Today’s Techno Insights with Angel Molina

“Lo mejor para no pasar nunca de moda, es no estar nunca a la moda”

In TRANSMISSION #11, Angel Molina, a pivotal figure in the Spanish and global techno scene, shared his journey and insights into the world of electronic music. From his early days as a DJ to his current role as a curator for the label 30D, Molina’s experiences offer a unique perspective on the evolution of techno music and the challenges faced by artists in the industry.

The Early Days

Angel Molina’s passion for music began in his childhood, but it was in the mid-80s when he started going out to clubs that he truly fell in love with the art of DJing. One of the first clubs he visited was Studio 54 in Barcelona, where he was captivated by the work of professional DJs like Raúl Orellana. Molina recalls being fascinated by the way DJs manipulated music, creating edits and live versions of tracks, which inspired him to pursue DJing himself.

“I remember being captivated by the DJ’s work. It’s been said many times, all the clubs had a professional like Raúl Orellana, who was the DJ and resident at Studio 54. I remember… Parallel, correct, what was later known by many names, in recent years it was called VARZ, a few years ago, it’s the venue on the corner, an old theater…”

Molina’s first gig was at a club called Centro Ciudad, where he was given the opportunity to play by the resident DJ, Peter Pons. Despite his nerves, Molina’s first set was a success, and he continued to hone his craft, eventually becoming a well-known DJ in the Spanish techno scene.

The Evolution of Techno

Molina has witnessed the evolution of techno music over the past few decades. He notes that while techno has become more popular, it remains an underground genre, with a dedicated fan base that appreciates the complexity and depth of the music.

“Techno is underground. It always has been and still is, no matter how much more popular it is today compared to 30 years ago, but it’s still underground. It will never fill you up.”

Molina also highlights the importance of taking risks and experimenting with different sounds and styles. He believes that true artists are those who push boundaries and challenge the status quo, rather than simply playing it safe and sticking to what is popular.

“I have never been willing to spend 34 years or whatever I have left doing exactly the same thing, in the same way and the same style. I am willing. I would be incapable, for example, of being the vocalist of a pop or rock band that for 30 or 40 years… Exactly, because it’s what people want.”

The Challenges of the Industry

Molina has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, from the pressures of the industry to the difficulties of balancing his personal life with his professional commitments. He notes that the music industry can be tough, with many artists struggling to make a living and others facing burnout due to the demands of the job.

“I have seen the music professionalize, I have seen the festival professionalize, they go hand in hand, because they are things that more or less circulate in parallel over time. I have seen the festival become massive, just like the electronic scene, obviously it has nothing to do with what it was years ago, the 90s, with what it is now.”

Despite these challenges, Molina remains committed to his craft and to pushing the boundaries of techno music. He believes that the key to success in the industry is to stay true to oneself and to one’s artistic vision, rather than simply chasing fame or fortune.

Epilogue

Angel Molina’s insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of techno music and the challenges faced by artists in the industry. From his early days as a DJ to his current role as a curator, Molina’s experiences highlight the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision and pushing boundaries in order to create truly innovative and groundbreaking music.

As Molina himself notes, techno music remains an underground genre, with a dedicated fan base that appreciates the complexity and depth of the music. By staying true to their artistic vision and taking risks, artists like Molina are helping to shape the future of techno and to ensure that it remains a vital and vibrant part of the global music scene.

“I have never been willing to spend 34 years or whatever I have left doing exactly the same thing, in the same way and the same style. I am willing. I would be incapable, for example, of being the vocalist of a pop or rock band that for 30 or 40 years… Exactly, because it’s what people want.”

In conclusion, Angel Molina’s journey and insights serve as an inspiration to aspiring DJs and producers, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself and to one’s artistic vision in order to create truly innovative and groundbreaking music. As the techno scene continues to evolve, it is artists like Molina who will help to shape its future and to ensure that it remains a vital and vibrant part of the global music scene.

Transmission #11 Playlist by Angel Molina

This playlist offers a glimpse into the world of techno music and the innovative producers who are pushing the boundaries of the genre. From the atmospheric soundscapes of Denis Rabe to the futuristic techno of JLTZ, and the cinematic quality of Shuya Onuki’s work, each track on this playlist is a testament to the creativity and vision of its producer. As the techno scene continues to evolve, it is artists like these who will help to shape its future and ensure that it remains a vital and vibrant part of the global music scene.

Tracklist

Producers Info

Denis Rabe

Denis Rabe is a producer known for his unique sound that blends ambient and experimental elements. His upcoming album on the 30D label, featuring the exclusive track “Giant Cold,” showcases his ability to create atmospheric and immersive soundscapes.

30Drops

Sergio, the owner of 30D, produces under the alias 30Drops. His track on the playlist moves away from the traditional 4×4 beat, exploring more ambient and experimental territories. This track is a testament to the label’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of techno music and Sergio’s vision as a producer.

JLTZ

JLTZ, is an Italian producer. His latest album on 30D is a futuristic techno record that transcends time, offering a sound that is both current and timeless. Jacopo’s work is a testament to his ability to create innovative and groundbreaking music that resonates with listeners.

Shuya Onuki

Shuya Onuki is a Japanese producer based in Berlin. His work on the Ice Habit sub-label of 30D is characterized by its cinematic quality, often resembling a soundtrack for a documentary or film. His latest release is a testament to his ability to create immersive and evocative soundscapes that transport listeners to another world.

Paleman

Paleman is one of the most interesting producers in the current techno scene. His work on “eyes have it” sub-label of 30D is known for its balance between techno and what the experts define as “the grey area” , offering a unique and innovative sound that opens new horizons. Paleman’s ability to create complex and captivating tracks has made him a standout artist in the techno community.

(Audio is not available in English for those interested here you have an English transcript)