Evening News podcast: Axel Karakasis

Published on 23/11/2012 11:26

This week’s Evening News mixtape comes courtesy of Greek techno DJ/producer Axel Karakasis.

Axel Karakasis

Athens, Greece

Style: Techno

Label: Remain Records

Website: www.axelkarakasis.com, www.facebook.com/axelkarakasis

First track you bought was…

Trans Europe Express by Kraftwerk. Back then you could not buy just one track; you could buy the whole record.

Favourite all time track is…

Crispy Bacon by Laurent Garnier

Your favourite DJ is…

Jeff Mills

What made you want to be a DJ/producer?

My love of music.

If you weren’t a DJ, what would you be?

An astronomer.

What was your first experience of electronic music/clubbing?

Back in the 80s I used to listen to the radio. Then moved on to some serious clubbing.

What DJs and artists have influenced you?

Initially it was music by Kraftwerk, New Order and Depeche Mode. Then, as electronic music developed, DJs such as Jeff Mills and Carl Cox.

How would you describe your style?

Techno with groove.

When working in the studio, do you have a golden formula?

Yes, the golden formula is to be yourself and not intimate anyone else. Have your own style.

What’s your favourite piece of studio equipment?

My UAD card!!!

What do you use to DJ?

After years of using vinyl, I have moved on to playing completely digital using Traktor (4 decks) using two X1’s and a Maschine.

What advice can you give anyone wanting to start DJing?

Be a DJ with respect for music.

Have you got a favourite club or festival?

Every place I have been has been really special.

What’s been happening in 2012?

2012 has been a great time for me. I had some brilliant gigs all over Europe, but I also toured in Japan, and visited Mexico. I’ve had some great releases which have been received really well, so I am pretty happy with 2012.

What have you got coming up in the near future?

On the music front, I am preparing some more releases on my own label - Remain Records, as well as lots of remixes and releases on other labels. I’m busy, busy, busy. As far as gigs are concerned, I am most intrigued and excited to have some invitations from countries in Latin America, as well as seeing people and places in Europe...

Download the podcast here