First sip is all about the smell and that little buzz that wakes the brain up. I usually sit on my porch, let the steam swirl, and just let the music start to creep in. The warm, bittersweet flavor gives me a slow pulse that I translate into a simple chord loop. I’ll layer a mellow synth over it, add some gentle percussion that feels like the drip of a coffee machine, and let the melody breathe. Coffee’s warmth is my metronome—slow, steady, and surprisingly inspirational. When I feel that spark, I keep a notebook handy and jot down any idea that pops, no matter how small. That way, a plain cup turns into a whole vibe that I can take back into the studio and flesh out.