Sophie Chapter #6

True connoisseurs of techno know perfectly well that something important has been brewing in Romania for quite some time now, several years already. Sophie is well aware of this, and it makes perfect sense for tonight to be dedicated to the ever-stimulating and innovative Romanian scene.

Starting with the trio of wonders, probably the three most internationally renowned producers in the country, together for over fifteen years under the name of a:rpia:r (or RPR, the initials of their three names), the label they jointly steer with six hands (and three brains) since 2006. We are, of course, referring to Rhadoo (the boss), Raresh, and Petre Inspirescu, accomplished masters in the art of minimalist techno with maximalist effects on the dance floor, and the main driving force behind Romania’s rise to prominence in the highly competitive European circuit. Legends in their home country, regulars at parties like Cocoon or Circoloco, and respected by DJs and producers from around the world (Ricardo Villalobos has always declared himself a fan, in addition to frequently performing alongside them), when they join forces in the DJ booth, they amplify the virtues of the label’s sound: deep, precise, and utterly hypnotic, drawing inspiration from both timeless acid and the darkness of underground techno.

Direct disciples and fundamental pillars of the new generation of the Romanian clubbing scene, as well as close friends for years, Cristi Cons and Vlad Caia formed the project SIT (Sideways Invisibility Theory) to explore their passion for floor-filling electronic music and cutting-edge club sounds. They also founded a label, Amphia, as a platform to release their own material and that of like-minded comrades and artists. Through SIT, Vlad and Cristi have created a unique sound that combines powerful rhythms with organic elements and captivating melodic sensibility.

Alongside them, we will also have the presence of two emerging talents from the dynamic scene of the country. Suciu has earned the respect of his peers for the freshness of his sound, with the dance floor as his primary target, open to influences ranging from jazz and funk to house and acid, always with a well-understood touch of darkness. Completing the Balkan invasion is the emerging producer and DJ from Bucharest, Roman, a skillful creator of sonic narratives who, like his compatriots, effortlessly combines energy, fluidity, and depth in his sets.

Meanwhile, in the Modular Stage, we will be treated to sets by Malaga-born DJ and producer Ildec, known for his affinity for acid sounds and electro, with releases on French labels Sequalog and Zingiber Audio. And joining them is the Valencia-based collective, The Basement Soundsystem, responsible for one of the most active and interesting house labels in the country, and the founders of the Días de Campo festival.