Wunderblock Records is a brand new label. In 2013 after a few releases on different labels and experiments with styles – from techno and house to jazz and ambient – Michael Teploff and Vladimir Kochenov decided to start their own label, with more underground, techno and dub sound.
In October 2014 Wunderblock Records started the new 12-inch sublabel WRLTD. The limited edition vinyl series are distributed worldwide by Triple Vision (NL).
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The term of Wunderblock is related to the concept by Siegmund Freud from his work “Notiz uber den “Wunderblock” (1925). Freud regarded the Wunderblock as a perfect metaphor for the process of recording memories. According to Freud, the mind records memories continually receiving stimuli and transferring traces of that information to the unconscious to be stored as memories.
Inner Escape
Hallo, Mike!
Michael Teploff
Hi!
Inner Escape
Could you tell us about your label Wunderblock Records?
Michael Teploff
We started a year ago as an underground digital label, but now we are opening the vinyl sub-label WRLTD. We already have a plan for a couple of releases, and the first 12-inch will be out on the first day of winter, it's from Minsk-based techno gang Energun. Then, second will be Wunderblock & Arcuation collaboration EP with the remixes from Deepbass and Scam. And the third release will be Hail Blk, the new project by Chris N.d/Flux. Also we will continue to release the digital-only stuff to support fresh techno artists.
Inner Escape
What is the policy of the label?
Michael Teploff
Independence and creativity.
Inner Escape
How does label make promotion of the artists?
Michael Teploff
We use K1971 and Triple Vision promo-pools to bring our music to the best techno DJs all over the world and also to magazines and blogs. Also we have a special monthly Wunderblock Podcast to present the mix-sets from our label roster's artists.
Inner Escape
Do you interact with other labels?
Michael Teploff
Yes, our new EP will be releasing soon on spanish Nulabel, and also our remixes for Datura Dilema on South-Korean label Less N Less Records and for Stef Mendesidis on Energun Records are forthcoming.
Inner Escape
Is it “work just for commerce” or is it your own “inner escape”, work to do something non-commercial but very important for self-expression?
Michael Teploff
Sure creation and self-expression are the main things for us. Our label is not profit-oriented.
Inner Escape
Can you tell us about clubs, or maybe special teams that you like most?
Michael Teploff
I like the international Berlin techno scene a lot, sure especially Berghain and Tresor clubs. Unfortunately the Moscow techno scene is pretty dead now, and the only good techno club Monasterio is now closed...
Inner Escape
What can we expect from Wunderblock label in 2015?
Michael Teploff
More interesting experimental techno.
Inner Escape
What’s the ideal club for you?
Michael Teploff
It's pretty simple: the venue with good techno DJs and good sound system.
Inner Escape
What is your personal music background?
Michael Teploff
I'm listening to a lot of different music besides techno: from experimental noise and ambient to jazz and ethno music.
Inner Escape
Best tracks ever for you?
Michael Teploff
HOT 5:
Johannes Heil - Feiern
Jeff Mills - Bells
Surgeon - Badger Bite
DJ Hyperactive - Muzik Makes You Lose Control
Maurizio - M-5A
Inner Escape
Thank you for the interview , Mike!
Inner Escape
Как долго ты готовился прежде чем стартовать лейбл? Какая была концепция, и что вдохновило тебя на этот шаг?
NTOGN
Первый релиз был объявлен может быть, через месяц после того как пришла эта идея, и с тех пор эта концепция развивается в новых направлениях каждый день. Сначала я просто хотел дальнейшего продвижения артистов, с которыми я был в контакте с за прошедший год, но в итоге он вырос в такого рода красивую вещь. Мы выпускаем наши релизы в согласии с фазами Луны, и я надеюсь, что люди начнут смотреть на небо и начнут обращать внимание на мать природу, которые их окружает. Мы все едины, и это не какая-то напыщенная болтовня хиппи, это скорее одна из самых фундаментальных истин жизни. Мир должен это понять.
Inner Escape
Расскажи немного о сотрудничества с артистами, которые делают треки для Hypnus Records. Как ты делаешь отбор для релизов?
NTOGN
Я просто плотно общаюсь со всеми артистами и когда я вижу что есть материал для хорошего релиза, мы назначаем дату. Это не всегда легко, тем более, что направление лейбла постоянно меняется.
Inner Escape
Планируешь ли ты какие-либо релиз-туры или шоукейсы лейбла Hypnus Records в будущем?
NTOGN
У меня нет таких планов на данный момент, но, надеюсь, мы сможем делать такие вещи в конце концов. Наконец-то я и Antonio Vazquez будем играть вместе на фестивале Forest Quest в Подмосковье. Действительно с нетерпением жду этого!
Inner Escape
Есть ли у тебя планы выпустить релиз Ntogn на Hypnus Records?
NTOGN
Будет один совместный трек в предстоящем релизе, но в принципе у меня нет таких планов. Может быть, в следующем году.
Inner Escape
Уже очень скоро ты посетишь Российский опен-эйр фестиваль Forest Quest , который пройдет в этом году в Тверской области, на Северо-Западе от Москвы. Ты когда-нибудь был в России раньше? Расскажи немного о своих ожиданиях относительно этой поездки.
NTOGN
Нет, я никогда не был в России, так что я в восторге от предстоящей поездки. Будет приятно оказаться в лесу и потанцевать немного под отличную музыку с единомышленниками. Особенно буду рад услышать наконец живьем Antonio Vazquez и Yuka, так как я являюсь их большим поклонником!
Inner Escape
Спасибо еще раз за интервью. Можешь ли анонсировать один из готовящихся релизов Ntogn?
NTOGN
Да, я хочу представить мой дебютный альбом на Subsist records. Это релиз длительностью 66 мин 6 сек , который содержит сборник треков, написанных мной за последние месяцы. Вы можете послушать и скачать его здесь:
Grimoire: Demons and Sorcery
Хорошего дня!
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Inner Escape
Hi Michel! Thanks a lot for finding time to answer my questions.
As I know, you have started a new label this year, Hypnus Records. First release was at the end of March, and now you're preparing to release the third record at the end of May. Can you tell me how you got such a quick start?
Inner Escape
Is Hypnus Records only a vinyl label? What do you think, are vinyl really better then digital releases? Why?
NTOGN
It is not only a vinyl label, we will also make a few digital releases whenever it is fitting. We actually already made one by the very pleasant Jana Sleep. To me the music is the most important, and chances are that we will have more good music than I will be able to press, then it would be a shame to just let it go to waste simply because we only do vinyl. And I have no opinion on what is better, it is all good to me.
Inner Escape
How long did you prepare before starting your label? What is the concept and what inspired you to take this step?
NTOGN
The first release was announced maybe a month after I thought of the idea, and since then the concept has been evolving in new directions every day. Initially, I just wanted to further promote the artists that I had been in contact with over the past year, but eventually it grew into this kind of beautiful thing. As we align all our releases with the turn of the moon, I hope that people will start to look up at the sky and start paying attention to the mothering nature that is all around them. We are all one, and that is not some saturated hippie bullshit, it is rather one of the most fundamental truths of life. The world needs to realize that.
Inner Escape
Tell a little about the collaborations with the artists who make tracks for Hypnus Records. How do you do selections for the releases?
NTOGN
I just keep a close dialog with all the artists and when someone has something that I think will make a good release, we set a date. This is not always easy though, especially as the direction of the label is constantly changing.
Inner Escape
Are you planning any release tours or showcases for Hypnus Records in the future?
NTOGN
I have no such plans at the moment, but hopefully we'll be able to do such things eventually. At least both me and Antonio Vazquez will be playing at the Forest Quest festival outside Moscow. Really looking forward to it!
Inner Escape
Do you have any plans about releasing Ntogn tracks on Hypnus Records?
NTOGN
There will be one collaborative track on a coming release, other than that I have no such plans. Maybe next year.
Inner Escape
Very soon you will visit the Moscow open air festival Forest Quest . Have you been in Russia before? Tell us a little about your expectations regarding this tour?
NTOGN
No I have never been to Russia so I am really excited about this trip. Will be nice to get out in the forest and dance to some great music with like minded people. Especially looking forward to hear Antonio Vazquez and Yuka play as I am a big fan!
Inner Escape
Thank you once more for the interview. Any announcements on upcoming Ntogn releases?
NTOGN
I will be releasing my debut album on Subsist . It is a 66 min 6 sec release that will contain some collected tracks I've made during the past months. You can listen to here:
Grimoire: Demons and Sorcery
Have a great day!
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Inner Escape:
Здравствуй, Олег. Вот уже четвертый год будет проходить фестиваль Forest Quest, организатором которого ты являешься.
Расскажи немного об истории фестиваля, почему у него такое название?
Inner Escape:
Как проходил первый фестиваль, были ли какие-то интересные истории связанные с ним?
Oleg Ma:
Первый фестиваль проходил в достаточно хаотичном режиме, многие вещи происходили не совсем так, как задумывались, но тем не менее было очень интересно, позитивно и по-семейному, собственно этим настроем мы и задали вектор на дальнейшие мероприятия, дабы не переходить грань, когда идеальная организация работает против атмосферы и против комфорта людей. Интересных историй было очень много, и каждый раз они продолжают нас удивлять. :)
Inner Escape:
Будут ли в этом году какие-то новшества по сравнению с предыдущими?
Oleg Ma:
Новшества у нас появляются постоянно, из года в год мы немного трансформируемся и продолжаем экспериментировать. В этом году у нас достаточно сильный лайн-ап на главной сцене, 6 иностранных артистов, для многих это андеграунд, то есть люди, которые делают интересную и глубокую музыку, выступают в культовых клубах, и что самое главное — они искренне любят музыку, живут ей, активно развивая и погружая слушателей в эту среду.
Так же в этом году решили более ответственно подойти к чилл-аут сцене нашего фестиваля, где хедлайнером выступит Astropilot - очень интересный музыкант из Новосибирска, который сейчас проживает в Киеве. По иронии судьбы в России он выступает достаточно редко, хотя за рубежом является очень востребованным и уважаемым артистом, часто играя на европейских фестивалях, так же является владельцем собственного лейбла Altar records, где выпускается немало авторитетных артистов в жанре чиллаут/эмбиент музыки.
Важно отметить, что в этом году на нашем фестивале не будет транс сцены, так как у нас с трансом всегда были достаточно непростые отношение, и в рамках эксперимента мы решили поставить эти отношения на паузу .
Inner Escape:
Каким образом ты подходишь к формированию лайнапа?
Oleg Ma:
Лайнап фестиваля по сути состоит из трех частей — первая часть артистов это наши друзья, которые хорошо вписываются в формат мероприятия, фактически являясь постоянными участниками нашего фестиваля, в том числе они помогают нам с некоторыми организационными вопросами.
Вторая часть лайнапа состоит из артистов, которых собственно мы приглашаем, руководствуясь в этом деле в основном своими музыкальными предпочтениями, а так же рекомендациями друзей, стараясь выбирать именно тех музыкантов, которые живут музыкой, четко понимающих, что именно и для чего они делают.
Третья часть артистов это люди, которые сами к нам обращаются с предложением выступить на нашем фестивале, отправляя свои заявки, которые мы очень тщательно рассматриваем.
Inner Escape:
В этом году фестиваль уже можно сказать стал международным, будет много иностранных артистов. Как ты думаешь, почему он становится популярным?
Oleg Ma:
Всё дело в том, что у нас есть цель, есть определенный формат, и вектор развития уже задан, но тем не менее я бы не сказал, что фестиваль становится популярным в общепринятом смысле этого слова. Мы постепенно наращиваем собственную аудиторию, людей, кому интересно то, что мы делаем, и очень важно, чтобы этот процесс происходил максимально плавно, так как резкий набор популярности обычно не лучшим образом сказывается на качестве мероприятия, которое в не малой степени зависит от людей, которые приезжают на фестиваль.
Inner Escape:
Приходилось ли тебе отказывать артистам от участия в фестивале? По каким причинам?
Oleg Ma:
Да, часто приходиться это делать, и некоторые даже обижаются, но, тем не менее, есть определенный музыкальный формат, который мы стараемся развивать. Хоть он и достаточно широкий, но все-таки не так много артистов ему соответствуют.
Inner Escape:
Что ты можешь посоветовать гостям, которые впервые едут на фестиваль?
Oleg Ma:
Могу посоветовать гостям нашего фестиваля оставить в городе любой негатив, который скапливается у людей от повседневных проблемы и забот. С плохим настроением лучше всего остаться дома, так как чем ближе мы к природе, тем сильнее начинают работать ее законы. Я сейчас говорю о проекции собственного взгляда на окружающую действительность, праздник вокруг начинается именно с нас самих.
Так же хотелось бы посоветовать людям не воспринимать выезд на фестиваль как возможность полного отрыва и ухода от реальности. Мы призываем всех наших гостей вести трезвый образ жизни, и в лесу это особенно важно, только так можно в полной мере прочувствовать и погрузиться в ту атмосферу, которую таит в себе лес, и поможет нам в этом отличный коктейль из хорошей музыки и позитивных людей!
Inner Escape:
Предусмотрена ли какая-то помощь в размещении, прокат палаток и спальников? И что необходимо иметь каждому в своем “походном рюкзачке”?
Oleg Ma:
Да, безусловно у нас предусмотрена помощь в размещении, и не смотря на то, что многие из тех, кто не первый раз посещает фестиваль, уже обзавелись минимальным набором туристического снаряжение - у нас на месте всегда есть возможность взять в аренду всё необходимое для комфортного размещения в условиях леса, палатки, спальники, пенки и т.д. ! В походном рюкзачке обязательно должны быть такие вещи, как фонарик, дождевик и теплые вещи, так как ночью в лесу может быть прохладно, а дальше каждый должен ориентироваться по собственным потребностям и возможностям. Что касается питания на фестивале - голодать у нас точно не придется, будут работать отличные кафе и чайные, где у каждого будет возможность недорого и вкусно покушать.
Inner Escape:
Будет ли пре-пати и каким образом она планируется?
Oleg Ma:
Пре-пати в этом году решили не делать, так как не очень хочется тащить людей в клубы, тем более в летнее время, а достойных открытых площадок в городе особо не наблюдается.
Inner Escape:
Я знаю, что фестиваль существует на средства “добровольцев и энтузиастов”. В связи с этим расскажи, какова ценовая политика, как вы распространяете билеты и каким образом еще может быть оказана помощь в организации и подготовке этого прекрасного события?
Oleg Ma:
Да, у фестиваля никогда не было спонсоров, и в этом конечно же есть свои минусы, но зато мы свободны от каких либо рекламных обязательств, и возможного идеологического давления с их стороны. Ценовая политика складывается таким образом, что мы просто стараемся делать адекватные цены на билеты, цели зарабатывать на проекте у нас нет, все собранные средства идут на покрытие расходов фестиваля. Билеты на фестиваль можно купить в электронном виде, в конце я оставлю несколько ссылок, там будут и билеты, и собственно сайт фестиваля. Мы всегда открыты и идем на встречу людям, которые хотят как либо помочь нам и поучаствовать в проекте. Сделать это можно самыми разными способами, от непосредственно финансовой помощи, до физического участия в подготовке фестиваля, информационной поддержке и т.д.
Av Skardi: "my first times at Berghain and Tresor were quite decisive…those experiences literally changed my vision of dance music."
Irina Enskay (Inner Escape)
Hello, Byron. I first wanted to ask you if you play of any music instrument?
Inner Escape
What is your musical background?
Av Skardi
I have been a lot into post-rock, noise, experimental, drone, baroque and classical contemporary music since my adolescence, and well, mainly into electronic music in general. Actually, only a very little bit of techno, which I was into as a child, in his commercial forms of the 90’s… I started producing noise when I was 16 and produced two cd-r that came out in the States.
My first time in Berlin, when I was 18 changed my musical vision, especially my first visits to Tresor and Berghain, where I discovered techno. When I moved to Berlin, my creativity felt a bit and that’s only since I got all the influences together that I recently started mixing and producing a blending of my love for drone and techno. In general, one can say that I am obsessed with duration and repetition.
Inner Escape
Are you influenced by your background music when creating and playing your music?
Av Skardi
Yes, totally. I am always trying to keep a conducting line in my different projects, and I often use the same material for both genres when I am producing them.
Inner Escape
How did you get into electronic music?
Av Skardi
Oh… I was very, very young…maybe as a baby,,, But I got into it through the work of Steve Reich’s “Come out” mainly, I guess.
Inner Escape
How you make your sound?
Av Skardi
To make my sounds, I usual use samples that I recorded or create my own sounds through the use of my electric-cello.
Inner Escape
You started as experimental artist, how you became with techno?
Av Skardi
As I said earlier, my first times at Berghain and Tresor were quite decisive...those experiences literally changed my vision of dance music.
Inner Escape
Do you remember your first gig in club? Which club, how it was?
Av Skardi
My first concert was in a protestant temple in the center of Geneva. It was a concert I organized and invited all my school to…it was quite a big event actually. I played a one hour noise/drone piece of which parts I still perform at each of my concerts nowadays.
Inner Escape
Can you tell about difference between Geneva and Berlin club scene?
Av Skardi
The club scene in Geneva is almost inexistent… Some people are trying as hard as possible to move their asses off to organize stuff but the (both leftish and right-wing) politics seem to make everything always more impossible to party organizers so that Geneva becomes always "cleaner" and safer than it is...they seem to think that the security problems come from partying, which is wrong. The overall quality of life in there is quite low when it comes to amusement. I mean, most of young people go away after they graduated, if they can afford it… sometimes even not far away, to Lausanne for example, which is a smaller city but with a way nicer feeling to it. When you think that Geneva was once where things were happening, and this not so long ago, it makes me sad to see how boring my hometown is always getting ; it has become just a house to rich expats that stay between each others and go to cocktail bars to drink expensive cocktails, and that of course neither dance nor care about the music.
Inner Escape
You work as a dj/producer and as party organizer. What different between these two visions about an ideal club?
Av Skardi
For me these are two roles that merge into each other as I dj at each of my parties and invite djs and producers I really enjoy the work of. I try to stay true to my musical visions and to expose it to the public.
Inner Escape
Tell me more about the concept of the BRU/T parties.
Av Skardi
For BRU/T I wanted to bring techno to a club that was more famous for his pop and schlager nights. SchwuZ is the oldest gay club in Berlin and they just moved to my neighborhood, the Turkish and hype Neukölln.
I am trying with BRU/T to present a new kind of music that most SchwuZ-goers aren’t used to, a techno that’s quite new and played by talented djs living in Berlin, that aren’t gay most of the time, which is new for the staff as well I have the impression. I also wish that my party stays a good mix between genders and sexual preferences, the most important being that people dance and enjoy the music!
Inner Escape
Best tracks ever for you?
Av Skardi
If I had tracks to choose, that have nothing to do with each others, but that influenced my work and my vision of music, these would be:
“Fragmente, Stille, an Diotima” by Luigi Nono
“Piano and String Quartet” by Morton Feldman
“Einstein on the Beach” by Philipp Glass
“Die Kunst der Füge” by JS Bach
“Inversion” by Basic Channel
“Yes, Today” by Stanislav Tolkachev
“Finite and Precious” by Staffan Linzatti
Polar Inertia - Black Sun (Abdulla Rashim Remix)
“Eighty-eight” by Public Relation
and the list could be way longer….
Irina Enskay
Thank you a lot, Byron! Wish you great party !
And specially thanx for your very great musical visions
Thanx dear Santa for this Merry X-Mass surprise!
Most listened poscasts Inner Escape \ Alis FM 2013
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Aiken: "I love hip hop, electro, idm, techno, house, funk, soul, jazz, rock…I love music and of course it influences me when creating."
Irina Enskay
Hi Aiken ,
first I want to say congratulations on your amazing new release Eternal Dreamer. How long have you been working on it?
Irina Enskay
You released your new work as a album. Tell a little about concept Eternal Dreamer.
Aiken
Yes, it’s the idea of Lenny Posso, owner of the label. If you take a look to the catalogue, most of the releases of this label included 4 tracks. I like the idea of a mini-album, It allows the artist to produce a more balanced release.
Irina Enskay
Your releases was supported by many artists. Previews works you published on Semantica, M-Rec, Lycaon, latest release coming on Chronicle.. What ideal label for you?
Aiken
It’s nice to see some of your influences supporting your music but I have too much to learn. About the labels, all of them you mention are ideal for me. I like to work with labels which I would buy.
Irina Enskay
Have you plan to make your own label? Why?
Aiken
Absolutely, I’m planning all the details but I don’t have any date.
Irina Enskay
How did you approach into electronic music?
Aiken
I discovered techno in the late 90’s at the age of 14-15. I used to listen to Mills, Hawtin or O.Mulero sets at home, when I was 16 I bought the first vinyl’s and my life changed. Since that, it’s like a second life
.
Irina Enskay
Can you tell about Spain club scene?
Aiken
There isn’t a Spanish scene, what we have is some of the best techno producers at the moment. Most of the gigs they have are out of Spain. I think it’s a normal thing according to the poor interest of the people.
Irina Enskay
What’s your ideal club to show your work?
Aiken
The one with a proper soundsystem.
Irina Enskay
What is your music background? Do you influenced by your background music when creating and playing your music?
Aiken
My backgroud is very big. I love hip hop, electro, idm, techno, house, funk, soul, jazz, rock…I love music and of course it influences me when creating. It can be with more or less presence but influences are there always.
Irina Enskay
Best tracks ever for you?
Aiken
Not time and space to answer…there are so many..
Irina Enskay
Have you plan to visit Moscow in near future?
Aiken
I would like to visit and also can play in Moscow. I’ve heard very good things about some clubs of the city.
Irina Enskay
Thanx for the interview and for amazind mix!
(c) Inner Escape \ Alis FM
Mace.: "I prefer small venues, I'd like to play in an art gallery or in a theatre..."
Irina Enskay
Hi Enrico! Thanx a lot for find time to answer for my questions. As I know, you are very busy these days to preparing release you new album. Can you tell a little about this work?
Irina Enskay
Upcoming release include your old and new tracks as album. What unites them in album, what concept?
Mace.
There are many different related concepts, but maybe the more general one regards the crack between the different emotions that fill the album.
Irina Enskay
In June 2013 you released EP The Wealth of Nations on Eclipse Music , on the way new release. Can you tell about collaboration with this label? How you started work with Francesco Stella ?
Mace.
I met Francesco thanks to my ex flatmate. He listened to my first works and he loved them, also if they were very different from the usual stuff released by Eclipse Music. Despite this he decided to make this release and to direct the label towards experimental music.
Irina Enskay
What ideal label for you? Have you plans to make your own label?
Mace.
I like a lot a small underground labels but my style is constantly evolving, so I don't know what would be my ideal label. We shall see.
Irina Enskay
Tell about your other upcoming releases.
Mace.
I have two different projects, one I can't talk about it right now, the other one is a collaboration with French label/collective Stellar Kinematics. We don't already know about the release date.
Irina Enskay
How did you approach into electronic music? Do you play instruments or did you play in band before?
Mace.
Well, I started to play the piano when I was 8 years old, than I stopped and begin to get interested into movie soundtracks and experimental electronic music.
Irina Enskay
Some artists prefer small clubs with intimate atmosphere, others like open-air and festivals. What’s ideal club/scene to show your work?
Mace.
I prefer small venues, I'd like to play in an art gallery or in a theatre.
Irina Enskay
Do you have plans to visit Moscow?
Mace.
I got positive feedback from Russian people, I suppose they particularly like industrial and cold sounds like the ones present in "The Wealth of Nations". Maybe in next years, I will play there. Who knows.
Irina Enskay
Thanx a lot again for your answers and awesome podcast!
Espen Lauritzen (Krill Music): "...the collaborations with the artists are purely based on the music quality and style."
Irina Enskay
Hi Espen, let me ask you some questions about Krill Music label.
First, as I know Krill Music is only vinyl record label. How do you thinking, are vinyl is really better then digital releases? Why?
Espen Lauritzen
Hello Irina!
Irina Enskay
How did you approach into electronic music? And why you decided to make your own label?
Espen Lauritzen
Back when I was a kid, I used to be very into punk and grunge, that implying having a band and playing the bass guitar! The thrive, darkness and rawness from techno naturally got my attention, and that was the point of no return. I was hooked.
I did not have the chance to be introduced to electronic music like many of my colleagues that were pretty much born listening records from their parents or close relatives, I wish it could have been that way, but nonetheless, I was lucky enough to discover it and develop my own style by myself, working at Cocoliche, promoting parties and booking artists. That was definitely a crucial point on my techno-learning process. I got the amazing opportunity to meet great artists, both from Argentina and the rest of the world, then, as I kept on growing in that environment, I naturally got inclined to supporting the Argentinian techno scene in a different way: I stopped with the parties, and started the label, with a main aim – showing the world that Argentina has loads of talent, and at the same time, to introduce people to the music we are into. Mathias Woot, Tomas Waldbaum and I, are together running the label, and all artistic decisions are made by the three of us together.
Now I feel there is another step in my evolution in music to climb: I am planning to start an independent label from Krill, just because I have so many creative ideas, that we would like to preserve the standards, goals and trademark sounds of Krill pure, and develop another projects, to broaden my experience, and take different chances.
Irina Enskay
How label collaborate with artists?
Espen Lauritzen
The process is pretty easy: the collaborations with the artists are purely based on the music quality and style. We request tracks pretty often, but mostly we are constantly receiving demos, and then me and the guys just listen to them and vote our favorites (we are very democratic!)
Irina Enskay
Krill Music work with Jonas Kopp, AnD, Pfirter, Henning Baer, Thomas Hessler, Tom Dicicco, Raffaele Attanasio … and other great artists. Can you tell about your impressions?
Espen Lauritzen
I’d actually like to take this chance to specially thank Jonas Kopp who not only has been a great support, but also is a great friend! He was been there for us to help me get in touch with the distribution and promotion agencies, honestly showing us the path, and that is why our first release had to be made by him, because at the same time, he represents Argentina and is one of the best techno artists out there: every track he releases is better than the other, I don’t know how he does it. Jonas and Pfirter are the best examples of what Argentina can give to the techno scene, and it has been great to have them both on Krill.
Regarding Henning Baer and Thomas Hessler , we highly value their own trademark sound, which makes them very special, but they are also excellent djs. I had the opportunity to see Hessler at Berghain a few months ago, and he was breathtaking, and Henning , well he is an animal when he gets behind the decks!
Raffa aka x501, is a pure and excellent musician, and not less importantly a great person, really down to earth and… damn he knows his job when it comes to doing live performances. His release is one of my favorites from Krill .
And then, last but not least, our UK mates: AnD, Szare and Tom Dicicco . Since the beginning of the label, we established the axis between Buenos Aires and Manchester. I believe I’m speaking for the three of us when I say we deeply admire the UK techno sounds.
Irina Enskay
Often label owners say: please, don’t send me demo! Label plans is done for this/next year ! How do you thinking, have new artists any chance to make release on Krill Music?
Espen Lauritzen
Krill Music is and has been very open to new demos, and, each one we receive, is important. We wish to keep on showing new talents and new artists, broadening the scene and opening doors for newcomers: for example Matt Saderlan, he definitely has a bright future and is already making great music! As long as the music is good, our philosophy is to support artists that maybe still can’t have the chance to show their work by their own, that, of course, if they are up to our quality standards…
Irina Enskay
Tell about upcoming releases Krill Music .
Espen Lauritzen
Coming up there is a new Luis Ruiz release with a Reeko remix that will be out in approximately a month. Followed by a Charlton one including a Sigha remix, a remix series from Krill ’s past releases, and Opuswerk, we are fully loaded to keep techno appetites satisfied!
Irina Enskay
Well, and how the work as a general manager label affects to the creative side of your life?
Espen Lauritzen
It has its negative and positive sides, but it is definitely mostly positive: I get really inspired by receiving loads of good music, and meeting new artists. I recently released my first 12” on LDN wht, which was for sure the result of the influence and inspiration that running a label provided me.
Irina Enskay
Do you remember your first gig in club? Which club, how it was?
Espen Lauritzen
Damn… have to go back in time. Although I had some few small gigs before, for me, my first Cocoliche gig was an amazing experience, that club has “something else” and brings to life the true sense of Underground.
Irina Enskay
You were born in Norway, but now live in Argentina. Tell a little about difference between club scene in these two countries.
Espen Lauritzen
I was born in Norway, grew up in Argentina, but now I'm back to Norway. There are a lot of great parties going on in Oslo. Although the clubbing scene is a little too regulated there, with tight closing times, but I can really assure you that the Norwegian techno scene is rising steadily. Parties like the VOID, are shaping the scene: I had the chance to play in two of those gigs, together with Lucy and Jonas Kopp , and they were astonishing. Great line-ups, sound systems and crowd. Big ups for Ole-Espen and Joakim who are running the VOID!
In Argentina, the clubbing scene is a little bit bigger: Cocoliche is the statement techno underground club, then Bahrein has very high tech visuals and their “Submerged” parties are scoring killer bookings; and finally there’s Crobar, which is a bit of a mainstream club, that has the chance to invite the big names to play. Then, you can find the independent underground parties, really rising up, like “Deep Inside” or “Urban Local Dub”, and Humble bookings in the west of Buenos Aires.
Irina Enskay
What is your music background? Best tracks ever for you?
Espen Lauritzen
As I have mentioned before, my background has been shaped by punk and grunge, but also, I have a very strong connection to music from the 60s and 70s, bands like The Doors to Popol Vuh, have also leaded my way,
Best tracks, damn well thats tough, but…
The Wipers - D7
Popol Vuh - Aguirre I
DBX - Spock's Brain
Maurizio - M5
Kraftwerk - Aerodynamik
E.R.P. - Lunar Ruins
Jeff Mills - Phase 4
Norman Nodge - NN 8.0
Sand Circles - Motor City
i could go on hehe...
Irina Enskay
Thanks a lot Espen for this interview and amazing podcast!
(с) Inner Escape \ Alis FM
ANFS (Modal Analysis): ".. the ideal club needs to have a good energy, a good and powerful sound system and people that are willing to give time to the dj to do his thing. "
Irina Enskay
Hi ANFS, let me ask you some questions. First, how did you approach into electronic music?
ANFS
Well my father was always into electronic dance music, he was listening to a lot of trance, progressive and breaks, so, from a young age I was hating all that kind of music and generally the concept of electronic dance music. I was a more rock and hardcore/punk kind of guy. You see, I am a sound engineer and I was playing guitar to various bands for many years. Three years ago I found interest in some electronic music when I discovered Aphex Twin, Autechre, also the early dubstep stuff, but what got me really into techno was the downwards and the recent sandwell district exports.
Do you tell a little about Athens club scene?
ANFS
Its hard to say that there is actually a clubbing scene here in Athens. There was one in the 90s till the early 00s but now there are only some small groups of people that are trying to do their best through organizing events, with good music and guests with very little funds.There are a lot of good local djs and some producers but there are not so many spaces and most of the big promoters prefer to keep it safe music-wise.
Irina Enskay
Do you remember your first gig in club? Which club, how it was?
ANFS
My first gig in a club was 2 years ago. It was at Astron Bar, the smallest but one of the greatest spaces in town. I did the warm up for Subjected from Vault series and I really enjoyed playing for 3 hours long.
Irina Enskay
How you start collaborate with George Slydex ? And why you decided to make your own label together ?
ANFS
I met George back in 2009 when I was studying sound engineering in Creta island, in Greece. Back then, he was throwing parties in Athens and he was a very active dj, he seemed to be a very cool guy and really up to do things. I started going to some of his parties and I really liked the whole vibe, the music and generally what was happening there. Our first collaboration was a track he did for his school and he asked me to help him as a sound engineer. Some months later he was doing a party and at the end, early in the morning, he asked me for fun, out of the blue, if I want to have a label with him and spontaneously I agreed. He asked the same question to our friend Alex Pnevmatikos (3.14) and that is how Modal Analysis started.
Irina Enskay
How Modal Analysis label collaborate with artists?
ANFS
I believe there is a very easy process between us and the artists. We always try to have a close relationship with all of our artists, we consider our label as a family and that is why we like to know everyone in person and to have a good contact and organize together step by step their release on the label.
Irina Enskay
Often label owners say: please, don't send me demo! Label plans is done for this/next year ! How do you thinking, have new artists any chance to make release for Modal Analysis?
ANFS
The truth is that we, as well, have programmed releases till next summer, but we are always open to new music and demos. If something is really good and sincere then it will actually see a release through Modal Analysis.
Irina Enskay
Well, and how the work as a general manager label affects to the creative side of your life?
ANFS
I am pretty sure that it affects me in the best way it could. Through Modal Analysis I have the chance to meet good producers and listen to their music. That interaction gives me knowledge and inspiration to work in my own projects.
Irina Enskay
In August was Modal Analysis label night in Suicide Circus (Berlin). Can you tell about your impressions?
ANFS
It was an amazing night, a lot of people came to the club and it seemed that people really enjoyed themselves. There was a lot of dancing and all the djs played quality music! It was great that our first label night outside Athens did so well.
Irina Enskay
What is your ideal club to show your work?
ANFS
Well I guess its the same for all the djs, the ideal club needs to have a good energy, a good and powerful sound system and people that are willing to give time to the dj to do his thing. I enjoy going from deep to very hard and from hard to more groovy and to do that you need all the above.
Irina Enskay
What is your music background? Best tracks ever for you?
ANFS
As I ve already told you, although I really love techno, my music background is quite different from what I am producing and playing as a dj. I like a lot of punk/hardcore/indie and black metal bands such as Converge, Black Flag, Interpol, Orchid, Darkthrone, Nine Inch Nails etc. Also i like a lot greek traditional music from the start of 20th century and lately I listen to some experimental stuff especially from labels such as Pan, Editions Mego and Modern Love.
Irina Enskay
Thanx a lot for interview and this best mental trip
Inner Escape exclusive T0110 : ANFS
(c) Inner Escape \ Alis FM
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt: "My favorite hobby is music"
Irina Enskay
Hi Antonio!
How long are you live in Berlin? Do you tell about Berlin club scene?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
Hi Irina,
I arrived in Berlin around 2 years ago.
The club scene here is the best I've ever seen. There is so many options, with so many interesting places and line-ups.
Irina Enskay
Your favorite club. Why?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
Irina Enskay
What’s your ideal club to show your work?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
I prefer small/medium clubs to play, where there would be not so many people, which don't get completely wasted, to enjoy the music I play. For example, I had a really really nice experience at Pseucho_Club in Leipzig, where I could see how the public enjoyed every track and followed every change I made during the set. They were like into a trance. It was just amazing!!
Irina Enskay
How often you play in Berghain? What is different about this club from others, where you had to play?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
I played 2 times there and I have to thank a lot to the people who gave me this chance. Between the two dates only been six months. I don't know if it will be a third chance, but of course I really would like to repeat once more.
First of all the big difference is the sound system and how massive this club is. Also the vibe you feel inside is absolutely positive. Every club has his own energy, but there is much more impressive.
Irina Enskay
Tell a little about yourself. How did you approach into electronic music?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
I started to hear electronic music when my father bought me some cassettes in gas stations with some compilations of electronic music. I was just 8 years old. Then, after some years, when I was in the university, 1998, some friends (Javi, Ruben y Segundo thank you very very much) started to djing and showed me tons of music, from Klaus Schulze, Brian Eno, etc; to Oliver Ho and Jeff Mills. Here is where I started to dig more and more into this kind of music.
Irina Enskay
Do you remember your first gig in club? Which club, how it was?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
Of course I remember, it was on the opening party of Cassette Club in Madrid where I had the great chance to repeat 2 times more. I want to thank a lot to Sabino Gonzalez and Jimmy Garcia for counting on me and wish I could repeat more times there cause I feel like this is my “home club” where I started definitely to grow up as dj.
It was pretty good and exciting, apart from the jitters I had. I highly recommend to everyone who has the chance to go Madrid to visit this club and enjoy its atmosphere.
Irina Enskay
Do you have upcoming releases? How do you think, is it important to artist to have many releases?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
Well, I'm doing some tracks, which I call experiments, cause I want to reach a specific quality of sound and structures to develop a story I have in mind. Once I get into this “level”, I'll show it to a friend who asked me to make something for his label. It is one of my favorites with great artists who collaborate since it first EP. That's why I want to make something really special for him.
Depends on which kind of artist are you asking me. If it is about dj's who also produce, just producers, musicians, etc... But in a global context, just focus on the people who make music, I think that a release must show up when the artist has something to tell or something what he/she/they thinks that is new and interesting that needs to be spreaded. Not to make releases like burgers of McDonald's.
Irina Enskay
What is your music background?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
I am quiet eclectic. Since I was a child I remember the tracks of Pink Floyd that my father played in the car when we used to travel. This made me to have a lot of interest into psychedelic rock (Frank Zappa, Cream, The Doors, etc) . So, this is the main music background I have. Then I started to heard a lot of post-rock in all its ways (Tortoise, Mogwai, This will destroy you, Russian Circles, etc). Post-Punk, Noise, Kraut Rock, Gothic, etc.. are others styles into my music background. Without lyrics, please.
Irina Enskay
Best tracks ever for you?
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
Hard question... Could make a huge list, but I will focus on some tracks that changed my point of view on the music.
- “Shine on You Crazy Diamond Pt1 and Pt2” from Pink Floyd's “Wish You Were Here”
“Ten-Day Interval” from Tortoise “TNT”
“Vaihtovirta” from Pan Sonic's Aaltopiiri
“Music for Airports” from Brian Eno (I consider the whole album as one track)
“If Anywhere Was Here He Would Know Where We Are” from Raime
“White Light White Head (Dino Sabatini Remix)” from Shapednoise
Irina Enskay
What is your favorite hobby? Fishing, cooking, traveling or maybe do nothing? ;)
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
My favorite hobby is music (listening, producing and djing). I said this because I realized some years ago that I don't want that music became a job/work and I want to keep the same enjoying feeling when I make a track or play in a club. Don't want that this get into something that I have to do.
I have a lots of hobbies more because I consider myself like a extremely curious person and don't want to stop learning about all what shows me the minimum interest. Here comes my second big hobby, to observe everything.
Irina Enskay
Thanx a lot for rhe interview!
Antonio Vázquez a.k.a.Versenkt
Thanks a lot for all your attention and support, Irina. It was a pleasure to make this podcast for you
Inner Escape exclusive 1000: Versenkt
Irina Enskay
Today my guest is very expressive and energetic techno artist from Portugal. Meet: Ninna V
First as traditional question: How did you involved to club?
How did you approach into electronic music?
Do you remember your first gig in club? Which club, how it was?
Ninna V
Well, I got involved with clubs and electronic music in the late 80's, early 90's, when I first discovered acid house and later acid techno, here in Portugal and also in Holland, when I moved there in 1986, going out to clubs there!
Later when I came back to Portugal 1992, I started working at a record shop so I had finally full access to all music and equipment. That's when I started to learn how to mix properly, and started to work as resident at my brother's bar, later at his club as well, where I stayed for some years.
Irina Enskay
Do you play on musician instruments?
How your make your own sound?
Ninna V
I played piano when i was a kid, so had music lessons, although I didn't follow it later, still the love for music stayed with me forever.
I make my own sound with ableton, plugins and my mind only, I would like to have more equipment, but for now is all I have.
Irina Enskay
Can you tell about club scene in Portugal?
Ninna V
The club scene in Portugal is very commercial, there is a lot of clubs here, but only maybe 2 or 3 clubs have techno parties! It's very sad to see specially the techno scene as it is now, but fortunately there's still some good techno warriors who fight and still believe is possible to bring back the true spirit and real techno to this country, perfect example of that is the legendary A. Paul, so hopefully very soon we'll have some proper parties like back in the days.
Irina Enskay
You have a lot of releases this year.
What is the policy of labels? How different labels get promotion of artists?
Ninna V
The policy of labels is not much different from each other, labels all want to release good tracks i guess, although some are more strict than others. I think some labels should promote their artists more than they do, send press releases to music magazines of their country for example should help all the artists to achieve more public, cause if some labels don't even have promo pools, don't even tell the artist about the feedback of his/her release, don't promote it in every way possible, than is not doing a good job, is being lazy and can't expect to have the number of sales that otherwise could have, even with the all illegal download sites there around the web, not to mention getting properly noticed and mentioned at the web shops like beatport! Now of course not all labels are the same, and there's some that treat artists the right way, so those are the ones I work with!
Irina Enskay
Tell about your plans in 2013?
Ninna V
I've already achieved one of my goals this year, and that is to release an EP on both vinyl and digital formats, on Format Records, Called Paradigma, so very happy about that.
I have some releases coming out this year on different labels, but more will come till the end of this year, so for now is as follow:
Paradigma EP - Out this Summer on Format Records
Endless Spiral EP - out soon on Black Pearl Records
Wakening EP - out soon on RawHard Audio Records
Code Red EP - out soon on TMM Records
Audio Space - original mix - out soon on Ambizi Records
Aftermath - original mix - out soon on Rewash LTD
Oblivion - Original mix - out soon on Naughty PIlls Records
Dopamine - original mix - out soon on Naughty Pills Records
Meltdown - original mix - out soon on Contrast R
Collapse - original mix - out soon on Contrast Records
Carpe Nocte EP - out soon on Platinium Records (with remixes tba soon)
