience opens the door for true authenticity. The moment you try too hard to impress, it smacks you in the face. It’s a world of openness, vulnerability, and raw expression, where the more you let go and share from an honest place, the more you receive in return. The magic happens when you are brave enough to be fully yourself, and in that, you find the greatest gifts. It’s a beautiful reflection of how life works beyond the festival.
Do you have any pre-set rituals? Something you always do before stepping on stage?
I used to spend the last moments before a set endlessly sorting music. Recently, my approach has shifted. Now, I take time to disconnect, get in a brief meditation, and remind myself why I do this in the first place. I do this to avoid fears and insecurities from creeping in and clouding the performance. It’s more about entering a calm, centered state where I trust my abilities and open the channel of flow with the moment, rather than seeking comfort and control in last-minute preparation.
Nightlife, thousands of people, intense emotions—how do you find a balance between all of that and your inner world?
Self care has moved up on the priority scale to support me in this. Meditation and Primal Movements (a work out practice hailing from ibiza), have become core pillars of my daily life to assist in maintaining balance. Additionally, for the past two years, I’ve been working closely with one of my best friends, who not only supports my work structure but also provides gentle guidance, healing, and powerful reminders of how I show up to my craft. This guiding lens has become a grounding force and soothing reminder for how I navigate the immense noise that infiltrates our lives, minds and spirits.
For someone who is always traveling, what does "home" mean to you?
Home is my sanctuary. A creative vortex where I can recharge. With each tour, my desire to be home grows, and every time I return, I experiment with new ways to optimize my time and cultivate a greater sense of balance. Lately, I’ve been investing more in my home environment. Minimalizing and decluttering to create an environment that fosters both healthy routine and creative flow. Traveling exposes me to new influences, and being home allows me to integrate those experiences in an atmosphere of stillness, safety, and comfort. It’s in this setting that my nervous system can settle, my creativity can expand, and my connection to both myself and my art can flourish.
What’s the most valuable wisdom you’ve gained from traveling and meeting people around the world?
Allow Accept Embrace Trust. Show up for others. Express Authentically
Sunrise music or sunset music—which moves you more and why?
Sunrise is a very special moment. The introduction of a new day, a fresh beginning. The Sun has moved me in miraculous ways and reminds me to be present. Soundtracking and curating music for this time aligns with my authentic expression. There’s more space and patience which allows me to play deeply moving, heartfelt music. Nature plays a key role as well. People aren’t just focused on the DJ. They’re connecting with the light, the environment, and the energy of the moment. This allows the music to weave seamlessly into their experience, becoming a score to their journey rather than the main focal point. It’s an incredibly inspiring and fulfilling space for music. With my eyes closed, listening to the compositions, I can be instantly transported back to these moments.
What’s the last thing that inspired you outside of music?
Having this special friend and guide in my life has provided immense reflection, support, and personal growth. He serves as a mirror, constantly reminding me of where I am in life and gently steers me to my center if I slip into old patterns. His loving presence anchors me to my deepest commitments and inspires me to make healthy decisions, especially when escapism lurks in the background.
Ibiza is legendary in the world of electronic music. What makes it so special?
Ibiza is one of the most energetic places on the planet. The constant influx of loving characters coming in and out brings light, excitement, and freshness, adding to the island’s unique energy vortex.
How does Ibiza influence your creativity? Does inspiration come more from the chaos of the nightlife or the tranquility of nature?
It’s the human beings that come on my path on this island that influence my creativity the most. The beauty of the land itself definitely brings a sense of flow, gratitude, and a reminder that we’re living on a miracle of a planet. The sunshine also keeps my energy in a high frequency. And lastly my home, my cat, and my roommate are especially inspiring aspects of my Ibiza experience.
Where’s the best place for dancing?
Burning Man
Thank you for the opportunity to express myself in this authentic manner, and for the endless support I have received from you both. I do not have the words to encapsulate the impact it has had on my life. So much love to you both, to Simeon and your hard working Demobaza Family behind the scenes in Bulgaria.
Love,
Unders
www.unders.nl
www.instagram.com/undersmusic
www.instagram.com/underneath