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Mark Reeve on “Breathe,” Proper Breathing Tips, & Some of His Most Cherished Raving Memories [Exclusive Interview]

October 14, 2021 By Young Park

Esteemed British producer Mark Reeve returns to the Drumcode family with his enthralling eight-tracker: “Breathe.” Those who experience this record will undoubtedly succumb to its lucid transcendentalism, which liberates the soul through waves of ethereal arpeggios and euphoric percussion.

And while Mark Reeve is indeed British, he has lived in Frankfurt since fifteen and raved in Germany throughout the ‘90’s when the iconic Sven Väth played Omen; the pivotal German club for trance 25 years ago. One can certainly hear these influences in his music today with the inclusion of his skillfully crafted tracks from Reeve’s latest EP.

“Silent Whisper,” “Breathe,” and “Pragmatic” eases the listener into the artist’s world by virtue of uplifting crescendos and atmospheric rifts woven throughout; while the track “Irregular Choice” pervades the darkness with its truly haunted vocal samples. Subsequently “Resist” cleverly switches up the dynamic of the record halfway through, giving listeners a tranquil moment to catch their breath. Next, giving us serious sonic goosebumps is the old school Euro-industrial sound emanating from “Take You Back,” in addition to the silky synths dripping in “Theme.” Finally, “Ebullience” closes the album with a neon afterglow akin to basking in the dawn as strands of light dance upon one’s skin; the evidence of a new day right beyond the horizon.

Now take a deep breath — because we have some more good news! RaverRafting was able to chat with Mark Reeve about his latest EP, share breathing techniques, and vicariously re-lived some of his most cherished raving memories together. You can check out our interview below and listen to his new EP HERE! Thanks to Mark and his team for chilling with us.

RR: What was it like raving in ‘90’s Germany? Do you have any favorite memories from that time?

MR: Oh I do and many! But one moment does stick out in my mind. The first time I got into the Omen Frankfurt. I was going on 16-17 and needed a plan to get in. Forged my Moped License and after numerous attempts one week it actually worked and I got in. I remember entering the club and partying with all these crazy people and of course Sven Väth played all night long. I do not think I will ever forget that moment.

RR: Wow, that sounds epic! You have us reminiscing fondly about our first rave experiences in the ‘90’s and early 2000’s now. Rolling with the theme of throwbacks, let’s play a little game. Can you define these “old school” rave terms for the fans?

RR: P.L.U.R.
MR: Peace Love Unity and Respect

RR: Map Point
MR: Was that a map to find the club? I think so lol.
RR: Yes! (Oh the days of not having a GPS system…)

RR: Spinning
MR: Spinning on the ones and twos 😉

RR: Kandi
MR: I think those were the bracelets people were wearing … not 100% sure though.
RR: You are correct!

RR: Massive
MR: Big, Great, I always said massive tune for example, actually I still do…
RR: Yep. Also in the United States, they sometimes refer to a rave as a “massive” as well.

RR: Awesome job Mark! You are a true raver for sure. (But we already knew that. ?) Transitioning gears — after spending so many years in the scene, an important truth that we all must face is learning how to maintain a healthy balance in our lives. You said “Breathe” was inspired by the sounds of nature and the desire to help people breathe during these difficult times. Are there any other tips or practices on how people can relax and be more mindful in their day to day lives?

MR: Yoga is the key! At first you have to learn to “Breathe” correctly. That is essential to relax and stay calm. I always practice breathing the right way to find myself and be in peace.

(Mark is referring to the biology of breathing; from retraining yourself to inhale through your nose to using your diaphragm properly and taking slow, relaxed breaths.)

RR: Thanks for sharing those tips! What was the first show that you ever played and how was the experience?

MR: The first show I ever played was at a youth club in Bournemouth when I was only 12 years old. But I was still totally into electronic music. I played old classic hits. This was all on two tape decks because the club could not afford record players.

RR: Whoa, that is impressive! Spinning on two tape decks really takes us back. Speaking of clubs, what are your thoughts on Berghain (Berlin techno club)?

MR: Never been to Berghain so really would not know what it is like. Maybe I will give it a visit soon.

RR: So how did you first collaborate with Drumcode and how did you end up becoming a part of the family?

MR: Adam messaged me after my EP on Cocoon Recordings in 2012. He liked a track on that one called “Morning on Mars” I then finished off my first EP on Drumcode called “Drumatics”. Lovely memories.

RR: Definitely well-deserved; “Morning on Mars” and “Drumatics” are both massive! Okay, let’s finish off our hang out with one last throwback. Did you ever listen to any of the following dance mixes growing up or do you have one that you recommend?