Kessler: The 'Ransom Note' Mix

Music

We were put on to Rotterdam via Belfast DJ and producer Kessler last year thanks to Manchester club night-turned-label Left, Right & Centre. His blistering contribution to their second V/A release, which we premiered right here, blew our tiny little minds and had us waiting to see what else he had up his sleeve.

Since then he’s released a full EP via Shall Not Fade (tip!), adding to his catalogue of releases on labels like Yellow Island, Born Sleepy, Nocturne and Ying Yang, which all explore his passion for breaks, bass, techno and the spaces in between.

We invited him to take care of this week’s Ransom Note mix which moves through the sounds that influence his own productions. If you need a helping hand getting over hump day, you’ve come to the right place…

Ransom Note · Kessler: The ‘Ransom Note’ Mix

Please introduce yourself… Who are you, where are you and what are you

My name is Eddy but my friends call me Black Magic. Currently in my apartment in sunny (for once) Rotterdam.

What does your music sound like? Can you draw what you think it sounds like for us (an image from the old internet is acceptable)?

Tough question as it changes a lot based on my mood. I guess I’m known for making breakbeat tracks with an emphasis on bass although I’m no stranger to making a mix with techno, electro, footwork, bass, jungle and just about anything that sounds good to me.

Where was the mix recorded?

In my studio/bedroom.

What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?

Somewhere with speakers or headphones.

What should we be wearing?

Clothes, I would start off with some underwear and perhaps socks, depending on the room temperature.

What would be your dream setting to record a mix: Location/system/format?

Right now, just in a fucking club. Hopefully soon!

Which track in the mix is your current favourite?

Really digging the Reptant – ‘Skatter Tek’ track off The New Adaptive Lacerta release. Reptant is an insanely good producer, inspiring stuff.

What’s your favourite recorded mix of all time?

Skee Mask b2b Zenker Brothers Dekmantel 2019. I was there also.

If you could go back to back with any DJ from throughout history, who would it be and why?

Probably Djrum or Aphex Twin, just to try and keep up with them.

What was your first DJ set up at home and what is it now?

I first tried vinyl, then my brother gave me a Native Instruments X1 (no jogwheels but still did manual beatmatching to make it fun). Now I got a cull CDJ & Technic setup running through an Allen Heath Xone 92 (Best mixer). Planning to add some guitar fx pedals to get more creative with mixes.

What’s more important, the track you start on or the track you end on?

For me the first song is always important as it sets the pace, it either brings you in and keeps you engaged for the rest of the mix or leaves you uninterested. On the same note though, a great mix always needs a great conclusion, and for that I tend to choose a track that really needs to breathe on its own.

What were the first and last records you bought?

I envy everyone who can remember their first vinyl but unfortunately that isnt me, my last record was Nils Frahm – Tripping With Nils Frahm. I listen to it almost weekly. Amazing, that is all.