TERIAL on Growth, Grit, and the Power of the Right Circle

TERIAL - DJ / Producer

With an unstoppable drive and a sound that fuses melodic emotion with raw, peak-time energy, TERIAL has quickly become one of Finland’s most promising techno artists. Since emerging onto the scene in 2021, he’s built a reputation for dynamic, story-driven sets and meticulously crafted productions that have earned international attention and chart success.

Following standout releases like Gang and Endless Want, and with his latest single Satellite on We Are Existence, TERIAL continues to evolve—both as a producer and performer—pushing his sound further with each release.

In this exclusive interview, TERIAL opens up about his creative journey, the importance of community in Finland’s growing techno scene, and the mindset driving his rapid ascent in the global circuit.

Hi TERIAL, how are you and where are you joining us from for this interview?

Hey there, thanks for asking. I'm feeling good and super excited, I'm currently at my studio.

You’ve been playing regularly around Finland—what has the local scene been like for you, and how has it influenced your sound?

Honestly I feel like I got a pretty warm welcome from the scene when I was starting my career and since then I’ve tried to focus on networking with like-minded people sharing similar values. I strongly believe that surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial because it will positively impact your growth and motivation. Attitudes and traits are contagious. So to parallel this in music, the people in my circle inspire each other.

Your first release Gang on Technography made it to #45 on the HYPE chart, and Endless Want went even higher. How did these achievements feel, and what do you think made those tracks connect with listeners?

Well, first of all releasing my debut track felt like an achievement on its own, and getting that on a label like 'technography' made it even better. I did not have any exact expectations towards charting itself on the track, but seeing my debut release climbing up to top 50 was definitely worth celebrating. That feeling I'll never forget. And that was what gave me that much needed 'This might turn out pretty good' -feeling. What comes to 'Endless Want' threw me off the chair - quite literally. I think the energy and honesty in the sound played a big part—‘Gang’ had that raw drive and small glimpse of 'attitude' so to say, and ‘Endless Want’ carried a deeper message listeners could connect with.

TERIAL - Satellite [ We Are Existence]

Your latest single, Satellite, is released on We Are Existence. What can you tell us about this track and how it fits into your evolving sound?

Well, I'd say 'Satellite' reflects my ambition towards the musical success I’m chasing. There might be something in the vocals hinting that also. It's a mix of emotion and that melodic aspect I like to express in my production - especially nowadays.

You’ve released on Animarum, Modular States, Reload Records, Fierce Animal, and IAMT. What do you look for when choosing a label for your tracks?

Well for me at this point choosing a label is mainly about the visibility that particular label can offer for me. Of course I want the track to fit in the label's scheme as well. Simply put, I'm trying to choose labels from countries where I have the most listeners, to achieve more potential new listeners - not forgetting about possible bookings in those countries. Trying to spread my sound worldwide is an ongoing objective at the moment.

Your sets are known for blending raw energy with melodic finesse. How do you strike that balance when preparing a performance?

After diving more and more deeper into producing, the principles of preparing a set have also changed for me. Whereas I tried to fit all my so-to-say 'favourites' in one set, I've realized that for the listener it's not the easiest set to listen to. Building a set is like building a track, brick by brick. Hopefully I'm not too confused, when I'm explaining it like this; I need tracks in my set presenting the 'breakdown' -part in a single track, so that the set itself tells a story. Trying to find tracks that impact me melody -and energywise are the key things for me.

How did you first discover electronic music, and what made you take the step into DJing and producing?

I’ve been musical my whole life, and electronic music was always present. I remember when I was a lot younger I used to watch some old Dimitri Vegas & LikeMike -Tomorrowland sets on YouTube and even FL Studio remake videos of popular edm-tracks at the time - without realizing what I’m actually looking at, but little did I know how much they influenced me. In 2021 my friend invited me to go to an 'open-air' -event with him, where I met some DJs who were starting their careers and they encouraged me to try dj:ing myself. Soon after, I bought my first controller and started practicing at home. From there, networking and countless hours of playing took me from small beginnings to clubs and bigger events, snowball effect.

After playing for a couple years, it was time to start learning how to produce. After an excellent 'get-to-know' -session with a very good friend of mine, I was hooked - just like after the first time with dj-equipment. So the snowball kept getting bigger again...

TERIAL - DJ / Producer

Can you share a particularly memorable gig or crowd moment that reminded you why you do this?

Last year we had our Bass Game 'May Day'-event in Tampere. We were sold out about an hour or two after the event started and it was my first time playing some of my own production. Even the thought of playing my own sound was stressing me out, but as soon as I was on the stage it all disappeared and when I saw the crowd reacting to them I knew this one's the books. In fact it might've been one of my biggest crowds also.

You’ve collaborated with artists like Shadowmaw & Darius Rose, and TMPR. How does working with others influence your creative process?

Well first of all, getting to know Georgi (Shadowmaw) was a blessing. His visions through music and philosophy outside of it have inspired me a lot, as a producer and a human being. His and Darius' work on 'Human Energy' was a huge factor for giving more visibility for a young-producer like me. Working with TMPR has been nothing but smooth and easy. We happen to share quite a similar vision and 'Fade Out' was an excellent example of such. It was not long after I first showed him what I had created, that he filled it with all the necessary elements. He’s an overall excellent guy and I’m proud to call him a brother. In conclusion, these dudes mentioned above have had a big impact on my creative process, and I've definitely drawn inspiration from the people mentioned above.

Tracks like Don’t F with My Energy* and Fear Kills showcase a darker edge. Where do you draw inspiration for these heavier sounds?

I constantly try to seek different aspects for my production, and try to adapt them with my style. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Listening to some of my favourite artists from 'darker' styles are a big source of inspiration of course, but I've always been drawn to moody, atmospheric sounds. That darker energy lets me express intensity and depth in a way that feels raw and honest, unsettling even.

Finland’s techno scene is growing. How do you see it developing over the next few years, and what role would you like to play in that growth?

I’m very hopeful about the scene as we’ve seen some huge moves during this year. I’d say that this year has been somewhat revolutionary when looking back at what kind of events we’ve had, and to mention what caliber of artist we’ve had here. Needless to say that I’m fully motivated to play a part in taking Finland even more to the techno-map, whether it’s with my own evolving sound, or working in an event management concept - or both.

TERIAL - Echoes Within [IAMT]

When you’re in the studio, do you begin with drums, melody, or a particular vibe you’re aiming to capture?

I'm quite melody central, so I love to create and test melodies that come from my inspiration. Usually my drums change throughout the process, so I'm trying not to waste too much time on being meticulous fixing a specific lowend element or some hi-hats for example.

You’ve already charted on Beatport as an emerging artist. What milestones are you aiming for next in your career?

Well, more higher chart positions of course. Wouldn’t mind getting into the top 10 group more regularly on Beatport. But I’m also hoping to raise interest on editorial playlists on the major streaming platforms.

What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers trying to make their mark in today’s scene?

Network. Meet people, seek where you get the most inspiration and feed your inspiration. Be authentic, be you! Share your work. And most importantly - be patient. Stay committed to the journey.

Outside of music, what keeps you inspired and fuels your creativity?

I maintain my physical health by going to the gym, and it’s completely true when they say that when your physical well-being is in good form, so is your mental-health. During the long stretches in the studio I usually cut the session by going to the gym to freshen my mind.

Looking ahead, are there any collaborations, labels, or festivals you’re especially excited to pursue?

I have a clear goal for 2026, getting recognized by major organizers here in Finland, and getting bookings outside my home country. There’s work to be done to achieve those, but I have my eyes on the prize.

Finally, what can fans expect from your upcoming releases or performances?

I’ve shared little sneak peeks of my upcoming releases every once in a while. Soundwise there might be some changes here and there - or upgrades if you want to call it that way. There might be something else coming as well but I’m gonna leave you with a cliffhanger...

Thank you for taking the time to speak with us — we wish you continued success in the years to come!