Following the successful release of their inaugural collaboration, “Die Zeit,” esteemed artists Timo Maas and Marc Romboy now present their second installment in their creative series. This latest offering delves into the realm of “Der Rhythmus,” exploring the intricate . nature of rhythm, as expounded upon by the introspective musings of vocalist Fadila “Der Rhythmus” emerges as a testament to the boundless creativity and collaborative prowess of Timo Maas, Marc Romboy, and Fadila, as well as the innovative remix artistry of Dense & Pika. This release is poised to leave an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music. And so we had a rare opportunity to catch both Marc and Timo for a one on one interview regarding this outstanding release.
First, congratulations on the new collaborative EP; what can you tell us about this promising project, the musical vision behind it and the work process in the studio- like who did what etc.?
Marc: Thanx so much for your kind words. This release means something pretty particular to us as „Der Rhythmus“ is something you probably wouldn‘t expect from us. Like in our previous track „Die Zeit“ we have experimented with German vocals which have a totally different vibe, compared to English. And Timo came up with a recording from Fadila which instantly blew my mind.
In the original version of ‘Der Rhythmus’ you chose a breakbeat rhythm rather than a regular four on the floor approach – can you share with us the artistic reason behind this choice?
Timo: There was no real particular „plan” before we started, like „we do electro now“, ..with all we do in our creative processes, it developed organically and ended up in a futuristic electro style…
Possibly the only thing we knew before is that we want to work with german vocals.
The remix by Dense & Pika feels like it’s beyond a certain genre which you could point to – as if it’s taken straight from the soundtrack to a science fiction movie. What did it make you feel when you first listened to it?
Marc: I was literally speechless. I‘m a big fan of their music and liked already their release with my bud Will Clark. But this remix is surely next level shit, techno as it might sound in the year 2050!
Timo: First reaction, when i heard it…wow, what a beast, and wow, totally against any expectations.. Chris was able to capture super intense moments that sound so futuristic, and totally up to date for whats working right now… Kudos, mega work!
After spending thousands of hours at the studio and producing numerous tracks, can you refer to a preferable tool (synth/instrument/technique etc.) which you stuck to and which defined your sound stamp through the years?
Marc: There is not the particular one and only tool but I love all plugins, Alexkid has released, like i.e. Instant House. You have the possibility to work with randomized results of drum or sound patterns you would never play yourself on the keyboard. I‘m also a big fan of Arturia‘s brand new 303 emulation called „Acid“. It also works with this aspect of creating patterns by accident. Highly recommended.
On another note, what are you cooking up in the studio nowadays, and what should we expect from you next?
Marc: Good question at the right point of time. My imprint Systematic will become 20 years next June and of course this has to be celebrated big time. Timo and I will contribute a couple of tracks to this big project. Many fantastic artists are on board.
Timo: On top we both work on several remixes and originals in our individual careers as well as future projects together… watch this space 😉
As this year is coming to an end, are there any memorable gigs from the past summer which you would like to share with us?
Marc: Sure thing! It‘s out of the question that my hybrid live DJ b2b gig at Fusion Festival Turmbühne with Timo was a true highlight. Also my live show at “Family Piknik” in Montpellier in France, right after the show of Carl Cox was something which will stay in my heart forever. Goosebumps just when I think about these moments.
I just wanted to mention this too… The Fusion b2b with Marc was not only one of the best shows this year, it also proved that the combined experience and energy is something we should and will perform more intensely in the future.
Also my show in Italy/Misano with the Cocorico / Memorabilia team in front of 20000 people was truly one for the books…
We always like to end our interviews with something spicy for the fans, posing the same last question to all our guests! We know crazy things happen at clubs and parties all the time, can you tell us about one of the weirdest memorable incidents that happened to you
Marc: Timo, this is something for you (laughs)…
Timo: Define crazy!!!! you mean, doing stage diving on shrooms at DC10 back in the years or playing some 12 hrs or longer sets in front of some nutters on a hidden junkyard etc etc? I/we would never do things like this 😉 hahahahaaaa
Honestly, far too many to mention…
Grab your copy of “Der Rhythmus” here.
