As the global techno landscape continues to evolve at a relentless pace, few artists have managed to carve out a distinct identity as quickly and convincingly as KLOFAMA. Known for his high-impact sets and a sharp ear for emerging sounds, he has rapidly transitioned from a rising name into a driving force within the harder spectrum of the genre. Now, with the launch of his own imprint Chrome Print Records and the release of his new track “Locked & Loaded,” on May 1 KLOFAMA is entering a new chapter; one that places him not only behind the decks, but also at the helm of a platform dedicated to shaping the future of techno.

In this conversation with Techno Station, KLOFAMA (Mats) opens up about the key moments that defined his growth, the vision behind his label, and the creative mindset that fuels both his productions and performances. From sold-out All Night Long shows to supporting emerging artists, he offers insight into the balance between artistry and curation, and where he sees both his own sound and the wider hard techno movement heading next.

Hi Mats, thanks for taking the time to talk with us at Techno Station. How are you doing?

I’m doing well! I feel fit and really motivated. There are a lot of exciting projects happening right now, like the launch of my label Chrome Print Records and my new track “Locked & Loaded,” so it’s a great period.

You’ve experienced rapid growth in recent years. What has been the biggest turning point in your career so far?

That moment really came when my first All Night Long show sold out. The fact that so many people bought a ticket to see me was a real reality check. That’s when I realized: this is no longer just something casual, this is actually becoming serious.

What inspired you to launch Chrome Print Records at this moment?

During my sets, I play a lot of tracks from smaller artists. That music is often high quality, but those artists don’t always get the recognition they deserve. I wanted to create a platform for that, and it felt like the right moment to take that step.

How would you describe the sound and vision of Chrome Print Records in a few words?

The label should reflect the same energy as my sets: intense, direct, and recognizable, but with room for emotion and its own identity. It should be something people immediately feel connected to.

Your debut release “Locked & Loaded” kicks things off. Why was this the right track to introduce the label?

“Locked & Loaded” is currently one of the most hyped tracks I have. It’s built quite simply, but that’s exactly what makes it so effective. It’s recognizable for the crowd, and people can immediately respond to it and get into it. That makes it a strong first release for the label.

Do you approach producing differently when it’s for your own label versus releases on other labels?

Not really. At the core, I always produce in the same way. The difference is more in the release strategy: with other labels, I pay close attention to their fanbase and whether my track fits. With my own label, I naturally have more freedom in that regard.

You’ve played both in clubs and at major festivals. Where do you feel most at home behind the decks?

For me, it doesn’t really matter. It all comes down to the energy of the crowd. If that’s right, it doesn’t matter whether you’re in a club or at a big festival.

Your “All Night Long” shows have been a big success. What makes those long sets so special for you?

During an All Night Long set, you really have the time to tell a story. You can vary more, try different styles, and truly build something. That makes it much more personal and creative for me compared to a shorter set.

Now that PROTOCOL is growing internationally, how do you balance being both an artist and a curator?

I work with a strong team that takes a lot off my hands. That allows me to stay focused on being an artist and the creative process, while we continue to build PROTOCOL together.

Hard techno is evolving rapidly. Where do you see the genre heading, and where do you see yourself within it?

The genre keeps growing and evolving in different directions. You see a more commercial side emerging, but also a rawer, more industrial side. I mainly try to stay close to my own sound and continue developing my own identity within that.

Looking ahead, what is your ultimate goal for Chrome Print Records in its first year?

In the first year, I mainly want to establish a lot of strong releases while also providing a platform for new talent. It should become a place where quality comes first and where people can discover new music.

KLOFAMA – Locked & Loaded will be released on May 1 via Chrome Print Records