Blasterjaxx Talks Maxximize Records in an Exclusive iEDM Interview

You always know you are going to have a packed house with Blasterjaxx on the lineup. 

Blasterjaxx threw down an epic set at the Brooklyn Hangar last weekend. The large warehouse was filled with countless rave kids who were more than willing to boogie down all night long to some of the duo's biggest hits. 

We caught up with Thom Jongkind of Blasterjaxx after the insane show to talk about Maxximize Records, new tattoo ideas, and what fans can expect in 2018.

iEDM: Yo Thom! Nice catching up with you again. What are some new and exciting developments for Maxximize Records that you can share with the fans since the last time we spoke?

Thom: 2017 was a really great year for Maxximize, beyond our expectations. We’ve released some new music and there’s still a lot coming up before hitting the new year. Just last month, we did our first Maxximize Label Night during Amsterdam Dance Event. It was a sold out show and the vibe was insane! We are looking forward to the next one.

iEDM: So are we. Are there any big announcements that you can make for 2018 yet?

Thom: We’re starting the year with a smashing collab that many fans have been waiting for. Can you guess?

iEDM: Oh man, what a tease! You are driving us crazy over here. While I think about that for a hot second, let me ask you another question. What were some of your favorite festivals this year?

Thom: Of course Tomorrowland, that’s always a great one to play. I played a lot of festivals this year, but to name a few, Balaton Sound Festival in Hungary and RFM Somnii in Portugal were definitely some of the highlights this festival season. Also, we’ve closed Dance Valley--which is one of the biggest Dutch dance festivals. It was a great production with so many fans in the audience!

iEDM: I can only imagine. How do you feel that you have evolved as artists in the past couple of years? How has your Big Room sound progressed?

Thom: First of all, we think Big Room is still a genre we feel passionate about every day. In the past, we’ve struggled to find our own unique sound. We tried some different stuff, but came to the conclusion that Big Room is our main thing, and that’s what our fans love. We feel our productions are on a higher level than ever before.

iEDM: No doubt about it bro, I'm not going to disagree with you there. How do you balance your time running your label while also being on the road and performing as often as you do?

Thom: Sometimes it’s really hard with so many things happening at the same time, but we always try to keep our mind straight and stick to the structure we’ve built for ourselves. Luckily, we also have a great team that stands behind us.

iEDM: We all get by with a little help from our friends. On an unrelated note, you are known for your impressive tattoos. Have there been new additions lately?

Thom: I currently have a new project going on which will take at least 6 tattoo sessions. So for now, I’m covered. Idir recently got his underarm tattooed and also has some appointments scheduled. You will find out more about it soon.

iEDM: God damn. Respect. You recently did a mix for us at iEDM Radio! I know I've been listening to it nonstop since it dropped on November 26. One fan said, "This mix is fire as fuck!" He has a point. How do you use your creativity to put your mixes together?

Thom: It’s always our passion to show the world our new music. That’s always something we keep in mind when creating new mixes.

iEDM: Speaking of something new, what are some tips you can give to DJs out there who are just breaking into the scene?

Thom: The first and most important thing to remember is to be your own unique self. Don’t follow the rest of the crowd. Also, get your paperwork checked – that is extremely important when starting in this scene.

iEDM: Rock solid advice. As a New Yorker, I've seen you guys kill it here many times. What are some of your favorite NYC memories?

Thom: Of course our own Maxximize shows, at Governors Island and the Hammerstein Ballroom, back in 2015, come to mind. Also, doing Electric Zoo with Hardwell and The Chainsmokers is one of the sickest shows we’ve done in New York City so far.

iEDM: I was there for all of those shows!  I have so many fond memories from each of those dates. I can go on about it all day but I'll stop while I'm ahead. What is something that you'd like your fans to know before you go?

Thom: Stay tuned and keep an eye on our socials because a lot of crazy stuff is coming up!

You can keep up with Blasterjaxx on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and SoundCloud. Check out more iEDM exclusive interviews featuring your favorite DJs HERE.

Photos were graciously provided by Kevin Jackson Jr. You can view more of Kevin's work HERE.