Beatportal Exclusive: MHA IRI on Drumcode, Neon Storm, and What's Next
MHA IRI returns to Drumcode with her electrifying Neon Storm EP, blending dystopian soundscapes with nostalgic rave energy. In this exclusive, she talks creative inspiration, wild tour moments, and what's next for 2025.



Few artists have mastered the art of innovation while staying true to their roots like MHA IRI. With a dynamic journey that continues to captivate the techno scene, her return to Drumcode with the electrifying EP Neon Storm marks yet another powerful chapter in her career. From dystopian sonic elements to nostalgic rave vibes, MHA IRI’s latest work showcases her boundless creativity and evolving sound.
In this exclusive Q&A, we explore her creative process, memorable moments on tour, and what lies ahead for 2025. Get ready to dive deep into the mind of one of techno's most compelling voices.
The Journey with Drumcode
First off, how does it feel to return to Drumcode with Neon Storm? You’ve built such a strong legacy with the label—what does this milestone mean to you?
It feels great that Adam is putting his trust in my music, and it’s awesome to kickstart the year with a strong release on such an incredible label.
Your earlier tracks like Bell and The Unexpected are fan favorites. How would you say your sound has evolved since those releases?
My sound is constantly evolving, but I do feel that throughout this journey there remains a thread that ties everything together. I enjoy a wide range of genres and love experimenting, so evolving feels natural and right.
Seeing your tracks being played in Adam Beyer’s peak-time sets must be surreal. Do you remember the first time you heard him drop one of your tunes?
The first time in person was at Mysteryland, and that was very surreal and special as I was dancing in the crowd at the time. I don’t often hear my own tracks from the dancefloor side.
The Making of Neon Storm
Let’s talk about the EP—it’s such a powerful collection! What inspired the dystopian elements and the robot girl’s vocal in Neon Storm?
The robot girl vocals are actually my vocals that have been processed. They were originally meant to be spoken word, but I decided in the end to create a haunting vocal melody with them, which I think has a very catchy feel.
Moving Machines has such a nostalgic 90s vibe. Was that intentional? Did any specific memories or influences shape that track?
The 90s feel is likely because I used rave stabs as one of the main leads accompanying the bass lead. I wasn’t initially sure about using the rave stabs—they can be tricky to balance with other elements, and I wondered if they were too overused. But they just felt right, so I kept them. It wasn’t intentional for the track to have that vibe, but I’m glad it does.
And then there’s No Return—that almost-Scottish melody is such a standout. Did your roots play a role in shaping this track?
No Return is the most experimental track of the three. The melodies are meant to be haunting and have a Celtic feel, so yes, my roots definitely played a part.
On Stage and On Tour
You’ve been playing these tracks out at massive shows like Mysteryland, Awakenings, and fabric. How have the crowds been reacting to them?
All of the tracks perform really well, with Neon Storm probably getting the best reaction out of the three, which is why it’s the lead track. I’m really lucky that I can test tracks out and modify them based on the crowd’s reaction until I’m happy.
Last year, you toured Australia and played alongside legends like Carl Cox and Chris Liebing. What was the most memorable moment from that tour?
Probably nearly missing my set at the Eat The Beat Festival because of flight delays—literally running to the stage, sweating and wheezing, haha.
Do you approach music-making differently when you know it’s going to be a big part of your live sets?
No, I simply make music that I like and vibe with without worrying too much about the end result. Sometimes on reflection, when I finish a track, I don’t feel it’s good enough to release or play out, so I shelve it to potentially rework later.
Looking Ahead
2024 was such a big year for you. What’s been your biggest takeaway as an artist, and how is that shaping your goals for 2025?
I feel like a lot of the big goals I had—such as Awakenings main stage and Tomorrowland—I’ve managed to reach, which was amazing for me. My biggest takeaway is definitely to stop and reflect now and again on the progress made and savour it. It’s easy in this fast-paced and highly competitive industry to achieve something big, immediately think “what’s next?” and forget to really soak up the sunny moments of our careers while they’re happening.
What’s next for you? Are there any exciting collaborations or projects you can tease for us?
I have a super exciting collab coming up with another female producer who’s amazingly talented and also a kind, down-to-earth soul. Keep your eyes peeled in April/May for the announcement.
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