Formed back in 1996 by brothers Ali and Basti Schwarz, Tiefschwarz (literal meaning ‘dark black’) have emerged as a leading light in the electronic music scene. Their debut first single ‘Music’ was released in 1998 on Benztown, the success of which motivated Tiefschwarz to record their debut album ‘Ral 9005’ which came out on Four Music in 2000. They have since become of on the most prolific DJ and production outfits in dance music, with their Souvenir imprint continuing to go from strength to strength after celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2011.
Famous for their highly energetic DJ sets, this mix for epitomises the sound for which the Berlin-based duo have become well known; a suitably warming Christmas Special edition of In Their House to welcome you into the New Year…
In Their House Xmas Special - Tiefschwarz by Defected Records
How are you today?
So so.
The Souvenir imprint seems to be going from strength to strength… what’s the greatest challenge in balancing the artist vs. A&R side of your careers?
I think it’s finding the perfect balance between stimulating your creativity as an artist and also seeking out new talent. I love digging around for new things especially as this also allows you to be aware of new stuff out there, which then feeds back into your own work.
What are you plans for the label in 2012?
Plenty more singles coming up from Sante, Re.You, Ruede Hagelstein, Chris Wood & Meat, just to name a few. Besides, we’re working on our own new album which will hopefully be out in 2012 as well as a label compilation in the second half of the year. As well as our vinyl physical side, we’re going to be pushing the Souvenirplus digital platform too. We’re also going to be touring with a new series of Souvenir label showcases.
How and where was the mix recorded?
The mix was recorded in our studio in Berlin, mostly on Ableton.
Any particular tracks that you’d like to highlight…?
Definitely the Solomun remix of our track ‘Corporate Butcher feat. Mama’. Not only do we really love Solomun’s interpration, it also hit No.1 on the Beatport tech-house, which is actually funny as I definitely wouldn’t call it tech-house.
You must get sent thousands of records ever week…do you listen to them all?
Firstly, it’s not thousands but still a fair few! We try to listen to as many as possible but sometimes it’s just impossible to go through everything especially with all the digital promos.
Anything else you’d like to tell us about..?
I’m happy that it hasn’t started snowing in Berlin yet!!
Tracklist
Corporate Butcher – Tiefschwarz
Guy Gerber- Nothing Can Be True
Nitin – Blink Twice
Unkown – Unknown
Re.You – Far Away (Mike Shannon Remix)
Lewis Boardman – Red Light Lullaby
Ezlv – Sensacion De Control
Foski – Shiva
Special Case – Case of Bass
DJ T feat Khan – Leaving Me (Clockwork Remix
