Dutch DJ and producer VE/RA has rapidly risen to prominence since her breakthrough in 2022. Known for her explosive sound, she has gained support from top artists like Charlotte de Witte, Amelie Lens, and Deborah de Luca. Her tracks have topped the Beatport Hype Charts and amassed over 1.5 million Spotify streams. VE/RA’s music blends tight grooves, warbling acid lines, funky drum patterns, and sensuous vocals, creating a raw and energetic style that stands out in the techno scene. Today, she’s here to share more about her music, creative process, and what’s next in her exciting journey.
What draws you to acid techno, and how do you incorporate it into your music?
For me, acid brings a lot of energy to a track. It’s highly versatile, and with automation, you can create endless variation to keep it engaging. I often incorporate acid into my tracks, sometimes as the main element, and other times as a dynamic variation.
What makes Filth on Acid the right label for your sound?
Filth On Acid is known for releasing high-energy, acid driven sounds, which align perfectly with my own style. On top of that, I have a lot of respect for Reinier Zonneveld and his music. His innovative approach to techno has always inspired me. That’s why I’m beyond excited to release it on his legendary label.
Is there a story or meaning behind Dance Therapy EP?
My Dance Therapy EP features two tracks: Dance Therapy and Ten Times. With Dance Therapy, I wanted to create something unexpected – something that keeps the listener engaged and curious about what’s coming next. In the second break, there’s a moment of silence before a plucky sound gradually speeds up, building tension. The contrasting drops enhance the track’s uniqueness, making it truly stand out.
For Ten Times, my goal was to craft a dark, club-driven track with haunting vocals, hard hitting drums, and an intense, high-energy synth for the drop – perfect for peak-time dance floors.
What did your creative process look like when producing this EP?
For Dance Therapy, I already had a clear vision in mind – specifically, the plucky sound that creates a sense of uniqueness and tension. Once that foundation was set, I built around it, adding vocals and funky drums to give the track its dynamic groove. Everything came together quickly, as the elements naturally complemented each other.
For Ten times, the vocal was the main focus from the start. Once I had it locked in, I began shaping the track around it, building a dark, atmospheric soundscape that gradually evolves into hard-hitting drums and a deep, energetic lead.
How does it feel to have support from artists like Charlotte de Witte and Amelie Lens?
Incredible! Charlotte and Amelie have been two of my biggest inspirations in the techno scene. Receiving their support feels almost surreal – like a dream coming true. It’s also an amazing reminder of the power of strong female artists in the industry. Girl power!
How do you balance staying true to your sound while achieving chart-topping success?
Staying true to my own sound is far more important to me than achieving chart-topping success – so that’s always my main focus. Of course, it’s amazing when a track makes it into the charts, but I see that as a bonus rather than a goal. My priority is creating music that feels authentic and resonates with my own sound.
How would you describe your signature sound, and how has it evolved since your debut?
Right now, my sound sits between peak-time techno and hard techno, with some (psy) trance influences. I love surprising the crowd by blending these genres and keeping my sets dynamic.
When I first started playing, I focused on peak-time techno and experimented with tech house, but techno had always had my heart. It’s the genre that truly drives me.
How has the Dutch techno scene influenced your music and career?
The Dutch techno scene has had a significant influence on both my music and my career. There are many techno events in the Netherlands, both large and small, and this has given me incredible opportunities to perform and build my presence in my home country. The Dutch crowd is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about techno, which has motivated me to constantly push my sound forward.
It has also allowed me to connect with other talented artists and industry professionals, which has played a key role in shaping my career.
What are your goals for 2025, and are there any upcoming projects or tours you’re excited about?
My goal for 2025 is to continue expanding my reach, playing at more events and in more countries. I’m passionate about connecting with people through my music, and I’m excited to bring my sound to new audiences around the world. I also aim to release more tracks on incredible labels, collaborate with talented artists and push my sound even further. While I can’t reveal too many details just yet, I have some exciting projects in the works that I’m really looking forward to sharing. It’s going to be a year of growth, new opportunities, and unforgettable experiences.
As part of the “new school” of techno, how do you see yourself pushing the genre forward?
I really hope the music scene is ready for the “new school” of techno! I see myself pushing the genre forward by blending innovative sounds and fresh ideas. The scene is constantly evolving, and I believe the future of techno lies in a combination of new influences while still staying true to its roots. It’s an exciting time to be a part of it.
If you could play any event or venue in the world, where would it be and why?
Pwoeh.. that’s a tough one! I have so many events on my bucket list – can I mention a few? Haha. Ultra Resistance in Miami would be an absolute dream to play at, and being there during Miami Music Week, surrounded by so many incredible artists, is definitely at the top of my list. It’s such a special moment in the year for the music scene, and I’d love to experience it firsthand.
If Dance Therapy were a physical place, what would it look like and feel like?
Well, actually, it would look exactly like the artwork from Filth On Acid. Dancing in space, dancing on the moon. You’ve got to check out the artwork, it’s super cool.
What do you hope fans feel or experience when they listen to your new EP?
When fans listen to my new EP, I truly hope they feel energized, surprised, and excited, leaving them hungry for what’s to come, because I can promise there’s much more VE/RA music on the way.
Featured image credit: Kevin Canales
