Based in Germany, SDX is about to pave his way as one of the most exciting new techno producers to come through this year. With his debut album ‘Nocturnal’ out on the 10th September via Sophia Saze’s label Dusk & Haze, it shows a relentless side to SDX’s productions. As an anonymous figure and not much info about him online, you’re left scrolling through his Soundcloud trying to decipher what kind of artist he is. But in our modern world, artists avoid being pigeon-holed to one genre and that’s exactly what SDX does by uploading mixes that span across hip hop, techno, experimental and noise. Ahead of the ‘Nocturnal’ release, we caught up with SDX to find out more about his mysterious moniker, the concept of the album and what we can expect from him in the future.
So to start off there’s not much info about you online and along with the masked look, you’re a pretty mysterious character. What would you like to share about yourself with our readers?
True, not much info about me on the www. I’m just a normal guy with a job and a big passion for electronic music.
Why do you have the masked look? Is this meaning behind it or is it aesthetic reasons?
It’s more of an Underground Resistance mentality to do things faceless.
Also, where did the name SDX come from?
The name originated while working in a laboratory building pacemakers. I was responsible for building and testing an electrode called SDX & I liked the letters. Around the same time, I made first contact with modular gear and changed my setup to write the first tracks as SDX ( SignalDefinedXperiments ).
In a few weeks time, you’ll be releasing your first album ‘Nocturnal’ – what was the process like with making this album? Did you find it quite stressful or did this length of work come easy to you?
To be honest, I never thought about writing an album, so there was no pressure or stress at all. I enjoy writing music, if possible every day/night
Were there any important lessons you learned during the process of making ‘Nocturnal’?
It’s always a learning process, a never-ending lesson.
Did you have a concept in mind for ‘Nocturnal’ before you went into the studio or was it comprised of improvised sessions?
No, it all came together organically.
Why the name ‘Nocturnal’?
The name ‘Nocturnal’ comes from the fact that my life mostly happens during the night, my job included. I enjoy the day time, but most of my creative output comes when the sun’s down.
It’s quite a raw and heavy album, what would you say influences your productions?
Life
What made you decide to feature remixes on ‘Nocturnal’ and what is it about these artists (138 & SC-164) that made them perfect for the album?
Sophia actually came up with the idea of 2 remixes and we started looking for artists we like. We both agreed on 138, they do some great stuff so we asked them and they delivered a dope remix of MS 04. Donor had just started his SC-164 project which is more broken / electro orientated and she asked him. I was familiar with most of his work and excited to hear the final piece, which he did very well. Thanks to both remixers, I’m happy with the turnout.
Scrolling through your SoundCloud channel, you have included hip hop in some of your mixes – is this a genre that you would love to explore more as SDX or maybe under a different moniker?
I grew up listening to hip-hop, I still do. Especially 90´s hip hop. I discover new acts time to time and fit them into my sets. I’m planning to start a new hip hop moniker with two of my friends, but techno will always be my first passion.
Why did you choose Sophia Saze’s label Dusk & Haze for the home of your debut album?
I like working with Sophia, a great person – honest and direct with the vision of her label.
What was your upbringing like with music, did you grow up in quite a musically orientated family or was it something you fell into?
Absolutely not music orientated. Most of the music my parents listened to was terrible. I later discovered hip hop. My friends tried introducing me to techno earlier on, I didn’t get it till they took me to the old Tresor Club around ’96/’97. That was a game changer. I’ve been a student since then.
Some people say music is like their therapy, what would you say it is to you?
Definitely
Could you name five tracks that have shaped your life in general or sound? Explain why these tracks
Drexciya – All Productions
This stuff is so unique and timeless…the undisputed champions
Suburban Knight – The Art Of Stalking
Raw & Dark
Neil Landsturm – Tension In New York
He touched a lot of people’s lives with this sound
Underground Resistance – The Final Frontier
Simply the best acid line ever produced
Headless Horseman – Solitary
Gives me goosebumps every time
What’s next for SDX?
September 21st, New York & September 29th, Berlin. Meanwhile, I’m working on a project with a friend and making as much music as possible.
Celebrate the release of ‘Nocturnal’ at the launch party on the 21st September – details here