Exclusive Interview with Marco Resmann
It is approximately 19 years ago that Marco Resmann first stood innocently behind his two Technics decks and mixer and excitedly took his first stumbling baby steps into the world of DJing and electronic music. The 90’s would be a decade of discovery for Marco and would lay the foundations for the future of his professional career. He sucked in everything that he could find. Whether as a DJ or producer, knowledge was gathered and skills were refined.
In 2007 Marco, together with Marcus Meinhardt and Hawks Grunert decided to start his own label Upon You Records, a new platform where he could concentrate on his solo career which had taken a large leap forward after starting his residency at the famed Berlin club ‘Watergate’ in late 2006 and continues until today.
Siam2nite had the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with Marco Resmann, shortly before his performance at Viva & Aviv and Tapas on Saturday 16th March.
When did you start to DJ and what made you start? What equipment did you use and how did you get it?
I started with DJing in 1994, even though it was for private audiences. This new Techno thing in Berlin really impressed me and I just wanted to do the same as all of these guys behind the decks. In the beginning I only had a tape recorder and turntable without pitch function. I bought my first pair of decks in 1995. I didn't have the money to get Technics 1210, that's why I decided to get a cheap replica with a belt drive.
What - artists and music genres - are your biggest influences?
Artists like DJ Sneak, Cajmere, Pepe Bradock, Ian Pooley, Steve Bug and Carl Craig had a big influence in the 90s on me. Some of them still do!
How would you describe your own music in just a few words?
My sound is versatile and hard to describe in just a few words.
Out of all tracks you have made, which tracks would you recommend to someone that is not yet familiar with your music?
You may check out these tunes...
Marco Resmann - Gouache
Marco Resmann - Mal Pas
Marco Resmann - This Song
Marco Resmann - Twelve
Marco Resmann - At Ricky's
In 2007 you founded Upon.You Records and discontinued several collaborative projects to focus solely on your solo career. Where does the label stand now after 5 years and how happy are you with the solo path you have taken?
I'd say that Upon.You has a very solid international reputation as well as a lot of followers and supporters. The label and its artists is still growing and I really look forward to future projects. My solo path is nothing really new as I always produced and played on my own. With the label I just got more attention and success which makes me proud somehow.
What are you currently working on?
I'm working on my solo album.
What essential things do you need to have with you at all times and what are the things you miss the most when you are on tour?
My iPhone and MacBook are always with me and I miss my fiancé and my couch the most when I'm away.
What was the best and the worst gig you ever played?
My worst gig, thank god the only one so far, happened in New York in 2011. These guys did everything wrong what you can make wrong. In the end I didn't get payed and covered all expenses by myself. Too bad that this happened in such a great City. I don't have this one and only best gig. There are so many nice memories which I don't wanna compare or rate.
Are you adventurous if it comes to food? Do you try the local dishes of the countries you travel to? Do you enjoy Thai food?
Yeah I am! I always love to eat local dishes. Thai food is one of my favorite cuisine world wide.
You will perform at this year’s Thaibreak on Ko Mak, as you already did in 2011. Did you keep your last performance in good memory? Are you excited to return to Thailand?
I played with Matthias Tanzmann the opening at the beach in 2011 and it was great. I'm so happy to be back in Thailand especially as I will stay longer and see more spots than last time.
After Thaibreak you will perform live here in Bangkok at Viva & Aviv and Tapas on 16th March. Will it be your Bangkok debut or have you played in Bangkok before?
No, it will be my debut. I'm excited!
You will play together with three DJs from Italy: EFFECT, Domenico D’Agnelli and FABIO SPZZ – with the first two you already played at Thaibreak in 2011. Did you guys meet in the meantime? What can you tell us about them?
To be honest I only know Domenico quite well as we work together since ages. He used to own a club in Munich where I played once a year. In general I see him more as a promoter than as a DJ, which doesn't mean he isn't a good DJ! By the way, he's also responsible for my yearly gigs as Luna City Express at the Rave On Snow Festival in Austria. I really appreciate his steady support.
What can Bangkok expect from your performances on 16th March?
After my time on Koh Mak and playing on beaches and open air floors I'm excited to play a proper club set. Expect a very motivated Marco Resmann who will take you on a journey through his favorite tunes.