French techno producer Sina XX has just released a new album, Let There Be Light, on his own subtyl imprint – an album that explores themes of faith, resistance, and underground culture.
The eight-track album features the previously-released singles Let There Be Light and Tribalizer II, and blends techno, hip hop and world music elements – opening track, Wake Up, for example, is built around a bélé sample from collaborator Hebi Snake’s Caribbean homeland.
Sina XX has long drawn on influences from different cultural contexts – his first EP was produced between Tehran and Beirut – and he has released on labels such as Bpitch and umay. As well as a label, subtyl also organises underground parties in Paris, while he’s also involved in Body to Body, a label devoted to collaborative techno ventures.
For this week’s #MyRecordBag, Sina XX pays tribute to his favourite producers – those putting a particular focus on “pushing techno forward and expanding its boundaries”, he says.
“Techno has always been the music of the future. As a DJ and producer myself, I’ve always been drawn to innovation and creativity – looking toward what’s ahead rather than what’s behind.”
Rare Mamba – Solar Atix
“I know little about Rare Mamba besides the fact that their music has been part of my sets for months. Killer grooves and thoughtful sound design describe it best. If you’re into peak-time energy with a modern twist, this one’s for you.”
Aarayáh – Night
“Aarayáh clearly masters Techno 101: deep, powerful tracks built on strong, minimalist grooves and repetitive patterns. But the line between boredom and tension in repetition is thin, and Aarayáh knows exactly how to walk it. There’s just enough surprise and magic to keep you locked in, pushing forward.”
PS11 – Concentrate (Yazmin Remix)
“I recently wrote to Yazmin to tell her how much I love this remix she did for PS11. This is pure techno in action – no fuzz, just raw energy and tension.”
BENZA – Back2
“I’m not sure people fully realise yet how Back2 marks a turning point in contemporary techno expression. While many productions rely on constant shifts and layers – perhaps as a response to our collective ADHD – Back2 does the exact opposite. It’s a high-energy yet laid-back groove that grows with confidence, slowly building toward its climax.”
Fresko – Arena
“The first time I heard this track, all I had to do was close my eyes and picture myself in a smoky club, losing control to the beat, a smirk on my face. This is exactly what I want to hear in a club right now: sexy, original, minimal music that leaves enough space for the mind while pushing the body out of its comfort zone.”
Uväll – Resilience
“Have I played a single set this year without a track from Uväll? I doubt it. The Georgian artist has that je ne sais quoi that makes his music land perfectly on the dancefloor. Or actually – now that I think about it – I do know: elegance, power, and groove. It sounds simple, but it isn’t.”
Rebecca Delle Piane – Coxxxy
“Need more energy? I got you. Rebecca Delle Piane has been all over my ‘peak-time’ folder – and for good reason. She’s found the sweet spot between techno, hard-groove energy, and Chicago influences. Delizioso.”
Ponygirl – Sehne
“Ponygirl may be a relatively new name on the scene, but their output over the past two years – across several labels I deeply respect – is impressive. I can easily imagine this track in a closing set, in those moments where I aim to keep the floor engaged while gently guiding the energy toward something deeper.”
Thanks to Sina XX for his selections. Check out Let There Be Light here. Photo by Aryan Hamyan.
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