Rising Cologne-based DJ/producer Jonathan Kaspar has been coming on strong since 2015, using the past three years to craft tracks and remixes that eschew mundane production ideas. Instead of following the crowd, he’s cultivated a transformative techy house sound that captivates beyond the dance floor.
What his string of releases for fine imprints such as Objektivity, Poker Flat, KX, Crosstown Rebels, and Rebellion all have in common is a deeply melodic, wonderfully rhythmic mindset. While Kaspar might not be a household name just yet, he’s a big thinker who’s poised for bigger things.
This month Kaspar presented a glorious two-track Panem EP for fellow German André Hommen’s These Eyes label. The title track is an epic journey of warm, undulating basslines, buzzing synth lines, and quixotic percussion. Additionally, “Apart” is a cosmic late-night cosmic that’s tailor-made for a dimly lit after-hours.
Curious to know more about the sounds he gravitates toward, we checked in with Kaspar and asked him to share five records he currently can’t live without.
Phunkadelica – Microcosmo (Underspreche Remix)(Engrave Ltd.)
I just love the arrangement of the remix, and I’m always looking forward to hear it again when I’m mixing it in. Watch out for Underspreche in the future.
The Revenge – Nasehorn (Roar Groove)
Special and very long build-up leads to a huge impact on the floor.
Jonathan Kaspar – Apart (These Eyes)
It’s the B-side of my Panem EP which was just released via André Hommens’ These Eye. It’s the label’s seventh release. I remember showing him the demo during a long B2B in the early morning when we both felt it’s the perfect match to the A-side, “Panem.”
Dalfie – Outlaw (Pets Recordings)
Crazy tune released via one of my home labels, Pets Recordings, by Catz´N Dogz. Really on point.
Cleveland – Aku (ESP Institute)
I love Cleveland’s’ tracks — always special for me. This one has been released on the amazing ESP Institute.
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