MOIST // DAVID ELFSTRÖM LILJA:

Moist, the multifaceted producer, artist, and remixer, is the creative persona of David Elfström Lilja, originally from Söderhamn but now residing in Gävle, Sweden. In addition to his work as Moist, David also creates music under various other monikers, such as Árstraumur, Gränslöst, Numb, Just A Guy With A Laptop, and more.

At the age of 4, he began playing the drums and later, in 1984, acquired his first synthesizer, a Roland SH-101. In 2011, David founded the independent label I/O Music, which he continues to manage to this day.

In addition to his musical talents, David has an extensive background as an Art Director in web/print, working with some of Sweden’s most renowned artists for over 25 years.

In 2012, Moist’s debut album, “Temporary Arrangements” was unveiled. The album’s first single, “Far Beyond The Endless” featuring Maria Marcus, was included in the Blank & Jones Collection “Chilltronica #2” alongside tracks from notable artists such as Moby, Depeche Mode, Brian Eno, and Trentemøller. This compilation swiftly climbed to the top spot in Germany.

October 2018 saw the release of Moist’s second album, “Lavine” with Maria Marcus providing vocals on all tracks. A deluxe edition, featuring all instrumental versions, was launched in February 2020. The single “Berlin” gained traction on various charts in Europe and Australia. The album also includes the heartfelt song “She” co-written with Maria Marcus, which was inspired by the loss of David’s sister Elena in 2014. The album’s title, “Lavine,” is an acronym derived from the names of David’s children: Lava, Vide, and Neo.

Two singles have been released after the the album “Lavine”: “Hearts Burn Slow” and “Under My Skin,” featuring remixes by artists such as Tangerine Dream, Kebu, and Red Snapper.

“Your song is a dream, The singer is gorgeous, I love her voice much, brings me to tears.”
– Wolfgang Flür (Kraftwerk)
about Hearts Burn Slow

On October 30, 2024, Moist is gearing up for the release of his upcoming album, Refurbished, which features an exclusive collection of cover songs. The album includes 14 interpretations of his favorite songs, performed alongside guest artists such as Paul Rein, Johan Baeckström, Luna Joyce, and Alex Eklund. From iconic hits like “Here Comes The Rain Again” and “I Wanna Know What Love Is” to more obscure gems like “King’s Cross” and “Any Second Now,” each song is a personal interpretation created in collaboration with friends.

REMIXES

Moist has earned recognition for his official remixes of prominent artists such as Pet Shop Boys, Red Snapper, Moby, Butterfly Boucher, and many others. His remix for Butterfly Boucher even secured a spot on Popservations’ (US) annual Top 25 Remixes list. All official remixes can be found and explored here, while a list of bootlegs is available here.

“Moist sounds and production have a timeless quality and depth and his influences demonstrate a musical heritage of the highest order. His work feels natural and he always manages to squeeze every drop of soul and beauty from a lyric and melody. His music is not out of place with the likes of Brian Eno and Moroder.”
– Rich Thair (Red Snapper)

AWARDS/NOMINATIONS

He has garnered three consecutive nominations for the Hollywood Music In Media Awards (2011, 2012, and 2013) and was honored with his hometown’s cultural prize in 2013 for his significant contributions to the local music and cultural scene.

Söderhamns Culture Prize
For significant contributions to the music & cultural life

Worlds Collide
nominated for a HMMA 2013

Me And You
nominated for a HMMA 2012

Far Beyond The Endless
nominated for a HMMA 2011