From an Electrical Engineer to an electronic music DJ, Paul Mattis is developing a signature sound under the moniker, X-Change. After a successful career as lead acoustic engineer for General Motors he started following his passion of making music full-heartedly. Since then he has gained recognition from the likes of Hardwell and performed at coveted festivals like Movement. His latest work features Nicci and the helping touch of Shayon.
X-Change and friends develop a spectacular electro pop single, ‘The Last Time’.
‘The Last Time’ is built with a dreamy vibe and angelic lyrics that will keep you grounded. The essence of this track reminds me of lyrics in a Talking Heads song which go, “feet on the ground, head in the sky.”
The structure of the piece keeps you captivated from start to end. The single develops with an elegant piano and Nicci‘s inviting vocals. Then, the drop is playful with pretty twinkling synths that gracefully counterweights Nicci‘s catchy lyrics. Appreciate the precision X-Change displays for each note placement to create such a piercing beat.
Here is what X-Change mentioned about the song writing process for ‘The Last Time’:
Nicci and I wrote everything at the same time in the studio in Los Angeles when we made this song. I was working on the chords and instrumental ideas with Shayon, the third co-writer of this song, while Nicci worked on the vocal melodies. We went back-and-forth rewriting until we were happy.
X-Change takes a refreshing approach to electro pop.
This track stands out from most big room festival hits since it is thoughtful and inviting thanks to the magical drop and Nicci‘s wide vocal range. ‘The Last Time’ is swift with a light air that packs plenty of power to get the whole crowd bouncing. Enjoy the goldenly silent spaces within the beat as X-Change shows control via restraint.
Nicci’s voice makes listeners sit up and take notice.
The extended version takes much longer on the intro as X-Change builds suspense with major chords and a heavy, hard-hitting beat before Nicci’s vocals finally enters. This Radio edit is crisp and satisfying. Allow the lyrics to pull you in as they ring, “because everybody wants to feel something, just living on a prayer, all or nothing.” Thankfully he offers this earworm up for free download.
Listen to X-Change’s ‘The Last Time’ featuring Nicci:
To hear more by X-Change tune into his weekly podcast called, ‘X-Change Theory Radio‘ where he premieres his originals, custom edits, mash-ups, and remixes. Also, take a listen and download for free X-Change‘s single, ‘Can’t Hear A Word You’re Saying’, that garnered Hardwell‘s support.
Also, explore more of X-Change’s unique sound that reaches way beyond electro pop and grab more of his music for free download by checking out his SoundCloud.
