Tinlicker Discusses Milestones, Risks, and the Magic of Winter at Portola Festival
A decade ago, Micha Heyboer and Jordi van Achthove were brought together by a mutual friend who recognized their shared musical vibe. Following some drinks and studio sessions, Heyboer’s solo endeavor, Tinlicker, transformed into a dynamic duo. Reflecting on their connection, van Achthove noted that they instantly bonded over their shared “nerdy” approach to music.
“We discovered we had a similar sense of humor, and knowing many of the same people made us realize: ‘this might be a cool guy,’” Heyboer added, chuckling.
What has ensued since their inception has been remarkable. They joined Anjunadeep in 2018 and released their acclaimed album, This Is Not Our Universe, in 2019. Featuring hits like “Fractal” and their remix of alt-J’s “Breezeblocks,” this album recently celebrated its fifth anniversary. Additionally, their 2017 collaboration “Because You Move Me” with Helsloot crossed over half a billion streams on Spotify this summer.
Looking back on the last five years, Heyboer expressed gratitude. “You should keep pursuing what you love rather than conforming to others’ expectations,” he remarked. Their collaboration strikes a unique balance: “Jordi constantly reinvents himself, keeping things fresh, while I keep us on track,” he elaborated.
Tinlicker’s Distinct Soundscapes Reflect Personal and Global Narratives
This is Not Our Universe addresses our temporary existence on Earth, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship. Emerging from the pandemic, In Another Lifetime showcases a beautifully reflective journey through highs and lows.
The duo’s third album, Cold Enough For Snow, was released in February under [PIAS] Électronique, marking a new chapter away from Anjunadeep. “This was a pivotal moment for us, filled with choices,” Heyboer explained. “Leaving the label and diving into live tours introduced uncertainties.”
In literature and film, winter often symbolizes a lack of beauty and warmth. However, Tinlicker offers a unique perspective. “I cherish that fleeting moment when it could begin to snow, transforming the environment or leaving it unchanged. It represents a beautiful instance of change,” Heyboer shared. “It signifies how quickly the world can shift.”
This transformative moment comes with inherent risks, a concept Tinlicker embraces. “Maintaining your path often involves stepping into the unknown,” van Achthove stated.
We embarked on this journey for fun, and it evolved. Every choice requires stepping outside of your comfort zone. Without doing so, you won’t explore new avenues. It’s a frightening journey at times, but fulfilling.
Jordi van Achthove
“Our relationship with Anjuna has been invaluable; we supported each other along the way,” Heyboer added. “The music industry is inherently risky. Even with years of experience, you can’t guarantee financial stability. You must forge your own path.”
The Importance of Risks in Tinlicker’s Journey
Tinlicker has captivated audiences globally, performing in renowned venues. “Last year, we opened the Amsterdam Dance Event with the Metropole Orkest. Having 50 talented musicians perform our music live was surreal, especially since it was broadcasted nationwide,” Heyboer reflected.
“The Prague Open Air was another highlight,” van Achthove recalled. “We were unprepared yet the set gained unexpected popularity. We spontaneously included new tracks in our set and went for it.”
“Oh, and he created ‘Children’ in the hotel room while I was asleep,” Heyboer chimed in.
“I woke up, remixed it, and it became part of that live set,” van Achthove added.
Now on tour, Tinlicker has recently kicked off their North American leg, stepping away from their DJ decks for live performances. While more challenging, the rewards are significant. “Performing live is scarier than just playing a DJ set with a USB and headphones. More participants increase the chances of things going awry,” van Achthove explained.
“You’re always active on stage, and while mistakes can happen, they lend authenticity to the performance. A flawless show often feels scripted rather than live,” Heyboer joked.
When jet-lagged and dealing with a nine-hour time difference, mistakes are inevitable, yet these imperfections hold their own beauty.
Micha Heyboer
Tinlicker’s Live Tour: 21 Stops Across North America
The duo’s current tour spans 21 cities and festivals, including the Portola Festival in San Francisco. “We’ve enjoyed festivals like Lowlands in the Netherlands, where diverse genres intertwine; it offers more creative challenges than a single-genre event,” Heyboer stated. “Engaging with fans of varied acts, like Justice, is a unique experience.”
Recently, they graced the stage at CRSSD Festival before heading to Albuquerque. Despite hectic travel, both maintain a sense of balance through a strong team, prioritizing health, and minimizing distractions.
“I start my mornings with ginger and lime juice, which help keep us in good health. We aim for a vegetable-rich diet and ensure sufficient rest. It’s essential to remain grounded, especially backstage where energy can be overwhelming,” van Achthove shared.
Known for the phrase, “Overnight success ten years in the making,” Tinlicker exemplifies this concept. The groundwork laid since 2012 has cultivated their recent success, establishing them as a beloved act with a dedicated fanbase, while they look forward to new horizons.
For 20 years, I’ve focused solely on creating music. I didn’t crave much outside of it, and it’s quite stable now. However, I need to explore my life beyond music. I’m on a journey of self-discovery, questioning my identity and the choices needed to lead a fulfilling life.
Jordi van Achthove
Looking ahead, he emphasizes the desire to “continue evolving, keeping stability, and making intriguing music for ourselves.”
To wrap up, Heyboer shares, “How do you maintain your love for what you do while avoiding self-repetition? It’s all about constant challenges; it’s easy to fall into a routine.”
