HOZHO

Portuguese DJ and producer Hozho has become a beacon in electronic music, captivating audiences worldwide with his unique sound, which he describes as “Melodark” — a blend of melody, emotion, and darkness. His signature plague doctor mask adds an air of mystery, amplifying the immersive experience of his music.

Through his artistry, Hozho explores the depths of human emotion, often touching on themes of mental health, which he delves into in his latest project, Psychologic Issues. In this interview, Hozho shares the inspiration behind his upcoming album, his release strategy, and the personal journey that shapes his work.

Psychologic Issues is set to be released gradually, allowing listeners to experience Hozho’s artistic journey one chapter at a time. He explains that releasing the album in stages, beginning with the EP Cherophobia, serves a dual purpose: creating anticipation and conveying a deeper narrative. Each track addresses a specific psychological theme, offering listeners a chance to reflect on their own mental health journeys alongside him. This staggered release strategy, he notes, is more than a marketing tactic — it’s a way to tell a story that resonates on an emotional level.

Hozho’s openness in this interview provides a glimpse into the struggles he faces both as an artist and as a person. He discusses how creative burnout has impacted his music and life, as well as how he channels his own psychological battles into his work. This article takes a closer look at his upcoming releases, the evolution of his artistry, and the meaningful connection he has cultivated with his audience through his themes of mental health and personal growth.

When speaking about the inspiration behind Psychologic Issues, Hozho emphasizes the album’s focus on mental health. Tracks like “Cherophobia,” which deals with the fear of happiness, are inspired by his own experiences. He shares how his artistic process became therapeutic, allowing him to explore emotions and work through challenges. By sharing his struggles, he hopes to connect with listeners on a deeper level, helping them feel seen and understood.

Discussing his release strategy, Hozho explains why he chose to release Psychologic Issues as a series of singles.

“The most important reason is to generate hype,” he says.

“Singles create anticipation for the full album, building excitement among fans. It gives listeners a taste of what’s to come, allowing me to stay in the public eye for longer and attract new listeners who may not yet be familiar with my music.”

But beyond the strategy, he views this approach as a way to tell a story.

“Releasing Psychologic Issues in separate parts allows me to tell a story, with each song focusing on a distinct theme related to mental health,” he explains.

Reflecting on the reception of Cherophobia, the first EP from the album, Hozho notes that the tracks have resonated with fans.

“Fans of my music already heard the two tracks from this EP in my DJ Mix 04, released in May,” he shares.

“This DJ Mix is much more than just a simple DJ set recorded in a beautiful location; it’s like a movie, where the audio set can be interpreted as the soundtrack. Those who heard these tracks firsthand associate them with mental health themes, as the mix has a psychological concept.”

Hozho’s track “Adderall,” set for release on October 11, is another highly anticipated part of Psychologic Issues. The track, inspired by ADHD and one of its common treatments, is a complex piece with layers of storytelling.

“It’s one of the best tracks of the album,” he says, “with a lot of details that create a powerful emotional experience.”

This release will feature a vocal part absent in the original DJ Mix 04 version, adding another dimension to the track.

Looking ahead, Hozho teases additional releases that will continue to explore themes of mental health.

“After Adderall, I’ll be releasing another single on November 1st,” he reveals.

“This will be a brand-new track that hasn’t been included in my previous mixes or played live yet. It will follow the theme of mental health and psychology and will contain a small easter egg for fans.”

In a departure from his usual style, Hozho has collaborated with UK artist Pulse on a track called “Menace,” which incorporates rap — a new venture for him. He reflects on the challenge of combining rap with electronic music, but he’s excited to see how it complements the album’s overarching mental health theme.

Hozho’s background in psychology, a subject he studied at university, has deeply influenced his music.

“My interest in the human mind goes way back, and applying that to my music is one of the most therapeutic things in the world,” he says.

This understanding is evident in the way he structures his tracks, aiming to evoke a range of emotions and experiences. His plague doctor mask is symbolic, representing the struggle between the visible and invisible aspects of mental health.

“The mask creates a visual contrast between an emotionless exterior and deeply emotional feelings expressed through my music,” he explains.

“When I step on stage, the crowd can’t see my emotions, but they can feel them, and that’s what matters most.”

Through projects like DJ Mix 04, Hozho personifies different psychological struggles, using actors to depict various mental health issues. This visual element highlights his belief in the power of community and art in healing.

“By using these characters, I want to show that mental health challenges are personal but can be understood collectively. Art can bring people together, helping us navigate these complexities.”

As Hozho’s journey unfolds, his music offers a space for introspection and healing. Through Psychologic Issues, he’s not just creating an album; he’s crafting an experience that encourages listeners to confront their own mental health challenges. By intertwining psychology with his sound, he provides an outlet for vulnerability, making his music more than just a collection of beats — it’s a reflection of the human condition.

Hozho’s willingness to take risks and be vulnerable sets him apart in today’s music scene. As he continues to release new music, he’s not only pushing artistic boundaries but also challenging his audience to connect with their own inner worlds. His journey is one we can all relate to, reminding us that music has the power to heal, connect, and inspire.