Lost And Sound

This week, I’m joined by producer and sound designer Demian Licht. With a unique approach to creating deep techno, Demian treats frequencies and textures like an intricate structure, embracing minimalism and drawing inspiration from diverse sources beyond music itself, such as Greek mythology in her latest "Hémera" EP as well as Biohacking.Our discussion moves from Mexico City, where Demien honed her craft and became the first certified female Ableton trainer in Latin America to the chilly streets of Berlin, where she released her debut LP Die Kraft during the pandemic. We explore the transformative power of external influences on creativity, from surfing to learning new languages, and how stepping outside one's comfort zone can nurture genuine artistic expression. Demian highlights the significance of fostering an inclusive environment in music education, reflecting on the vital role of teaching in her career.If you like what I’m doing with Lost and Sound, please like, rate, review or subscribe to the show on your podcast app of choice – it really does help.HÉMERA VOL.1, out now on Demian Licht’s label Motus Records. Listen an buy through Bandcamp here.Follow me on Instagram at PaulhanfordLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaMy BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.My book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

A few Sundays ago I spoke with Icelandic producer and DJ Bjarki, whose seems to be at an interesting point in his artistic evolution, capable of creating club bangers yet seemingly more curious to explore dark yet heartfelt spaces between satire and science. From his explosive blunt weapon of a debut track "I Want to Go Bang,” almost ten years ago now,  to his innovative new album "A Guide to Hellthier Lifestyle." Bjarki shares how he weaves themes like environmental awareness  and the wellness industry into his music, shaping each track into a piece of conceptual art. Bjarki has built up a reputation for releasing under different pseudonyms and is able to create music that doesn’t sit under one label, he’s pretty hilariously dissmissive about how easy it is to make a club banger in our chat, for one. We discuss the creative journey of producing an album that examines wellness and influencer culture while embracing new technologies like spatial sound design to enhance the listener's experience. We also get to weave one of my favourite semi-regular sidenotes into the conversation — the connections between music and food!If you like what I’m doing with Lost and Sound, please like, rate, review or subscribe to the show on your podcast app of choice – it really does help. “A Guide To Hellthire Lifestyle” by Bjarki is released on February 7th, pre-order on Bandcamp.Follow me on Instagram at PaulhanfordLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

It’s the 150th episode of Lost and Sound and I’m joined by the legendary DJ and producer Laurent Garnier, who this week releases his epic Fabric Presents Mix, celebrating 25 years of the London superclub.Garnier famously checks out 400+ tracks a day, and we discuss how he sustains his passion for music amidst an avalanche of daily releases. He underscores the relentless pursuit of musical treasures, maintaining that even in a saturated market, gems persist. Garnier also reflects on the evolution of DJ culture and music trends, highlighting the significance of resisting nostalgia and embracing fresh tracks while acknowledging the challenges posed by technological advances in music distribution.Our conversation also touches on the nuances of today's techno scene, where commercial and underground elements often blur, not always in the best way. Garnier's approach shifts towards intimate venues that prioritize artistic expression over mainstream success. Lastly, we celebrate Fabric's 25th anniversary with Garnier's contribution: a mix for each of Fabric's rooms and a special "fourth room" mix for home listeners. Garnier is also a keen cook, and we draw on the parralels between clubs and restaurants, and how good resident DJs fulfull the same need for the culture as good chefs do. I loved hearing his insights into maintaining a successful DJ career, understanding crowd dynamics, and the intricacies of performing for different audiences.If you like what I’m doing with Lost and Sound, please like, rate, review or subscribe to the show on your podcast app of choice – it really does help.fabric presents Laurent Garnier: celebrating 25 years of fabric. Initial deluxe vinyl and CD release: 29th November. Pre-order here. Follow me on Instagram at PaulhanfordLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaMy BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.My  book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Join us for an immersive journey into the world of sound and creativity with electroacoustic composer, Sarah Davachi. Discover her unique methodology that combines a secular interest in pipe organs with innovative approaches to music composition and psychoacoustics. Sarah invites us into her world, sharing insights into the process behind her latest album, "The Head Has Form’d in the Crier’s Choir," and reflects on her academic pursuits that enrich her art. Explore how Sarah balances the cerebral with the ethereal, blending insights from Greek mythology with modern musicology to craft evocative soundscapes. She reveals how taking inspiration from Monteverdi and Rilke helped her create a conceptual suite that embodies emotional depth and narrative coherence. Uncover her philosophy of creative limitations, where constraints are not obstacles but tools for shaping cohesive musical experiences."The Head Has Form’d in the Crier’s Choir,” on BandcampFollow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Andy Bell, celebrated for his work with iconic guitar bands Ride and Oasis, takes us on an unexpected journey into the world of electronic music. We chat about his latest project, Glok, and the new album "Alliance," crafted alongside Timothy Clerkin. Ride's early '90s shoegaze influence is unmistakable in his electronic creations, making for a fascinating blend of past and present musical elements. This episode touches on Andy's humility and creative spirit, offering a fresh perspective on his evolving musical path.Our exploration of minimalism uncovers its surprising role as a common thread across diverse musical genres. Navigating personal music preferences often led to the term "psychedelia," yet it is minimalism that for him truly ties together interests ranging from post-punk to ambient sounds. Conversations about Ride's reunion reveal insights into how cultures and eras influence each other, emphasizing a continued evolution of sound. The authenticity of past musical revivals is questioned while finding genuine connections in minimalism and transcendence.A transformative recording session in 2012 marks the beginning of Andy's electronic music journey, as he shares experiences with software and effects. Creating music during lockdown led to a serendipitous collaboration with Timothy Clerkin, highlighting the unpredictability of remote music production. We reflect on the influence of Andrew Weatherall and the tracks born from this unique partnership, with "Empyrean" standing out as a testament to Glok's sound.“Alliance” by Glok and Timothy Clerkin is out now on Bytes and available here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

What compels an artist to stay true to their vision in a world full of expectations and pressures? Join us as we sit with the genre-straddling Granada-born, Berlin-based DJ and producer Kid Simius. We explore the psychology behind an artist’s decision to either fit in or break the mold, a theme central to hias career. He shares how the cultural backdrop of his hometown Granada and the bustling energy of Berlin have shaped his musical path, from his humble beginnings of releasing tracks in 2012 to performing on international stages.  Kid Simius opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of releasing music, the challenges of being an international touring DJ, and how these experiences have influenced his creative process. He candidly discusses the personal significance of naming his album "Jose," a choice that reflects clarity and authenticity. We talk about the delicate balance of maintaining artistic integrity while navigating external pressures from social media and music industry expectations. Kid Simius’ journey emphasizes the importance of self-expression and letting go of self-judgment, encouraging listeners to interpret music in their own unique ways.“José” by Kid Simius is out now on Shall Not Fade. Check it out here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

How did a friendship spanning nearly four decades evolve into one of the most compelling musical partnerships in Berlin's underground scene? Alexander Hacke and Daniella de Picciotto, collectively known as Hackedepicciotto, join us to share their remarkable journey. They open up about their creative processes, blending industrial beats, electronic sounds, and classical harmonies into what they call Symphonic Drone. Their latest album, "The Best of Hackedepicciotto (Live in Napoli)” is more than just a collection of live performances; it’s a reflection of their artistic evolution and enduring commitment to pushing musical boundaries.Step back to the vibrant 1980s in Berlin—a city on the fringes. Hacke and de Picciotto reflect on the iconic underground music scenes of Berlin and New York, which served as creative ground zero for many artists. They share personal stories of this era and examine how the spirit of repurposing old ideas into new, groundbreaking concepts has influenced generations of musicians. Their experiences highlight the radical artistic atmosphere that fostered connections with like-minded individuals eager to challenge societal norms.Imagine a life without a permanent address, driven by artistic freedom and cultural exploration. This episode also uncovers the couple's unique nomadic lifestyle and its profound impact on their music-making. Hacke and de Picciotto discuss the philosophical and spiritual insights gained from their travels, emphasizing a broader understanding of global interconnectedness in the face of modern consumerism.The Best Of Hackedepicciotto (Live In Napoli) is out Nov 1st on Mute. Find out more here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Paula Tape enthuses her work as a rising DJ and producer with a deep love of following where the music leads and how this connects with her identity.  From her indie band days drumming as a youth in Santiago to spinning records at Panorama Bar, Glastonbury and Boiler Room, Paula unfolds her unique story. Discover how Milan has become her hub for creativity and how touring through South America became an inspiration behind her latest EP, "Acid Latino," a testament to her rich Latin heritage.As we explore the nuances of Paula’s artistic evolution, she shares her ambition to experiment with new musical styles and collaborate with other artists, pushing boundaries with lyrics and live vocals. We discuss the profound impact her travels have had on her music, especially the cultural richness of South America. Paula’s narrative is a journey of personal growth, rediscovering cultural identity, and the challenges and triumphs of expressing oneself in a new language.This episode also delves into the emotional landscape of DJing and producing, where Paula reflects on the powerful connections built with audiences worldwide. The conversation touches on the importance of self-belief and kindness, addressing how mental challenges like depression can affect creativity and how resilence can be built through experience. Acid Latino EP is released November 20th on Future Classics. Feel 2 Reel is out as a single now. Check out both here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Bogdan Raczynski has created a body of work as enigmatic as it is enthralling. Rumoured to have been discovered sleeping on a bench in Tokyo by Aphex Twin, he’s collaborated with Björk, remixed Autechre and at one point took a break from electronica to release an album inspired by Polish folk music.Bogdan reflects on nearly three decades of defying norms within the music industry. We discuss his latest work, "You're Only Young Once, but You Can Be Stupid Forever," which captures his signature blend of playfulness and depth. Through the lens of his childhood experiences as a political refugee and his unique perspective on the world, we explore how these elements shape his creative process and continue to influence his groundbreaking sound.  As we talk with Bogdan, we explore creativity beyond the constraints of commercial success—we ponder the societal limitations that stifle potential artists. Emphasizing the importance of ambiguity in art, Bogdan shares personal anecdotes from his past, challenging the conventional need for predefined interpretations and advocating for spontaneous, personal engagements with creative works.  Our conversation also delves into the complex interplay between music, identity, and defiance. Bogdan shares how moments of feeling different have shaped his artistic identity, from the childhood discovery of a humorous hip-hop cassette to finding his place within the IDM scene of the '90s. We also tackle the struggle of balancing music with other career paths and the journey towards achieving a flow state in creativity. You’re Only Young Once But You Can Be Stupid Forever is available on Vinyl / CD / download / stream from 18th October on Disciples. Check it out here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Ever wondered how a music legend evolves over five decades? Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of Steve Hillage, a counter-cultural icon whose influence stretches from the psychedelic 60s to today's electronic scene. Through his candid reflections, Steve takes us back to the Canterbury scene's pioneering days, his transformative years with Gong, and his innovative solo projects bridging prog rock and proto-ambient music. Learn how he seamlessly transitioned into production in the early 80s, leaving his mark on post-punk and electro-pop, creating a Baleiric classic in the process and onto his role in acid house and techno through System 7 and Mirror System.  Discover the intuitive artistry behind Steve's creative process, the importance of persistence, and how he balances various strengths in collaborations. Dive into his ground-breaking ambient work, "Rainbow Dome Music," and understand the dual performance strategy that distinguishes System 7 and Mirror System at festivals. Get a sneak peek into his latest ventures, including new albums and potential live recordings, all illustrating Steve's perpetual evolution and adaptability in the music industry. Route 77 – the new Mirron System album is out October 25thFollow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins