Boys Noize releases first new album in five years

Electronic music producer Alex Ridha, known professionally as Boys Noize, has released his fifth studio album.

The record, titled 7LLVSION and pronounced 'Illusion,' marks his first new full-length project in five years. Ridha described the twelve tracks as 'bangers' designed primarily for his live DJ sets. He expressed surprise at the project's completion, noting that he could not believe it was finished. The album is available for purchase now.

Ridha explained that his creative process often begins with a specific sound that triggers his interest. He attributes this instinct to his background as a DJ, collector, and student of electronic music. He said that hearing something new and interesting usually serves as his starting point. For this particular album, the process was reversed. Ridha stated that he did not hear the music he wanted, so he was compelled to create it. He identified a gap in his own sets and in the wider electronic music scene over the last two years as the primary inspiration. The goal was to produce a group of tracks that would perform well in a live environment.

Ridha has spent more than 20 years shaping the electronic music landscape through collaborations and production work. His credits include partnerships with Skrillex, Frank Ocean, and Nine Inch Nails. He also co-wrote the Grammy-winning Lady Gaga track 'Rain On Me.' His most recent work with Nine Inch Nails included producing and mixing the soundtrack for the film 'Challengers.' That release, titled 'Challengers (Mixed),' was part of a broader collaboration that extended to the 'TRON: Ares' soundtrack. Ridha produced the Grammy-winning song 'As Alive As You Need Me To Be' for that project. He joined the band on its 2025 'Peel It Back' tour and appeared with them at Coachella in 2026 under the moniker Nine Inch Noize.

The collaboration with Nine Inch Nails involved a shared creative environment during travel and backstages. Ridha noted that the duo split work on the 'TRON' project, which allowed them to learn about each other's musical references. He described the experience of working toward a common goal as a positive aspect of their partnership. Currently, Ridha is touring in support of 7LLVSION. He maintains that music production is a meditative process for him, allowing him to create in various settings, including airplanes. He cited his daily habit of record shopping and his role in running a label as key factors in his constant exposure to new sounds. These inputs range from soul and disco to blues and new electronic demos. He believes electronic music offers unique opportunities for composition by using sound in unconventional ways, such as turning a knock on a microphone into a drum beat. Ridha stated that he essentially makes club music, a focus that defines both his new album and his professional identity.

The interview took place at the Grammy Museum, where Ridha spoke to an audience about his methods. He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to discuss his work in that setting. The album 7LLVSION is the latest release from the artist.