Qulinez is a Swedish electronic music duo from Varberg, made up of Alexander Lager and Johannes Gustafsson, two childhood friends who begin producing together in 2006. They launch the Qulinez project in 2011 and work in styles including house, electro house, progressive house and electronica.

Early work and background

Both members grow up playing piano, drums and guitar, and they build their tracks from a small home studio using FL Studio. Their production work includes tracks, remixes and edits, and they continue developing original material after forming the Qulinez name.

Size Records and early recognition

The duo send a demo directly to Steve Angello at Size Records, who takes an immediate interest in them. Their track “Troll” becomes an early focal point of attention and is noted for combining a melodic build-up with a Swedish house-style rhythm and a Dutch-style bass drop.

Reception and performances

“Troll” is played by a number of major DJs, including Alesso, Cazzette, Hardwell, Tiesto, David Guetta, Sander van Doorn, Sebastian Ingrosso, Steve Angello and Axwell, as well as by Swedish House Mafia audiences following the group’s show at Madison Square Garden. Qulinez are also named Breakout Stars of 2012 by Beat My Day.

Style

The duo describe their music as electro house, and their output is also associated with house, progressive house and electronica.