At this point, San Franciso-based DJ-producer Max Vangeli is basically a made man. He's scored support sets for Swedish House Mafia. He's been signed to Mafia member Steve Angello's Size Records. And he's even the production partner of Stevie's brother, Antoine Josefsson, otherwise known as AN21.
Those kind of connects -- not to mention Vangeli's massive knack for, um, sexy beats -- guarantee access to the best international clubs and the sweetest champagne. So it's no surprise that he'll be spending New Year's Eve alongside Tiesto at his $25,000 Fontainebleau bash.
Just the other day, Crossfade asked Vangeli about spending NYE with Tijs, hanging with the Mafia, and the choice between Ultra and WMC.
New Times: Is the thought of opening for Tiësto's New Year's Eve party at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach intimidating?
Max Vangeli: Not at all, Tijs and I are very close now and played together before. I'm a lot more excited than nervous, to be honest. It's a huge privilege to be a part of such an amazing night and a great way to finish off the year!
With lots of support from acts like Swedish House Mafia and Tïesto, 2010 seemed to be your breakout year. Were you surprised by your success?
Well, I would not say I am surprised by it. But it is definitely an amazing feeling! It's been a crazy rollercoaster ride that's for sure. But to be honest with you, I worked so hard on this every day of my life that it's sort of the reward I was waiting for.
You'll be returning to Miami about a week after your NYE set to headline at Mansion. Does your set change when you're the main act?
Oh definitely! It's a completely different vibe! When I open, I love to go with sexy, tech-y tribal beats to get the crowd into it and warm them up a bit. As far as Mansion goes, it's going to be absolutely crazy! We are just going to do it big.
You've already remixed some pretty big acts like Gorillaz and Ellie Goulding. Any surprises for 2011 that you can let us know about?
Yes, our album for SIZE with AN21! That is the only focus right now, making a sexy album.
How does your work with AN21 differ from the material you create on your own? Is the process different?
Well, not really. But when we work together, which now is most of the time, it's a lot easier. We get to criticize each others ideas, which assures us that we are not releasing shit music.
Will there be a progression between the stuff we've already heard from you and the direction you'll be taking in 2011?
Yes, of course! We are always finding new ideas and ways to make things unique-sounding and experimental. I think most people will agree that this album will show everyone how versatile we really are in music, and I'm very excited to hear the reactions!
What were some of your favorite records of 2010?
Swedish House Mafia's "One" was a big bang for sure! And to finish off the year, it's probably the Pendulum Remix ["The Island"] we did with Steve Angello and Antoine. It's been destroying dance floors all around the world!
OK, I've gotta ask: WMC or Ultra?
Easy one ... I will be in Miami during Ultra, but won't be performing at the festival. Stay tuned as I will have a lot of exciting shows and pool parties!
Max Vangeli opening for Tiësto's New Year's Eve party. Fontainebleau, 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. The party begins at 9 p.m., and tickets cost $450 to $25,000 via fbnye.snaptickets.com. Call 305-538-2000 or visit fontainebleau.com.
Max Vangeli with Laurent Simeca. Saturday, January 8, at Mansion, 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Doors open at 11 p.m. and tickets cost $20 via wantickets.com. Ages 21 and up. Call 305-532-1525 or visit mansionmiami.com.
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