Image courtesy The Echo Agency
Auriga’s sound is the sort of techno that can only be formulated by a deep rooted understanding of music. Her dynamic and kinetic productions embrace the sort of melodies, harmonies and textures that add an impossible sense of dimension to the regular time thud of the form. It’s no surprise that the Spanish DJ and producer is classically trained, having studied piano at the Oviedo Conservatory of Music. Intertwining minimal influences with complex melodies against propulsive, sometimes manic, beats, Auriga’s approach to techno is entirely a craft. Her recent release on Pan-Pot’s Second State imprint is proof of this. This Is Our World is prime peak-time, pulsating with polyrhythms, hypnotic synths and a touch of basement industrial macabre. Now on the cusp of releasing an EP on IAMT, we caught up with Auriga to find out how she creates her music and what we can expect to hear come September 17th.
Set the tone for us. Why the arts?
I started to play the piano at 8 years old and so did my sister, so there was always music playing at home. I also painted in oils and used to write poetry. I’ve always been attracted to everything that pushes my creativity.
Was there a specific moment in your life where you thought, “this is what I want to do”?
Since I discovered techno in 2001 that desire has always been there. However I was studying computer science and living with my parents and it seemed crazy to be able to dedicate myself to music. It was years later in my 30s when the idea was gaining more force until you take small steps that you feel fulfilled.
Which comes first when you’re producing – the sound or the idea?
It depends! Usually the idea and then I shape it with the music instruments (plugins or hardware). Sometimes though, I will find a super cool synth that I want to include in my track and try to find a way with some random techniques that bring me ideas for that kind of sound.
What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?
I love to do random things that I wouldn’t do naturally. Generate random sequences and use lfos to control some random parameters. I also have a MXR Distortion pedal and love for example the soundtoys plugin Crystallizer and other granular effects to create something new and unexpected.
How have you refined your craft since you entered the industry?
I have learned a lot since I began in the music industry and I continue learning every day. That’s what keeps me excited and motivated, I want to improve technically and bring out everything that I have inside. My style has also gotten harder these last years, the first track I released was at 126bpm and now they are at 140-145 bpms!
Take us through a day in the recording studio.
I work better in the mornings. I usually make sounds and experiment with my synths (minibrute 2s, moog sub37, td3) and the groove with a Roland TR8s. I also use Serum, Soundtoys and Melda Bundle, I love them. Apart from making music I always try to learn something new every day, I watch a lot of tutorials and online courses, read technical books and try to keep myself updated with new things that may arise.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
My machines! I love not only the sound but the workflow of the hardware. It keeps me constantly learning and super motivated.
Take us through your collection of gear, tech or software that accompanies your creative expression.
Hardware: Moog sub37, Behringer TD3, Minibrute 2S that I’m planning to build a modular system with. Roland TR8 and an Artiphon Orba. Software: Serum, Soundtoys, Melda, Fabfilter, and UAD Plugins, Soothe, Gullfoss.
Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.
It is something magical when you connect with the crowd. An atmosphere of happiness and euphoria is created. We feel united by the music and a feeling of bond surrounds us all.
What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?
My friends! It’s a pleasure to have them near and feel their love and support.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you this year?
I have a new EP on 17th September on IAMT which is one of my reference labels so I’m very happy. I also have a very special streaming to celebrate this release! Stay tuned!
Famous last words?
If you try and fail, congratulations! Most people don’t even try.
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