Regal - Mixmag Spain #10 - ADE Edition

ADE EDITION

MIXMAG SPAIN

www.mixmag.es

https://www.instagram.com/mixmag.es/ www.soundcloud.com/mixmagaegroup

EDITOR:

Sergio Niño sergio@mixmagaegroup.com

CEO: Diego Aldea diego@mixmagaegroup.com

CFO: Eduardo Garcia Morales eduardo@mixmagaegroup.com

MARKETING:

Lucia Tapia Cantalejo lucia@mixmagaegroup.com

TEXTS: Sergio Niño sergio@mixmagaegroup.com

DESIGN: Dante Misael Salas Hernández dante@mixmagaegroup.com

SOCIAL MEDIA: Laura Liendo laura@mixmagaegroup.com

SALES: sales@mixmagaegroup.com

INFO: hello@mixmagaegroup.com

In this special October edition of Mixmag Spain for ADE, we spotlight the incredible REGAL, also known as ACIDBOY. His latest album, The Final Chapter, marks a deeply personal journey—a return to his acid techno roots, infused with the struggles of mental health and sobriety. Every beat reflects his battles and growth, making this project one of his most vulnerable and authentic works.

Instead of following trends, Regal chose to bare his soul, turning The Final Chapter into a window into his healing process. This album is a raw expression of catharsis and self-discovery, showing both his triumphs and pain. Join us as we explore this powerful, transformative work in Mixmag Spain’s October edition.

Sergio Niño Editor, Mixmag Spain

P8. ADE GUIDE

P30. FUNKTRIBU

P34. MISS BASHFUL X DBBD

P38. SEVEN LABEL

P42. SUMIA

P46. DHUNA

P50. RISE FESTIVAL

P54. ARROGANTWERPEN

P58. ANNA TUR

P62. BIIANCO

P66. XXL MALTA

P72. REGAL / ACIDBOY

P82. TWB

P86. FRANÇOIS X

P90. X-COAST

P96. JESSE MAAS

P100. MARCO TROPEANO

P106. LA FLEUR

P110. S.A.M.

P116. AEXHY

P122. AZAAD

P126. LOS SURUBA

P130. DAVID CASTELLANI

P134. HOZHO

ADE GUIDE

ADE PRO (16 – 19 OCTOBER)

OCT 16, 2024

DILLA 50 - THE INFLUENCE AND LEGACY OF DETROIT’S BEAT MAKING LEGEND

11:00 - 11:45

Location: Felix Meritis (Teekenzaal 1) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Maureen Yancey, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Carl Craig

J Dilla, Detroit’s legendary producer, revolutionized electronic beat-making and influenced modern music across genres like hip-hop and house. His innovations transformed live performances and drumming, leaving a lasting impact on countless artists, producers, and DJs. At ADE 2024, we celebrate Dilla’s legacy on what would have been his 50th birthday. The event includes a special Q&A with his mother, Maureen “Ma Dukes” Yancey, and musician Miguel Atwood-Ferguson.

REINIER ZONNEVELD IN-DEPTH: CREATING HIS OWN FESTIVAL, CREATING LIVE WITH AI

13:30 - 14:15

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Reinier Zonneveld shares the creative process behind R² Festival and his pioneering live back-to-back performance with AI. He discusses the integration of AI in music and its potential for revolutionizing live performances. Join this session to explore how technology and creativity converge in electronic music.

HARD TECHNO: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE

13:30 - 14:15

Location: Felix Meritis (Teekenzaal 1) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Sara Landry (Artist), Michelle Verhoef (General Manager, R&M Events - Verknipt)

Explore the resurgence of Hard Techno and its evolution into a cultural movement that spans music, fashion, and lifestyle. This fireside chat features Sara Landry and Michelle Verhoef, discussing the origins of Hard Techno, its current impact, and the role women are playing in shaping this genre’s future.

THE STATE OF INDEPENDENCE IN 2024 AND BEYOND

14:45 – 16:00

Location: Felix Meritis (Teekenzaal 1) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Aly Gillani (Bandcamp, GB) / Beks (AU) / Brian Miller (TuneCore, US) / Chris Goss (Hospitality/ Hospital Records, GB) / James Bullock (The Wild Seeds, GB) / Keir Tyrer (Shogun Audio Group, GB) / Linnea Sundberg (UnitedMasters, ) / Roland Leesker (Get Physical Music, DE) / Silvia Montello (Voicebox Consulting, GB)

Moderator: Carly Wilford (GB)

With the very idea of artistic/creative independence being both helped and threatened by technological advances, how do you get the best from your autonomy in terms of artistic originality? It’s patently clear that the indie sector is changing, and even the definition of independence is very different compared to what it was even five years ago. This is the ADE guide to the next phase of musical and creative independence, what it could mean for artists and their teams, as well as examining in-depth whether working with no label is right for you.

James Palmer-Bullock, who was set to join us on this item, has sadly passed away. His enthusiasm and positive impact on the music industry were unmatched, and we honor his memory and contributions. Our thoughts are with his loved ones as we remember his legacy.

OCT 17, 2024

THE ART OF CREATIVE REINVENTION

12:15 - 13:00

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Don Diablo and Laidback Luke discuss the complexities of creative reinvention in the music industry. Moderated by Lorne Padman, this session touches on balancing fan expectations while embracing change, and how emerging technology plays a key role in an artist’s evolution.

FROM NICHE TO NEXT LEVEL

11:15 - 12:00

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Indira Paganotto, Ilja Reiman, and Reza Fathi explore how niche sounds like gabber and hard techno have evolved to mainstream success. Learn from their experiences in building distinct identities and taking their craft to the next level. Moderated by Holly Dicker, this talk uncovers key strategies for elevating niche genres.

BURNOUT PREVENTION & CREATIVE FLOURISHING

15:00 - 15:45

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

A timely discussion on managing burnout in the fast-paced music industry. Panelists Louisahhh, Lilia ‘Dangermami,’ and Tristan Hunt offer practical advice on preventing burnout and fostering inclusive, creative environments. Expect thought-provoking insights into diversity, ADHD management, and mental health support.

TUNECORE & BELIEVE - ESSENTIAL INSIDER KNOWLEDGE

14:45 - 15:30

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Andreea Gleeson (TuneCore, US) / Romain Vivien (Believe, FR)

Romain Vivien (Global Head of Music and President of Europe, Believe), and Andreea Gleeson (CEO, TuneCore). Give us some special insider knowledge on the status of the industry and what is to come.

OCT 18, 2024

10 Years On: Celebrating the Legacy of ‘The Godfather of House’ Frankie Knuckles

16:15 - 17:00

Location: Felix Meritis (Koepelzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Tedd Patterson (DJ/Producer), Cinthie (DJ/ Producer and Label Owner), Frederick Dunson (Founder, President & Executive Director, the Frankie Knuckles Foundation), The Blessed Madonna (DJ & Producer)

What every DJ needs to know about the true origins of House & why heritage is still vital to dance music today.

The Frankie Knuckles Foundation and Defected Records come together to commemorate 10 Years since the passing of Frankie Knuckles regarded by many as the architect of the global House sound. Frankie’s musical influence is profound and relevant to a whole new generation of producers and DJs. His legacy lives on with the Frankie Knuckles Foundation. Here we examine Frankie’s contribution to House music and the importance of heritage in Dance music today by the DJs and people that were there.

AMELIE LENS X CHARLOTTE DE WITTE

16:30 - 17:15

Amelie Lens and Charlotte de Witte headline the ADE Pro Conference, exclusively opening up about their new-found partnership and future plans for the first time. The two cornerstones of today’s techno scene join forces for a string of unique, collaborative DJ sets, and take visitors of their ADE Pro panel on the journey leading up to this project with them.

KÖLSCH: IN CONVERSATION WITH DAVE CLARKE

14:00 - 14:46

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Kölsch (Artist), Dave Clarke (Artist)

Join us for a relaxed and informal conversation with Danish DJ/Producer Kölsch. We’ll find out how he started his musical career, how being born in the Freetown of Christiana - a hippy nirvana - affected his upbrin-

ging, his choices of studio gear and hats. There will also be tales of worldly travels and discussion about some of the productions he has done that please him the most and why. And, of course, we tap into how he felt about winning the ADE Cook Off 3 times with his incredible cooking skills.

DANCEFLOOR SOS: ENHANCING SAFETY IN NIGHTLIFE WITH SAFENOW AND JÄGERMEISTER

13:45 – 14:15

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Tilman Rumland (SafeNow) and Kea Kleihauer (Jägermeister) explore how the SafeNow app empowers clubgoers with tools for instant emergency assistance. They will discuss how this innovation integrates with Jägermeister’s SAVE THE NIGHT initiative to prioritize safety and inclusivity on the dancefloor. Learn about the impact and future of tech-enhanced safety in nightlife.

CHRIS STUSSY’S TIPS AND HACKS FOR A LONG-LASTING CAREER

16:15 - 17:00

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Renowned DJ Chris Stussy shares insights on balancing career longevity with personal well-being. From staying authentic to his fanbase to managing life on the road, Stussy discusses strategies for thriving in the ever-demanding music industry. Moderated by Joe Muggs, this session is a must for artists aiming for sustainability in their careers.

OPEN FLOOR: EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT EVERYTHING BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK?

13:15 - 14:00

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

Speakers: Katty Lange (Triangle Agency, DE) / Steven Braines (HE.SHE.THEY., GB) / SYREETA (DJ/Producer, GB)

Featuring two leading executives from the world of electronic music who’ve seen and done it all, alongside a handful of artists, the speakers are there for you, the audience, and you can ask them about anything you like. Whether it’s just for fun, for business or even more personal matters, Our panelists are some of smartest and most inspiring people you’re ever likely to meet, so bring your questions and fire away!

OCTOBER

19, 2024

Keynote Q&A: Tina Davis, president EMPIRE 11:45 - 12:30

Location: Felix Meritis

Speaker: Tina Davis (EMPIRE, US)

What should a truly global music industry look like for all involved? And how can the industry help to support and strenghten the position of artists and creatives

worldwide? Accomplished record label executive Tina Davis is at the forefront of change in the modern music industry. As president of EMPIRE, she helms over a business model that disrupted the traditional industry approach towards distribution, advocating for artists to obtain master rights and strengthening their position – a unique approach attracting a range of artists over the past years, from Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg and Migos to Larry June and Babyface Ray.

THE FUTURE OF CLUBS AND VENUES

15:00 - 16:30

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

As nightlife changes post-COVID, this panel discusses how smaller venues can thrive in an era of large festivals and mega-events. Featuring speakers like Dimitri Hegemann and Andrew Blackett, this conversation will explore how grassroots clubs can continue to nurture emerging talent and adapt to evolving audience expectations.

ME AND MY MANAGER: NAOMI SHARON (OVO SOUND)

12:45 - 13:30

Location: | Felix Meritis

Jasper Cremers (Manager Naomi Sharon, NL) / Naomi Sharon (Artist, NL)

During ADE Beats Naomi Sharon and Jasper Cremers will share the unique manager and artist journey they have embarked on. The work ethic, the relationship building, the artistic partnerships, the ambitions, beats, the e-mails, the phone calls, the skills, the paperwork and the creative process. An insightful look behind the scenes of an exciting and truly global artist career.

ADE LAB (16th - 19th)

OCTOBER 16, 2024

SOUNDCLOUD SCHOOL

12:00 - 18:00

De Brakke Grond (SoundCloud School [Lobby]) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

SoundCloud School is an educational initiative designed to empower music creators and industry stakeholders by providing comprehensive learning opportunities on how to maximize SoundCloud’s tools and features.

FROM STRATEGY TO STAGE: NAVIGATING THE ARTIST-AGENT DYNAMIC

14:15 - 15:45

Location: De Brakke Grond | Nes 45, Amsterdam

Mama Snake and her agent Charles Green dive into the complexities of the artist-agent relationship. They’ll cover essential strategies for career development, managing health, and fostering a successful partnership. This hands-on workshop offers practical advice and a deeper understanding of the vital role agents play in an artist’s journey.

CALLING ON ALL DJS! OPEN DECKS AT LAB SQUARE, WED. 16TH THROUGH SAT. 19

12:00 - 18:00

Location: De Brakke Grond (Lab Square) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

Whether you’re a seasoned DJ or just starting out, ADE Lab’s Open Decks is the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills. With sign-ups available at Het Groene Paleis, aspiring DJs can claim their spot and experiment in front of a live audience during ADE.

OCTOBER 17, 2024

EXPLORING CREATIVE SYNERGY WITH INDIRA PAGANOTTO & JOSEPH CAPRIATI

13.30 - 14.15

Location: De Brakke Grond (Boom Box) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

Indira Paganotto and Joseph Capriati delve into their creative collaboration process, moderated by Dave Clarke. This session will highlight how their partnership for the EP Mantra elevated their sound, offering insights into the artistic connections that drive innovation.

Deconstructing the Four-to-the-Floor with Noise Diva 14:45 - 15:30

Location: Mappa (Soundbar)

Speakers: Noise Diva (Artists, NL/SY), Mod: Katie Thomas (Brand & Events Editor, Resident Advisor, GB) /

All music has its origins. With the widely known 4-tothe-floor rhythm dominating dancefloors at festivals and larger venues, it’s important to ask: do you know where the music being played originates?

Noise Diva, an artist local to the Amsterdam club scene and beyond, is not only a performer but also a dedicated sound researcher passionate about educating dancers both on and off the dancefloor. As part of this mission, the multidisciplinary artist and creative director of the Salwa Foundation will join ADE Lab for a personal exploration of sound in the contemporary electronic music landscape. In this conversation, alongside the artist, producer, and researcher herself, we will dissect the global evolution of electronic music, focusing on how immigration has influenced and challenges the “4-to-the-floor” beat that dominates today’s dance music.

DE MACHINE LIVE FROM ADE LAB (DUTCH SPOKEN)

15.15 - 17.45

Location: De Brakke Grond (The Studio)

Atze de Vrieze (Music Journalist & Podcast Host, 3voor12, NL)

Following a packed podcast room during ADE Lab 2023, De Machine is returning to the ADE Lab grounds, this time at De Brakke Grond, for another live recording of their Dutch-spoken podcast about the behind-the-scenes of the music industry. In line with their weekly episodes that cover the latest news regarding the festival scene, streaming services, label-related topics, and anything that touches the sonic realm, De Machine will take you on a deep dive into the music scene, live at ADE Lab.

Photo: Stephen

OCTOBER 18, 2024

Staying Grounded as a Touring DJ with DJ Mell G 12:15 - 13:00

Location: De Brakke Grond (Boom Box) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

DJ Mell G and SolSync founder Veronique Leon discuss the challenges of life as a touring DJ. This session will focus on mental health strategies, offering personal insights into balancing a career in music while maintaining personal well-being.

BUILDING HOUSE GROOVES AND CREATING ARRANGEMENTS WITH SINCA

16:15 - 17:45

Location: De Brakke Grond (The Studio) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

Sinca, known for her unique progressive house and melodic techno sound, offers a live workshop on building house grooves and creating effective track arrangements. Participants will get hands-on experience in constructing a sound that’s truly their own.

FROM PLAY TO PAYç

14:15 - 15:00

Location: De Brakke Grond (The Studio) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

BumaStemra brings back their popular panel talk, From Play to Pay, at ADE 2024! This year, we’re taking a deeper, more practical dive into the world of online royalties, covering everything from how your music is tracked and monetized across platforms to maximizing your earnings as a creator. Join the expert Jurjan from BumaStemra and Britt Polls, who has written hit singles for artists such as Hardwell and Armin van Buuren and has 350 million combined streams to her name.

OCTOBER

19, 2024

SUBTRACTIVE SYNTHESIS AND CREATIVE PROCESS: BULLFROG SYNTHS BY ERICA SYNTHS

15:00 - 15:45

Location: Mappa (Soundbar) | Nes 59, Amsterdam

Hardware connoisseurs Vril & Kris Vanderheyden are joining ADE Lab to showcase the Bullfrog synthesizer, an innovative instrument by Erica Synths and Richie Hawtin, in its full potential. Designed for beginners in sound design, the workshop explores subtractive synthesis, a fundamental method of crafting electronic sounds. Prepare to experience a short showcase and gain insight into the work of subtractive synthesis by two artists who live and breathe everything modular.

Club Lab - Club Night

23:00 - 06:00

Line Up: DJ Babatr (VE) / TOCCORORO (ES)

Location: Melkweg | Lijnbaansgracht 234A, Amsterdam

CLUB Lab will be a multidisciplinary event, with live music, A/V shows and a club night – a chance for those at ADE Lab to come together and end ADE together.

Photo: Enrique

- Photo: Enrique Meesters

DEMOLITION XXVII

Location: De Brakke Grond (Boom Box) | Nes 45, Amsterdam

Demolition is back for another year of collectively listening to- and learning from YOUR latest productions! The hugely successful format, hosted by Dave Clarke, allows producers to receive live on-stage feedback from a panel of renowned electronic music professionals — from A&Rs to artists, all with a broad knowledge of the electronic genres. It is returning for its XXVII edition, this year at the ADE Lab grounds.

ADE ARTS & CULTURE

OCTOBER

16, 2024

ADE OPENING CONCERT: 50 YEARS OF J DILLA

18:30 - 20:30

Location: Melkweg | Lijnbaansgracht 234A, Amsterdam

The world-renowned Metropole Orkest opens ADE with a tribute to legendary hip-hop producer J Dilla, whose innovative beats influenced contemporary electronic music. Directed by multi-instrumentalist Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, this concert will showcase live performances from the “Suite For Ma Dukes,” an homage to Dilla’s lasting legacy.

GABBERS WAREN WE

20:00 - 22:00

Location: DeLaMar Theater | Marnixstraat 402, Amsterdam

This high-energy show blends theater, dance, and gabber-rave culture, taking the audience on a wild ride through the iconic 90s Dutch subculture. It follows the lives of three friends caught up in the ecstatic highs and emotional lows of the gabber scene, set to a pulsating 160 bpm soundtrack. Additional performances will take place on October 17 and 18, and the show ties into a photo exhibition at Melkweg Expo.

ADE OPENING CONCERT: VAN GOGH MUSEUM X EEFJE DE VISSER (UNPLUGGED)

20:30 - 23:00

Location: Van Gogh Museum

Performance: Eefje de Visser (NL)

Eefje de Visser performed at the museum in 2014 with her album “Het is”. Now, ten years later, she returns with a special performance. In the glass atrium of the museum, Eefje will perform completely unplugged: so without her band and no amplification. For fifty minutes, with only an acoustic guitar, a piano and several vocalists, she will play a selection of her songs in their simplest form. She will only do this concert once, so don’t miss this unique opportunity!

OCTOBER 17, 2024

NACHTCULTUUR - FILM + Q&A

19:00 - 20:30

Location: LAB111 | Arie Biemondstraat 111, Amsterdam

The documentary *Nachtcultuur* captures the essence of nightlife, celebrating its diversity, self-expression, and sense of community. The film challenges stereotypes of clubbing and substance use, offering a deeper understanding of nightlife’s social value. A Q&A with the producer and director follows the screening. Keep an eye on @nachtcultuur_docu for ticket details.

DESCENDANTS PRESENTS: REVITALIZING DANCE IN CLUB CULTURE

21:00 - 23:59

Location: Parallel | Buiksloterweg 5C, Amsterdam

This event focuses on rekindling expressive dance in nightlife. It includes a dance workshop, panel discussion, and a jam session with top dancers Kapela, Ken, and Kim. Dive into a conversation about reviving the art of movement in club culture and enjoy a night celebrating the power of dance.

FOAM X STENEN HOOFD: OPENING MARCEL VELDMAN - POETICS OF SPACE

19:00 - 21:00

Location: Het Stenen Hoofd

Artist: Marcel Veldman

Fluff, a publication by Marcel Veldman that defies the conventional definition of a magazine, finds itself in a place where skating is impossible. This paradox—the skater in their so-called natural habitat captures the essence of Fluff and its connection to skate culture.

This installation marks the largest edition of Fluff to date, presented through stacked containers that reflect how skaters reinterpret and reclaim urban spaces. It highlights skateboarding’s ability to breathe new life into both the physical and social fabric of the city, challenging norms in the process.

OCTOBER 18, 2024

Codes of the Dancefloor - Social Dance Workshop

21:00 - 22:00

Location: Studio/K | Timorplein 62, Amsterdam

Explore the essence of club culture in a social dance workshop guided by Sarada Sarita and Kim Tawjoeram from the DARKMATTER Collective. This event emphasizes movement, freedom, and cultural expression, set in the underground roots of house and club dance styles. Price: €7,50 (€12.50 with a party ticket).

BELLE AND THE BEATS PRESENTS: THE WITCH’S MARK

20:30 - 23:30

Location: Door Open Space | Tt. Vasumweg 31, Amsterdam

“The Witch’s Mark” is a multi-sensory performance blending music, dance, and visual art to explore themes of power, perception, and judgment. Set within the framework of a witch trial, it challenges the audience to reflect on historical injustices and their modern-day implications.

DASHA RUSH PRESENTS ‘HUNGER TO CREATE’ AT NXT MUSEUM

20:30 - 01:00

Location: Nxt Museum

Artist: Dasha Rush (RU) - Matti Vilho (FI) - Spekki Webu (NL) - Vân Anh (NL)

For ADE 2024, Nxt Museum presents ‘Hunger To Create’ — the event concept of sound artist and techno icon Dasha Rush — for a unique audiovisual showcase, combining live electronic experimentation and mind-bending immersive visuals.

OCTOBER

19, 2024

A TASTE OF BALLROOM: ETHEREAL NIGHTS

16:00 - 20:00

Location: NDSM Theater | Scheepsbouwkade 4-6, Amsterdam

This ballroom event features a theatrical performance followed by a mini-ball competition. Participants can engage in drag makeup workshops, watch enchanting ballroom performances, and compete in categories like Drags Face and Best Dressed. Celebrate the creativity and community of the Dutch ballroom scene.

STAGE OF MIND: BEYOND THE DANCE FLOOR

19:30 - 21:30

Location: DB55 | Danzigerbocht 55, Amsterdam

“Beyond The Dance Floor” offers an immersive event designed for genuine connection and personal growth. Guided by Áquila Allucard, this experience blends entertainment with meaningful conversations, providing a reflective and uplifting space during ADE. Music curation by JF.HECTOR adds to the ambiance.

OCTOBER 20, 2024

ADE X K&N: CRAFTING RHYTHMS AND KNITTING COMMUNITIES

15:00 - 19:00

Location: Werkplaats | Wibautstraat 150, Amsterdam

A calming creative sanctuary, this event blends music and knitting into a rhythmic and meditative experience. DJ SERKET’s beats will accompany a group knitting performance led by artist Rosa Mol. Nina Dam will also give a lecture on the connection between rhythm and creativity, all amidst a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding after the bustling ADE week.

YOUNG COMPOSERS AT THE ORGELPARK

20:15 - 21:45

Location: Orgelpark | Gerard Brandtstraat 26, Amsterdam

Two young composers reinterpret Anton Bruckner’s work at this historic venue. Frieda Gustavs’ “Symphony 2” combines trombones and organs in a powerful tribute to intergenerational stories, while Rick van Veldhuizen’s “ZERO” reshapes Bruckner’s symphony into an electrifying modern soundscape.

ADE PARTNERS & FRIENDS

OCTOBER 16, 2024

S-BAHN: 24/7 DJ STUDIOS WED 16 THROUGH SUN 20

00:00 - 23:59

Location: S-Bahn | Elementenstraat 16, Amsterdam

S-Bahn Studios is the go-to spot for DJs and producers during ADE 2024. Open 24/7, it offers stateof-the-art equipment and a creative environment for artists across all genres. Whether you’re mixing, producing, or warming up for a gig, S-Bahn Studios provides the perfect space to bring your musical ideas to life. Book your session and get ready to create!

INDEEP’N’DANCE REC. STORE, MEET & GREET CRATE DIGGING WED 16 THROUGH SUN 20

12:00- 20:00

Location: InDeep’n’Dance | Rozengracht 60, Amsterdam

Discover techno, house, and rave vinyl treasures at this iconic record store during ADE. Visitors can meet industry professionals, dig through records, and purchase exclusive merchandise from Techno Tuesday Amsterdam.

TOMORROWLAND EXPO

10:00 - 17:00

Location: De Rode Hoed | Keizersgracht 102, Amsterdam

The Tomorrowland Expo will give a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Tomorrowland and discover all novelties and innovations, as well as take a journey through the magnificent history and evolution of the iconic festival from its humble beginnings to a global phenomenon over the past 20 years. Freely accessible to everyone, the expo makes for an inspiring moment in the midst of the busy ADE week.

OCTOBER 17, 2024

FOR THE LOVE & HEALTH OF HOUSE

12:00 - 21:00

Location: WesterUnie | Klönneplein 4-6 Amsterdam

This third edition is focused on well-being in the music industry. Enjoy panel discussions, workshops on mental and physical health, and a sober rave to close the day, creating a space for music professionals and ravers alike to explore holistic self-care in the fast-paced world of electronic music.

DJ TENNIS PRESENTS MUNCHIE TOWN X BRIDGES FOR MUSIC ADE GALA

19:00 - 23:00

Location: MOS Amsterdam | IJdok 185, Amsterdam

DJ Tennis teams up with Michelin-starred chefs for a special ADE gala, blending music and culinary artistry to raise funds for the Bridges for Music non-profit. The night will feature a 6-course dining experience, live music, and a charity auction, supporting educational programs in underserved communities.

FLUCTUATIONS: ACCESSING THE WATER AS PUBLIC AND CREATIVE SPACE

13:00 - 22:00

Location: De Ceuvel | Korte Papaverweg 4, Amsterdam

Join us at the iconic creative harbor De Ceuvel for a day of inspiring presentations, interactive roundtables and good music. VibeLab and international floating festival Fluctuations host this event and will get you in touch with five projects that change river access in practice - followed by hands-on group activities and a spicy DJ line-up! During breaks, Café de Ceuvel offers excellent food and drinks on site. RSVP! Spots are limited

OCTOBER 18,

2024

HOW TO BUILD A LABEL

14:00 - 15:00

Location: Vrij Paleis | Paleisstraat 107, Amsterdam

Learn the ins and outs of starting and running an independent record label from industry experts Steffan Tororović and Reece Walker. This panel will cover everything from music discovery to distribution, offering practical insights for aspiring label owners.

EQUITY IN DANCE MUSIC: TRANSFORMING CONVERSATIONS INTO ACTION

14:30 - 17:00

Location: W Amsterdam (Panel: Great Rooms, 1st Floor // Happy Hour: W Lounge, 6th Floor) Spuistraat 175, Amsterdam Panelists: Andy George (Lost Village), DJ Lady D, Honeyluv, Mayola Charles (Meta), Megan Venzin (DJ Mag), LP Giobbi (FEMME HOUSE), Emily Bass (FEMME HOUSE)

This panel explores practical ways to achieve equity in dance music, from mentorship programs to inclusive booking practices. Industry leaders discuss how to create lasting change and foster diversity and inclusion in the music scene. Following the discussion, join us for a Happy Hour and Artist Showcase presented by Instagram at the W Lounge.

MAHADA: WHERE AFRO MEETS MELODIC | GUEST MY OTHER SIDE OF THE MOON

15:00 - 21:00

Location: Cafe De Huyskamer | Utrechtsestraat 137, Amsterdam line up: AFU (KE) / BadBox (GB) / DJ Tomer (US) / Dylan-S (KE) / Eran Hersh (US) / Hanna Hais (FR) / JAMIIE (DE) / Joezi (IL) / Neil Amarey (MZ) / No Rush (IT) / Savage & SHē (MX) / Viel (IT)

MAHADA, meaning “link/union,” aims to celebrate the rich fusion of Afro House and Melodic Deep House, bringing together artists and fans from these vibrant genres. After the success of our 2023 event, we are confident that our new format for 2024 will further enhance the ADE experience for all attendees.

OCTOBER 19, 2024

ZWART GOUD INSTORES: VINYL MIXING WORKSHOP

12:00 - 13:30

Location: Zwart Goud | Geldersekade 89s, Amsterdam

Get hands-on experience with vinyl at this quick clinic during ADE 2024. Learn the essentials of vinyl DJing, including handling vinyl, mixers, turntables, and beat matching. Perfect for beginners who want to dive into the art of mixing records.

IN-STORE DJ SESSION AT BETTY B. TATTOO & BARBER

12:00 - 22:00

Location: Betty B. Tattoo & Barber | Rokin 124, Amsterdam

DJ Anthity and Pulziv. will bring their signature high-energy B2B set to this unique fusion of music, style, and body art. Enjoy a full day of music while getting tattoos, piercings, or grooming services. Take advantage of 20% off on all services during the event. Book ahead to secure your spot!

TENFOLD AGENCY X GEM RECORDS SHOWCASE

0:00 - 02:00

Location: The Bas[s]ment | Nieuwpoortkade 2a, Amsterdam

Join us at ADE 2024 as Tenfold Agency South Africa teams up with Gem Records for a showcase on Friday 18th Oct at The Bas[s]ment. This event celebrates a fusion of talent from South Africa and Europe, spotlighting upcoming releases and featuring performances by Gem Records Label boss Secret Cinema and standout artists from the SA roster. Expect a night filled with cutting-edge sounds, representing the best of electronic music from across the globe. Don’t miss this unique collaboration, marking Tenfold Agency’s debut at ADE!

OCTOBER 20, 2024

THE ART OF MAKING RECORDS

14:00 - 15:30

Location: Vrij Paleis | Paleisstraat 107, Amsterdam

Join Oliver Bernstein as he shares insights into the art and craft of vinyl manufacturing. Drawing from years of experience in vinyl distribution and the R.A.N.D. Muzik pressing plant, Bernstein will discuss the key factors in producing high-quality vinyl. Expect tips, tricks, and fun anecdotes from one of Germany’s oldest pressing plants.

BALANZS X ADE SPECIAL: YIN ON BINAURAL BEATS

17:00 - 18:15

Location: Balanzs | Nieuwe Achtergracht 11, Amsterdam

After a week of nonstop music, recharge with a calming Yin Yoga session guided by Dora, set to soothing binaural beats. This free class is the perfect way to wind down after ADE, offering a deep sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. Limited spots available—sign up to reserve your place.

KADINSKY SESSIONS CLOSING PARTY

18:00 - 01:00

Location: Kadinsky Cafe | ZOUTSTEEG 9-11, Amsterdam

Line up: Candela Mor (ES) / Chustek (ES)/ Cris-H (NL) / MC PPHOLL (NL)/ Niko Garcia (AR) / Not Demure (AR) / VJ Gabriel (NL)

After an intensive week with our partners hosting events in Kadinsky Café, the closing will be hosted by Kadinsky Sessions itself. Of Course with some of the residents like Cris-H, MC PPholl and VJ Gabriel, but complemented by a Argentinian squad of very talented DJ’s, producers, promoters and label owners such as Not Demure, Candela Mor, Niko Garcia and Chustek. So you can expect the best of what progressive house music has to offer nowadays, but with a topping of that typical Argentinian Latin yummy flavor. A perfect way to close our ADE week with 9 events in 5 days.

ADE FESTIVAL

OCTOBER 16, 2024

AWAKENINGS ADE | MARLON HOFFSTADT PRESENTS DADDYCATION

18:30 - 22:30

Location: Gashouder, Klönneplein 1, Amsterdam

Marlon Hoffstadt will play his first ever solo show at Gashouder during ADE, presenting “Daddycation”, an audiovisual performance. Expect all your favorite music from DJ Daddy Trance and some guest appearances. Let’s put the Daddy in ADE!

ADE OPENING CONCERT: 24CLASSICS PRESENTS PHILIP GLASS BY LAVINIA MEIJER & NIKKI HOCK

19:30 - 21:00

Location: Zuiderkerk, Zuiderkerkhof 72, Amsterdam

24classics flips the script on classical music with harpist Lavinia Meijer and multidisciplinary artist Nikki Hock, immersing audiences in Philip Glass’s hypnotic minimalism. Meijer, a pioneer in her field, transcribes Glass’s work for harp, while Hock sculpts experiential landscapes, creating a meditative performance. 24 mixmag.es

GLITTERBOX

22:00 - 05:00

Location: WesterUnie, Klönneplein 4-6, Amsterdam

Glitterbox celebrates 10 years of uplifting dance parties with a vibrant event at ADE. Expect a spectacular show with a diverse lineup including Eats Everything, Mousse T., and Smokin Jo, all set in an atmosphere designed to unite and celebrate inclusivity on the dancefloor.

OI! PRESENTS SKREAM B2B BENGA & MORE

23:30 - 05:00

Location: Paradiso (Main Hall), Weteringschans 6-8, Amsterdam

Dubstep pioneers Skream and Benga reunite for the 20th anniversary of Oi!, returning to Paradiso after a seven-year hiatus. Joined by Neffa-T, Brutuzz, Moroman, Oi! founder Gomes, and Drew MC, Skream and Benga will take audiences back to their roots, paying homage to the genre’s origins.

MIXMAG NL X TWB PRESENTS: ADE TAKEOVER

22:00 - 08:00

Location: THE OTHER SIDE

Mixmag NL and TWB bring an unforgettable night with 15+ DJs and epic back-to-back sets. Celebrate 10 years of TWB with a polygon light show, spatial sound system, and a 360-degree experience featuring Ben Klock, BIIANCO, Nakadia & Sam Van Horne, Oliver Huntemann & Victor Ruiz, and more.

OCTOBER 17, 2024

OVERBRUGGEN LOFT - THURSDAY ADE

15:00 - 22:00

Location: The Loft, Overhoeksplein 1, Amsterdam

Kick off your ADE journey with a special sunset event at The Loft. As the city’s skyline transforms into a stunning backdrop, enjoy unforgettable b2b sets from Alex Kassian & Fafi Abdel Nour, Elias Mazian & Julian Anthony, and Natalie Robinson.

HE.SHE.THEY ADE BOATPARTY

15:00 - 21:00

Location: Docks 1, De Ruyterkade 14, Amsterdam

Celebrate inclusivity and self-expression on the waters of Amsterdam as HE.SHE.THEY hosts their first ADE boat party. Known for their global events and love of house and techno, HE.SHE.THEY creates a judgment-free space where everyone is welcome.

Photo: Linde Dorenbos

VAULT SESSIONS

23:00 - 09:00

Location: RADION, Louwesweg 1, Amsterdam

Expect nothing but Vault Sessions power with a stacked lineup at RADION, including Chlär, D.Dan, Dasha Rush, Grace Dahl, Lexed, Phil Berg, and Yanamaste.

OCTOBER 18, 2024

JEFF MILLS PRESENTS: TOMORROW COMES THE HARVEST

20:00

Location: Paradiso (Main Hall), Weteringschans 6-8, Amsterdam

Jeff Mills, tabla virtuoso Prabha Edouard, and keyboardist Jean Phi Dary continue the ‘Tomorrow Comes The Harvest’ project. This symbiotic collaboration, initially started by Afrobeat legend Tony Allen, explores improvisation, sound, and rhythm in a transformative live performance.

AUDIO OBSCURA ADE X HONEY DIJON PRESENTS HOUSE NATION

14:00 - 23:00

Location: RAWFACTORY, Joan Muyskenweg 39, Amsterdam

Curated by Honey Dijon, this event features house music heavyweights like Carlita, Major League DJz, and Carista b2b Benny Rodrigues, shaping the future of electronic music with cutting-edge performances.

PARADISE X LOVELAND

23:00 - 07:00

Location: Mediahaven, Moermanskkade 107, Amsterdam

Join Jamie Jones, Seth Troxler, and an all-star lineup for a night of non-stop house and techno at this ADE event. Partygoers can expect an immersive experience with standout performances from Kolter, Evie, and Luuk van Dijk.

NO ART ADE WEEKENDER | FRIDAY

14:00 - 23:00

Location: De Hollandsche Manege, Vondelstraat 140, Amsterdam

The No Art crew returns to the oldest Dutch horse riding school in the heart of Amsterdam for three days of non-stop electronic music, featuring an array of stellar performers.

VERKNIPT ADE FRIDAY

20:00 - 05:00

Location: Taets, Zaandam

Get ready for the hardest rave of the ADE weekend at the industrial Taets in Zaandam. Verknipt’s signature light and laser show adds to the immersive experience in this highly anticipated, sold-out event.

OCTOBER 19, 2024

MYSTIC GARDEN FESTIVAL ADE

12:00 - 23:00

Location: Havenpark, Wethouder van Essenweg 1, Amsterdam

Step into a magical world where fairyland meets industrial vibes. Mystic Garden Festival teams up with Dockyard Festival for a 2-in-1 festival experience featuring a whimsical setting alongside cutting-edge techno, with performances by Bart Skils, Anfisa Letyago, Juliet Fox, and more.

INTERCELL X NARCISS PRESENTS BATTLE ROYALE

12:00 - 22:00

Location: Levenslang Amsterdam, H.J.E. Wenckebachweg 48, Amsterdam

Narciss teams up with Intercell for *Battle Royale*, a day of secret back-to-back DJ battles in an industrial Amsterdam jail, adding a raw vibe to this unique and spontaneous event.

ONE TRIBE

14:00 - 21:30

Location: Shelter, Overhoeksplein 1, Amsterdam

One Tribe returns for another ADE takeover, connecting culturally diverse individuals with captivating sounds of afro house and tribal percussion. Performers include AMÉMÉ, SONA, Baron, and NenaHalena.

OVERBRUGGEN MUZIEKGEBOUW AAN’T IJ - SATURDAY

16:00 - 00:00

Location: Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ, Piet Heinkade 1, Amsterdam

Join us at this stunning venue for a night of stellar performances with a lineup featuring Pegassi, Lucky Done Gone, Tsepo b2b Jenny Cara, Kyle Starkey, and Lisa Korver.

MIXMAG NETHERLANDS DAY SESSIONS

12:00 - 22:00

Location: Yellow House, Danzigerbocht 45r, Amsterdam

Enjoy a full day of electronic beats with an impressive lineup, including East End Dubs, AJ Christou, Joey Daniel, Dhuna, Guile Placencia, Jean Pierre, Jesse Calosso, and more at the Yellow House. Photo: Linde Dorenbos -

OCTOBER 20, 2024

DGTL ADE: GOU TALK BY PEGGY GOU

16:00 - 01:00

Location: NDSM Warehouse, Amsterdam

Peggy Gou returns to ADE with her signature event, Gou Talk. This edition features performances from ANZ, Bambounou, and Marie Montexier, along with a live set from Salamanda. A must-see for fans of Gou’s unique sound and vibe.

STRAF_WERK PRESENTS FOLAMOUR (ALL DAY LONG)

15:00 - 23:00

Location: De Kromhouthal, Gedempt Hamerkanaal 231, Amsterdam

STRAT_WERK presents an eight-hour love affair with Folamour, bringing euphoric vibes and a perfect Sunday close to the ADE weekend.

INTERCELL X BENWAL INVITES - ADE CLOSING

12:00 - 01:00

Location: H7 Warehouse, Humberweg 7, Amsterdam

Join Benwal for an extended 3-hour set and invite-aligned artists for an epic closing event packed with high-energy house and dance music.

HIVE X ABSTRACT POWERED BY MIXMAG NL

14:00 - 23:00

Location: Hemkade 48, Zaandam

This ADE Special hosted by HIVE x ABSTRACT features an outstanding lineup, including Basswell, Byorn, Cleopard2000, François X, Julian Muller, Lee Ann Roberts, and more.

ADE MIXMAG NL X BONDRU X MODERN FUNKTION

20:00 - 05:00

Location: Ndsm Theater, Scheepsbouwkade 6, Amsterdam

End your ADE experience at the Mixmag NL × BONDRU x Modern Funktion event, a night of electronic mastery and musical innovation, hosted at the Ndsm Theater.

ADE Guide

Photo: Enrique

FUNK TRIBU

- Photo: Alex Petrican

In the world of electronic music, an artist’s journey often remains hidden behind the sparkle of stages and the energy of festivals. But for Funk Tribu, his path is as significant as the sound he produces. His life, marked by drastic changes and personal challenges, has shaped a career that continues to grow against all odds.

In an intimate conversation, Funk Tribu reflects on his origins in Bogotá, his new home in Berlin, and the difficult but rewarding road that has led him to create his upcoming album, Against All Odds.

THE CHALLENGE OF LEAVING EVERYTHING BEHIND FOR A DREAM

The last year and a half has been transformative for Funk Tribu. If someone had told him two years ago that he would be living in Europe, touring the world, and making music as his way of life, he admits he wouldn’t have believed it.

“When the opportunity to move to Europe and live my dream arose, I didn’t think twice. But it was terrifying to leave university at 21, leave my friends and family behind, and move to a continent where I don’t speak the language,” he confessed.

The adaptation process has not been easy. Although he now resides in Berlin, one of the world’s capitals of electronic music, he admits that sometimes it’s hard to feel completely at home. The nature of his career requires constant travel, which keeps him away from home, but over time he has learned to channel those feelings of uprootedness into his music.

Funk Tribu’s story is not just that of an emerging artist; it is that of someone who has had to confront fear and uncertainty to find confidence in his art.

“My Album, Against All Odds, is a mix of my past with my current life, mirroring the journey I was on to find and define my sound. Or better said, to be confident enough to embrace it. At some stage in my career, it was quite hard for me to play my productions at my shows, as I had the feeling that they don’t quite fit on stage. But with time I was able to embrace it more and more and be 100% confident with playing what I love to produce”. He admits.

Over time, as he gained confidence, he allowed himself to embrace his unique style and play his music without hesitation. This process of self-discovery is key to Against All Odds, a title that encapsulates not only his album but also his personal story.

BOGOTÁ AND BERLIN: THE DUALITY OF TWO WORLDS

Funk Tribu grew up in Bogotá, where he was introduced to electronic music at an early age, starting at just 9 years old. By 17, he began attending underground parties, and soon after, he was playing his first sets in the city.

“The first parties I played at are etched in my memory,” he recalls.

“Most of the time I played for empty rooms or just a few people, but for me, it was an honor to be able to play at an official event.”

That consistency, that desire to keep going no matter the circumstances, has forged his career ever since.

Living in Berlin has been an endless source of inspiration for him.

“Being surrounded by such creative and talented people and working with them in studio sessions is a great enrichment for my life,” he comments.

The opportunity to tour Europe and other corners of the world has allowed him to explore new cultures and sounds, constantly challenging his limits and motivating him to try new things.

However, Bogotá remains a fundamental part of his artistic identity. Despite the distance, Funk Tribu continues to carry the memories and influences of his hometown with him. The memory of those early parties in small clubs in Bogotá is a constant reminder of how far he has come and how those humble beginnings prepared him for the bigger stages of the world.

A NEW HORIZON: THE EVOLUTION OF HIS SOUND

One of the most exciting aspects of Funk Tribu’s present is his evolution towards a live performance format that includes elements such as vocalists and musicians. His relationship with musical instruments, like the guitar, dates back to before his foray into electronic music when he taught himself to play by following YouTube tutorials.

“I’ve always identified more as a musician than as a techno artist,” he confesses.

The idea of incorporating vocalists and other instruments into his live performances arose after attending a Fred Again concert in Berlin.

“At that moment, I knew that was what I wanted to do in the future: combine the instruments I play with vocalists in a club or festival setting.”

This transition has not been without its challenges, but for Funk Tribu, each new experience on stage is an opportunity to grow as an artist. In his upcoming performance at ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event), he plans to take the first step toward this new direction, accompanied by vocalists Lucy Dye and CAIVA.

“I hope people feel the love and passion we’ve put into this project,” he says excitedly.

AGAINST ALL ODDS

The title of Funk Tribu’s upcoming album, Against All Odds, is not just a reference to his struggle to carve out a space in the music industry; it also reflects a life philosophy.

“The artistic vision I’ve had from the beginning is to remain consistent, no matter what happens,” he asserts.

That consistency has been key to overcoming difficult moments, from playing in empty rooms in Bogotá to facing the growing pressure of fame.

Funk Tribu’s rise has not been easy. With success comes criticism and negative comments, something he admits he is still learning to deal with.

“With growth also comes negative comments and haters, and that’s something I still struggle with,” he shares.

Fortunately, he has a supportive team, friends, and family who keep him grounded and help him stay focused on what truly matters. Despite the challenges, his passion for music is what keeps him motivated.

“The highs and lows of life are my creative fuel,” he says.

For him, music is not just a profession; it is his refuge, a safe space to turn to, no matter what is happening around him.

LOOKING AHEAD

Funk Tribu’s future looks full of possibilities. Recently, his first recording for Boiler Room in Ghent marked a milestone in his career.

“I waited for the right offer for my Boiler Room broadcast, and I’m glad I chose Ghent. The crowd was on fire, and the vibe was something completely different,” he comments.

This experience, along with his triumphant return to Bogotá to perform at the BAUM Festival in front of more than 10,000 people, are moments that have reinforced his vision for the future.

Regarding his role in the nu-trance movement, Funk Tribu is clear that his approach will remain true to himself and his sound, without being limited by industry expectations.

“I will continue breaking barriers in terms of genres and won’t let anything or anyone limit me.”

Funk Tribu’s journey is one of challenges, discoveries, and constant growth. With a persevering attitude and a deep connection to his roots, he continues to forge new paths in the global electronic scene, proving that, indeed, he has achieved it all against all odds.

Text by: Sergio Niño

MISS BASHFUL X DBBD

BOLD AND SENSUAL: AN INTERVIEW WITH MISS BASHFUL AND DBBD

Known for their dynamic performances that blend energetic beats, captivating visuals, and an unapologetic attitude, they’ve carved out a unique space within the ever-evolving music scene. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with them to explore the inspirations behind their artistry, the magic of live performances, and the intricacies of their collaboration.

At the heart of their music lies an unfiltered energy, a raw connection to their experiences that shapes their sound. When asked how their journeys influence their performances, Miss Bashful passionately shared,

“Darling, every note, every movement is pure, unfiltered me. I don’t just perform, I exude. My life, my experiences, and everything in between—they all drip into what you see and hear. You’re getting a piece of me, unapologetic and raw.”

DBBD echoed this sentiment, highlighting the natural synergy between them.

“Honestly, it’s all pretty natural for us. Miss Bashful has an incredible stage presence, and together we make each other comfortable. As soon as we get a bit into it and our fans give us the energy, it feels like a party that we are also just at. I’m a bit reserved on stage, but she isn’t, so together I think we balance each other out.”

Miss Bashful’s powerful vocals play a crucial role in their signature sound. When I asked her about finding her voice, she responded with confidence,

“Well, I always knew I was going to be a star. This voice? It’s been waiting for its moment. I didn’t find it; it found me. It’s the star of the show—everything else just follows its lead.”

DBBD further emphasized how her vocals enhance the overall aesthetic of their work, showcasing a perfect blend of artistry and emotion.

DBBD’s production style, described as hard-hitting yet irresistibly sexy, brings an additional layer to their music. He shared his creative process, explaining,

“My production process is very sporadic; I don’t follow a formula. It’s more about following a mood, which is usually sensual for me because that’s the kind of stuff I always loved in the club. I’ll have an idea for a melody or bass line, and that creates the vibe; everything else falls into place naturally.” He acknowledged the collaborative nature of their work, stating, “A lot of the time I’ll have sexy beats ready that Miss B will pick, and then we’ll just play around with what lyrics fit where.”

AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Their live shows transcend mere performances, creating immersive experiences that blend dance, fashion, and sound. Miss Bashful articulated her approach to this dynamic, saying,

“I think they all complement each other. It’s part of our identity. It’s our world and who we are, so it just makes sense, babe.” DBBD added, “The visuals are there to enhance what’s already in the music. We don’t overthink it. I have my style, and she has hers, and together it just works and always has.”

THE BERLIN INFLUENCE

Having established their artistry in Berlin, the city’s vibrant music scene has undeniably shaped their sound and performances. Miss Bashful shared her thoughts, stating,

“The Berlin club scene has influenced the techno aspect. I remember going out with DBBD and thinking to myself, ‘Berlin needs to be more CUNT.’ But the sass and ass comes from my Tex-Mex background, so it’s a blend between all the worlds.” She emphasized how the city has allowed her to express herself freely, adding, “Without Berlin, there would be no Miss B.”

DBBD highlighted the spontaneous nature of the city, noting,

“It’s the little unexpected moments that happen on a night out in Berlin that inspire my sound. Balancing the city can be tough for a lot of people. We never took techno or clubbing that seriously, but always loved discovering sexy music. That’s why we can enjoy a healthy relationship by going out and are so grateful for the careers we have today. We had some of the best nights at Aeden so playing there and having one of the craziest crowd reactions solidified that Berlin accepted us as local artists. That was such a special moment.”

He reflected on a memorable performance at Aeden, which solidified their acceptance as local artists, showcasing the profound impact Berlin has had on their growth.

A DESTINY ENCOUNTER

Their collaboration blossomed from a serendipitous meeting, a moment that felt destined. Miss Bashful recalled,

“We met at a Berlin lake one random day; it was destiny...”, describing how their creative connection sparked instantly. “We just went to my studio one day to see what we could come up with and made ‘Mini Skirts on Men’ within a few hours. When things flow, we just bounce off each other’s energy and laugh a lot in the studio.”

They navigate challenges by taking breaks and returning to their creative work refreshed, showcasing a healthy dynamic.

VISUAL EXPRESSION

Visual aesthetics play a crucial role in their artistry. Miss Bashful emphasized their importance, stating,

“Visuals are just as crucial as the music. The look, the feel—it’s all part of the experience. It’s the Holy Trinity: Miss B on the vocals, DBBD on the beat, & LadyKub on the visuals.”

DBBD echoed this sentiment, asserting,

“Music and fashion complement each other so well nowadays; that full picture as an artist is crucial to create an identity that’s recognizable in the scene.”

FEEDING OFF THE CROWD

The energy of the audience transforms their live performances. Miss Bashful recalled a particularly memorable night at their XOXO FM release party in Berlin, saying,

“The crowd was absolutely on fire. I swear, I could feel them breathing with me. The energy was intoxicating, and it pushed me to give more, to be more.”

DBBD acknowledged the varying dynamics of their gigs, enjoying the contrast between festival stages and intimate club settings. He expressed his love for both experiences, noting how each offers unique opportunities for connection with the audience.

MESSAGES THROUGH MUSIC

With their unapologetically bold sound, they aim to evoke specific emotions in their listeners. Miss Bashful articulated her desires for her audience, stating,

“I want them to feel irresistible. Like they can walk into any room and own it. Our music is a lifestyle—sexy, confident, and a little dangerous.”

DBBD added depth to this, explaining that their provocative lyrics aim to resonate with the chaotic nature of youth culture, ultimately seeking to elicit laughter and a sense of nostalgia.

THE INTERTWINED DYNAMIC

In their world, music, dance, and fashion are inseparable. Miss Bashful remarked,

“They’re not separate in our world. Fashion, music, and movement—they all bleed into each other. Life is one big runway.” DBBD reinforced this idea, stating, “It started as, and will always be a passion project. Who we are as people defines what we bring to the scene.”

Miss Bashful and DBBD represent a thrilling intersection of music, fashion, and raw energy, creating experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Their artistic journey, rooted in authenticity and spontaneity, resonates deeply with their audience. As they continue to evolve, there’s no doubt that they will keep captivating the hearts and minds of fans around the world, unapologetically inviting everyone into their vibrant universe.

The journey of Miss Bashful and DBBD is not just about music; it’s a heartfelt exploration of identity and connection. Each performance is a reflection of their individual stories, shaped by their experiences and influences, and it’s this authenticity that resonates so deeply with their audience. When Miss B pours her soul into her vocals, and DBBD crafts beats that pulse with energy, they invite fans into their world—a world where vulnerability meets strength, and every note feels like a shared heartbeat. It’s a powerful reminder that behind the glitz and glamour of the stage lies the unfiltered essence of who they are.

Their bond, forged in the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin, highlights the beauty of spontaneity in creativity. Meeting by chance at a lake and instantly connecting, Miss Bashful and DBBD illustrate how fate can play a pivotal role in our lives. As they navigate the exhilarating ups and downs of their artistic journey, they do so with a sense of joy and playfulness that is infectious. Each performance becomes a personal dialogue with their fans, where laughter, energy, and passion collide to create unforgettable memories. It’s in these moments that they truly shine, demonstrating how powerful it can be when artists connect not only with their music but also with the hearts of those who come to experience it.

Ultimately, Miss Bashful and DBBD remind us that life is an intricate tapestry woven from music, fashion, and movement, each thread enhancing the other. Their artistry isn’t just a career; it’s a lifestyle, a celebration of being unapologetically oneself. Through their vibrant performances, they encourage everyone to embrace their inner confidence, to feel irresistible, and to own every room they walk into. This fearless approach to life and art inspires us all to lean into our uniqueness, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and joy. As they continue to evolve, we can’t wait to see what personal stories they will share next, knowing that each new chapter will be as captivating and authentic as the last.

Text by: Sergio Niño

SEVEN LABEL

NEW LABEL SEVEN AIMS FOR SMILES ALL ROUND

- Photo: Mara Menzel

Berlin artist CRYME has been charting his own course at the intersection of House and Techno for several years now. As his career builds up steam - he announced residencies at Amsterdam based DeReünie and also Pornceptual this year plus a debut at Basement NYC - he is doubling down on his work with the launch of his own label SEVEN.

His vision for the label is to play in the space where House and Techno merge.

He says “We love happy, uplifting sounds that set dance floors alight with smiles and love.”

Fans can expect “unexpected artist pairings, off-beat remixes and b2b’s that you won’t hear anywhere else.”. The label’s tagline is “Smile When You Dance”.

Putting that into practice is the label’s first 5 track EP : HOLD ON by CRYME himself. The release - on vinyl and digital - includes four remixes - two by House artist’s and two by Techno artists. He has collaborated with House legend Cinthie, Lydia Eisenblätter, Volpe and Obscure Shape to build the label’s signature release.

But he isn’t stopping just there with a unique musical vision. He also wants to use the label to bring people together and provide exposure for under-represented artists.

“At SEVEN we describe our artist roster as Queer and Flinta* leaning - which means we will have more than half of our artists from these groups but we are open to everyone because I want to build a house where everyone is welcome”.

He is also inspired by the work pioneered by Aslice in trying to move the industry to a better deal for producers. The label will offer a standard royalty split of 70/30 in the artist’s favour with minimum royalty guaranteesrare in the underground scene.

He adds “Most underground releases struggle to recover their costs and producers often get paid nothing. We want to try and change that and we hope this artist-first deal will encourage producers to give us their best work and also help us to promote it so we can get them paid for their art.”

This vision certainly seems to be resonating with artists and the label’s release roster already includes some impressive names. With 9 EP’s and 2 VA’S planned in 2025 plus a Mix Series, the label is releasing monthly from the end of this year. Artists releasing tracks or remixing for the label include 1morning, Ackermann, Andre Zimmer, Ben Reymann, Baka G, Carmen Electro, Christoph Faust, Cinthie, CRYME, DD Boys (Bailey Ibbs & Fergus Sweetland) , Deetron, Eoin DJ, Lydia Eisenblätter, Mesmer, Moody Mehran, Najeh, Oliver Benji (CucaRafa), Obscure Shape, Pink Concrete, Posture, Retromigration, Selessa T, Shaleen, Sibel, Slin, Sparkly Pony, Sol Ortega, Tal Fussmann, Vitess, Volpe and Zombies in Miami.

HOLD ON is out on digital and vinyl on 22nd November. Available from the label’s Bandcamp and via Triple Vision Distribution. Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/ccrryymmee/ https://www.instagram.com/seven.berlin/ https://sevenberlin.bandcamp.com/

SUMIA

FROM THE COURT TO THE MAIN STAGE.

- Photo: Behzad Satvat / Atakan Asci

Known as the “Hardcore Princess” of the techno scene, SUMIA’s rise in the electronic music world has been nothing short of electrifying. Her blend of hard techno, psytrance, and hypnotic rhythms has earned her a devoted following. Yet behind the decks and the pounding beats lies a multifaceted artist whose life is as dynamic off-stage as it is on. In this article, we dive deeper into who SUMIA is beyond her music and how her personal life has shaped her artistic identity.

EARLY LIFE: SPORTS, MUSIC, AND A DRIVE FOR EXPLORATION

Long before SUMIA became a recognizable name in the techno scene, her life revolved around sports. Growing up in Turkey, the Slovakian & Turkish artist, was a professional volleyball player for Beşiktaş Sports Club, one of the country’s top teams. However, her promising athletic career came to an abrupt halt due to injury.

“I had to end my volleyball career, which was devastating at the time,” she recalls.

“I worked as an assistant coach for a while, but it wasn’t fulfilling, and that’s when I turned my focus towards university. I believe that my athletic background made me both an ambitious and disciplined person.”

But SUMIA’s athletic drive didn’t end there. For the past seven years, she’s been rock climbing professionally, a testament to her enduring passion for physical challenges. Alongside her athletic pursuits, SUMIA’s early life was infused with creativity.

“My sister and I were part of a small metal band—she played electric guitar, and I was on drums. Playing the drums really helped me develop my sense of rhythm, which has been essential to my music.”

This eclectic blend of interests continued to evolve as SUMIA pursued her studies in economics at Izmir Ege University. Her passion for music followed her, even as she swapped the drums for the saxophone.

“I was inspired by Sade’s ‘Smooth Operator’ and wanted to play that song on the sax. I used to play but unfortunately, I was a smoker, and my diaphragmatic breathing was weak, which made it difficult.”

While her saxophone playing didn’t pan out, SUMIA’s journey into music production began in Izmir.

“I was hanging out with a producer at the time, and that’s when I first got introduced to music production. I was eager to learn, but he wasn’t willing to teach me, which was frustrating I think it made me a more ambitious musician...”

Undeterred, SUMIA returned to Istanbul, driven by ambition. She began learning music production from her close friend Furkan Alper while enrolling at Mimar Sinan University to study art history. This dual passion for music and art opened new creative pathways for her.

“Since then, I’ve been working on visual art projects, including collage and painting under the name Confusion Crafts. I’ve had six exhibitions so far, four of them mixed exhibitions,” she shares proudly.

As an artist, SUMIA’s approach to music is one of exploration and boundary-pushing. Known for her hard techno sound, she draws heavily from a variety of genres, including psytrance and hypnotic rhythms. When asked about the evolution of sub-genres in techno, she offers a refreshingly open-minded perspective.

“Music is a language through which I express myself, and I don’t believe in placing boundaries in art. Many people have strong opinions about what constitutes ‘real’ techno, but I welcome the blending of elements from different musical styles. Music, like life, is constantly evolving and changing.”

Her early love for psytrance, in particular, has heavily influenced her work. This willingness to experiment has led to the creation of tracks that are rich in texture and complexity. Her ability to seamlessly merge sub-genres has helped her stand out in a scene that can sometimes be rigid in its preferences.

“I’ve been listening to psytrance and techno music since my youth, and I find it exciting to merge those elements with techno. I don’t feel obligated to choose one genre. Sticking to one style would dull my creativity, and I believe that exploring different styles enhances it.”

CONNECTION THROUGH MUSIC: PRODUCTION AND LIVE PERFORMANCE

For SUMIA, music isn’t just something she creates in isolation—it’s a way to connect with her audience on a deeper level.

“Each of my tracks carries a piece of me,” she explains.

“When I’m happy, I create a happy sound. If I’m feeling dark, you’ll hear that in my music. I guess it’s a kind of meditation. I believe that every moment in my life inspires me in a different way.”

When it comes to her live DJ sets, SUMIA thrives on spontaneity and interaction with the crowd.

“I prepare a playlist with a lot of tracks, but I never like to stick to a fully pre-arranged set. I think it’s crucial to read the crowd, no matter where I am. I connect with ravers by making eye contact and gauging their energy. We communicate with each other through in many ways especially feeling our energy and we move together as one.”

Whilst talking about her years performing with such high energy, SUMIA mentioned drinking while performing is a “no-go” for her. Still, nothing is set in stone once the job is done.

“I stay sober when I’m producing or performing. I need to stay in control but don’t worry, I celebrate with a few tequila shots afterward!” She shared with a smile.

TECHNO AS ACTIVISM: BUILDING COMMUNITY AND MAKING A DIFFE-

RENCE

For SUMIA, techno is more than just music—it’s a form of activism and a way to bring people together.

“Techno changed many things with its rise during the fall of the Berlin Wall. It’s a form of rebellion, a response to what’s happening in the world. If we only view it as art, we’re missing the bigger picture.”

This belief in the transformative power of music inspired her to co-found Volx Community & Records in 2021 with her sister, Melissa Dust. Based in Istanbul, Volx is more than just a record label; it’s a community dedicated to fostering solidarity among artists.

“Our mission is to create a space where we can support one another, not just as artists, but as friends and collaborators. By not isolating ourselves, we touch souls in the flow of events happening in the world. That’s why I organize donation events under the name “Stronger Together” and we release albums as well. Many valuable artists in our organization have contributed to this.”

Their community efforts extend beyond music. SUMIA and her sister have used income from projects like the “Stronger Together” album to support causes like earthquake relief through the NGO Ahbap. Looking ahead, they’re planning a reforestation project at the Amsterdam Dance Event in October, where proceeds from handmade jewelry created by SUMIA will go toward planting trees and getting ready for a donation album for stray animals.

STAYING GROUNDED: BALANCING MUSIC AND LIFE

The life of a DJ and producer is demanding, with constant travel and production deadlines. For SUMIA, staying motivated and balanced comes from her love for the art itself.

“There are times when I feel stuck, but true belief in myself and my music keeps me going. I’m doing something that’s truly my dream job, and I have the chance to do it with the music style I love the most. Whenever I’m in situations that make me feel bad, remembering such things makes me happy.”

Despite the physical and mental toll of the industry, SUMIA finds joy in the journey.

“The early days were tough—long layovers, exhausting flights (especially with my scoliosis problem), performing with little sleep—but when I saw the magic on stage, it made it all worth it.”

Family is also a crucial source of motivation. While her family initially didn’t support her decision to pursue DJing, she eventually earned their trust.

“When my mom and grandma were finally there for me and support what I’m doing, I felt like the happiest person in the world.”

Looking ahead, SUMIA is excited to continue growing her artistic vision while using her platform to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it’s through her music, her community work with Volx, or her art projects, she remains committed to creating meaningful connections and making a difference—one beat at a time.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo: Mustafa Gümüş -

DHUNA

A BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY BETWEEN HOUSE AND TECHNO

- Photo: Toni Villén

At the intersection of diverse cultures and sounds, Dhuna has found her place in the vibrant world of electronic music. Her journey has been marked by experiences in cities like Barcelona, Auckland, Ibiza, and New York, each leaving a mark on her artistic identity. For her, there is no defining moment that determined her path to music.

From the beginning, Dhuna has been guided by an insatiable curiosity. With a job she loved, she never considered the idea of professionalizing her music; her interest manifested in hours of musical exploration, tutorials, and masterclasses from her idols.

“If I had known back then where I would be DJing years later and with whom I would share the stage, I would have been amazed,” she says, expressing her astonishment at the journey she has taken. Her experiences in other countries have been fuxndamental to her growth.

“Visiting other places, getting to know cultures and ways of thinking forces you to be a little more open-minded,” she comments.

This approach has shaped her understanding not only of music but of life itself. By stepping out of her comfort zone, she has learned to appreciate different sounds and moments, discovering that her identity is not limited to a single genre.

“I don’t identify with just one style; I have opened my mind to sub-genres that I previously knew but didn’t consider playing, like the more melodic sound”.

Dhuna’s versatility is evident in her ability to move gracefully between house and techno.

“For me, house is synonymous with elegance, class, and good vibes... With techno, I am enveloped by its intensity and the way it captivates and hypnotizes me. These are two genres that, no matter how separate they may be, belong to the same family, and I identify with both, whether playing them separately or in the same performance. I always compare a set to a journey; it has an origin and a destination”.

For her, a set is a journey; it starts with an assessment of the environment and the energy of the crowd, and she adapts her musical route according to the sensations the dance floor suggests.

“There are many ways to do it—you can go along the coast, through the center, stopping by little towns. When I start my set, I analyze the event, the type of club it is, the audience’s behavior, and based on that, I adapt my musical route, developing my session according to the sensations that the dance floor suggests to me.”

For Dhuna, this versatility has become her defining characteristic, allowing her to navigate various genres while keeping her audience engaged and connected. But where does this remarkable ability stem from? The answer lies in her journey, one that intertwines personal growth with professional evolution.

Dhuna’s versatility began to flourish when she seized the opportunity to become a resident DJ for Rebels Fest.

“As I grew alongside the brand, I realized that we didn’t confine ourselves to just one genre,” she explains.

This pivotal moment allowed her to explore a broad spectrum of sounds, transitioning seamlessly from headliners rooted in pure techno to those immersed in tech house. This exposure not only broadened her musical repertoire but also compelled her to adapt her approach based on the unique atmosphere of each event.

“Everything forced me to prepare and expand my musical range,” Dhuna reflects.

This preparation was not merely about learning tracks; it was about understanding her role within the musical narrative of the night. Whether she was opening the event, providing a warm-up, or closing the show, Dhuna learned to read the room and adjust her set accordingly.

“I was always mindful of my role—who I am handing over the booth to, and how to create a cohesive experience for the audience,” she adds.

This experience forced her to expand her repertoire and adapt to different situations, always aware of her role in each event. Sharing the stage with renowned artists like Charlotte de Witte, James Hype, Armin Van Buuren and Richie Hawtin has been both a challenge and a learning opportunity.

“The first times you share the stage with such important artists, nerves are inevitable,” she admits.

However, Dhuna learned to balance preparation with managing her emotions, recognizing that enjoying the moment is essential. Today, her international recognition grows with performances at events like Miami Music Week and the Amsterdam Dance Event.

“For me, leaving home and being part of these events is synonymous with recognition and that I’m doing things right,” she says.

Her preparation is based on a balance between daily routine and dedication to her art, ensuring that each performance aligns with her vision. Looking to the future, Dhuna does not feel pressured to reach a specific destination.

“There isn’t a specific place I want to get to; as long as my love for music and what I do lasts, the relationship will endure,” she reflects with a perspective of humility and openness.

This philosophy allows her to explore new influences without closing herself off to other genres that may arise along her path.

Finally, although she does not consider herself at a point of leaving a legacy, Dhuna finds satisfaction in the impact her music has on people.

“There’s no greater satisfaction than seeing people come to listen to me in different places and sending me messages of thanks,” she concludes.

For her, the true legacy lies in the love and enjoyment of music, something she hopes to convey in every set she offers.

Dhuna’s story is an inspiring testament to how passion and curiosity can transform a hobby into a meaningful career. From her early steps in electronic music to her rise on the international scene, her journey has been marked by a genuine desire to connect with people through her sets.

Each city she has visited and each experience lived has contributed to shaping her musical identity, making it richer and more diverse. It is clear that her love for music goes beyond simply mixing genres; it is a constant search for connection, authenticity, and personal growth.

Through her versatility, Dhuna not only shines on stage but also demonstrates a profound understanding of the human experience. For her, each performance is an opportunity to tell a story, a narrative that resonates with the audience and invites them to embark on a sonic journey.

Her ability to adapt and read the energy of the crowd reflects her dedication and innate talent, turning each set into a memorable moment. At the end of the day, what truly matters to Dhuna is seeing people enjoy and feel the music in the same way she does.

Looking to the future, Dhuna remains open to new influences and possibilities, trusting that her love for music will guide her evolution as an artist.

Her story reminds us that the path to success is not always linear and that true satisfaction comes from staying true to oneself. With her genuine passion and commitment to creating meaningful experiences, Dhuna will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on electronic music and in the hearts of those privileged enough to hear her.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo:

RISE FESTIVAL

Rise Festival, the world’s biggest independent ski festival is gearing up for a colossal 10-year anniversary. Set in the picturesque French resort of Les 2 Alpes this December, Rise is the ski season opener. But more than a jam-packed week of skiing and snowboarding, it is a celebration of cutting-edge electronic music, attracting snow ravers from across the globe to party on top of the world.

Mixmag can vouch firsthand for Rise’s growing popularity. Armed with enough thermals to trigger excess baggage, we jetted off to Rise Festival last year, which - save for a mild rib injury from an overzealous boarding session – was the perfect mix of snow, music, and adventure we were promised. By day, Rise is a scene of wobbly beginners and fearless pro’s on the slopes, and also those simply enjoying the apres-ski and spectacular views. By night, organisers transform the snow-covered village into a bouncing festival hotspot across three main stages, five indoor venues, and one warehouse. With music programmed until around 5am, there’s no rest for the wicked at Rise: you ski, rave, sleep and repeat, until the transfer arrives days later for the journey back to reality.

Looking ahead to the upcoming 10 years of Rise, it’s clear from the lineup that organisers have gone all out for the birthday bash. At the time of gong to print, the bill includes Chase & Status, Gorgon City, Sub Focus, Sammy Virji, Bou, Hedex, blk., Enzo Siragusa, Joy (Anonymous), Fish56Octagon, Hannah Laing, Josh Baker, SOSA, Badger, Arielle Free, and more, all primed to serve up the good stuff in what’s shaping up to be an exceptional event.

For organisers, reaching a 10-year milestone is both cause for celebration and reflection. Founded by Ben Simpson, Ru Wood, and Will Habergham, and joined by current partner and Festival Director Jamie Thomson, Rise has evolved from hosting a modest 1,500 festival-goers in 2014 to welcoming 7,500 from all over the world in 2024. Ahead of the event, taking place from 7th - 14th December, Mixmag caught up with Jamie Thomson to discuss the evolution of Rise, the challenges of staging a festival up a mountain and some standout moments from the 10-year history.

How did the birth of Rise Festival come about?

Rise Festival kicked off thanks to a vision had by my partners Ben, Ru, and Will. Originally, it was all about merging the best parts of university ski trips with music. There was an opportunity to combine snow sports with incredible music experiences - a perfect mix of “Snow, Music, and Adventure,” as we like to say. Over the past 10 years Rise has grown into something really special.

What are the main ways in which it’s changed over the 10 years?

The festival has grown and evolved in so many ways. Back in 2014, it started small with one stage per day, outdoor shows in the Les 2 Alpes town square, and an indoor arena in a converted sports hall. We had about 1,500 attendees, with acts like Gorgon City, Artwork, and Hannah Wants. By 2015, we introduced a secret party on the mountainside where attendees were led by a theatrical performer to a hidden lodge for exclusive sets. Fast forward to 2021, after the pandemic, we added the Muzelle Stage - named after the mountain you see driving into Les 2 Alpes - and the festival expanded to five nights of music.

The biggest transformation came with the scale of the event. We’ve gone from a niche festival to welcoming over 7,500 people from 60 countries around the world. In 2022, we added a new after-party series, with events running five nights a week, doubling the original three-night format. It’s become more than just a ski festival.

What have been some of the standout moments?

We’ve had so many amazing moments, but Sister Sledge closing the Alpine Stage in 2022 stands out. Just as they played “We Are Family,” snow started falling, and the crowd went wild—it was magical. Being able to bring such an iconic group to Rise Festival and Les 2 Alpes will go down as a moment in our history. We’ve been lucky to host incredible talent like Kano, Chase & Status, Michael Bibi, and Bicep. Bringing a multi-genre approach has been key, keeping things fresh and exciting every year.

What are the main challenges of staging a festival up a mountain?

The location itself is the biggest challenge. There’s no such thing as a “local supplier” - everything has to be brought in. Plus, dealing with extreme temperatures, snow, and the sheer logistics of building stages on a mountain is no easy feat. Then there’s the customer experience side, ensuring everyone gets their ski passes, gear, and accommodation sorted while managing a smooth festival production. We’ve got an incredible team that makes the impossible happen, and that’s what makes Rise truly special.

What would your advice be to someone who’s considering their first ski festival but is reluctant to try it?

Go for it! Even if you’re not a pro on the slopes, there’s so much more than skiing. You’ve got world-class music in a setting like no other, surrounded by beautiful mountains. It’s hands down the most unique place to catch your favourite artists. Plus, we work hard to make it accessible and affordable so everyone can have the experience. It’s one of those bucket-list festivals you won’t want to miss.

What special activities do you have planned for the 10th birthday?

For our 10th birthday, we’re going all out. We’re expanding our Festival Feast programme to give people even more ways to immerse themselves in French mountain culture. The lineup will be bigger and more diverse, easily our biggest to date with headliners such as Chase & Status, Gorgon City, Sammy Virji and we’re partnering with Another Rhythm for stage takeovers showcasing some of the freshest talent out there. Les 2 Alpes has had a makeover too, with a brand-new high-speed gondola taking you from 1650m to 3600m in just 15 minutes. And that’s just the start - we’ve got a lot of surprises up our sleeve.

Rise Festival, 7-14 Dec ‘24, Les 2 Alpes, France. rise-festival.com

FESTIVAL

Photo: Parri Thomas

ARROGANTWERPEN

VIDEOGRAPHY IN RAVE CULTURE: AN EXPLORATION WITH ROBIN DE COCK (ARROGANTWERPEN)

In the past decade, the rise of social media has revolutionized how rave culture, particularly within the techno and hard techno scene, is experienced and shared. Videography, especially in the hands of professionals like Robin De Cock, better known by his moniker arrogantwerpen, has reshaped the way ravers and fans engage with these events. But as Robin points out, the role of videographers in this space is both celebrated and critiqued.

On one hand, videography has undeniably elevated the reach of techno and rave culture. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become instrumental in giving ravers a way to relive unforgettable nights. Robin notes that,

“The rise of platforms like Instagram has really expanded the scale of the scene. A well-crafted video can make the energy of an event accessible to someone sitting at home, miles away from the rave.”

Emerging artists now have a way to build their fanbase long before they even take the stage, and for festivals and clubs, visual content helps generate excitement and a wider audience.

However, Robin acknowledges the downsides:

“We’re seeing a shift where some of the intimacy and subtlety of raving is lost in translation. DJs are becoming rockstars, and that puts the focus on the artist’s presence rather than the music.”

He touches on the phenomenon of the “sea of iPhones,” where attendees, more interested in capturing content for social media, are missing out on being fully present.

“You see people recording the best drops or transitions instead of dancing to them. For those of us who’ve been in the scene a while, that’s a shame,” he adds.

For Robin, balancing these dynamics while staying true to the authentic rave spirit is key to his work as a videographer. When asked how he visually represents the energy and emotion of a techno event, he explains,

“Every video I shoot tells a micro-story. It’s not just about capturing a DJ or a crowd—it’s about creating a visual narrative where all these elements come together: the music, the lights, the architecture, the people.”

His work aims to communicate the visceral experience of connection and community that raves foster, ensuring viewers feel like they’re part of the moment even if they weren’t physically present.

Robin elaborates on his technique:

“If the DJ is playing hard, intense tracks, I’ll go handheld with shaky movements and fast zooms to match the chaos. If it’s a groovier, more melodic set, I’ll use a gimbal for smooth, subtle movements that flow with the vibe.”

This approach highlights the duality in rave culture between darkness and light, chaos and harmony.

“Techno has always played with contrasts—there’s the raw, primal energy of the crowd against the more intimate, introspective moments,” he explains.

His color grading choices emphasize this duality as well.

“I use high contrast, sharpness, and rich colors to capture the energy. Each event has its own atmosphere, and color helps retell that vibe in a way that feels authentic.”

When it comes to the tension between authenticity and commercialization, Robin doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the shift.

“I don’t mind the conversation around the commercialization of techno,” he says.

“Look, I come from a dubstep and drum-and-bass background, and I’ve seen the transition from underground to mainstream before. Sure, there’s nostalgia for the more intimate days of raving, but we need to evolve. The scene is bigger, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.”

For Robin, smaller venues are still where the magic happens.

“Large-scale events with big productions are impressive, no doubt, but they can feel a bit detached. The intimacy of a small club, with a 360-degree booth and the crowd right there with the DJ—that’s where I think the best footage happens.”

In terms of shaping the collective memory of rave culture, Robin sees videographers as essential to documenting this cultural moment, especially in a post-pandemic world.

“I always believe I am documenting a slice of history. After COVID, rave culture has exploded. People are coming back to these spaces after so long without human connection, and there’s a sense of liberation that comes with that. Capturing this freedom, connection, and love is an absolute privilege and a responsibility I take very seriously.”

Behind the camera, Robin seeks to capture emotional states that feel raw and genuine.

“For me, it’s about honesty. I try to build a connection with both the DJ and the crowd. If they feel comfortable, they almost forget I’m there, and that’s when the real magic happens.”

Building rapport is key to his process.

“Spending time with the artist, getting into the crowd— these things help me blend in, and that’s where the most authentic moments come from,” he says.

Challenges are inevitable when filming live performances, but Robin remains unfazed.

“The biggest challenge right now is the number of phones in the crowd. Everyone’s filming for their Instagram, and while I get it, it can ruin a shot. I usually just politely ask them to pause, and there’s a lot of respect for what I’m trying to do, so people are pretty cool about it.”

In the end, Robin’s work is as much about collaboration and trust as it is about technical skill.

“It’s all about trust. When the artist trusts your vision, and you trust their music, something special happens.”

He reflects on his journey, crediting the French DJ SHLOMO with opening doors for him.

“SHLOMO was one of the first big artists to trust me with capturing his sets, and that experience shaped how I work today.”

Robin’s vision is shaped by his passion for telling stories visually, drawing inspiration from cinema to push the boundaries of how rave culture can be captured.

“I try to approach every video like a film scene. Every movement has a purpose, every shot tells part of the story,” he explains.

“There’s a fiction story I’m working on that’s been a passion project of mine for years. It’s a deep dive into identity and belonging, and I’m really excited about how it’s shaping up.”

For Robin, it’s all about finding the balance between capturing the intensity of the moment and honoring the quieter, more introspective moments that make rave culture so profound.

“It’s easy to focus on the chaos of a packed dancefloor, but some of the most beautiful moments come when things slow down, when friends are reconnecting, or when the DJ is lost in the music. That’s what I’m always looking for—those little moments of vulnerability.”

Robin’s ability to convey the visceral experience of a night out, through his innovative use of color, movement, and narrative-driven visuals, has redefined how raves are shared with a global audience. By balancing the hype of large-scale events with the intimacy of underground venues, he captures not only the music but the essence of community and connection that draws people to these spaces.

Through his lens, Robin documents more than just an artist’s set; he captures a cultural moment, preserving the ephemeral energy of each rave while shaping how it’s remembered. As videography continues to play an evolving role in rave culture, Robin remains at the forefront, guiding how the techno scene is visually represented in a time where social media and live experiences intertwine. His work, deeply rooted in authenticity, continues to push the boundaries of what videography can do for the world of electronic music, elevating it into an art form that both honors the past and embraces the future.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo:

ANNA TUR

FROM IBIZA TO THE GLOBAL STAGE

- Photo:

Known for her deep connection to Ibiza’s vibrant music scene and her impressive international presence, Tur’s 2024 has been a year of remarkable milestones. From sharing the stage with legends like Carl Cox to launching her label, LOWLITA Records, Tur’s journey is a testament to her passion and resilience.

PERFORMING WITH LEGENDS: THE CARL COX EFFECT

One of the most exciting aspects of Anna Tur’s 2024 tour has been her performances alongside Carl Cox at major festivals such as Panorama, Kappa Futur, and ULTRA Australia. For Tur, this is more than just an opportunity; it’s a dream come true.

“Carl Cox is my ultimate reference,” she says.

“His respect in the industry is unparalleled, and sharing the stage with him brings a huge responsibility.”

Preparing for these performances requires meticulous attention to detail. Tur spends hours listening to music, carefully selecting tracks that fit her sound while ensuring they align with the high standards expected when performing alongside a legend like Cox.

“There’s always a bit of nervous excitement,” Tur admits.

“I strive to deliver a quality, coherent, and professional session, not just with Carl but in each of my performances.”

The influence of sharing a stage with Cox extends beyond technical preparation. Tur acknowledges that having such a revered figure in the industry as a peer not only inspires but also adds a layer of emotional intensity to her performances.

“It’s a true honor, and I always have butterflies in my stomach when I share an event with him,” she adds.

From Brunch Electronik in Barcelona to Medusa Festival in Valencia, each festival presents its unique energy and challenges. Tur’s approach to preparing for these diverse events involves several factors.

“First, I consider the tendency of the venue and its musical environment,” she explains. “I aim to stay true to my sound while adapting to the specific atmosphere of the event.”

The scheduling of her set is another critical element. Tur emphasizes the importance of crafting a set that maintains a sense of harmony from start to finish, taking into account the time slot and the overall flow of the event. Additionally, the characteristics of the venue—whether open-air or enclosed, sandy or paved— play a significant role in her preparation.

“Understanding the venue helps me tailor my performance to fit the environment.”

The lineup of artists performing before and after Tur is also a key consideration. By studying her fellow performers, she ensures that her set complements and transitions smoothly into the overall event experience.

“It’s about creating a cohesive experience for the audience,” Tur says.

THE PYRAMID AMNESIA RESIDENCY

Anna Tur’s involvement with Pyramid Amnesia and its world tour marks another significant chapter in her career. Although not a full-time resident, her role with the Pyramid brand and their events at Amnesia Ibiza has been pivotal.

“I love the values of the brand and the concept of the party. The team behind it and the venue, Amnesia Ibiza, make it a special experience.”

Touring with Pyramid has also given Tur the chance to connect with her fellow DJs on a personal level.

“Traveling together, we get to share laughs and good times, which makes the experience even more enjoyable,” she reflects.

This camaraderie is a highlight for Tur, as it adds a personal touch to her professional journey.

When asked about the most memorable performance of 2024, Tur highlights a few standout moments. One of the most significant was her set at the Ultra Music Festival in Melbourne, where Carl Cox joined her on stage.

“It was a truly unforgettable moment,” Anna recalls.

“Carl was on stage with me, and at one point, he took the mic and introduced me to his Australian audience. We danced and jumped around with big smiles on our faces.”

Another memorable performance took place at Brunch in Barcelona, where Tur played between Frankie Wah and Carl Cox.

“The energy from the audience was incredibly strong and special,” she says. “I felt very good, and the experience remains close to my heart.”

THE IBIZA SEASON: A LOCAL’S PERSPECTIVE

As a native of Ibiza, Anna Tur has a deep connection to the island’s music scene. Reflecting on the Ibiza season of 2024, she notes both the successes and challenges.

“We’ve had many successful seasons with sold-out events all over the island. However, this year, there’s a significant housing problem for seasonal workers and those looking for long-term rentals. It’s becoming a serious social issue.”

Tur highlights the disparity between the island’s luxury image and the reality faced by many workers.

“We have settlements of caravans and ‘shacks’ in various areas of the island. It’s an issue that needs to be addressed urgently for the sake of dignity and security.”

Despite these challenges, Tur remains optimistic about Ibiza’s role in the global electronic music scene. She mentions the opening of the new club UNVRS, which is expected to bring fresh energy to the island.

“Ibiza is a place with a lot to offer,” she says. “I hope this new development doesn’t overshadow the classic clubs that have always been part of our essence.”

Performing in Ibiza holds a special significance for Anna Tur.

“There’s a saying, ‘like at home, nowhere better,’ and it rings true for me,” she says. Local fans often view her performances as special events, making them feel like a celebration.

“I love that my friends and local fans plan their visits around my gigs,” Tur adds. “It’s incredibly satisfying to perform in my hometown and see both local and international fans enjoying the show.”

2024 has been a landmark year for Anna Tur’s music, with releases on influential labels such as Drumcode, Truesoul, and Armada.

Having started her production journey during the pandemic, Tur credits her growth to the time she had to focus on learning and creating.

“I must mention that I entered the world of production later, during the pandemic. If I have been working as a professional DJ for 15 years, I have only been producing for 5 years. It has been the time when I have had the necessary time to produce and have the creative and receptive mind and soul to learn.

All my years in radio have not allowed me to have all that time and it is only 5 years ago that I finished with the general direction of a radio station, when I have been able to enter production. I have the best teacher I can have and also, with whom I connect musically perfectly, and it is thanks to him, that I can feel satisfied when I finish a job. I take this opportunity, Hosse, to thank you here too”.

Tur’s approach to production is both natural and deliberate. She produces music that evolves with her style while consciously aligning it with the identity of each label.

LAUNCHING LOWLITA RECORDS

The launch of LOWLITA Records during the pandemic is another significant achievement for Tur. Balancing the label with her touring and production schedule can be challenging, but she is committed to its growth.

“LOWLITA was a project born out of our desire to work together,” she says. “Despite the challenges of a new label and a small team, I aim to position it where it deserves to be in 2025.”

Anna Tur’s 2024 has been a defining year, showcasing her extraordinary talent and dedication to the electronic music scene. From sharing stages with legends like Carl Cox to navigating the complexities of Ibiza’s evolving landscape, Tur exemplifies a blend of passion and professionalism.

Her commitment to crafting memorable performances, coupled with her successful releases on top-tier labels and the launch of her label, LOWLITA Records, highlights her role as a pioneering force in the industry. As she continues to innovate and inspire, Tur’s influence on the global electronic music community is set to expand, reaffirming her status as a leading figure in the world of dance music.

Text by: Sergio Niño

ANNA TUR

Photo: Mario Pinta

ON INNOVATION, INCLUSIVITY, AND PIONEERING THE FUTURE OF

ELECTRONIC MUSIC

- Photo: @slippn (On IG)

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with BIIANCO, an artist who isn’t just pushing the boundaries of electronic music but also creating new paths when it comes to technology, inclusivity, and the rave experience. They’re someone who takes their artistry beyond just beats and sounds—it’s about connection, identity, and building spaces where everyone can thrive. In our conversation, they opened up about everything from their approach to live performance to their journey in the electronic music world, and even their personal experience as a disabled and neurodivergent individual navigating the industry. It was a conversation full of insight, heart, and hope for a more inclusive future in music.

CRAFTING MUSIC WITH TECH AND HEART

So often, we hear about DJs and producers getting caught up in the latest gear and gadgets, but for BIIANCO, it’s always about enhancing the music itself.

“I live under the philosophy of integrating live elements only when they truly enhance the sound, not when they diminish it.”

They told me when I asked about their use of analog instruments in their performances.

“Unless it’s a fully live show where everything is analog, I don’t see a reason to incorporate a live element into a DJ set if it’s not going to enhance the overall sound.”

“They’re all about making the sound better, not just more complex for the sake of it. Their setup includes a Native Instruments Maschine+, which they use for synths, vocals, and samples during their hybrid DJ sets”.

I found particularly fascinating that, unlike many DJs who link analog gear to CDJs to keep everything in sync, BIIANCO prefers to beat-match live. That means they’re doing the real-time mixing without relying on automation—and that’s where the magic of live performance happens.

“I like to build songs within the transitions,” They explained.

Their technical background as an audio engineer allows them to experiment with structure and flow in ways that give the performances a unique energy. You can tell they are constantly thinking about how to elevate not just the tracks, but the overall experience for the audience.

THE SHIFT FROM INDIE TO TRANCE

When I asked BIIANCO about their transition from the indie pop world to electronic music, their response was so honest and relatable.

They didn’t shy away from admitting that it wasn’t a seamless transition, especially because pop music, especially in the U.S., is often packed with sonic layers.

“I wanted to make music that was inherently rooted in technology and sequencing,” they said.

“I was drawn to creating music where it was less about my narrative as a vocalist and more about the energetic experience I was offering the audience.”

This was such a great way to put it. For BIIANCO, electronic music isn’t just about storytelling through lyrics—it’s about creating an immersive environment where people can feel and experience something much bigger. But they also admitted that the minimalist nature of techno was something they had to adjust to.

“The biggest challenge was learning that techno and dance music, in general, are inherently minimalist,” they said.

It was only after they moved to London in 2021 that they truly found their sound. London’s underground scene, they explained, allowed them to immerse themselves in hard groove and hard trance.

“It was the best decision I could have made,” they told me.

ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSIVITY: MORE THAN JUST BUZZWORDS

What really stuck with me during our conversation was BIIANCO’s dedication to making rave spaces accessible for everyone—especially those with disabilities. As a partially blind person, they have experienced firsthand how clubs and festivals often overlook the needs of disabled attendees and artists.

“Rave spaces are not very accessible to people with disabilities. We struggle a lot to find the support we need to enjoy and thrive in these spaces.”

For example, in their rider, they always ask for a small flashlight in the DJ booth, but in the past six months, no venue has provided one. Their voice softened as they continued, but the frustration was clear:

“We’re not asking them to turn on all the lights or take away the lasers. The things we need are so minimal to the overall club experience that it’s just ridiculous they haven’t been implemented yet.”

It made me think about how simple accommodations could make such a huge difference—and how these small changes wouldn’t alter the experience for anyone else but would allow disabled ravers to fully enjoy the event.

NEURODIVERGENCE AS A SUPERPOWER

BIIANCO also opened up about being neurodivergent, and how their ADHD has both helped and challenged them throughout their career. They referred to it as something of a superpower, especially when it comes to the ability to hyperfocus in the studio or during rehearsals. But they were also very open about the need to manage it carefully to avoid burnout.

“During a physically difficult moment, we tend to shut off our emotions and just keep going,” they explained.

“There’s not much space to mourn in that moment, so the pain comes later when the moment has passed, or we’re alone.”

This part of the conversation hit hard. BIIANCO has had to learn how to balance their physical and emotional needs while navigating the music industry—and they have been doing it with grace, even when things get tough. It’s a message that resonated with me and, I think, with so many others who deal with challenges like these in a high-energy environment like the music world.

LOOKING FORWARD

By the end of our conversation, I was completely in awe of how BIIANCO balances its technical skills with their emotional intelligence and advocacy for inclusion. They are not just an artist making tracks or playing DJ sets—they’re someone actively shaping the future of electronic music to be more inclusive, thoughtful, and innovative.

Their parting words stayed with me:

“The first step is for people to care.”

It’s a simple yet powerful message that applies to so much more than just the music scene. If we all cared a little more about the people around us and what they need to fully participate, we’d be creating a much richer, more diverse, and more connected world.

BIIANCO’s journey reminds us that music has the power to bring us together—but only if we’re willing to make space for everyone to join the party.

BIIANCO plays Techno Without Borders & Mixmag NL party at THE OTHER SIDE on Wednesday 16th October alongside Ben Klock, Victor Ruiz and more. They’re running a Masterclass at 12:15 on playback rigs and live performances on Thursday 17th at ADE Lab.

BIIANCO’s single ‘Get You Out’ is out now on Ultra Records.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo:

XXL MALTA 2024

PUTTING HARD DANCE ON THE MAP IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

Picture this: the sun-kissed island of Malta transformed into a fervent hub of booming Hard Dance, where historic chic meets new-age art. That’s exactly what XXL Malta 2024 delivered, setting a new gold standard for Techno festivals worldwide.

From May 24th to 26th, this inaugural international venture by British electronic brands Teletech and The Warehouse Project took the Med by storm. Selling out before the second phase lineup had even been announced, XXL Malta proved that sometimes, the best parties are the ones you don’t see coming.

An early boat party set the tone and set sail towards Comino island, with Manchester’s Leaha setting the perfect tone. Her playful mix of dark and bouncy club anthems had everyone on board grooving, with tracks like “A Little Closer” by Different becoming instant festival anthems. The afternoon’s real showstopper on the waves was enigmatic, can-only-miss-him-if-you’re-blind “prophet of pleasure” Partiboi69. Donning his trademark speedy sunglasses and hotel slippers (yes, you read that right), he unleashed a set that was equal parts ridiculous and sublime. From Bomfunk MC’s “Freestyler” to his own tracks like “Double Drop,” Partiboi69 had ravers in a frenzy.

Back on land, the historic Fort St Elmo became ground zero for hard-hitting Techno. Rising star blk. lived up to his reputation as a dancefloor destroyer, bearing one of the festival’s most talkedabout sets. His unique blend of hard Techno and infectious melodies entranced the crowd, with clips of his performance going viral on social media days after the event. Sara Landry took things darker, easily showcasing why she’s become a global phenomenon. Her thunderous, hammering set transported the crowd to another dimension, demonstrating that Techno can be both an art form and a visceral experience.

The festival was about more than just the established names, though. It perfectly captured the current resurgence of hard techno subgenres, giving space to styles once considered fringe. From Gabber to Hardcore, XXL Malta provided a haven for the full spectrum of Techno’s evolution.

Kettama’s performance at Uno was a testament to his meteoric rise. Blending hard-hitting House with infectious club sounds, he had the crowd eating out of his hand. His mashups and reworks, including clever interpretations of classics like Fatima Yamaha’s “What’s a Girl to Do” and The Streets’ “Blinded by the Lights,” showcased

his ability to read a crowd and deliver what they yearned for.

As night fell, Locked Club took over Uno Stage 3, bringing their unique brand of Slav-punk Electro to the masses. Clad in ski masks and chainmail, their appearance was as intense as their sound, creating a spectacle that was impossible to ignore.

XXL promised their production levels would be off the chart, and they more than lived up to their own hype. Five unique venues, each offering a different vibe, ensured that there was something for everyone. From the dramatic backdrop of Fort St Elmo to the laid-back beach stages and exclusive boat parties, XXL Malta 2024 wasn’t ‘just’ a festival but an all-out, balls-to-the-wall dance music experience. Most telling was the lack of phones - that seem to plague every single other festival known to God and man. The kids on the dance floor, on the podiums, halfway up trees and hanging off the sides of stages were there to dance their collective behinds off to set after set after dynamite set, not film content for their socials. Refreshing is an understatement.

Teletech and XXL’s branding was omnipresent, with flags adorning venues and attendees proudly sporting merchandise. Some fans even proudly displayed Teltech tattoos, showing a level of dedication that speaks volumes about the brand’s impact.

In the end, XXL Malta 2024 was more than just a celebration of Techno – it was a triumph of vision, curation, and execution. It set a new benchmark for what an international music festival can be, blending top-tier talent with stunning locations and flawless production.

As the final beats faded and the sun rose on the Mediterranean, one thing was clear: XXL Malta has firmly established itself as a must-attend event on the global techno calendar. For those lucky enough to have been there, it was a weekend of unparalleled music, connection, and memories that will last a lifetime. And for the rest of us? Well, there’s always next year. Start planning now – this is one party you won’t want to miss.

Text by: Sergio Niño

XXL MALTA

Photo:

THE FINAL CHAPTER: REGAL’S TRIBUTE TO ACID TECHNO AND PERSONAL REVIVAL THROUGH ACIDBOY

Few artists manage to walk the fine line between staying true to their roots and pushing the boundaries of their sound. Regal, known to some as ACIDBOY, is one such artist. With a career spanning over a decade, his journey has been one of experimentation, growth, and a constant search for authenticity in a scene often driven by trends.

In his latest album, The Final Chapter, released under his ACIDBOY alias, Regal embarks on a deeply personal and nostalgic journey back to his roots in the acid techno sub-genre. Known for his cutting-edge productions and genre-bending sound, Regal’s decision to revisit the foundational elements of his career represents more than just a stylistic choice—it’s a return to the music that initially fueled his creative fire. The Final Chapter is Regal’s tribute to the acid-driven sounds that once defined him, infused with modern production techniques and a renewed sense of purpose. As a leading figure in the electronic music scene, he uses this album to reconnect with his musical beginnings while pushing the boundaries of the acid techno genre.

The album’s story unfolds as a deeply introspective narrative, born out of both artistic and personal struggle. Regal found himself at a crossroads in recent years, grappling with an industry increasingly focused on image over substance, while also confronting his own challenges with mental health and sobriety. Through this emotional lens, The Final Chapter was crafted, not merely as a collection of tracks, but as a personal manifesto of healing, clarity, and creative freedom. Each track reflects a piece of this journey—some more introspective, others reflecting the euphoric highs of creative resurgence.

At its core, The Final Chapter is a love letter to acid techno, a sub-genre Regal helped shape early in his career. With its hypnotic 303 basslines and raw, pulsating energy, acid techno has always been an outlet for Regal to express his emotions through sound. By revisiting the acid textures and rhythms that first defined his signature style, Regal breathes new life into this underground genre, blending the old school with the new to create a sonic experience that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

For Regal, electronic music is a form of self-expression, More than just a collection of tracks, The Final Chapter is a reflection of his personal and artistic evolution, a testimony to his resilience in the face of changing industry dynamics.

“I think something was boiling inside of me,” he reflects, explaining the inspiration behind his return to the acid techno sound under the ACIDBOY alias.

“After these couple of years, surrounded by trend-driven sub-genres like Neo Rave or Hardstyle edits of 2000 Pop tracks, which I couldn’t align with, I was rather trying to find an individual sound to do something different than most of my fellow DJ colleagues and stand out from the mass. At one point I’ve had the feeling I should listen to my inner self and just go for what I want to do, to be happy with the music I put out and the tracks I play”. For Regal, this album was more than just a creative endeavor—it was a form of self-liberation. Having established himself in the music industry years ago with a distinctive acid sound, he decided to return to what first inspired him to create.

“I thought it would be a great idea to revisit the sound I have always loved since I discovered electronic music, which has been the reason for my breakthrough in the music industry some years ago. Regardless of the current trend or the expectations of the people, but just something for me and my soul, which for me is the most honest way to produce music. I like to produce many different styles, but in this case, I wanted to focus on my classic acid and trance sound, which is also the reason why I’ve decided to release it under my alias ACIDBOY and not as Regal”.

Crafting The Final Chapter wasn’t just about revisiting the past but blending it with his newfound knowledge and tools. Regal’s evolution as a producer allowed him to approach this project with a greater depth of understanding.

“When I started making acid techno, I didn’t even know I was doing acid techno, to be honest. It was just something that sounded nice and was the music that made me want to dance. Also, my production knowledge was very limited at that time, while now I have more knowledge in production, I have a bigger arsenal of tools and especially now I know how to make something sound like I want it to sound.”

Interestingly, despite his studio being filled with analog machines, Regal chose to craft much of this album using digital tools.

“For this album, I haven’t used many analog machines even though my studio is full of it but did everything with digital tools and VSTs as that usually allows me to work faster, which is the most important thing for me.”

Photo: Juanma Alvarado

- Photo: Juanma Alvarado

The process of narrowing down the final tracks was a challenge in itself, with Regal producing over 22 tracks and having to choose just 11 for the final cut. It was a labor of love, and the result is an album that seamlessly blends the old and new.

“The biggest challenge for me in this album was to make it sound old school but new school at the same time, giving it a modern touch and making the 303 basslines sound different from all the other acid tracks out there.”

In terms of the sound design, Regal sought to maintain a balance between classic and innovative.

“In most of the tracks I’ve tried to keep the percussion as classic as possible using mostly the 909 and the 707, but using different FX chains on the 303 to find original sounds, and not just the classic distortion pedal.”

He also integrated elements from his previous work, incorporating vocals and speeches with explicit messages, tying the new album with the structure of his 2021 release as Regal.

“I can say that this album is a sort of a follow-up of the first one, but on the other hand, it’s completely different from a music perspective—it’s just the structure that is similar.”

Despite the temptation to collaborate more widely on the album, Regal ultimately kept the project personal, aside from one notable collaboration with Madrid-based duo AEREA.

“I found this collaboration very interesting because it’s something different from what I am usually used to producing and also because I love the voice of Carlota, the singer of the duo.”

But even this collaboration was approached with care, ensuring that the album retained its personal and introspective tone.

“This album is more freestyle than the previous one under my main alias Regal. Of course, as it’s still a conceptual album, the right way to listen to it would be following the tracklist, which starts with more energetic acid and fades into a trippier style of trance with ups and downs along the way. But there’s n right way to listen to it and the tracks all tell different stories, so I think this album gives the listener the opportunity to listen to the tracks in any order or just one by one and still feel the essence of ACIDBOY. You can probably hear or already understand when reading the track names that anger, frustration and fear are a big topic in the album. But the album is about hope, about finding a way out and healing. So, I think the emotions the listeners will feel are more about resurrecting after being beaten down.”

Regal shares, pointing out that each piece holds a deeper significance. One such track is the opening piece, “Automatic Control,” which took four years to come together.

“I had that 303 bassline in my laptop, and for some reason, even though I tried to open the project now and then when I felt inspired, I was never able to make it fit in a track. Suddenly, I found an old track by Paul Kalkbrenner that I used to play a lot in the past, and it gave me the spark—that was the inspiration I needed.”

From there, the track finally took shape, reflecting the patience and persistence that characterize much of Regal’s creative process.

While The Final Chapter reflects Regal’s personal journey, it also serves as a broader commentary on the current state of the techno scene.

“The album is a reaction to the current techno music scene. For me, this process was a deep journey, which is reflected in the sound of the tracks – tracks that are quite the opposite of quick-hit tracks designed for social media. All tracks were the result of the artistic crisis that I faced when I felt I couldn’t be part of the scene anymore because the focus seemed to be on the artist’s image instead of the artist’s music, which can be tough for someone introverted like I am. This crisis was then followed by a period of introspection. I had a lot of time to think about what I wanted to do and if I should continue at all, but when I realized that I had never released anything under my ACIDBOY alias before, a nickname that people started giving me a few years ago, I thought this could be a good way to give something back to the people.

This period of introspection allowed Regal to reconnect with the reasons he fell in love with music in the first place, and to produce something that felt deeply authentic to him.

“I thought that using a name that was so deeply associated with the sound that I used to play back in the day would be a great way to show that even though the project Regal has evolved over the years, ACIDBOY still lives inside of me and is an important part of what I do. Using that name and revisiting the sound that made my label Involve Records and myself as an artist successful and known to a broader audience in the first place felt like a good way to sum it all up before there will eventually be an end in sight. Not sure if this will be my last release ... or just a new beginning”.

This authenticity is perhaps best encapsulated in the emotional journey the album offers its listeners.

“This album is about hope, about finding a way out and healing,” he explains.

The music moves through highs and lows, mirroring the personal struggles Regal faced in the lead-up to its creation. For him, the album is a testament to resilience—a way of finding peace and clarity amidst the chaos of the industry.

Looking back, The Final Chapter represents a significant milestone in Regal’s career.

“I think this album sounds way more mature both in terms of production and sound quality. A comparison between these productions and my older ones will show that a lot has happened in terms of production techniques. However, I still tried not to overproduce the tracks. They should still feel natural and raw even though the production is more professional and sharper. It may sound a bit more like 2000s techno and less 90s, as that is the sound I’m craving now. Also, the sound design of the 303 basslines sounds much better now in my opinion, while before it was flatter.

But the most important thing for me is the one thing that hasn’t changed: I am still combining acid and trance sounds as I used to do at the beginning of my career, staying true to myself and the sound that I love”, he says, acknowledging his growth as both an artist and a producer.

But despite the advancements in technique and sound design, what remains unchanged is Regal’s commitment to staying true to himself.

“I am still combining acid and trance sounds as I used to do at the beginning of my career, staying true to myself and the sound that I love.”

Regal’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing his mental health and sobriety. The pressures of the music industry, coupled with his introverted nature, have made this path far from easy.

“I became some overwhelmed with the current scene that I didn’t know how to behave and what to do to not start hating being a techno DJ. I didn’t want to adapt because I just didn’t feel like part of this post-pandemic scene – that was the opposite of what I wanted to do and who I wanted to be. I see so many DJs playing the same music, the same tracks, and it bores me to death. Everything is just done for followers and likes, it looks like social media is the actual key to success, not good music. It lacks soul, and it lacks creativity. I was (and am still) struggling to find my spot in all of this, and for some time I wasn’t even sure there was one. This led me to try to compensate for my negative self-talk, my anger for these changes, and my fear of not being able to find my spot with alcohol. The drinking helped, but just for the moment – afterward, it was always worse”.

This internal struggle led him to a period of self-reflection, where he questioned his place in an industry that seemed increasingly focused on image rather than substance.

But rather than give in to the pressures, Regal used this crisis as an opportunity to reconnect with his core values and redefine his approach to music.

“After a while and some struggles, I tried to clear my head, get sober, and focus on what I wanted to do and who I wanted to be instead of listening to the expectations of others and how they wanted me to be. So, I produced this album for myself, to heal my soul, to close my eyes, and to fly with my mind, to get back to loving what I do. It will make me incredibly happy if the listeners will enjoy this album as much as I do, and feel it in a way I do, but if that is not the case and people prefer to listen to drops that sound like all the others, that’s also fine for me.” he admits.

Maintaining sobriety while navigating the pressures of the music industry can be challenging. After all we are all human and we all need some help to keep ourselves afloat. About this Regal shared,

“It is challenging, and it doesn’t always work. It’s tough and the scene, which is all about excess, can lead to relapses. Especially when you’re having a bad night.

I’m going to therapy and following some medical routines to stay as healthy as possible. Also, I’m trying to go to the gym and train as much as I can, multiple days per week – not just for the body but also for my mental health!.

“We live in the nightlife, surrounded by many bad and dangerous things, so staying on the path is something you can only do if you want to. It requires a lot of strength, which I – for some time – just didn’t have. I don’t have any role models within this industry, but I have a few personal role models in my inner circle who inspired me to quit old bad habits and force me every day to be a better person. Trying to keep a clear mind helps me to be a better version of myself every day”.

In this sense, The Final Chapter isn’t just a musical project—it’s a symbol of personal healing, a way for Regal to reclaim his identity as an artist on his own terms.

Regal’s journey through the creation of The Final Chapter as ACIDBOY feels intensely personal, like a deep reckoning with his past, his pain, and his passions. It’s not just a return to acid techno for him—it’s a full-circle moment, rediscovering the music that first sparked his love for electronic sounds, but now with the scars of his battles with mental health and sobriety etched into every beat. You can feel the weight of that struggle in the rawness of the album. It’s as if through ACIDBOY, Regal is reaching back to his roots not just musically, but emotionally, grappling with who he was and who he’s become.

What’s most striking is how vulnerable this project feels. For an artist as established as Regal, it would have been easy to keep creating music as before, but instead, he chose to bare himself completely. He didn’t just make an album, he opened up a window into his own healing process. The way he’s woven his mental health struggles, his journey to sobriety, and his evolution as a person into the music gives it an authenticity that’s rare in the fast-paced world of electronic music. He’s not trying to impress—he’s trying to connect, to tell a story that’s as much about survival as it is about creativity.

On a personal level, ACIDBOY feels like Regal’s most honest work yet. It’s not about perfection or chasing trends; it’s about catharsis, self-expression, and finding peace in the chaos. You can hear the growth, the pain, and the triumph in every track. This album isn’t just the end of one chapter for Regal—it’s the beginning of another, one where he’s learned to embrace both the light and the dark within himself, and to use them to create something that’s deeply personal, fiercely powerful, and completely true to who he is.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo: Artist

REGAL ACIDBOY

Photo: Juanma Alvarado

GASHOUDER, WEDNESDAY

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18:00 – 21:30 CARIBOU

THURSDAY OCTOBER 17

THURSDAY OCTOBER 17

23:00 – 07:00 COLYN, JAN BLOMQVIST, MATHAME, AND MORE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 18

18:00 – 21:30 NILS FRAHM

FRIDAY OCTOBER 18

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 19

23:00 – 07:00 WE STILL BELIEVE BY THE BLESSED MADONNA

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23:30 – 07:00 BRUTALISMUS 3000 INVITES

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16:00 – 01:00 GOU TALK BY PEGGY GOU

NDSM WAREHOUSE

TECHNO WITHOUT BORDERS

- Photo: Saad & Amanda, Founders Studio Shot, Toronto, Astrolab Studio by Weitner

In an era where music festivals and events have become synonymous with grandeur and scale, Techno Without Borders(TWB) is emerging as a refreshing alternative, blending intimacy with global inclusivity. Founded by Saad Ayub during the pandemic, TWB has successfully bridged the gap between virtual and live experiences, transcending traditional formats. With its roots in Toronto, TWB has grown into a global movement, transforming how techno is presented, experienced, and celebrated in cities across the world.

At its core, TWB is driven by a passion for creative freedom, musical integrity, and diversity. Saad and his team have skillfully curated events that remain deeply connected to the underground essence of techno while welcoming diverse influences from around the world.

“Our lineups are designed to take attendees on a journey, with a flow that tells a story—one you can truly feel as much as hear.”

This balance of authenticity and openness to innovation has allowed TWB to stand out, gaining traction internationally. In our interview, Saad delved into the journey, challenges, and future aspirations of Techno Without Borders, offering a deeper insight into the philosophy behind the brand.

THE INSPIRATION BEHIND TECHNO WITHOUT BORDERS

When asked about the inception of TWB and its unique approach to events, Ayub recalled the early days of the pandemic, which served as a pivotal moment in shaping the movement.

“The idea behind Techno Without Borders was always in the back of my mind. I wanted to create a brand where I had full creative freedom to showcase talent and curate events the way I envisioned, without being constrained by promoters, venues, or politics. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit that it truly began to take shape. I had just finished a show in Amsterdam with Paul Van Dyk when the world started shutting down. The music scene took a huge loss, and genres began to blur together. Like many others, I found myself without work, trying to figure out the next step”.

“That’s when I decided to create something new: a virtual live show for my fans. I launched it on Zoom and named it Techno Without Borders. I played the music I loved: techno, bootlegs of trance with techno, house with techno. The response was incredible. It kept me connected with both my fans and my local community during lockdown”.

“As the restrictions eased, my Toronto audience started asking for live events. Promoters even approached me to throw underground raves. That’s when I decided to make Techno Without Borders a real-world event. Since then, we’ve had seven consecutive sold-out shows, with our annual boat cruise becoming a signature event where we celebrate TWB’s anniversary in Toronto. It has turned into a true reunion for the community.”

Saad´s vision was not just limited to bringing people together locally; it extended far beyond borders, with a focus on creating events that connect diverse audiences and artists across the globe.

TWB’s growth from a virtual platform into a real-world international brand has been fuelled by his’s deep love for music and his dedication to curating unique, authentic experiences.

“The driving force behind going international has always been my pure love for music. I want to bring the artists I love to the stage and create the kind of events I would want to dance at. Techno Without Borders has now grown into a global brand, allowing us to book talent from all over the world, especially in Europe. The journey is just beginning, and I’m excited to see how far we can take it.”

CULTURAL DIVERSITY: A KEY ELEMENT OF TWB’S SUCCESS

Techno is a genre with rich cultural roots, and for Ayub, ensuring that TWB remains inclusive and diverse is essential to its identity. His experiences as a DJ and producer have shaped his outlook, and this perspective is evident in both the music and the events TWB curates.

“As I celebrate 10 years as a producer and over 15 years as a DJ, I can confidently say that diversity has been a defining element in shaping both my music and my events. Coming from a diverse background myself, I’ve always sought to reflect that in my sets and the way I curate experiences. A perfect example is this year’s event, where we’re showcasing a lineup that features equal women and men, with artists from various backgrounds and countries.

Diversity is the unity that this scene thrives on. In times like these, when the world is facing so many challenges, it feels more important than ever to champion the values of PLUR: Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. This inclusivity has undoubtedly contributed to the international growth of the movement, making it a truly global community.”

By championing diversity, Saad has managed to capture the spirit of techno while pushing its boundaries, ensuring that TWB remains deeply rooted in the underground culture while appealing to a wide audience.

“It’s pretty straightforward. Our events are driven by what we genuinely love as musicians. If we chased trends, our lineups would look completely different. For me, David, Sam, and Katrii, it’s all about curating music that resonates with us personally. That’s what we bring to every event, and I think it’s what keeps us connected to the true underground vibe. Honestly, I’ve always preferred going against the grain, and that’s what makes our approach feel authentic and true to who we are.”

THE JOURNEY TO INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS

Saad Ayub’s journey from Toronto to the international stage has been marked by a series of milestones. He recalls the pivotal moments that helped TWB transition from a local project to a globally recognized brand.

“One of the key moments in the evolution of Techno Without Borders was our first year at ADE, where we partnered with Neon Owl to host an intimate event at the iconic Crane Hotel featuring all our favourite artists. That event marked a significant milestone for us. Additionally, collaborating with brands like Beatport, Mixmag, Tecán, and GiG has been another highlight of our journey.”

Partnering with local talent and like-minded individuals in new cities has also been a critical factor in TWB’s expansion. Katrii, TWB’s creative director, explained the importance of building relationships in every new city they enter.

“Expanding to Amsterdam wasn’t easy, “but thanks to the invaluable efforts of our regional head, David Maters, we made it work. Born and raised ‘Amsterdammer’, David’s deep knowledge of the city’s evolving music scene and his unique blend of logistical precision and creative vision have been crucial to our growth and immersive event success. He’s been at the heart of making each event feel immersive and true to the essence of TWB’s philosophy.” When we all put our heads together, it came easily and just worked.”

LOOKING AHEAD: TECHNO WITHOUT BORDERS AT ADE AND BEYOND

As TWB prepares for its upcoming ADE event, Sam Van Horne, TWB’s executive director, shared his excitement about their third return to the festival and what makes this year’s showcase particularly special.

“We’re hosting this year’s event at ‘The Other Side,’ the first venue equipped with the L-ISA Spatial sound system, offering a fully immersive audio experience. By carefully selecting venues that enhance both sound and atmosphere, we create events where the music and environment combine for a truly unforgettable experience.”

The remarkable journey of Techno Without Borders, from its virtual origins to a worldwide movement, is a testament to the vision, resilience, and passion of its founders. Saad´s’s unwavering commitment to curating authentic, underground techno experiences, while embracing diversity and inclusivity, has resonated with audiences across continents.

The collective’s ability to adapt to new challenges, whether through expanding into new cities or incorporating cutting-edge technology like spatial sound systems, keeps TWB at the forefront of the electronic music scene. º

“Techno is continuously expanding into new territories, while drawing from and inspiring a wide range of genres. This cross-pollination creates exciting opportunities for more diverse lineups and allows us to experiment with genre-blending in ways that challenge expectations and push creative boundaries”.

Looking ahead, Techno Without Borders is poised to continue pushing boundaries, both musically and geographically. With a confirmed presence at ADE and plans to expand into new markets like Berlin, Barcelona, and Tokyo, the movement shows no signs of slowing down. As the post-pandemic world craves deeper connections through music, TWB remains dedicated to fostering an environment where people can reconnect with the essence of techno, creating unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the music fades.

Photo: Event Photo from last year ADE, Leon Gir, Club Atelier, October 10th ADE - mixmag.es

FRANÇOIS X

PUSHING BOUNDARIES, REDEFINING TECHNO, AND CONNECTING WITH THE NEXT GENERATION

- Photo: Artist Courtesy

For over a decade, François X has been a defining figure in the techno world, constantly evolving and reshaping his identity as an artist while maintaining his place as a leading force in the genre. With his roots deeply intertwined with the underground scene of the early 2000s, François X brings a unique perspective, blending his love for fashion, tennis, and intense clubbing experiences into his creative process. After the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, François X not only adapted to a new reality but found new ways to connect with the emerging generation of techno enthusiasts.

From his early days as an artist to his ongoing mission of pushing techno’s boundaries by incorporating pop and rap influences, François X has always strived to stay ahead of the curve while remaining true to his artistic core. In this profile, we explore his reflections on his journey, the shaping forces behind his music, and his vision for the future of techno.

THE EVOLUTION OF A VISIONARY: OVER A DECADE OF STAYING RELEVANT

François X’s trajectory in the techno scene is as eclectic as it is inspiring. Having spent over a decade mastering the art of DJing, producing, and connecting with audiences worldwide, his career is a fascinating blend of serendipity, determination, and boundless creativity. Though now recognized as a leading figure in techno, François X’s path was far from conventional. From his early days as a resident DJ to headlining at major clubs, he’s remained committed to his craft while embracing an ever-evolving sound.

One of the pivotal moments that defined François’ career came during his residency at Five Beats, where he was unexpectedly thrust into the headlining spot.

“Juan Atkins had to cancel at the last minute, and I stepped in to play the headlining slot. The crowd didn’t even realize the switch at first, but after the set, the praise rolled in, and people were surprised to learn it was me behind the decks.”

This experience proved to be a turning point, not only boosting his confidence but also solidifying his role in the burgeoning techno scene. However, it wasn’t just early victories that shaped his evolution; the challenge of emulating the mastery of DJs like Ben Klock and Marcel Dettmann pushed François to redefine his sound and elevate his artistry.

“Watching them create groundbreaking records while ruling the DJ booth set a very high bar for me,” François recalls.

His drive for excellence has been a consistent theme throughout his career, continually striving to reach new creative heights.

Transitioning from a finance career to becoming a full-time artist brought its own set of trials.

“I had come from a very structured, corporate environment, where everything was pragmatic and logical. Stepping into the music industry with idealistic dreams, I quickly learned that it’s not just about creativity; it’s also a business.”

Navigating the music world involved understanding how to balance passion with practicality. Yet, his diverse influences—from his background in fashion to his love for tennis—helped him maintain an authentic creative identity, even while learning the ropes of the music industry.

“Staying true to my roots has always felt natural. My passions fuel my creativity, and I believe that’s what keeps me fresh and grounded.”

Post-COVID, François’s approach to creativity expanded dramatically. He describes the pandemic as a period of liberation, where he embraced a wider range of influences beyond just techno. Through his platform XX LAB, he began exploring fashion, design, and broader musical landscapes.

“The more I allowed myself to explore, the more my creativity expanded. It helped me break out of old constraints and embrace a more open creative path,” he reflects.

No longer confined by old definitions, François X has emerged with a renewed sense of artistic freedom, blending elements of pop, rap, and fashion into his techno productions. His career now sits at an interesting intersection—between the history of the genre and its future.

“I stay relevant by staying curious and open. It’s not about adapting to trends but staying connected to the youth and fresh ideas.”

François X has spent more than a decade carving his name into the landscape of electronic music. Reflecting on how he’s managed to keep evolving, he says:

“It’s been over ten years now, and I can say I’ve learned to adapt to the industry’s shifts, especially post-COVID. The pandemic changed everything—how we perform, and how we connect. I realized I had to reinvent my connection with the audience, especially the younger crowd who were experiencing techno in a new context. But I always try to stay relevant without losing my core identity, while also looking at new ways to stay fresh.”

His response highlights a key aspect of his career: the ability to not only withstand the turbulent shifts within the music industry but to embrace them as opportunities for growth. Adapting to this new landscape has been a conscious effort, a way for him to stay connected with an evolving fanbase.

“You can’t just do what you’ve always done. You have to be open to new experiences and willing to experiment. But while I experiment, I also remain true to what has always made my sound unique. It’s about finding that balance.”

THE FRANÇOIS X DNA: A FUSION OF CLUBBING, FASHION, AND TENNIS

The key to François X’s unique sound can be found in the diverse experiences that have influenced him. He credits his early years of intense clubbing in the 2000s as a major formative experience, but that’s only part of the picture. He’s also drawn inspiration from the unexpected realms of fashion and tennis, infusing these influences into his music.

“Growing up, I was clubbing heavily in the early 2000s, and that intense experience of being in the crowd, feeling the energy, has shaped everything I do musically. It’s the foundation of my sound. But beyond that, fashion has had a big impact on me—how it evolves, and the way it influences culture. Tennis, too, surprisingly. There’s a discipline to it that has affected my mindset as an artist.”

“Another pivotal chapter in my career was my residency at Concrete in Paris. It was a defining period where I had the opportunity to showcase my sound to an entire generation of ravers and techno lovers. Concrete wasn’t just a venue; it was a major platform that helped me gain international visibility. The residency allowed me to share the decks with some of the best artists of that moment, and it shaped me as a DJ. Learning how to control the flow of energy over long sets, connect with a crowd, and play alongside the biggest names in the scene was transformative for my career. My sound evolved significantly during that time, and my career took off globally thanks to the exposure and experience I gained at Concrete. Another big challenge for me came from being a huge admirer of Ben Klock and Marcel Dettmann around the late 2000s. They were dominating the scene at Berghain, and their level of artistry—both as DJs and producers—was incredible. Watching them navigate the weekend as top-tier DJs and then create groundbreaking records during the week set an extremely high bar. For someone just starting, trying to mimic their sound and style was incredibly tough, but it also pushed me to evolve and strive for excellence”.

These diverse elements come together in a fusion that keeps his music fresh and compelling. As a result, François X has managed to navigate the delicate balance between pushing the boundaries of techno while honoring the genre’s roots.

“I want to push the limits of what techno can be. That’s why I’m experimenting with incorporating pop and rap influences into my work. For me, it’s about expanding the genre without losing its essence. Techno is about energy, about movement, but it can also evolve to include other genres while staying true to its own identity.”

THE FUTURE OF TECHNO: WHERE THE GENRE IS HEADING

François X is acutely aware of how technology has changed and continues to evolve. His perspective on the future of the genre is informed not only by his years of experience but also by his openness to change and innovation.

“Techno has gone through so many phases, but right now, it’s exciting because it’s becoming more global. You have influences from all over the world shaping the sound, and that’s only going to grow. I think the future of techno is about blending—not just blending genres, but also blending cultures and experiences. And there’s more room for creativity now than ever before.”

He acknowledges the growing influence of mainstream elements but sees this as an opportunity rather than a threat.

“There’s always the fear that techno might lose its underground roots, but I think it’s evolving in a way that keeps its spirit alive. The core of techno will always be there, but artists are finding new ways to express that energy, and that’s what keeps it exciting. We’re not stuck in the past, and we’re not afraid to explore what’s next.”

François X’s insight offers a hopeful view of where the industry is heading, highlighting the importance of embracing change while preserving the essence of what makes techno such a powerful genre.

FRANÇOIS X’S FORWARD-LOOKING VISION

Writing about François X, it becomes clear that his journey is not just about surviving in an ever-changing industry but thriving by staying true to himself. He balances his innovative spirit with the disciplined approach he’s gained from his eclectic influences, whether that’s from the clubbing scene of the 2000s, fashion’s cultural reach, or the mental endurance found in tennis. His commitment to keeping techno’s core alive while also pushing its boundaries with pop and rap influences sets him apart as a visionary who’s never content with the status quo.

But what stands out most about François X is his unyielding dedication to finding new ways to connect with his audience. After more than a decade in the scene, he’s continually looking ahead, not afraid to evolve alongside the genre he loves. The future of techno, as he sees it, is vibrant and ever-expanding—and François X is set to remain at the forefront of that movement, shaping the sounds of tomorrow while never forgetting the roots that ground him.

François X’s journey over the last decade is one of constant evolution, not just as an artist but as a visionary who has weathered the industry’s ups and downs. In a post-COVID world, where music and nightlife have transformed dramatically, François X has found a way to adapt without losing the essence of what makes him unique. His ability to connect with new generations—while staying true to the raw, driving force of his early days—is a testament to his understanding that relevance isn’t about chasing trends but about finding the threads that tie past and present together. He’s never lost sight of his roots, even as he pushes the boundaries of what techno can be.

His music draws on the intensity of those early 2000s club nights, where the energy and chaos of the dance floor ignited his passion. But his world isn’t just defined by music; fashion and tennis have also played significant roles in shaping his perspective, giving him a multifaceted approach to his art. He’s not afraid to mix the unexpected—incorporating pop and rap influences into his techno soundscape, bringing something fresh while still keeping it undeniably François X. His music is a reflection of who he is: complex, and unpredictable, but always deeply authentic.

When François X talks about the future of techno, it’s clear that he sees beyond the here and now. His vision is one where techno evolves without losing its soul, blending new influences while still holding onto its underground essence. As the genre grows and changes, so does he—ready to embrace what’s next while staying rooted in the passion that started it all. François X is not just following the evolution of techno; he’s leading it, one boundary-breaking beat at a time.

Text by: Sergio Niño

X-COAST

“RIVIERA COLLECTION”: A JOURNEY FROM A MYSTERIOUS ISLAND TO THE DANCEFLOOR

- Photo: Kevin Buitrago

X-Coast’s latest project, The Riviera Collection, isn’t just an album—it’s a window into another realm. Drawing on an ethereal connection with a virtual island, this collection of nine tracks defies the traditional constraints of an album, instead offering a carefully curated assortment of dancefloor-ready beats.

“Some would call it an album for sure, but there is a feeling that an album sent to us by a virtual island we practically know nothing about would have to sound more conceptual than 9 tracks that work tremendously well on the dancefloor put together in a listenable order. An X-Coast album is expected to be written in one go, trying to weave an invisible thread that could keep it as a whole. I cannot say more; after all, I am just a mere representative of the island on planet Earth.”

This sonic odyssey was inspired by years of collecting ideas, memories, and sounds, and though the tracks are plucked from X-Coast’s vaults, the essence of the collection is anything but dated. Each track stands on its own, yet they come together in a way that is unmistakably X-Coast.

“No matter the style, these jams have that recognizable X-Coast touch—often imitated, never duplicated,” he shares.

The collection is a dedication to the dancefloor, with a mix of house, techno, tribal, and trance beats designed to captivate and move crowds.

A MUSICAL JOURNEY INSPIRED BY LEGENDS

Many of the tracks were born after a significant encounter with none other than Armand Van Helden. After a performance in Dublin, where the legendary DJ signed X-Coast’s arm, the moment became a catalyst for a creative explosion.

“We had instructed the vessel never to wash the arm again, because such scribblings by a legendary music craftsman bring immense power to the bearer,” X-Coast recounts with humor and reverence. “As a result, 31 heaters, 53 belters, 26 bangers, and 14 stompers were crafted—these are the best 9 creations.”

THE ART OF REMIXING: CRAFTING THE X-COAST GROOVE

X-Coast’s ability to remix hits has garnered him widespread attention in the electronic music world. His takes on Shygirl’s 4eva and DJ Gigola’s La Batteria are standout examples of his creative process, one that involves identifying, extracting, and manipulating elements from the original recordings to build the quintessential X-Coast groove.

“The X effect—a process of identifying, extracting and manipulating a sample from the original recording in order to achieve an X-Coast groove. As a result, a portal to the island is activated. Sometimes it’s as simple as repeating a part of a vowel of the vocal track,” he explains.

His remix work, much like his original productions, has a distinctive touch, often transporting listeners to the enigmatic island that fuels his artistry. “Both of these originals were hits already, but also both of the artists are friends and supporters of the island since the early years when the first contacts were made. They knew which originals would work and what to expect after the treatment.”

MOMENTS ON THE ROAD: HUMILITY, HUMOR, AND CONNECTION

X-Coast’s live performances are nothing short of legendary, not just for the music but for the unpredictable moments that unfold.

“Haha, like that time I played the main room at fabric for the first time and the island made me experiment a little with the track selection which resulted in emptying the whole floor. Or that time the island made me steal a bunch of beer from DC10 during Circoloco because they thought the prices there were through the roof,”

X-Coast’s stories reveal a sense of humility, playfulness, and a deep connection with his audience. It’s this mix of humor and spontaneity that makes his shows unforgettable.

His upcoming tour, which includes a packed schedule for ADE, promises more of these unique moments. While X-Coast remains tight-lipped about specific details, it’s clear that something special is brewing.

“Ah yes, we’re cooking something special on Thursday during ADE. They won’t allow me to say more for now. That week is gonna be packed with shows.”

The live shows are made even more vibrant by the X-Clones, diehard fans who dress up like X-Coast, and the quirky tradition of bringing hair clippers to the stage to give spontaneous haircuts.

“People love a good show in general, or anything that’s gonna spice things up during a set—it adds to the performance. But where would we be without the X-Clones and the X-Tribe—great things happen when all these energies collide and these folx want to be a part of it. Fedoras have become quite a common thing at X-Coast shows this year—makes everyone look stylish.”

THE HEART OF X-COAST: CONNECTION BEYOND THE MUSIC

At the core of X-Coast’s artistry is a connection with his fans.

“X-Coast island is not there for everyone to see. Those who see it, they understand it and get immersed by it and never want to leave. Those who don’t, well they’ll never understand what they’re missing out on. I don’t think there’s any personality left in this vessel, I am but a mere instrument of materializing X-Coast’s will on planet Earth.”

The island is alive, ever-evolving, and so is X-Coast. From quirky stage antics to immersive dancefloor experiences, there’s always an element of surprise.

Ultimately, The Riviera Collection is more than a collection of tracks—it’s a treasure trove for DJs who know how to wield it.

“In the hands of a skilled DJ, these are artifacts of immense power. Use them wisely.” Each track is a carefully crafted weapon, ready to ignite dancefloors around the world.

With future projects on the horizon and more tours to come, X-Coast’s journey is far from over. Whether remixing, performing, or producing, he remains a faithful representative of the island, channeling its will through every beat. “We shall see what the future holds,” he says, leaving us with a sense of anticipation for what’s next in the X-Coast saga.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo: Capture

JESSE MAAS

- Photo: Renzo Steffens

Jesse Maas, a rising star in the world of electronic music, has steadily carved out his niche in the vibrant house music scene. With his roots in the Netherlands, Jesse has quickly garnered attention for his ability to merge diverse subgenres, delivering sets that are both dynamic and versatile. Known for his consistent output, Maas has worked with labels like Shall Not Fade, LOCUS, Yoyaku and Solid Grooves, constantly refining his craft while fostering collaborations that bring out his playful yet polished sound. His blend of deep, groovy house with high-energy tracks has made him a staple at clubs and festivals alike, with performances that never fail to create a lasting impact on the dancefloor.

Beyond his DJ sets and relentless production output, Jesse is an artist who thrives on collaboration. He believes that working alongside other creatives allows him to tap into new energies, pushing the boundaries of his sound. Whether in the studio or performing B2B sets, Jesse’s approach is all about exchanging ideas, capturing moments of spontaneity, and turning them into something special. This openness to experimentation has not only enriched his own music but also cemented him as a mentor and advocate for emerging talent in the scene. In a world where house music is constantly evolving, Jesse Maas is both a student and a future mentor, continually pushing forward while staying true to his roots.

“Recently, I released an EP with Litmus on Shall Not Fade, which was an especially inspiring collaboration for me. The EP consists of four original tracks, each with its own story. What made this collaboration unique is that we worked entirely with machines, like drum machines, synthesizers, and our own recorded vocals. It felt like the music came together effortlessly, in a pure, organic flow. Working with machines sparked my creativity on a completely different level. The process felt like a constant jam session, where we exchanged ideas. There was a lot of laughter in the studio. The playful atmosphere removed any pressure, allowing us to experiment freely and without hesitation. The collaboration mainly evoked feelings of freedom and joy, which deeply enriched my creative process. It was a reminder of how important it is to have fun in what you do, and how that directly influences the music you create.”

This creative freedom translates perfectly to Jesse’s B2B sets, where he thrives on the unexpected and the excitement of improvisation. For Jesse, playing alongside another DJ is all about synergy and spontaneity, allowing the moment and the crowd to dictate the journey.

“One of the most thrilling aspects of playing a B2B set is the unpredictability of what your partner will bring to the table. You never know what tracks they’ve selected, and when they drop something that works perfectly on the dancefloor, it gives me a real energy boost. It pushes me to dig for the perfect track to complement or elevate the vibe. It’s almost like a game—one person might drop a banger, and the other responds with a deeper, more nuanced tune, and through that interplay, a story starts to unfold”.

Playing a B2B, rather than a competition means total collaboration for Jesse

“The magic of a B2B set isn’t about competing to see who can play the hardest track; it’s about the energy exchange between you, your partner, and the crowd. We challenge each other in a playful way, creating a dynamic flow where we respond to the moment and the audience’s reaction. This balance of synergy and improvisation is what makes each B2B set feel unique and exciting.”

Jesse’s collaborative spirit has led to unexpected moments of creative growth. Working with fellow artists has opened up new pathways for him, sparking ideas and influencing his production style in ways he never anticipated. His interaction with machines like the MC-505 has been a game-changer in his creative process.

“One moment that really stands out is my first experience with the MC-505. I was collaborating with Litmus who was jamming on the machine, and to me, it looked complex, so many knobs and faders. But the sounds coming out of it were insane. I immediately asked, ‘Yo, teach me how to use this beast.’ From that moment on, my workflow completely changed. I started making music I never could have created with just using Ableton. That experience opened up a whole new world for me, and I became curious about what other machines were out there. There are so many incredible tools that can help you create unique sounds. For example, my entire EP for Enzo Siragusa’s label LOCUS was made using hardware. Every sound came from a machine, which gave the tracks a raw sound I wouldn’t have achieved otherwise.”

For Jesse, the joy of making music extends beyond personal achievement. He is deeply passionate about helping others, sharing with emerging producers, and spreading what he knows with humility and kindness .

“Mentoring and helping upcoming producers is something I want to become more passionate about. I’ve always been someone who likes to share knowledge and experiences, and if I can help someone who’s truly dedicated and shows they want it, I’m down. I have helped emerging artists to pitch their music to labels, mentioning their names to promoters, and getting them on a line-up. I’ve given feedback on their tracks, shared advice, and spent time in the studio with them. Seeing others succeed in their journey gives me a real energy boost. Sharing = Caring.”

Balancing his diverse influences within house music is another area where Jesse thrives. He embraces the freedom to explore different sounds, seamlessly blending subgenres in both his productions and live sets.

“It really depends on where I’m playing, but one memory that stands out is a show in Zurich at a club called Frieda’s Buxe. It’s a ‘no phones, just vibes’ kind of place, and

every DJ gets to play an extended set, which gave me the chance to dig deeper into my record collection, the freedom to play across different styles. I love to read the room and respond to what’s happening, which is why I don’t stick to just one sound. Whether it’s deeper, groovier house or more high-energy tracks, I blend these influences based on the vibe in the moment. It’s this feeling of freedom that allows me to create a journey rather than just playing one specific genre.”

To maintain his prolific output—releasing 5 to 6 EPs and singles a year—Jesse has developed a strong creative routine. This involves a careful balance of mental clarity, physical health, and maintaining a fast-paced workflow to keep his ideas flowing.

“For me, the key is having a clear mind and minimizing stress. I thrive in a positive environment where everyone is happy and motivated. When that’s the case, I can sometimes create 3 to 5 tracks in a week. To keep my mind clear, I prioritize daily exercise. I do weight training and, when the waves are good, I love to surf. Not only does this help me physically, but it also refreshes my mind and keeps my creativity flowing. Another important aspect is the need for speed in my workflow. When I’m in the zone and the music is sounding good, I keep the momentum going and move on to the next idea. I find that if I care too much about how something should sound or get caught up in perfectionism, I can lose my creative spark and inspiration. I focus on going with the flow and letting the music evolve naturally, which allows me to stay productive and generate new ideas.”

Jesse’s collaborations with labels have played a significant role in his career, and he values partnerships that feel authentic and aligned with his artistic vision.

“When it comes to working with labels, I find that these connections often develop organically. I usually think about a label when I’m creating or listening to my tracks, as each release carries its own unique story. It’s crucial for me to collaborate with a label that truly understands and supports my music without forcing me to compromise on my style. The timeline for an EP can vary greatly; sometimes it takes a while to finalize everything, while other times I’ll send over 4 to 6 tracks and receive an enthusiastic response like, ‘We have an EP!’ What I value most in these partnerships is the connection, it has to feel right for both parties. When that alignment exists, the process tends to flow much more smoothly.”

Balancing the demands of a thriving music career and a personal life is no easy feat, but Jesse’s commitment to well-being and strong relationships keeps him grounded.

“Balancing my music career with my personal life is indeed a constant challenge, but I’ve found ways to maintain that equilibrium. Exercise plays a significant role, especially fitness and surfing, which help me stay physically and mentally sharp, providing the energy I

need for my creative work. I also pay attention to my nutrition, eating healthy is important, though I admit it’s not always perfect. Surrounding myself with the right people has been crucial as well. I’ve learned that relationships ebb and flow, and that’s okay. It’s part of life’s natural rhythm. One key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of communication. I used to be someone who kept things to myself, but since I started talking to someone regularly, I’ve gained clarity on what I truly want in both my work and personal life. I highly recommend this to everyone! Sharing thoughts and feelings is invaluable, as it creates space for growth and self-discovery.”

Jesse Maas is a true embodiment of what it means to be an artist committed to growth, creativity, and community. His approach to music is thoughtful yet spontaneous, blending technical expertise with a deep sense of playfulness that shines through in his productions and performances. As he continues to explore new sounds and collaborations, Jesse’s journey is one to watch, a reminder that the best music often comes from those willing to take risks and share their passion with others.

He is not only a brilliant DJ and producer but also a mentor and innovator in the house music scene. His willingness to embrace collaboration, experiment with hardware, and push his creative limits has earned him respect from peers and fans alike. As he looks ahead, Jesse remains grounded by his commitment to mental and physical well-being, a balance that allows him to stay sharp and continuously evolve.

For me, writing about Jesse Maas was an inspiring journey into the mind of a modern artist who seamlessly blends work and life. His honesty, passion, and dedication are infectious, and his insights into the creative process have left me with a deep appreciation for the artistry behind every track. Whether it’s jamming with machines in the studio or playing a B2B set, Jesse Maas has shown that the key to success is finding joy in the process, and that’s a lesson we can all learn from.

Photo: Rachel Ecclestone

Text by: Sergio Niño

MARCO TROPEANO

REFLECTIONS ON HIS IBIZA DEBUT AND FUTURE ASPIRATIONS

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- Photo: Kekko Sicignano

Marco Tropeano is a dynamic force in the electronic music scene, known for his infectious energy and genuine passion for connecting with audiences. Hailing from Naples, Italy, he has carved out a distinctive niche for himself through a unique blend of sounds that echo his diverse influences. Marco’s journey began in the vibrant nightlife of his hometown, where he honed his craft, developing an innate ability to read the crowd and create unforgettable experiences. His recent debut at Amnesia in Ibiza, a highlight of his career, is a testament to his dedication and artistry, showcasing not just his talent but also his deep love for the music he creates.

Beyond the decks, Marco is a thoughtful and introspective artist who values the relationships he has built within the industry. He approaches each performance as a celebration of life and a chance to share joy with his fans. For Marco, music is more than just a profession; it’s a way to express his emotions and connect with others on a deeper level. As he looks to the future, he remains committed to exploring new sounds and collaborating with diverse artists, all while staying true to the love and passion that drive him. Through his journey, Marco Tropeano inspires others to embrace their own paths, reminding us that at the heart of every beat lies a story waiting to be told.

Marco reflected on the emotions he experienced leading up to his Ibiza debut at Amnesia for Metamorfosi, stating,

“Playing at Amnesia terrace for Metamorfosi was literally one for the books for me! In my opinion, Amnesia is the best club on the island, for the sound system, for the structure of the club and for the strong contact that it’s easy to establish with the crowd! When I put the first track at the beginning of my set, I felt immediately in my comfort zone because the booth is studied in detail and it’s definitely easier to do a big performance when everything is in its place! The adrenaline I felt was unbelievable… and I can’t wait to feel these emotions again.”

His experiences in Naples and early influences shaped his performance

“Playing for a long time in my city and all around the world let me feel relaxed and comfortable during the performances. I didn’t feel pressure or anything else because when I put the first step in the booth, I felt that place as the place I have to be. During my career, I learned that the most important feature during a DJ set is to establish a connection between me and my crowd in front of me! During my set, I was constantly focused on the mixing, but I always looked up at my people and smiled… because my passion is also my work right now, and what I can do is just being grateful!”

Marco explained his strategies to connect with the crowd in a high-energy environment like Amnesia, emphasizing the importance of eye contact and smiles,

“As I said before, the connection with the crowd is based on the eye contact… I think that through your eyes, you can convey your emotions, and a second thing could be

your smile… showing how you love what you do could be a way to convey good vibes and energy to the crowd.”

Reflecting on the aftermath of his debut, the positive feedback he received was amazing,

“Fortunately after both the performances, all the team, all my friends, and lots of fans congratulated me for the DJ set and for the love I put during the performance. What I learned after these experiences is that the only way to continue to play on stages like this is to give emotions and make sure that the people will remember your performance in the future.”

MARCO´S MUSIC

Looking back at his discography, Marco identified “No me importa” as the release that had the most significant impact on his career, explaining,

“It’s the first track supported by all top DJs of the scene and even today it’s played by lots of DJs after 3 years from the release. After this track, I made 2 tracks more that had the same impact on the music world: ‘Libertad’ released on Cuttin Headz, and ‘Curame’ released on Abracadabra. These tracks made sure that my name is out there!”

Discussing his creative process, he described it as a blend of spontaneity and inspiration,

“About inspiration during the production process, I think it’s something purely coincidental and personal! For me, I probably could be inspired while I’m listening to music in the car, at home, or in a club, but at the same time, I could start to work on a project without any inspiration… and during the process, I start to be inspired… when I’m lucky! Other times, I’m completely uninspired, so the best thing to do is to close the laptop and go out for a walk!”

“I think that having only one sound is pretty reductive! I have my style for sure as everyone, but periodically I experience new genres and new sounds. I think it’s because during your life, you will be in different mental and soul situations, so I love making new experiments. Sometimes relating with other artists could influence me, opening my mind to new genres.”

When it comes to gauging the impact of his music on listeners, Marco expressed the deep connection he feels with his fans, saying,

“When you produce music, and your music comes to lots of people, they listen to your music several times. This involves that your music could be associated with moments of your fans’ lives. Some fans frequently explain to me that they connect a track by me to a specific moment of their life, happy moments or sad moments, it doesn’t matter… it just matters that with my music I support my fans in some moments of their lives.”

Looking ahead, Marco shared his excitement for upco

ming projects, particularly a significant collaboration,

“I have lots of music ready to be released, and lots of upcoming releases. One of them I think could be the most important goal of my career so far… it will be a collab with a superstar from Latin music… an incredible singer, and it will be released on one of the most important labels in the USA! I can’t say anything more! I’m making lots of projects on my own label too, so 2025 will be so noisy.”

He reflected on the evolution of his sound, stating,

“Certainly, my music is a little bit different from my early years because I increased my techniques and changed my soul due to experiences! For this reason, I can’t wait to have new experiences so I can move my sound to new horizons.”

Finally, Marco shared his long-term goals, expressing a desire to focus on music and relationships within the industry,

“Lots of my projects and goals are so numerous. There are so many artists and so many labels I’d love to work with, so I can’t give you precise names… I just can say that my projects and my goals are to be focused on the music, make lots of new good music, spend time in my studio, increase relationships with people from the industry, and I’m sure that good things will come to me… just believe it!”

In reflecting on his journey, Marco Tropeano’s heartfelt passion for music shines through, illuminating the profound connection he strives to establish with his audience. His recent debut at Amnesia wasn’t just a milestone; it was a manifestation of years of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of love and music. Each performance offers him an opportunity to share a piece of himself, transforming the dance floor into a space where emotions intertwine with rhythm. Marco’s approach to creativity—embracing spontaneity while honoring his roots—speaks to the authenticity that defines his artistry.

Looking ahead, Marco is fueled by a blend of ambition and gratitude, eager to explore new horizons while nurturing the relationships that have shaped his career. His desire to connect with others through music remains a driving force, and he sees every new project as a chance to share joy and inspiration. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Marco hopes to leave a legacy grounded in love, reminding us all that, at its core, music is a universal language that binds us together. His journey is just beginning, and with every beat, he invites us to join him in celebrating the moments that make life truly special.

Text by: Sergio Niño

MARCO TROPEANO

Photo: Kekko Sicignano

La Fleur, a luminary in the electronic music scene, has carved a unique niche for herself over nearly two decades. Known for her deep, resonant soundscapes that blend the organic with the electronic, La Fleur’s artistry transcends conventional boundaries. With the release of her debut album, Väsen, she invites listeners into a world that reflects her personal and musical evolution. Her career has not only been marked by her commitment to authenticity but also by her ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced industry, resulting in a standout back catalogue of solo releases, collaborations with artists like Sasha and Kerri Chandler, and the launch of her own label, now 10 years in, Power Plant.

In a landscape rife with fleeting trends and egos, La Fleur stands as a beacon of integrity and creativity, taking her emotive soundscapes and sets worldwide inc. to fabric, Creamfields, Awakenings, Watergate Berlin, Printworks London… Her journey has been shaped by a myriad of experiences, from her formative years in Sweden to her dynamic tenure in Berlin’s vibrant nightlife. She’s since returned to her roots, moving back to Sweden which has also influenced her music. This profile delves into the story behind Väsen, her longevity in the industry, and how her personal experiences enrich her artistry.

NEW ALBUM DETAILS: THE ESSENCE OF VÄSEN

“Since I started my musical journey, releasing an album has been on my list of goals and dreams. Releasing my debut album Väsen felt like the right culmination of everything I’ve experienced and absorbed throughout my musical journey.

The decision to release Väsen now comes from a place of confidence and a feeling that I’m truly ready to offer something more introspective. The timing feels aligned with my growth not just as an artist, but as a person who’s constantly exploring new ways to express myself. It’s a milestone for me, yes, but more importantly, it’s an invitation for others to connect with that deeper essence of my music.”

La Fleur reflects on the significance of her new release. The title, which translates to ‘essence’ or ‘spirit’ in Swedish, embodies both her musical identity and the energy she has infused into this collection. She continues,

“Over the years, I’ve explored so many facets of electronic music—through DJing, production, and running my label Power Plant—but an LP allows for a deeper expression, a more holistic narrative that’s difficult to capture in individual tracks or EPs.”

“Väsen,” she elaborates, “represents both the core of my musical identity and the energy I’ve channeled into this body of work. The album blends organic elements, like field recordings and atmospheric textures, with the pulsing rhythms, melodies, and basslines that define my sound. In a way, it’s a mirror of my personal evolution—balancing the organic with the electronic, the grounded with the ethereal.”

The decision to release the album now was a product of her personal growth and readiness to offer something more introspective. Each track, she explains, has its unique narrative:

“For instance, ‘Chian’ and the title track ‘Väsen’ have distinct themes.”

As she describes “Chian,” La Fleur shares, “I was inspired by the sense of tension and release, both in music and in life. The track has this driving energy, a pulse that builds and evolves. It’s reflective of a time when I was balancing a lot—both personally and professionally—and learning how to embrace that intensity.”

In contrast, the title track embodies a more contemplative spirit.

“When I was creating Väsen, I was thinking about the spirits and unseen forces that exist in nature—the ones you feel but can’t always see. It’s that invisible energy we can’t quite define but know is there.”

LONGEVITY IN THE INDUSTRY: A BALANCING ACT

With nearly two decades in the electronic music scene, La Fleur has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. She attributes her longevity to a blend of authenticity and a willingness to evolve.

“I think the key to longevity is a combination of staying true to yourself while remaining open to change,” she asserts.

“That said, it’s a tremendous amount of work, dedication, and sometimes sacrifice too. From when I started playing records and producing music, I’ve always tried to maintain a clear sense of who I am as an artist, focusing on authenticity in my sound and my creative vision.”

“I also believe in the importance of evolution. Music, like life, is constantly shifting, and I’ve embraced that by exploring new sounds, technologies, and collaborations throughout my career. Whether it’s collaborating with influential artists or running my label, Power Plant, I see it as a continuous learning process. I’ve always remained curious, and that curiosity keeps me excited about what’s next. My fans are incredibly loyal and help me stay centred and keep creating. Knowing that my music has made an impact on others is incredibly fulfilling and inspires me to keep going, regardless of the industry’s ebbs and flows. Ultimately, it’s about being adaptable but also deeply connected to your core as an artist—staying passionate and evolving, but always anchored in something genuine.”

BALANCING THE DEMANDS OF HER CAREER WITH MOTHERHOOD HAS BEEN A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY FOR LA FLEUR.

“Both roles require so much energy and presence, and I’ve had to learn how to manage my time and priorities in ways I never had to before. The key for me has been finding balance—understanding when to give myself fully to my family and when to dive deep into my music”.

“Becoming a mother opened up a new universe inside of me, and profoundly influenced my artistic expression and approach to music. It’s given me a new perspective on time and the importance of being present, which has translated into how I create. I’ve found that I’m more focused in the studio now, making the most of the time I have. Motherhood also brings out a depth

of emotion that’s difficult to put into words. The experience of unconditional love, the challenges, the growth—all of that has found its way into my music. There’s a greater sense of purpose now, both in what I create and why I create it.”

This balance has enriched her creative process, allowing her to channel the depth of emotion that comes with motherhood into her music.

Her tenure as a DJ has included remarkable collaborations and performances at prestigious venues, including a long-standing residency at Watergate and a notable remix for Kerri Chandler and collaboration with Sasha. In light of the pandemic, she returned to Sweden to work as head of operations for pharmaceutical services at one of the biggest emergency hospitals in Stockholm, reflecting her commitment to community and health.

“My fans are incredibly loyal and help me stay centered and keep creating. Knowing that my music has made an impact on others is incredibly fulfilling and inspires me to keep going, regardless of the industry’s ebbs and flows,” she shares.

EMBRACING HOLISTIC LIVING AND NATURAL CONNECTIONS

La Fleur’s recent move back to Sweden has allowed her to reconnect with her roots and the natural world.

“Moving back to Sweden after more than a decade in Berlin has been a transformative experience for me, both personally and creatively. Berlin was an incredible place to immerse myself in the electronic music scene, and it shaped me in so many ways. But returning to Sweden has allowed me to reconnect with something deeper—my roots, my sense of home, and, most importantly, nature. Being surrounded by the forests, lakes, and landscapes I grew up with has had a profound impact on my creative process”. she expresses.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of her homeland, she finds inspiration in the rhythms of nature, which now inform her artistic process.

“Nature offers me a sense of calm and space that’s hard to find in a bustling city like Berlin. It gives me time to reflect, which has brought a new depth to my music. There’s a certain rhythm to nature—the cycles, the quiet moments, the energy shifts—that have found their way into my productions.”

“Something that I’m diving deep into at the moment is how to incorporate healing frequencies in my music, for example using 639Hz in my productions, to add loving energy of the heart and playing that track peak time for a dancefloor, will be magic”.

This just shows how much in sync she is with her vocation as healer. Still, her healing intentionality doesn’t limit to what she does with her music. Her passion for

medicinal herbs and holistic living is deeply intertwined with her creative vision.

“My interest in a holistic lifestyle has been with me since I was a child. Inspiration came from my family. My grandmother being vegan and very interested in herbal plant medicine was something I found very fascinating. My grandfather was a priest, but his calling to service came from a deep curiosity about the spiritual world. My father is a doctor and both my parents are very involved in the environment and sustainability. Adding to that, I grew up in the countryside spending most of my childhood in the forest”.

“I myself studied to a master in Pharmaceutical science which is basically boiling down from my heritage. So I’ve always been fascinated by the power of nature—how it heals, restores, and offers balance—and that philosophy deeply influences my creative process”.

La Fleur’s journey as an artist is a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music. Through her debut album Väsen, she invites listeners into a world shaped by personal experiences, natural connections, and a commitment to holistic living.

I am struck by the profound intertwining of her personal and artistic lives. Her commitment and growth resonates deeply, particularly in an industry often dominated by fleeting trends and external pressures. As she navigates the complexities of motherhood while nurturing her artistic vision, La Fleur exemplifies how embracing one’s true self can lead to profound artistic expression.

Her ability to find beauty in both the chaos of life and the serenity of nature serves as a reminder that our experiences, no matter how diverse, can be harmonized into something truly extraordinary.

Moreover, La Fleur’s story highlights the importance of resilience in the face of challenges. Returning to her roots in Sweden amidst the pandemic was not just a physical relocation; it was a rediscovery of self, an opportunity to reconnect with her passions and the natural world that nourished her creativity. This journey illustrates that even in difficult times, there lies the potential for growth and transformation. Her dedication to a holistic lifestyle and her connection to nature is inspiring, showing us that taking the time to nurture ourselves and our environment can enrich our artistry in ways we might not immediately perceive.

Ultimately, La Fleur is more than just a talented DJ and producer; she is a beacon of authenticity and a source of inspiration for those navigating their own paths in life and music. Her journey encourages us to embrace our stories, remain true to ourselves, and allow our unique experiences to shape our artistry. In an ever-changing world, La Fleur reminds us of the enduring power of connection—to ourselves, to our roots, and to the communities we create through our art.

La Fleur’s album ‘Väsen’ is out now on [PIAS] Électronique.

Text by: Sergio Niño

S.A.M.

110 mixmag.es - Photo: Rianon Vran, Make-Up and hair: Olivia Nwachukwu, Styles from Soba32

SILENCE AND REBELLION

Known for their dynamic live performances, S.A.M. has established themselves as a force in the scene, where they seamlessly blend ambient soundscapes with pulsating rhythms. Their upcoming live performance in 2025 promises to be a transformative experience, inviting audiences to not only dance but also reflect on the deeper connections between music and emotion. As a firm believer in the partnership between music and silence, S.A.M. crafts experiences that resonate on a personal level, drawing listeners into a world where every beat carries significance.

At the heart of S.A.M.’s artistry lies a commitment to inclusivity and self-expression, making their music a vehicle for rebellion against societal norms. Recognizing the club scene as a historically rich space for marginalized voices, S.A.M. aims to honor this tradition through their work, creating environments where everyone feels welcomed and celebrated. By fostering a collective experience that transcends individual identities, they continue to reshape the narrative of what it means to connect through music and more importantly, through silence.

“This is perhaps the most important dynamic of my life from the way I try to live in tune with myself and ensure what I do is honest, to the way I make music by only adding sounds I feel are both worthy and serve a purpose to the silence surrounding it. Groove isn’t maxing out the syncopation effectively shoving sounds into every space.

The space gives strength to the sounds. Without the quiet parts it would just all become noisy and annoying. Silence is the source of energy. I have always needed my space. Since I was a kid I would spend a lot of time in solitude, just being outside or in my room. I don’t remember ever feeling bored. I would meditate in the forest in my teens and write poetry here and there as well as play and record music. I think this solitude has always stayed with me as a very important inner sanctuary”.

“I can always visit this inner room wherever I am, but only if I am still – only if I am silent. And I always feel so energized with optimism and peace after checking in with myself. In my music, I find these moments of stillness often by redaction. I often have to delete entire layers, and sometimes even the original idea, to reduce it to the essentials for the track to communicate “that” feeling more confidently and with more dynamic range. I also feel that certain sounds, like pads, can invite the listener to be still. Pads have this duvet effect on me, where I feel comfortable and safe, warm, and enter a deeper emotional tone. I think with the right balance between silence and sound within a single bar, it can become a track in itself. That’s why much of electronic dance music’s loop foundation is so appealing to me I think”.

As we explore S.A.M.’s journey, we find an artist dedicated to pushing boundaries, embracing silence, and championing the power of sound to inspire and unite.

They state, “Music is not just about sound; it’s the partner of silence. It’s in the spaces between the beats where true emotion resides. I believe that embracing silence allows the audience to connect more deeply with the music. My goal is to create a space where people can not only dance but also reflect and feel.”

This profound understanding of silence as an integral part of music enhances the experience for audiences, allowing them to delve into their own emotions and stories while immersed in sound.

“I think silence can be very present in the way a track is mixed and mastered. Silence can be valued and respected in a track that grooves the right way. Silence can become present when we let ourselves reach new depths of listening. When playing live I think it’s important to do it your way. Let live (performance) reflect your life. You don’t have to be ready to change your show at any whim of the audience if you feel your message is as clear as it is. If the means to communicate your message is through tweaking 10 synths, three drum machines, and a modular synthesizer then it doesn’t mean it’s any more honest than a person expressing themselves using a laptop. I would also say that live sets are interesting from a different angle than pure entertainment or performance”.

The anticipation for S.A.M.’s live performance is palpable, and they are well aware of the power of a shared musical experience.

“When I’m on stage, I’m not just playing tracks; I’m inviting people into a conversation,” they explain.

This ethos shapes their performances, where every beat, drop, and pause is meticulously crafted to create a collective journey. Their ability to read the energy of the crowd, to weave in and out of moments of high energy and introspection, exemplifies their skill as a performer. As they put it,

“The energy from the crowd fuels my creativity. It’s a shared experience that transcends individual identities; when we gather on the dance floor, we become a collective force. I want to amplify that connection in my set, making sure everyone feels included and celebrated.”

S.A.M. recognizes the historical significance of the club scene as a space for rebellion and self-expression. Clubs have long been a refuge for those seeking freedom from societal norms, and S.A.M. embraces this tradition wholeheartedly. They reflect on the role of clubs, stating,

“The club scene and both house and techno are indeed rebellious in their origin but it’s also a force for liberation. I think most people associate rebellion with an immature teenage attitude and miss the point that rebellion ensures one’s autonomy. The ‘no’ precedes any authentic ‘yes’. That’s also why I don’t agree that the club scene primarily is escapist, as so many have described it. I think most people go out to listen to House and Techno because it feels liberating and not primarily to escape their nine-to-five. It has to be said that house and techno are all Black music. I think the scene currently to a large degree has forgotten that fact and heritage if not completely unaware of it”.

“Like so many other musical diamonds originating in the Black community (blues, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, disco, house, electro, and techno), house and techno have been capitalized on by a white industry that doesn’t care about its origins. I am of course white which brings

me to a distinction that I think is very important, which is between cultural appropriation and cultural respect, between ripping off genius and paying homage to that genius. I think there’s a big difference. One steals while the other honors and elevates”.

This understanding not only informs their musical choices but also shapes the atmosphere they cultivate during their sets, inviting attendees to engage with the music and each other in meaningful ways. Still, With genres constantly evolving and boundaries being blurred, the act of playing with silence and space in music has changed over time. About this S.A.M reflects

“Just from a technical point of view, the high fidelity in production, rendering, conversion, and playback has reached new levels. I don’t equate new with better though, just like I will always value the ear more than whatever monitors you have in your studio. I love listening to music on my shitty old Philips stereo system from the early 2000s (the kind that can load three CDs at once and has a tuner as well as two cassette decks). I love it because the sound gives me a feeling. Most of the popular music from that era, which I still think sounds crazy good, was meant to sound great on such a commercially available system”.

Of course, it cannot possibly reveal the detail or space of a modern-day hi-fi system, but it makes me feel a certain way. So to answer your question I think it’s become increasingly possible to tell a sonic story in a lot more fidelity detail, but I don’t think at all that this is synonymous with a stronger feeling in the listener”.

“Currently, it seems like a mainstream house and techno scene has evolved which doesn’t seem interested in the importance of silence. When a night at the club consists of constant bass heavy drops, snare rolls, and vocals screaming something like “I’m Losing It”, then I don’t think it’s been a very inspiring or dynamic night. I would find it extremely exhausting – and I’m already exhausted. Relax. I do think that this exhausting commercial part of the scene will face a Dubstep or EDM death and get replaced by another profitable exploitation, but underneath there will always be leaders who keep it real and dare to resist the pressure of giving people their expected fix and instead provide a spiritual sonic prescription. This is where my focus is. Where I hope it’s going”.

Exploring the connection between music and silence, S.A.M. emphasizes the importance of moments of stillness within their performances.

“In a world filled with noise, it’s crucial to find those moments of peace—music gives voice to what silence cannot express,” they note.

This philosophy allows them to create an immersive experience where the audience can engage with both the music and their own thoughts. S.A.M. recognizes that in the fast-paced world we live in, taking a moment to pause and reflect can be revolutionary in itself.

The evolution of their sound is deeply intertwined with their personal journey. They have crafted a unique style that blends various genres, drawing from am-

bient soundscapes and pulsing rhythms to create something distinctly their own.

“My music reflects my experiences and the world around me. I want to share that journey with others, to invite them to explore their own narratives through my sound,” S.A.M. explains.

This personal connection to their art makes each performance a reflection of their identity and a celebration of shared experiences among their audience.

S.A.M. also embraces the notion of inclusivity in their work. They are committed to creating a welcoming environment within the club scene, where diverse voices and identities can be celebrated.

“Music should be a space for everyone, regardless of background or identity,” they assert.

This dedication to inclusivity not only shapes their music but also informs how they interact with their audience, ensuring that everyone feels valued and empowered in the space they create.

As they gear up for their 2025 live performance, S.A.M. is keenly aware of the responsibility that comes with being an artist. They understand the impact of their work on the audience and strive to make each experience transformative.

“I want people to leave my sets feeling something profound, whether it’s joy, sadness, or reflection. If I can create that space for them, then I’ve done my job,” they say.

This commitment to authenticity and emotional connection speaks to the heart of what it means to be a performer in today’s music landscape.

Looking ahead, S.A.M.’s vision for their career continues to evolve. They express a desire to push boundaries and explore new territories in music, saying,

“I believe in the power of innovation. Music is constantly changing, and I want to be at the forefront of that evolution.”

This drive to innovate is not just about personal growth; it’s about contributing to a larger dialogue within the music community, encouraging others to experiment and redefine what music can be.

As we delve into S.A.M.’s world, it becomes clear that their artistry is about more than just rhythms and beats; it’s about creating a space where stories can be shared, identities can be celebrated, and silences can be respected. They are shaping the future of live electronic performances by honouring the past and fostering inclusivity in their artistry.

“I came from a church community where you better be straight and cis-gendered and it wasn’t until I found electronic music that I found a strong non judgemental community of all ages, colors, and genders. Here I didn’t feel judged. I think you can tell if a place is part of the resistance or not. You can feel it. I think there’s –to use a church term – something prophetic about the real scene.

Photo: Rianon Vran, Make-Up and hair: Olivia Nwachukwu, Styles from Soba32 - mixmag.es

There’s a promise in the foundation of our community that stands in direct opposition to the dividing political messages of the media and politicians today. A promise of inclusivity, that you are welcome. That discrimination is death, and love is life. If you arrive in a space and you don’t feel that safety or that inclusivity, if all artists or personnel or music in the ether is white or male, then no, you haven’t found a place of resistance in line with the origins of our culture. If you want to play in the venue or video stream wearing a Keffiyeh in solidarity with the oppressed in Palestine but are told you can’t, then you know this isn’t a place of resistance but rather one that seeks to capitalize on a white or pink washed fake appropriation of the real scene. I think it’s important to discern conscientiously where you go out”.

Not all places with a beat will liberate you or are for a liberated you. I do think however that there are people and spaces out there that dare to resist, which are truly in one way or another rebellious to certain aspects of toxic culture. I think the challenge however is for spaces to align themselves with the intersectionality of the various issues.

You resist discrimination better when you not only protest for trans rights but see the interconnectedness with colonialism and protest the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians due to settler-colonialist imperialist expansion. I also don’t want to come at people with a lifted finger, but as a reminder of our scene’s birth out of an experience of oppression and liberation, and its inherent call to do what you can to resist oppressive policies and systems, through our community’s original radical spirit of collective liberation”.

On a personal note, I find S.A.M.’s approach to music deeply inspiring. Their ability to weave together elements of silence and rebellion in the club scene resonates on a personal level, reminding me of the powerful role music plays in our lives. In times of turmoil, music becomes a refuge, a space where we can confront our fears and celebrate our joys. S.A.M. embodies this ethos beautifully, and as they prepare for 2025, I can’t help but feel excited about the journeys they will take us on.

Ultimately, S.A.M. serves as a reminder that music is a profound partner in our lives, one that allows us to navigate the complexities of existence. Their commitment to honouring silence while celebrating community is a revolutionary act in itself, inspiring us all to dance to the beat of our own stories. As the anticipation builds for their next live performance, it’s clear that S.A.M. is not just an artist to watch; they are a movement in the making, guiding us through sound, silence, and everything in between.

Photo: Rianon Vran, Make-Up and hair: Olivia Nwachukwu, Styles from Soba32 - mixmag.es

Text by: Sergio Niño

AEXHY

THE UNTAMED IMAGINATION OF AEXHY

- Photo: Nick Scholey

Known for his genre-bending productions and emotionally charged performances, Aexhy has carved out a unique space for himself, where the line between music and personal expression becomes beautifully blurred. His journey, much like the fantastical world he creates through sound, is one of perseverance, deep introspection, and a steadfast belief in the power of music to unite people.

For Aexhy, his role in the music industry resembles the character of Naruto from the anime series of the same name. Aexhy started out misunderstood, often dismissed as someone with ideas too strange or too bold.

“At the beginning, people couldn’t understand what was in my head. They laughed at me and treated me like I was crazy,” he recalls.

But rather than retreating, Aexhy leaned into his perceived eccentricity. Over time, by persistently showcasing his art and honing his craft, he won over the doubters. Much like Naruto’s journey from outcast to hero, Aexhy has built his own following, composed of those who resonate with his “fantastical fairytale worlds.” He sees his role in the music world as a storyteller, crafting a narrative that invites listeners into his universe.

“My story is an honest story, and I think that’s why people around the globe have started believing in me and following my path.”

Aexhy is unafraid to show the world his raw emotions, however complex or difficult they might be. It’s this emotional authenticity that draws people to him and his music, creating a bond between artist and audience that transcends geographical boundaries.

Central to Aexhy’s philosophy is the idea that music should serve the people, not the bank account. This belief was instilled in him early on by his father.

“My dad told me, ‘You can either change something with your music or make money out of it, but you can’t do both.’”

For Aexhy, the choice was clear. He decided to focus on creating change, and from that moment, the pursuit of financial gain was no lon-

ger a factor in his artistic decisions. One of the most profound moments in his career came when he organized his first event in his hometown, a city notorious for stifling new talent and booking the same acts year after year.

“I couldn’t stand it anymore,” Aexhy says, “I stood up for the people of the scene and did my first event, which ended up writing history there. It was a free event, too.”

This act of defiance against the status quo was not just a breakthrough for Aexhy but a statement that music should be inclusive, fresh, and for the people. It was the first of many events where he would unite audiences in an experience that felt deeply personal and revolutionary.

“People often told me that my mixes were too difficult to follow because I wasn’t sticking to one genre,” he admits.

“Having the ability to control and mix different genres is the coolest and most interesting thing you can do.”

His genre-blending technique isn’t about showing off—it’s about pushing the boundaries of what music can do and how it can make people feel. By refusing to follow the rules, Aexhy has created a sound that’s entirely his own, one that takes listeners on an unpredictable, emotional journey.

Aexhy’s passion for music extends beyond the digital world into the physical realm, particularly through vinyl. His first vinyl project, produced by the Berlin-based label and collective DEESTRICTED, historically focused on electronic music, dives into harder styles ranging from techno to hardtechno. The project, which took over a year to complete, was a long process but one that taught him the value of patience.

The album concept features Laze and H369, with additional remixes by Paul Seul (co-founder of the former Casual Gabberz collective and 1/2 of Ascendant Vierge), PAX (an eclectic artist from Argentina), and vp allowed (Deestricted co-founder and label’s curator, who in this case offered his own liquid-style interpretation), making the project even more brilliant and valuable.

The mastering is curated by Johannes Geller, aka Punktmidi, and the artwork was created by Giulio Urbini, co-founder and designer of the collective, who led also the entire brand identity project for the label, developing its iconic black, yellow, and white palette.

“Holding that vinyl in my hands for the first time was overwhelming,” he says. “It was one of the best experiences of my career.”

What makes vinyl special for Aexhy is its tactile nature. It’s something you can hold, feel, and physically connect with, in a way that digital music can’t quite replicate. Working on vinyl has also allowed Aexhy to focus more on the artistic process, letting the team handle the technical aspects while he pours his heart into the music and artwork.

While Aexhy doesn’t have any vinyl releases planned in the near future, his creative spirit shows no signs of slowing down. He’s currently working on an album with Sonny Smiles, where they’ve managed to create what he describes as a “new genre.” This project, along with several upcoming collaborations and features, promises to be another emotional rollercoaster for fans of his deeply personal and raw music.

“I don’t care if something goes viral, I just want to create music.”

For him, music is a form of therapy, a way to express emotions too complex for words. And it’s this relentless focus on authenticity that continues to resonate with listeners, ensuring that Aexhy’s fantastical world will keep expanding, one genre-blending, heart-wrenching track at a time.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo: Nick Scholey

11, 12 & 13, 2025

AZAAD

THE RISING VOICE OF UNDERGROUND FREEDOM

- Photo: Artist Courtesy

Born and based in London, Azaad is making waves as a DJ and producer known for his innovative approach to house music. With a unique blend that incorporates elements of UK Garage, Techno, and Dubstep, he has carved out a niche that reflects his diverse musical influences and personal heritage. Azaad’s journey is marked by an unrelenting commitment to authenticity and a desire to use his platform for social change, making him a standout figure in the contemporary electronic music scene.

In 2024, Azaad solidified his presence by performing at some of the most renowned venues in the UK and beyond, including After Caposile, fabric London, The Loft Manchester, 528 Ibiza, and ADE. Sharing stages with esteemed acts such as Kerri Chandler, Dungeon Meat, Garrett David, Julian Anthony, and Rossi, Azaad’s performances resonate with audiences, showcasing his passion for music and connection with the dance floor.

With the launch of his label, Born 2 Be Free, Azaad is set to redefine the underground music landscape while promoting a message of resistance against oppression through the freedom of music and movement.

“The idea of being born to be free comes from the Persian definition of my name. It was a very fitting name for my label, as it represented me and the music I make. I’m of the belief that artists should be able to express themselves as and when they need to without any boundaries, and I’d like the label to give me and likeminded artists the platform to do that.”

Curating a label involves more than just selecting tracks; it requires a clear vision and a commitment to maintaining artistic integrity. For Azaad, this means looking for specific qualities in the artists and music he chooses to release. He emphasizes the importance of being open-minded in his approach, allowing for a range of sounds and genres to flourish under the Born 2 Be Free banner.

“Not only does it require artistic direction in the music you acquire for the label, but also the overall branding and artwork too. The first three releases on my label will be music from myself, which is easy I guess, as I’m fully in control of shaping the sound of the label. Looking at next year, I’ve already started to listen to tracks from other artists and creating a shortlist. When listening out for new music for the label, I don’t want to be bound by genre or what’s hot at the moment.”

His debut release, The Breakout EP, sold out within hours, an indicator of the high demand for his music and the resonance it has with listeners. Azaad reflects on this experience, recognizing the importance of maintaining quality while meeting audience expectations.

“I was very chuffed. You never know what to expect with a first release on your own label. I was also grateful; records aren’t cheap these days, so for so many people to dip into their pockets and buy it - that meant a lot. Another emotion was confidence in my vision, knowing the music I make and put out is striking the right chords with the people out there.”

In the fast-paced world of electronic music, challenges are inevitable, especially when launching a new label. Azaad shares his experiences with distribution and marketing, highlighting the importance of collaboration in overcoming obstacles.

“Early on we struggled a lot with the designs! It was only until we met with the third designer in the process, Mohamed Hamed. A really talented artist and designer from Tunisia. I let him drive the creative process and he came up with some serious branding and artwork for the releases. Regarding distribution, it’s been pretty plain sailing with Juno; the product manager and operations team do quite well to make sure the momentum is there during each stage.”

Azaad views music as more than entertainment; it serves as a powerful platform for addressing social issues. He is passionate about using his art to evoke change and raise awareness, particularly regarding oppression and resistance.

“I wanted to use Born 2 Be Free and my artist profile as a platform to speak up about oppression and resistance. The underground serves as a great representation of resistance too; we would like musical freedom without the boundaries, red tape, and negative implications that the commercial music industry machine offers.”

His personal experiences shape the messages he conveys through his music, drawing from his Kashmiri heritage and a long-standing awareness of social injustices. Azaad hopes to leverage his platform to support causes close to his heart, integrating these themes into his artistic vision.

“I’m of Kashmiri heritage, so knowing about oppression and colonization isn’t alien to me. I’ve also followed the Palestinian struggle from a young age. My mum took me to protests when I was younger, but I would say it was only the past few years where I was able to fully understand their injustices. It holds a big place in my heart, and I believe it would be the biggest failure as a community if we ignored it and stayed silent.”

Growing up in London has had a profound influence on Azaad’s identity as an artist. The city’s vibrant music scene, rich with diverse cultures, has shaped his musical development and continues to inspire his work.

“I was blessed to be born in a household, in a city where bass-led music took center. My dad was into his soundsystems, so he’d be playing dub and reggae with some serious basslines. I was a bit too young to fully appreciate the UK Garage scene, but I’d hear the classics on pirate radio. Fabric and their filthy Fridays is where I spent my teen years, catching early Skream, Benga, Coki, and Mala unfurl a very new genre called Dubstep.”

The eclectic nature of London’s music culture allows Azaad to draw inspiration from various genres and artists, each contributing to the rich tapestry of sounds that inform his work.

“I love London for this exact reason - it’s a product of different diasporas bringing their culture, food, and music to a densely populated place. Musically, I admire how much the Caribbean community has influenced the sounds that have come out of this city: Jungle, UK Garage, and Dubstep - all genres that I would say influence the sounds that come out of Born 2 Be Free.”

Azaad’s journey as an artist is just beginning, yet his vision and dedication promise a bright future in the electronic music landscape. As he continues to develop his label and craft music that resonates with audiences, his commitment to authenticity and social consciousness will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the scene.

In reflecting on Azaad’s story, it’s clear that he embodies the spirit of a new generation of artists who refuse to be silenced. His journey is a testament to the power of music as a form of resistance and a vehicle for change. As he carves his path, Azaad remains grounded in his beliefs and influences, using his platform to uplift not only himself but also those who share his vision of freedom and expression.

In a world often constrained by expectations and norms, Azaad’s commitment to creating music that speaks to both personal and collective experiences serves as a reminder of the profound impact art can have. His journey inspires many young artists navigating their paths in the complex landscape of electronic music, encouraging them to embrace their identities and use their voices to advocate for change.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo: Artist

LOS SURUBA

ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS LOOKING AT THE STARS

- Photo: Alex Caballero

Los Suruba, the dynamic duo from Madrid, has become synonymous with a unique blend of music, design, and fashion. Their journey began in a digital design classroom, where Delmar and Álvaro connected over their shared passions. They soon discovered that their interests could intertwine in a vibrant creative venture that would transcend traditional boundaries. Today, they are celebrated not only as DJs and producers but also as innovative creators who have left an indelible mark on the electronic music scene.

Their name, Suruba, which translates to “orgy” in Portuguese, perfectly encapsulates their ethos— an exhilarating mix of influences and genres that celebrates diversity and creativity. From their beginnings in a humble studio to launching their own vinyl labels, Suruba and Suruba X, their evolution has been nothing short of remarkable. A pivotal moment in their career came in 2012 when they moved to Ibiza and became residents of the renowned Ants party, managed by Yann Pissenem. This opportunity propelled them into the limelight, allowing them to share their distinctive sound with audiences worldwide.

“We met in Madrid studying Digital Design in 2000, and after finishing our degree, we decided to create a brand that fused our passions: music, design, and fashion. Delmar proposed the name Suruba, which means ‘orgy’ in Portuguese, reflecting our idea of mixing what we love. We set up our studio, then Suruba Club, and a year later launched our vinyl labels Suruba and Suruba X. The turning point was in 2012 when we moved to Ibiza. Yann Pissenem offered to be our manager and residents of his new party, Ants.”

THE BIRTH OF NAZCA

Nazca, their innovative label launched in 2015, represents a new chapter in their creative narrative. It is steeped in a fictional history that blends ancient civilizations and extraterrestrial intelligence, offering a fresh perspective on electronic music. The concept was inspired by Delmar’s fascination with the mysterious Nazca lines in Peru, leading him to develop an entire universe around this theme. This imaginative backdrop not only fuels their creativity but also influences the identity of their music.

“After years with our other labels, in 2015, we felt the need to create something new. I had been searching for a theme to develop my own universe, something akin to Star Wars. One day, I saw a documentary about the Nazca lines and was struck by not having heard of them before. With no clear explanation for their origin, I decided to create my own version. I shared the idea with Álvaro, who loved it, and that’s how the first music label based on a science fiction story was born.”

Los Suruba’s fascination with ancient cultures and the cosmos is not just a thematic choice; it reflects their appreciation for the fusion of the traditional and the modern. They divide their label into two parts: the cultural aspects of Nazca and a futuristic exploration of space and artificial intelligence, all encapsulated in the motto “Memories of the Future.”

“We are lovers of the traditional and the modern, and we wanted to reflect that fusion in our label, divided into two parts: the Nazca culture and the futuristic elements that explore space and artificial intelligence with avant-garde music. That’s where the claim of the label ‘Memories of the Future’ comes from. We’ve learned about AI and applied discoveries from the Nazca lines to our designs.”

CONTINUOUS EVOLUTION

As they navigate the ever-changing landscape of electronic music, Los Suruba remains committed to keeping their sound fresh and connected to their audience. This dedication is reflected in their recent projects, as they invest time in the studio and upgrade their equipment to enhance their production quality. With upcoming releases on the horizon, they are poised to continue their upward trajectory.

“This past year, we’ve worked a lot in the studio and invested in new equipment, and from that, we’re seeing the results. In October, we will launch our remix of Enzo Leep in Dreams on Wax. In November, we’ll present our vinyl EP on Nazca, titled ‘+33 Vinyl EP’, with remixes from Cristina Lazic and BRYZ. In December, we have another EP that we can’t announce yet, and in January, we’ll release one of our most special tracks, also on vinyl, with remixes from Sepp and Enzo.”

Despite their success, they understand the importance of staying grounded and true to their roots. This connection to their early days and the music they love allows them to maintain relevance in the industry while nurturing their passion for what they do.

“We transmit our passion for what we do, developing our own style after years of playing and selecting music across many styles, although we continue learning and evolving. We believe that those who value good music appreciate this. After the vinyl session we did at the Días de Campo Festival 2023, we felt it was time to share our collection of over 17,000 vinyl records, so now we don’t want to stop doing more sessions like that.”

REFLECTIONS ON THEIR JOURNEY

As we reflect on the journey of Los Suruba, it is evident that their story is one of relentless creativity and passion. With over 20 years in the industry, their journey has been marked by significant milestones, yet it is the joy they find in their work that stands out as their greatest achievement. They have graced stages worldwide, from Ibiza to Berlin, leaving audiences captivated by their sound and presence.

“We have performed all over the world, at iconic festivals and clubs like Amnesia, Pacha, or Privilege in Ibiza, Tresor in Berlin, Warung Fest and D.Edge in Brazil, and have been residents at Ministry of Sound London, Moog, Mondo, and Space in Ibiza. However, our greatest achievement is still being happy doing what we love the most.”

Los Suruba stands out not just for their innovative sound but for the profound connection they forge with their audience. Their journey from a small studio in Madrid to the global stage is a testament to their unwavering passion and dedication. It’s inspiring to see how they have transformed their love for music, design, and culture into a creative force that resonates with so many. They remind us that true artistry lies not only in the work we produce but in the relationships we cultivate and the stories we share.

As they continue to evolve and explore new horizons, it’s heartening to witness their commitment to authenticity in a world that often prioritizes trends over true expression. For anyone navigating their own creative path, Los Suruba serves as a shining example of what it means to stay true to one’s roots while daring to dream big. Their story is a beautiful reminder that at the core of every artistic endeavor is a journey filled with passion, love, and a genuine desire to connect with others. We eagerly anticipate where their journey will lead next, knowing that each new chapter will be filled with the same heart and soul that has defined their remarkable career.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo: Borja de Torres

DAVID CASTELLANI

ANALOG AND MODULAR SYNTHESIS

David Castellani is a passionate electronic music artist and educator whose career revolves around the captivating realms of analog hardware and modular synthesis. His journey into music was sparked by an early encounter with the Elektron Analog Keys, which opened a new dimension of sound exploration for him.

Since then, he has devoted himself to not only crafting his unique sound, via his Noetic releases, performances including ARC Music Festival Chicago and regular shows with the RE/FORM crew in LA, but also sharing his knowledge through workshops and collaborative projects. With a commitment to inspiring the next generation of musicians, Castellani’s approach combines technical mastery with a deeply personal connection to music, ensuring that both his performances and teachings resonate with authenticity and creativity.

As a pioneer in the integration of modular synthesis and live performance, Castellani is known for his captivating 360-degree audio-visual shows. He has carved a niche for himself in the electronic music scene, where each performance reflects his dedication to spontaneity and innovation. His upcoming workshop, “A Touch of Modular Synthesis,” at the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) promises to encapsulate his journey, offering participants a unique glimpse into his creative process and the insights he has gained over the years. Castellani’s aspirations extend beyond his solo work; he is committed to fostering a community around his Noetic label, where collaboration and artistic growth thrive.

“My passion for analog hardware took off when I got my hands on my first analog synthesizer, the Elektron Analog Keys. I remember the first time I powered it upit was like unlocking a whole new dimension of the universe. I spent hours tweaking and exploring how each subtle change would transform the texture of the music”.

This moment marked a significant turning point for Castellani, igniting his love for the tactile nature of sound design.

“That experience sparked something deeper in me. The hands-on nature of working with analog gear, especially something as versatile and powerful as Elektron gear, made me fall in love with the process of handson sound design. It wasn’t just about making music; it became about discovering sound and interacting with it in a tactile, intuitive way. That synth set me on a lifelong journey of chasing the richness and depth of analog gear, and now it’s hard to imagine my workflow without it”.

His passion for analog gear seamlessly translates into his live performances, where he integrates modular synthesis and visuals to create captivating 360-degree audio-visual shows.

“It’s taken me years to develop my current live setup, and that journey has been a trip. One of the most beautiful things about playing live is that each artist gets to do it in their way - there’s no single ‘right’ approach”.

Castellani emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between spontaneity and control in his performances.

“For me, it’s been about gradually finding the right balance between spontaneity and control. I’ve focused on building a setup that’s intuitive, where I can get lost in the performance without feeling restricted by the technology. That’s why modular synthesis plays such a big part in my shows. It gives me the freedom to adapt on the fly, making each performance unique”.

Looking ahead to his workshop at ADE Lab, he hopes to share his journey with participants, inspiring them to carve their paths in the world of modular synthesis.

“For the workshop at ADE Lab, I hope to share that process with participants—how I’ve taken time to develop this workflow and how rewarding it is to shape something that feels personal and intuitive. I hope they’ll walk away with an understanding that creating your setup is a personal journey and that there’s no wrong way to do it”.

Castellani’s insights reflect a deep understanding of the collaborative nature of creativity, where unexpected outcomes often lead to the most thrilling musical experiences”.

“Another amazing thing about modular synthesizers is that it’s a lot like riding a wild animal. You can try to guide it in a direction, but many times it can also take you places you didn’t expect, and that’s what makes it exciting”.

The launch of his label, Noetic, in 2021 marked a pivotal moment in Castellani’s career, allowing him to curate releases and collaborate with artists he admires.”

“For most electronic musicians, having your record label is the ultimate goal, and the opportunity to work with some of my heroes, like Etapp Kyle, Ken Ishii, Truncate, and Matrixxman, has been nothing short of a dream come true”.

His experience in curating these releases has broadened his artistic vision, blending his style with that of other notable musicians.

“Curating these releases has allowed me to blend my artistic vision with the distinct styles of artists I admire, creating a space where my vision and heart can thrive”.

Castellani’s collaborations have enriched his understanding of music production, allowing him to learn from established artists in the studio.

“Spending time in the studio with artists like Etapp Kyle and Ken Ishii has always been an enriching and educational experience. Both of these artists are people I look up to, and having the opportunity to witness their creative processes firsthand was a real treat”.

He reflects on a memorable session with Etapp, where the meticulous and intuitive approach to sound design left a lasting impression.

“I was amazed at how he approached every choice with a meticulous yet intuitive mindset. He would experiment with different textures and layers, often going off on tangents that led to unexpected sounds”.

Castellani’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the idea of inspiring others rather than simply imparting information.

“I have been blessed to be in the educational space for many years. I think that I am very attracted to that process because I am a student first, so I deeply enjoy sharing information with like-minded people”.

His experiences as a teacher have solidified his belief in the importance of personal connection when sharing creativity.

“I’d say the biggest thing I learned from Juma, being my first teacher and someone I hold in the highest regard, is the importance of personal connection when you’re sharing creativity with someone”.

In his modular synth workshops, Castellani seeks to demystify the complexity of synthesis for newcomers, aiming to ignite their passion for music-making.

“The workshops that I participated in, which were geared toward modular synthesis, were mainly general introductions and demonstrations for newcomers”.

He understands that the challenge often lies in developing good taste and creative intuition.

“To be honest, the hardest thing about making music is taste. Learning how to use a synth or which knob to turn is something anyone can do—if you spend enough time with any instrument, you’ll learn how to play it. The real trick is what you do with that skill”.

His creative journey has also led him to develop innovative tools like the Precision Disrupter sequencer, reflecting his commitment to advancing music technology.

“I have to say that I feel blessed to be building modules. But if I’m going to be honest, I wasn’t trying to start a modular company—or an instrument company, for that matter”.

The passion driving this endeavor comes from a desire to make a meaningful impact within the music community.

“I’ve just had the blessing of working with a lot of different instruments, and I saw that this was something that could be impactful”.

Looking toward the future, Castellani’s aspirations re-

volve around continual growth and exploration within his music.

“I often think about how we relate to music and how every individual finds their way through the process differently”.

His perspective on music as an addictive pursuit illustrates his unyielding enthusiasm for new experiences and creative discoveries.

“My musical journey has been one of addiction. I’m waiting for the next fix. I am addicted to the process of new experiences”.

David Castellani emerges as a truly inspiring figure in the electronic music scene, a blend of passion, innovation, and genuine connection to his craft. His journey, which began with a simple yet profound encounter with analog synthesizers, has blossomed into an impressive exploration of sound that not only captivates audiences but also speaks to the hearts of fellow artists. The way he intertwines the tactile experience of modular synthesis with his live performances showcases his commitment to creating a deeply personal musical expression. This hands-on approach invites listeners into his world, allowing them to share in the magic of discovery alongside him.

David’s dedication to education and mentorship adds another layer to his artistry. Through launching his label, Noetic, and collaborating with respected artists, he cultivates a rich community that encourages experimentation and growth. His emphasis on personal connection in teaching underscores a heartfelt belief that music thrives on shared experiences. This spirit is palpable during his workshops, where he not only imparts technical knowledge but also fosters an atmosphere of encouragement and inspiration. It’s clear that he is not just sharing skills; he is igniting a fire in others, encouraging them to find their voices in the vast world of sound.

Looking ahead, David Castellani’s path is brimming with potential and excitement. His upcoming sessions at ADE are more than just performances; they are opportunities for connection, creativity, and collective exploration. With every new project and collaboration, he continues to push boundaries, remaining ever-curious and hungry for fresh experiences. His journey is a testament to the beauty that arises when passion meets innovation, and it serves as a powerful reminder to aspiring musicians that they, too, can carve out their unique paths in the vibrant landscape of electronic music. David’s story is not just about personal achievements; it’s about creating a shared journey that inspires others to join in the celebration of sound.

Text by: Sergio Niño

Photo:

HOZHO

Portuguese DJ and producer Hozho has become a beacon in electronic music, captivating audiences worldwide with his unique sound, which he describes as “Melodark” — a blend of melody, emotion, and darkness. His signature plague doctor mask adds an air of mystery, amplifying the immersive experience of his music.

Through his artistry, Hozho explores the depths of human emotion, often touching on themes of mental health, which he delves into in his latest project, Psychologic Issues. In this interview, Hozho shares the inspiration behind his upcoming album, his release strategy, and the personal journey that shapes his work.

Psychologic Issues is set to be released gradually, allowing listeners to experience Hozho’s artistic journey one chapter at a time. He explains that releasing the album in stages, beginning with the EP Cherophobia, serves a dual purpose: creating anticipation and conveying a deeper narrative. Each track addresses a specific psychological theme, offering listeners a chance to reflect on their own mental health journeys alongside him. This staggered release strategy, he notes, is more than a marketing tactic — it’s a way to tell a story that resonates on an emotional level.

Hozho’s openness in this interview provides a glimpse into the struggles he faces both as an artist and as a person. He discusses how creative burnout has impacted his music and life, as well as how he channels his own psychological battles into his work. This article takes a closer look at his upcoming releases, the evolution of his artistry, and the meaningful connection he has cultivated with his audience through his themes of mental health and personal growth.

When speaking about the inspiration behind Psychologic Issues, Hozho emphasizes the album’s focus on mental health. Tracks like “Cherophobia,” which deals with the fear of happiness, are inspired by his own experiences. He shares how his artistic process became therapeutic, allowing him to explore emotions and work through challenges. By sharing his struggles, he hopes to connect with listeners on a deeper level, helping them feel seen and understood.

Discussing his release strategy, Hozho explains why he chose to release Psychologic Issues as a series of singles.

“The most important reason is to generate hype,” he says.

“Singles create anticipation for the full album, building excitement among fans. It gives listeners a taste of what’s to come, allowing me to stay in the public eye for longer and attract new listeners who may not yet be familiar with my music.”

But beyond the strategy, he views this approach as a way to tell a story.

“Releasing Psychologic Issues in separate parts allows me to tell a story, with each song focusing on a distinct theme related to mental health,” he explains.

Reflecting on the reception of Cherophobia, the first EP from the album, Hozho notes that the tracks have resonated with fans.

“Fans of my music already heard the two tracks from this EP in my DJ Mix 04, released in May,” he shares.

“This DJ Mix is much more than just a simple DJ set recorded in a beautiful location; it’s like a movie, where the audio set can be interpreted as the soundtrack. Those who heard these tracks firsthand associate them with mental health themes, as the mix has a psychological concept.”

Hozho’s track “Adderall,” set for release on October 11, is another highly anticipated part of Psychologic Issues. The track, inspired by ADHD and one of its common treatments, is a complex piece with layers of storytelling.

“It’s one of the best tracks of the album,” he says, “with a lot of details that create a powerful emotional experience.”

This release will feature a vocal part absent in the original DJ Mix 04 version, adding another dimension to the track.

Looking ahead, Hozho teases additional releases that will continue to explore themes of mental health.

“After Adderall, I’ll be releasing another single on November 1st,” he reveals.

“This will be a brand-new track that hasn’t been included in my previous mixes or played live yet. It will follow the theme of mental health and psychology and will contain a small easter egg for fans.”

In a departure from his usual style, Hozho has collaborated with UK artist Pulse on a track called “Menace,” which incorporates rap — a new venture for him. He reflects on the challenge of combining rap with electronic music, but he’s excited to see how it complements the album’s overarching mental health theme.

Hozho’s background in psychology, a subject he studied at university, has deeply influenced his music.

“My interest in the human mind goes way back, and applying that to my music is one of the most therapeutic things in the world,” he says.

This understanding is evident in the way he structures his tracks, aiming to evoke a range of emotions and experiences. His plague doctor mask is symbolic, representing the struggle between the visible and invisible aspects of mental health.

“The mask creates a visual contrast between an emotionless exterior and deeply emotional feelings expressed through my music,” he explains.

“When I step on stage, the crowd can’t see my emotions, but they can feel them, and that’s what matters most.”

Through projects like DJ Mix 04, Hozho personifies different psychological struggles, using actors to depict various mental health issues. This visual element highlights his belief in the power of community and art in healing.

“By using these characters, I want to show that mental health challenges are personal but can be understood collectively. Art can bring people together, helping us navigate these complexities.”

As Hozho’s journey unfolds, his music offers a space for introspection and healing. Through Psychologic Issues, he’s not just creating an album; he’s crafting an experience that encourages listeners to confront their own mental health challenges. By intertwining psychology with his sound, he provides an outlet for vulnerability, making his music more than just a collection of beats — it’s a reflection of the human condition.

Hozho’s willingness to take risks and be vulnerable sets him apart in today’s music scene. As he continues to release new music, he’s not only pushing artistic boundaries but also challenging his audience to connect with their own inner worlds. His journey is one we can all relate to, reminding us that music has the power to heal, connect, and inspire.

Text by: Sergio Niño

HOZHO