GET TO KNOW
Black Cadmium, the Dutch techno, and electronic mu- sic project has undergone a remarkable journey over the past four years. From its inception, the project has been a testament to artistic vision and resilience. Founded by Mike and Jo, Black Cadmium began with a concept that explored duality and individuality throu- gh music. Their name, inspired by the element cad- mium, reflects a duality of good and bad, mirroring the complexities of human perception and reality.
Mike explains,
“Black Cadmium started as a search for a metaphor that embodies the quest for individuality, which ultima- tely connects us all. Cadmium is a poisonous element used in various applications for good. This duality— good and bad—was central to our vision. We wanted our music to reflect this complexity, highlighting both the light and dark aspects of human experience.”
Jo adds,
“Our initial vision was to bring back the pure, colorful essence of house and techno, infused with the vibrant energy of early UK electronics. We were inspired by the creativity of electronic music’s early days and aimed to recreate that magic in our way. Over the years, we’ve worked hard to stay true to this vision while allowing it to evolve.”
The journey of Black Cadmium has been marked by several defining performances. One standout moment for Mike was their set at Thuishaven, which he descri- bes as a dream come true.
“Playing at a festival during sunset with such high energy and palpable vibes was a milestone I had en- visioned. It was a moment of realization that our initial dreams had come true,” he reflected.
As for Jo, their performance at Lowlands 2023 at the BIG bravo stage was particularly memorable.
“It was an unforgettable experience, especially with LS- DXOXO’s recommendation. Playing back-to-back with Eris and Maya at Breakfast Club in Amsterdam was epic. The support from Dam Swindle and Radio Radio in Amsterdam has also been significant. These experien- ces have deeply influenced our journey.”
FACING CHALLENGES: HEALTH AND TRANSITION
Despite their success, Black Cadmium has faced sig- nificant challenges, particularly with Mike’s health. Tinnitus, a condition that affects hearing, has been a major hurdle for him.
“Tinnitus has been a tough battle,” Mike admits. “Ini- tially, it was a dark time with insomnia and antidepres- sants. However, I’ve learned to view it as an internal alarm system, signaling when I need to reassess my li- mits. It’s painful to step back from performing, but it’s necessary for my long-term health. I’m now focusing on peace and tranquility.”
The decision for Jo to continue Black Cadmium solo has been difficult.
“I’m both angry and sad about this change. I had ima- gined a different path when we started. Mike’s hand- ling of the situation is admirable, but it’s painful to see our journey as a duo end. I plan to continue our unique,
dynamic sound in my solo act, Joginda, and release a techno (Acid) EP on my label, GLXY Recs.”
Moving forward is a challenge not short of outstan- ding. But for Jo, it’s all about honoring their absolutely rich and eclectic history. Now, his love for techno will also be a key part of moving forward with the project.
“How do I move forward and maintain ‘Our Legacy’... I don’t have an exact answer to that yet. As a duo, we were dynamic in sound, we often went in all directions, which I think made us unique in many ways. I would like to continue that unique, dynamic sound in my existing solo act, Joginda.
“Regarding Black Cadmium, I have always enjoyed our sets when we played strictly techno. For those who know, I’m also a real techno enthusiast. I am also wor- king on releasing a techno (Acid) EP as (solo) Black Cadmium on my label, GLXY Recs. Regarding GLXY Recs, I will also choose the path of techno, and artists such as Darko Esser aka Tripeo and Lisbon’s Own Pho- tonz have already given their yes to a release. So we’ll just carry on, no matter how difficult that may be so- metimes”.
LOOKING AHEAD
(Jo) “My ambitions for ‘forever and ever’ are to take GLXY recs label to a higher level and do something (and be a small part of) about the ridiculous direction the electronic music scene is now taking regarding far too high fees for artists and festival tickets by also focusing on our club evenings that are accessible to everyone who loves the sound and culture (stop crying about the hard techno/ Trance rising, but do something in your scene), invests in local producer talent throu- ghout the Netherlands, and allow them to release mu- sic on my (or help in any other way) platform. Just for the interview and the reader’s convenience, I mentioned two names that will be released on my label that they may know, but I would have preferred to mention more unknown names. But anyway... for now, it still works that way. I’m originally from Rotterdam, and my big dream is still to put on a good techno club night there, and I make my dream come true”.
As the electronic music scene continues to evolve, Jo and Mike’s journey with Black Cadmium has taken new and exciting turns. With Mike stepping back from per- forming, Jo is embracing a fresh chapter with GLXY Recs and the bi-monthly show ‘JOGINDA’ at Echobox in Amsterdam. This new phase promises to be a dynamic exploration of evolving musical tastes and innovative artistic expression.
GLXY RECS: CONTINUING A LEGACY
GLXY Recs, a label founded by Jo and Mike, has been a cornerstone of their musical journey. The label was es- tablished with a vision to push the boundaries of elec- tronic music and offer a platform for diverse, groun- dbreaking sounds. Jo is committed to continuing this legacy, despite the changes in their collaborative dy- namic.
“Mike and I once created GLXY radio, and I’m excited to keep that vision alive,” Jo explains. “With ‘JOGINDA,’ I will provide shows at Echobox radio in Amsterdam, ai- ming to keep listeners informed about the rapid deve- lopments in the electronic music scene.
mixmagde.com 59
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72
