We sat down with German DJ and producer Nicolas Julian to celebrate his recent ‘Mask Off’ release which has gained huge support all round from the likes of Layton Giordani, Paco Osuna, Juliet Fox, and many more established techno peers. We discussed the inspiration behind the release, his studio set up, his dream gig and more…
WWD: What have been the highlights of your 2023? Has it been one to remember?
It has been the whole journey. Crazy to realise how different my life was in December 2022.
WWD: What inspired your new rework Future? How has it been received in the clubs?
The melody of Carlton Williams’ “Prison Song” and Future’s topline in “Mask Off” built the perfect base for a thriving club track. While playing around with some audio snippets of it, I quickly realised how to turn it. I’ve loved seeing many DJs tagging me while playing the track in their sets.
WWD: We saw it has been viewed on YouTube by millions! How does that feel?
What shall I say… Not too bad haha.
WWD: What gear do you use? What’s your studio set up like?
Ableton is the DAW of my choice. On top I use a really basic set up of midi keyboard, monitor speakers, external soundcard and of course my laptop. However, this is something I’ll be investing more on in the coming weeks.
WWD: Where do you frequent most in Berlin? What are your favourite spots?
I spend too much time at my place in Friedrichshain near the Berlin wall. But Berlin has so much to offer for everyone and almost too many great places to mention!
WWD: What are your three essential tracks at the moment?
- ‘Ode To The Bouncer (Remon Verhoeve Edit)’
- llusion – Juul Exler
- and my upcoming collab, A.S.Y.S & Nicolas Julian – Reminiscence.
WWD: What music do you listen to outside of electronic?
My credo is: Every genre has to offer a couple of songs I like at least. That’s why I kinda listen to everything.
WWD: What do you like to do to relax outside of electronic?
Actually searching for new tracks, playing around with samples is something which give me chills a lot. Nevertheless I love making short trips to places where I can swim, snorkel & surf in the sea. Perfect time to relax.
WWD: What would be your dream gig to play?
A special venue like an old ruin, a cave or something similarly spectacular.
WWD: What artist has been your biggest inspiration along your musical journey?
Production wise there actually is not one big inspiration, but many different projects. Artist wise it’s Nico Moreno, Marlon Hoffstadt & Fred Again.
WWD: What is the last track that blew you away?
Melody Of World Rework by Jagger
Nicolas Julian: Instagram / SoundCloud