A prominent figure in the electronic music scene of Cologne co-founded the influential Kompakt label. Michael has created important albums like “Neuhouse” in 1998, “Immer” in 2002, and more recent projects such as “Higher” in 2020 and “Connecting the Dots” in 2021. He is also known for his detailed remixes and has worked with other artists like Superpitcher and Kölsch. His music covers a range of styles including microhouse, experimental, and ambient techno. Recently, he teamed up with Orbital, a well-known British electronic duo to remix Energy 52’s Café Del Mar. This track, originally released in 1993, is a classic in the dance music world.
Interview with Michael Mayer:
LL: Hello Michael, your remix of the popular track “Cafe Del Mar” is now available. How do you keep the original track’s spirit alive while adding your unique touch? What motivated you to remix this particular song?
MM: In the early ’90s, I wasn’t into this kind of trance music at all. I preferred the deeper shades of house and techno and largely steered clear of big raves and the music that was played there. However, some tunes were too good to ignore. “Cafe Del Mar” was one of them. When asked if I’d do a remix of this track that has been remixed so often, I found it very intriguing to give this classic a totally different spin.
LL: You’ve been a significant figure in the electronic music world for a long time. How do you think the genre has evolved?
MM: Depending on my mood, I’d say that a lot of today’s electronic dance music has become stale and formulaic, OR I would start raving about how incredibly diverse and exciting it all is. Every electronic genre that has ever emerged is still leading a life of its own. Everything exists at once. It’s quite fascinating! If you get bored, it’s up to you to dig a little deeper, and look left and right to find something inspiring.
LL: Being from Cologne, how has the city influenced your musical style and your approach to making music?
MM: We often refer to Cologne as being that Gallic village from the Asterix comics. There’s a strong sense of independence from what’s happening in Berlin, London, or elsewhere. With Kompakt, we’ve always tried and apparently achieved to add new colors to the great color palette of electronic music. Between the 23 editions of Pop Ambient to date, the always party-ready Speicher series to the more pop-sensible outings – our mission has always been to keep things entertaining; keeping the balance between tradition and innovation.
LL: You’ve worked with many artists over the years. How do these collaborations shape your music? Is there someone you haven’t worked with yet but hope to in the future?
MM: Generally, I prefer to work alone in my beloved studio deep down in the basements of Kompakt. Once in a while, it’s very refreshing to collaborate. I tend to spend endless hours on one track or remix. Strangely, I’m way faster and more effective when someone else is by my side. I should probably start looking out for a new victim 🙂
LL: I remember seeing you at Solomun + 1 at Pacha Ibiza in 2018 — it was unforgettable! How did you end up getting invited by Solomun? Are you two good friends?
MM: Around 20 years ago, I frequently played at a wonderful club in Hamburg called Tanzhalle. There was always this one guy on the dance floor that went completely nuts and had this great energy on him. Some years later, a superstar DJ emerged from Hamburg called Solomun. It took me a while to connect the dots… I think that we’ve got a special bond due to those fun nights in St. Pauli. Tanzhalle forever!
LL: What’s next for you and Kompakt? Are there any new projects or collaborations coming up that you’re excited about?
MM: I’ve spent the first three months of ’24 down in my dungeon, and I’m happy to say that my new solo album is about 95% finished. It’ll drop in autumn on Kompakt, of course. After being in this unusually long hermit state, I’m terribly excited to hit the road again. I’ve got great shows lined up for the next few months and can’t wait to test-drive my new babies.
LL: Thank you, Michael, hope to see your performance again very soon!
MM: You’re very welcome!
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Michael Mayer (@michael__mayer)
