Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Arne Freitag aka DJ Gerät. I love music, especially on vinyl. Since 2018, I’ve been DJing exclusively with records. I originally played guitar, so music has always been a part of my life. Over time, I dove into electronic music and discovered my love for house music. Since then, there’s nothing better for me than digging for new records, collecting them, and incorporating them into my sets — and I’m more than happy to drop a few hundred bucks for that.

Where can people hear or see your work?

I’m most active on SoundCloud, where I regularly upload new sets. You can also find me on Instagram. I haven’t released any of my own productions yet — but who knows what the future holds. Every now and then, I also stream live on Twitch. You can catch me playing live mainly in smaller, underground venues like Loch in Wuppertal or Giselle in Düsseldorf — I’ll be playing there again on August 29th.

What’s the name of the track you want to introduce, and who is it by?

Devotion – Harrison BDP (Devotion & Obsession EP)

Who is Harrison BDP – and what makes the song special?

Harrison BDP, real name Harry Webber, is a UK-based producer who’s been making waves with his tracks for several years now. He started producing at the age of 16 and has since developed a unique sound. With releases on labels like Phonica Records, Lost Palms, or Shall Not Fade, he’s become one of the most exciting names in the European house scene.
With his new EP on the renowned edit label Stamp, Harrison BDP drops two absolute club bangers on vinyl. “Devotion” stands out in particular – a subtle yet highly effective reinterpretation of the disco track Lay It Down on Me by Gerald Mallory.

https://thickasthieves.com.au/artists/harrison-bdp
https://www.discogs.com/de/artist/4402701-Harrison-BDP?srsltid=AfmBOopeMDx5w_hNjQzlXtl8eyNvxqcTMKiXt06eBMsONOKlO1sap8s7

When and how did you discover the track?

That must have been around 2018 – shortly after I started DJing seriously. The track came out in 2017. I discovered it through a YouTube channel that regularly features new underground releases. Back then, I was deeply involved in the Cologne underground scene and soaked up a lot of musical influences. I instantly fell in love with this sound.

In what situations do you like listening to the track?

I love playing Devotion as a closing track in front of an audience. It’s not the kind of song you play quietly in the background while chilling on the couch – it demands to be celebrated. It gets people on their feet and evokes something in them. When I play it at home, I dance alone in the living room. Doesn’t matter if anyone’s watching or not. This track is pure energy.

What makes the track special or meaningful to you?

It has shaped me musically more than almost any other. Devotion showed me what house music can be: emotional, driving, raw, and full of love. Before that, I was more into tech house or minimal. This track set me on a whole new path – and that’s why it means so much to me.

Which sound element catches you every single time?

There’s this playful harp-like element that gives the track its unique disco glam. I absolutely love it. And of course, the vocal drop at the end. When all the tension builds up and finally explodes. It’s like a love story with a happy ending: a gentle build-up followed by a big emotional release.

Is there a specific memory or image that you associate with the track?

Oh yes! In 2019, we were at the Latscho Festival – a small, charming event with a mix of rock cover bands and electronic acts. I was there with old DJ friends, and “Devotion” was the closing track back then. We’d had a bit too much Korn to drink, wore lampshades on our heads, and danced like crazy – it was a magical, silly, but honest moment. I still carry that memory with me.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the track?

For me, it’s one of the best house tracks ever made. If you haven’t heard it – go check it out, or better yet: grab it on vinyl. Totally worth it.

More about DJ Gerät:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Twitch
• Mail

More about Harrison BDP:

https://de.ra.co/dj/harrisonbdp

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Marius, 26 years old, and I discovered DJing about seven years ago. Back then, I used my first student loan (BAföG) to buy two turntables and some speakers. I lost touch with it for a while, but for the past two years I’ve been fully back into it – especially into the Italo disco sound. I love collecting and spinning records.

Where can people hear or see your work?

I’m active on Instagram and SoundCloud – and of course live, whenever I’m playing somewhere.

What’s the name of the track you want to introduce, and who is it by?

Il mondo da una nuvola – Patrizia Pellegrino

Who is Patrizia Pellegrino – and what makes the song special?

Patrizia Pellegrino (*1962 in Torre Annunziata near Naples) is an Italian actress, TV presenter, showgirl, and theater performer. In the 1980s, she also began singing and became part of the Italian Italo disco wave.
Il Mondo Da Una Nuvola, originally released as a 7″ single, is one of her most iconic tracks – produced by Rome-based disco maestro Constantino Paolini.
The song blends playful synthesizers with dreamy vocals that speak of seeing the world from the perspective of a cloud.

https://de.ra.co/dj/evius/biography
https://de.ra.co/podcast/863

When and how did you discover the track?

I came across the track when I started collecting records again. I was listening to a lot of sets from the Berlin scene back then, especially from parties like Automaticamore.
The music in those sets inspired me to dig deeper – mostly on Discogs and YouTube.

In what situations do you like listening to the track?

Most of all when I’m having a few drinks with friends – or riding my bike through the city.

Do you play the track during sets or mixes?

Absolutely! I bought the record right after it was re-released in 2023 on Miss You (a sublabel of Sound Metaphors). Since then, I often use it as an opener.

What makes the track special or meaningful to you?

I love the theme of the song – it’s all about longing. Longing for a holiday, for special encounters, for a night that never ends.

Which sound element catches you every single time?

Definitely the first 10 to 20 seconds. The synths, the intro – it gets me every time. It has that iconic sound that just hits right away.

What does the track make you feel?

A feeling of Italy – of romance, of that dramatic atmosphere that instantly fills the air. It just sweeps you along.

Is there a specific memory or image that you associate with the track?

Totally! I played the track for the first time during my first DJ set at die Wiese. I was super nervous, but once this track came on, everything relaxed.
A lot of friends were there, the vibe was beautiful – the track fit the evening perfectly.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the track?

Go to more dance bars! I love Italo disco, and this track embodies exactly what I love about it.

More about Marius:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Mail

More about Patrizia Pellegrino:

https://www.patriziapellegrino.it/

Discogs

auflinks auf links

Who am I and what do I do?

I’m Henning, the face behind auflinks. I’m a passionate record collector – especially loving disco and house. I got into DJing through a few open-air parties that I organised with friends. Nowadays, you’ll regularly find me playing at Gottes Grüne Wiese. You can also catch me at other spots in Cologne like Kunstbar or this Sunday (13.07.25) at Bredouille for Dinner&Disco. At the end of July, I’m also heading to Zugvögel-Festival!

Recently, I spent a few months travelling in Brazil and Argentina, where I discovered many exciting records – including the track I brought with me today.

Why this format?

I really enjoy connecting with other people who love music. That’s why I came up with the idea to create a community-based network. My goal is to make music more accessible and give (local) musicians a platform. This way, we can support each other as a community and create spaces for friends and people who often go unseen.

What’s the name of the track – and who is it by?

Mania de Você – Rita Lee

Who is Rita Lee – and what makes the song special?

Rita Lee (1947–2023) was a Brazilian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. She first became known as a founding member of the psychedelic rock band Os Mutantes, which played a central role in the Tropicália movement of the 1960s. In the 1970s, she launched a successful solo career and became one of Brazil’s most influential pop and rock artists. Mania de Você, released in 1979, is one of her most famous songs. It combines Brazilian pop with a soft, sensual groove and has been covered and reinterpreted countless times over the decades.

https://www.discogs.com/de/artist/274890-Rita-Lee?srsltid=AfmBOop-UmVvn2lfPgmlMsa6-r5XbtwztxeXevJszO78uQdFbdemCG8X

When and how did I discover the track?

I discovered the song during my time in Brazil. Musically, I was blown away by the high density of music offerings in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. In São Paulo, I felt overwhelmed by the massive number of record stores, especially Galeria Nova Barão.

I found this LP through one of Rio’s best record dealers, Tropa du Vinil, who I met at Feira Livre da Glória. The song was playing everywhere. Every band knew it, everyone could sing along – it’s a true classic.

Do I play the track during sets?

Yes, in a relaxed bar atmosphere, it always creates a great vibe for both the crowd and myself. I also love playing it during private listening sessions at home.

Is there a particular version I prefer?

Just recently I found out there’s a Spanish version of it – that was a cool surprise! But I still prefer the original.

Do I associate any specific memories with the track?

Yes – I remember a big street party in Salvador de Bahia where everyone was singing it loudly together – it was magical. The song is linked to so many memories for me. When I hear it, images and emotions from my journey come back to life.

Anything else?

Definitely – another favourite from the same album is Chega Mais. Also an amazing track!

More about auflinks:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Mail

More about Rita Lee:

discogs

theguardian

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Johanna Bergen — Bergen is also my DJ name. I come from Cologne, I’m 25 years old, and I started DJing at the beginning of last year. Musically, I move between Tech House, Deep House, Acid, and Tribal House. However, I had been collecting music for about three years before finally taking the step to DJ actively and put all those tracks to use.

Where can people hear or see your work?

You can find several of my sets on SoundCloud — both home recordings and club sets. Otherwise, most information lives on Instagram, where I post everything about gigs, new sets, and whatever else is happening.

Would you like to introduce your project, collective, or an event?

At the moment I’m not permanently part of a collective, but I love supporting a few event series — especially COSO DAKT. That’s a project by two very good friends, Alfalfa and Romeu. They organize fantastic underground events that, in my opinion, deserve much more attention. I’ve already had the chance to play there, for example at Gewölbe.

What’s the name of the track you want to introduce, and who is it by?

Finally A Water Level (Earth Trax Remix) – Evius

Who are Evius & Earth Trax – and what makes the song special?

Evius, born Piotr Ryncarz, is a DJ, producer, and promoter from Gdańsk. He organizes the party series Kosmos and Rave Like It’s 1998. His music has appeared on labels such as Dom Trojga, Oramics, Father & Sons Records And Tapes, and POTOP Records.
Earth Trax — real name Bartosz Kruczyński — is a producer from Warsaw. Besides projects like Pejzaż and Ptaki, Earth Trax is known for his club-oriented releases. In 2022, he remixed Evius’ track “Finally A Water Level” for the EP Why Do Some People Chase Tornados? on POTOP Records.

https://de.ra.co/dj/evius/biography
https://de.ra.co/podcast/863

When and how did you discover the track?

I discovered it on the dance floor at Gewölbe — where else, to be honest? I was surprised afterwards never to hear it again at other events, even though it made such an impact on me and the people around me.

In what situations do you like listening to the track?

Since that night, I’ve really listened to it in every situation: driving in the car, at home on the sofa, writing my bachelor’s thesis, or getting ready to go out. The track has accompanied me through so many different moments.

Do you play the track during sets or mixes?

Not yet. I tried to work it into a set at home once, but that was very early on, and I got stuck on the bassline — I simply couldn’t mix it in cleanly. I haven’t tried again since … but I really should give it another shot.

What makes the track special or meaningful to you?

Primarily the situation I associate with it. It was one of those songs that triggered the feeling in me: Wow, this is what I want to do, too. That energy music can create was a pivotal moment for me. The track is totally simple, almost minimalist. The bassline runs through almost the entire track, aside from a short break. It’s exactly that simplicity that makes it so powerful. It drives unbelievably, even though not much actually happens.

Which sound element catches you every single time?

Definitely the vocal — it’s super simple, almost a rhythmic moan, but extremely effective. I’m usually very critical of vocals. Often I think they’re poorly used or processed and can ruin a whole track. But when it works, like here, it’s simply the best thing that can happen to a track.

What does the track make you feel?

Ecstasy — and at the same time contentment. The track is so driving that after listening I feel like I have enough energy for the next three days.Probably exactly what I feel listening to it: that driving energy, good mood, fun. When I first heard it and looked around the dance floor, everyone was completely in it—everyone was just feeling it.

What do you think the artist wanted to express with the track?

Probably exactly what I feel listening to it: that driving energy, good mood, fun. When I first heard it and looked around the dance floor, everyone was completely in it—everyone was just feeling it.

Is there a specific memory or image that you associate with the track?

Absolutely: the dance floor at the Gewölbe. Well-executed lighting effects, laughing, sweating people everywhere. That image is firmly linked to the track.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the track?

Just listen to it. Really. You don’t need to say much more than that.

How does the track inspire you as a musician?

It was definitely the song that got me seriously into digging for music. I wanted more of that vibe. Since then, I’ve loved basslines — the simpler, the better. The track has shaped me musically and still influences me today. It definitely makes you want more.

More about Bergen:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Mail

More about Evius/Earth Trax:

https://de.ra.co/dj/evius

https://de.ra.co/dj/earthtrax-pl

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Lucus. I’ve been collecting records and DJing for over 15 years, and since 2016, I’ve also been organizing underground electronic music events.

Where can people hear or see your work?

On SoundCloud and, of course, on Instagram.

Would you like to introduce your project, collective, or an event?

Absolutely. I’d like to warmly introduce and give a shout-out to about repetition. It’s an association where I feel completely accepted—both musically and personally.
About repetition is deeply involved in artist research, supports artists in the electronic scene, and organizes its own events. There’s also a clubhouse in Düsseldorf. A lot is happening there in the near future!

What’s the name of the track you want to introduce, and who is it by?

Little Angel – Intrusion w/ Paul St. Hilaire

Who is Intrusion – and what makes the song special?

Intrusion is an alias of American producer Stephen Hitchell, also known as Echospace or cv313. As part of the deep techno scene from Detroit, he merges dub techno with ambient textures and analog sound design.
Released on his 2009 album The Seduction of Silence, the track Little Angel is a standout example of this aesthetic. Supported by the distinctive voice of Dominican-born singer Paul St. Hilaire (formerly Tikiman), the song unfolds with a hypnotic, almost meditative depth. Its warm, dubby soundscape and emotional vocals make it a timeless piece of introspective club music.

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_St._Hilaire
https://www.discogs.com/de/artist/504831-Stephen-Hitchell?srsltid=AfmBOoq5EXAKzDktC2QhkR1iiz7eTDDeNVNrBu7-Uwchuu9HkV0iC8BS

When and how did you discover the track?

That was sometime between 2014 and 2015. Back then, I was digging a lot on Discogs—especially in the dub techno corner—and that’s how I stumbled upon this track. During that time, I was deeply exploring labels like Deepchord, known for that original sound.Ideally in quiet, contemplative moments—especially when I feel deeply connected with myself. The track feels like balm for the soul.

In what situations do you like listening to the track?

Ideally in quiet, contemplative moments—especially when I feel deeply connected with myself. The track feels like balm for the soul.

Do you play the track during sets or mixes?

Yes, especially during ambient evenings.

What makes the track special or meaningful to you?

Dub techno is one of my absolute favorite genres. What fascinates me most is its history and roots. It all began with Basic Channel—the duo Mark Ernestus and Moritz von Oswald—and the legendary Berlin-Detroit connection.
Intrusion ties directly into that tradition with this track. For me, the sound is utterly unique: it feels like a direct link to the origins—full of depth, space, and atmosphere.

What does the track make you feel?

It brings me completely into the here and now while also letting me transcend it. I feel fully connected—body, mind, and soul. It’s as if I dissolve into the music. The track gives me a deep sense of comfort and security.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the track?

This track is a true enrichment in my life. It gives me strength, calm, and connects me to something deeper. I sincerely hope to hear it live one day—especially with Paul St. Hilaire. With all my appreciation, I thank the artists for this special work and for opening a new era.

More about Lucus:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Mail

More about Intrusion:

https://de.ra.co/dj/intrusion

Who are you and what do you do?

I am Oliver Lichtenberg, the brother of Henning (auflinks). I’ve been a passionate record collector and DJ for about five years now. I love collecting vinyl, mixing, and immersing myself in synthesizers and drum machines.

Where can people hear or see your work?

I regularly share my sets and musical projects on SoundCloud and Instagram.

Would you like to introduce your project, collective, or an event?

Together with friends, I founded the Handwerk collective about five years ago. In recent years, we mainly organized outdoor raves during the summer. Due to increasing risks, we’ve decided to hold our first club event on May 16 at Artheater.

What’s the name of the track you want to introduce, and who is it by?

A Million Dreams – Slacker

Who is Slacker – and what makes the song special?

Slacker was the pseudonym of British producer Shem McCauley, who was a key figure in the electronic music scene. With releases on labels like XL Recordings and Loaded Records, he helped shape the progressive house sound of the 1990s. His track “Scared” reached number 36 on the UK charts. “A Million Dreams,” released in 2003 on his own label Jukebox In The Sky, stands out due to its melancholic atmosphere and profound production.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slacker_(producer)
https://www.discogs.com/de/release/124660-Slacker-A-Million-Dreams-Slip-N-Slide

When and how did you discover the track?

I came across the track about a month ago while browsing Discogs. The comments under the YouTube video, especially the information about Slacker’s influence and his early death, deeply moved me.

Do you play the track in your sets or mixes?

Yes, I’ve already planned to include the track in a set and will play it more often at upcoming gigs.

What makes the track special or meaningful to you?

Lately, I’ve been listening to and collecting a lot of progressive house. The mood of the track, combined with the vocals and melody, really speaks to me.

What does the track make you feel?

It makes me reflect — about why I listen to and collect so much music, and where I want to go musically.

What do you think the artist wanted to express with the track?

That he has a million dreams.

Is there a specific memory or image that you associate with the track?

Yes, the cover of the track is burned into my memory.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the track?

I think it’s a perfect closing track.

More about Lichtenberg:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Mail

More about Slacker:

https://de.ra.co/dj/slacker/biography

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Nils – a DJ, producer, and I also work in landscaping on the side. I’ve been into music for over ten years now. I bought my first MPC when I was 18 or 19 and spent the first few years just experimenting a lot. Eventually, I started working with a laptop and began learning how to record music properly. These days, I know how to turn ideas into tracks that really work.

Where can people hear or see your work?

Mainly on Instagram – that’s where I post updates about gigs, DJ sets, and soon about my first vinyl release. It’s coming out this summer on Raw Soul, a label from Düsseldorf. The tracks are currently being mastered.

What’s the name of the track you want to introduce, and who is it by?

Voodoo Ray – A Guy Called Gerald

Who is A Guy Called Gerald – and what makes this song special?

A Guy Called Gerald, real name Gerald Simpson, is a British producer and DJ from Manchester, considered a pioneer of electronic music. He was a founding member of the group 808 State before establishing himself as a solo artist. With his 1988 track “Voodoo Ray”, he played a key role in shaping the British acid house scene. The song became a club hit and reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart. It’s considered one of the first acid house tracks from the UK and was especially celebrated in the legendary club The Haçienda in Manchester.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Guy_Called_Gerald
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voodoo_Ray

When and how did you discover the track?

I was watching a documentary, and the track played briefly in the background – maybe 20 seconds. But that moment immediately sparked something in me. I followed my digger instinct and found what I was looking for.

In what situations do you like listening to the track?

In all kinds of moments – mostly just because I feel like it. I probably listen to it every couple of days, just for myself.

Do you play the track during sets or mixes?

Not yet. But that could happen – we’ll see if it finds its way into a set sometime.

Is there a particular version or remix you prefer?

The original version from the late ’80s is just the best. There were remasters later on – but I don’t really like those. The original has rough edges, character, and soul.

What makes the track special or meaningful to you?

It kind of has everything I want in a track that I want to keep listening to. Uplifting and deep at the same time. The short vocal snippets, the slightly chaotic arrangement – to me, it’s just magical. Nothing sounds too polished, and that’s exactly what makes it so unique.

What does the track make you feel?

A sense of freedom. To me, it feels very real – not an overproduced club hit, but a piece of musical history you can feel.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the track?

Yes, a fun fact: The track was originally supposed to be called Voodoo Rage. But because the sampler didn’t have enough memory, it ended up being just Voodoo Ray. And that kind of became a symbol for creative limitation – and how amazing something can turn out when you just go for it.

How does the track inspire you as a musician?

That raw sound, the experimenting with limited tools – it reminds me of my early days. Back then I only had 15 seconds of sample time on my MPC. You couldn’t save anything – everything was fleeting, but somehow that was awesome. It definitely shaped me.

More about Nils:

• Soundcloud
• Instagram
• Mail

More about A Guy Called Gerald:

https://www.guycalledgerald.com