Ramiro Lopez is reshaping techno as we know it. The Spanish DJ, producer, and co-label head of Odd Recordings has become a driving force in creative styling and innovative production in the genre. His ever-evolving music is an embodiment of all elements necessary to move people – in more ways than one. No doubt, you will be familiar with his assaulting hits on the industry’s leading labels like Drumcode, INTEC, Defected, Suara, Bedrock, and more. This year has proved to be an exceptional one as he’s produced top-charting work like Pretending EP and “Pachamama,” and soon, his upcoming Being Alone EP. Right before jet-setting to ADE 2017, we were lucky enough to catch up with Ramiro Lopez to talk about new music, Odd Recordings happenings. his favorite new festival, and more.
Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with us. You’ve had an incredible year so far. What have been a few of the most memorable moments?
Ramiro Lopez: No worries, thank you! There’s indeed been loads of great things happening so far. I think one of the highlights was my first solo EP Pretending on Drumcode. I had been working for this achievement for more than four years. It’s my favorite label and I very much identify with the music they release and roster of artists. It really was a dream come true. And now, a few months later, I’ve released my second one with Drumcode. It’s called “Being Alone,” and it’s set to be released October 30th. I’m really couldn’t be more happy about it. This year, Arjun Vagale and myself launched our Odd Recordings. Our little baby-imprint is doing amazing, we’ve received continued support from very influential artists like Carl Cox, Adam Beyer, Amelie Lens, Pan Pot and hitting the charts on the digital stores. We have exceeded all expectations.
That’s awesome! We absolutely love what we’ve heard from Being Alone EP, and are very excited for it to be released (already pre-ordered it). What can you tell us about the EP?
Ramiro Lopez: I’m very excited for the release as well! As said a couple of minutes before, it’s my second solo EP on Drumcode. There are 3 tracks, “Being Alone,” “Dark Science” and ‘”Der Raum.” I’ve been playing those a lot in my sets, and I think others will enjoy doing the same once it’s released.
Is there any particular place or thing that you turn to for inspiration when creating new music?
Ramiro Lopez: I can find inspiration anywhere. Sometimes it comes from listening to music and sets from other artists, but I also generate ideas when I’m cooking, exercising or watching a movie. I always have my phone close to take a lot of notes so that I can use them whenever I’m back in the studio.
What’s been your go-to track to play in your sets as of late?
Ramiro Lopez: One I’ve been playing at almost every gig for the last months is ‘Arjun Vagale ‘s “Age Of Lust.” It´s an unreleased track from my man Arjun – a dance floor killer! Will have news about its release soon.
You’ve been doing quite a lot of traveling as well. Do you have a new favorite club, city, or festival you’ve recently played?
Ramiro Lopez: I´m having fun at every gig and city I visit. Every place has something good to be remembered for. But one that particularly caught my attention was in Seoul. I visited South Korea this summer for The Limitless Festival. It was an amazing experience! The techno scene in Korea is very small and new, and this was the first festival of its kind for many people on the dance floor. Their reaction was amazing and I’m thankful to have been involved in the festival, as I’m sure many of them will remember it forever.
What do you have in store for your fans for the remainder of year?
Ramiro Lopez: Apart from the Drumcode EP I’m about to release, there are still some gems coming out on our label Odd Recordings to watch out for. I´ll be playing in countries like Guatemala, Lebanon, Sweden, Austria, Greece, Belgium, Spain and more till the end of 2017 so would be great to have you dancing if you are around!
Any plans to head to the US soon?
Ramiro Lopez: No concrete plans yet for this yea, but really looking forward to be back in the US! Actually we’re prepping tour for early 2018, so hopefully will have good news soon.
What’s on the lineup for your label Odd Recordings?
Ramiro Lopez: Our last release ,Arjun’s “Le Freak EP” is still fresh and hitting the charts, but we do still have some big releases coming up before the end of the year. Next one is from Pleasurekraft, and we have our first VVAA called ‘”Oddyssey” after with The Southern, Spektre, and Balthazar & Jackrock. We are already working on our showcases schedule for 2018 to bring the Odd parties to different clubs around the world. And of course we will keep delivering new Oddcasts every 2 weeks as usual.
Are there any new talents you’ve discovered that we should keep our ears on the lookout for?
Ramiro Lopez: Of course! First one is not new, but growing and growing so fast: Andres Campo. We are close friends and are always sharing new stuff so I can tell you that he’s got some big things coming up. He’s an outstanding DJ , and I think that 2018 will be his year. Dotdat is another one to keep an eye on. Very young and talented producer from India. You’ll be listening to good things from him pretty soon.
Any last words?
Ramiro Lopez: Thanks a lot for reading until here, hahahah .I Hope to see you on the dance floor soon, sending a big hug and wish you all the best for the last stretch of 2017.
Connect with Ramiro Lopez:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/ramiro-lopez
https://www.twitter.com/ramirolopez_
https://www.soundcloud.com/ramirolopez
https://www.instagram.com/ramirolopez
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