Put it on Wax: Heartwerk's Analog Adventure

DJ and producer Heartwerk is making waves with his latest venture, Let Em Know, a vinyl release that bridges the gap between the digital and the tactile. Known for his dynamic deep house beats, Heartwerk is returning to a format that captures music in its most classic form—vinyl. This project isn’t just another release; it’s a testament to his evolution from youthful rock experiments to a master of electronic sound.

Heartwerk's journey began with “terrible rock songs” in his pre-teen years, a humble start that would eventually give way to a profound passion for electronic music. His discovery of deep house was transformative, guiding him to carve out a unique space within the electronic music scene. Now, with Let Em Know, he’s offering something enduring—a physical piece of art that invites fans to experience his music in a new way.

Despite the streaming era's dominance, Heartwerk has always felt a deep connection to the physicality of vinyl. “Something about it being there physically has always allured me,” he says, emphasizing the charm of watching turntables spin. For him, vinyl is more than just a medium; it’s a way to offer fans a tangible, lasting connection to his music. By pressing Let Em Know onto a 7-inch record, Heartwerk is making a statement about the value of owning music in its most tangible form.

In an age where tracks can vanish from streaming platforms overnight, vinyl stands as a beacon of permanence. “With the record, you own it. It’s always yours—you can always play it,” Heartwerk explains. This sense of ownership and durability adds a personal touch to the listening experience, making his music something fans can hold onto for years to come.

The process of creating Let Em Know for vinyl presented its own set of challenges, particularly the constraints of the 7-inch format. Yet, Heartwerk approached these limitations with creativity and spontaneity. “I woke up that morning and felt like making funky house music,” he recalls, highlighting the playful and intuitive nature of his creative process.

The influences behind this release are as diverse as they are nostalgic. Heartwerk drew inspiration from the deep house records of the ‘90s and incorporated his new MiniFreak synth to craft a sound that merges the old with the new. This blend of nostalgia and innovation is a hallmark of his work, bringing a fresh yet familiar vibe to the record.

While debates about the sound quality of vinyl versus digital formats continue, Heartwerk remains focused on the joy of the physical experience. “I have a lot more fun when I play records over streaming,” he admits. The act of placing the needle on the groove provides a unique pleasure that digital formats simply can’t match.

Heartwerk envisions Let Em Know as the perfect backdrop for sun-soaked afternoons and celebratory moments. Picture this: the warmth of the sun, a cocktail in hand, and the funky house beats of Heartwerk setting the mood. This record is designed to capture that feeling of carefree joy and vibrant energy.

Fans can pre-order or purchase the record via his Bandcamp page: heartwerk.bandcamp.com. To celebrate, Heartwerk has planned a release party at Heirloom, with a surprise popup performance at LoFi. With plans for more vinyl releases and an upcoming live tour in November, Heartwerk is set to take his infectious beats to new heights and wider audiences.

For lovers of deep house and vinyl, Let Em Know is a must-have. As Heartwerk puts it, with vinyl, the music is always yours. So, grab a copy, let the needle drop, and let yourself be immersed in the sunshine of his funky rhythms.