With the release of his debut single ‘Fractures‘ via MOODS INTL., Helsinki-based producer HUMS steps into the spotlight with a sound as intimate as it is atmospheric. As the first external signing to GRAMMY-nominated artist Mild Minds’ label, HUMS—the project of Elias Durac—delivers a richly textured track that blends delicate vocal samples, electronic rhythms, and emotional depth into a sonic experience that defies easy categorization. In this exclusive interview, we catch up with HUMS to discuss his creative process, the story behind ‘Fractures‘, and what it means to join a label that champions artistic freedom and emotional honesty.
How would you describe your sound to someone who hasn’t heard your music before?
It’s pretty evolving, timeless, and melodic—electronic sounds mixed with organic elements and some beautiful vocals. It also depends on my mood—whether I’m happy, sad, angry, or feeling funky. That’s the beauty of it: I always try to sprinkle my own style into everything, but I love blending different genres together.
Can you tell us about how your partnership with Mild Minds and MOODS INTL. came about?
I had just started working on my first-ever album while also juggling a couple of other projects. I sent some demos to a bunch of artists, and their encouragement and great feedback really motivated me. At first, I was planning to release it independently—until I came across Mild Minds’ new label. After that, I reached out to MOODS INTL, and the rest is history.
‘Fractures’ has such an intimate, atmospheric quality. What was the inspiration behind this track?
It started out as something quite static and electronic—I was aiming for that classic drum machine sound. But then I somehow got inspired to take it in a completely different direction, transforming the minimal, static vibe into an emotional, atmospheric soundscape.
How does your Finnish background influence your music?
First of all, the nature here is beautiful—cottages and cool spots by the sea. My musician friends definitely influence my music as well. And last but not least, my Romanian background has been a big source of inspiration. My parents are originally from there, and the music back home is seriously dope!
How has working with Benjamin David (Mild Minds) influenced your approach to your craft?
It’s been epic. It’s unreal how naturally we clicked and how easy it is to work together. He’s given me amazing advice and really helped me see things from a new perspective. I just hope I’ve been able to give him something in return—and that he feels the same way, haha.
Beyond music production, what other creative pursuits or interests feed into your artistic vision?
Sceneries, landscapes, nature, and movies all inspire me—especially old Japanese anime and films with incredible scores and rich color palettes. My friends also inspire me a lot; they’re all super talented and working on their own creative projects.
What attracted you to electronic music specifically as a medium for expression?
I started out in my brother’s band when I was probably around 7 years old. He introduced me to a lot of cool rock and electronic music through his MP3 player. Later on, we started our own EDM project, but he got busy with other things, and I eventually got tired of the generic sound at the time. I stepped away from music for a while, then found my way back to my roots in rock and indie by starting Fabianossa. Over time, I felt the need for contrast, so I launched an electronic project, HUMS, where I could explore different subgenres and just make people dance.
What’s the most challenging aspect of translating your personal experiences into sound?
Lyrics used to be the hardest part for me—trying to make them sound meaningful and cool without coming off as too cheesy. But I’ve gotten better at it over time. These days, I also really enjoy creating vocal cut samples that have a certain phonetic beauty and sometimes even sound like actual words.
What can listeners expect from your upcoming releases throughout 2025?
There are a lot of vocals and recorded phone ideas that eventually came to life. It’s kind of like a journey through all the places I visited, since the song ideas started in so many different settings—coffee shops, libraries, public transport, and spots by the sea. It almost feels like a journal or a mixtape dedicated to the vibes of each environment.
What do you hope listeners take away from experiencing your music as they get to know you?
Enjoy the music, hit me up with your favorite track, and I hope it inspires someone out there to start their own artistic project—but in the end, it’s all up to the listeners 🙂
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