Techno Interview – 10 Questions 2 – VAN CZAR

Van Czar grew up in Brussels, Belgium. He’s a versatile artist that produces what he feels in every moment. Detroit Techno and Chicago House sounds are very much present in his musical vision. Van Czar has a special ability to engage with the crowd and he has the tools to adapt to any kind of gig or event he takes part in. He loves the clubby atmosphere as well as “hype” events. Van, he is at the forefront of a dynamic industry and he has the tools to stay there. His tracks have seen big support on the “DJ” circuit by artists like Derrick May, Ben Sims, Richie Hawtin, Joseph Capriati, M.A.N.D.Y to name a handful. On a few releases, he has collaborated with artists like Ken Ishii, Dantiez & Kevin Saunderson, Samuel L Session, Martin Eyerer, Terrence Dixon and Orlando Voorn.

01. Can you tell us more about your music history, do you have formal training, maybe something many people don’t know about you?

I started to be fond of electronic music when I was 9 years old and I listened to some sounds on a Belgian pirate radio and I was amazed by its vibe.

02. How did you get into the techno scene and what are your first memories of techno music?

I have always liked techno. As I said before, these were the first sounds I listened to and they really blew me away. And of course, my memories are at FUSE club in Brussels, where I am from, and all the great artists who played there at the time as to mention Carl Craig or Dave Clark. Bonzai wave was also on the rise in all the country and abroad, so I could say I am part of its generation. Cherrymoon was also “the club” and its strong hardcore and hard techno sound influenced me.

03. Where do you see the techno scene in 10 years? And how do you see yourself in 10 years within the scene?

Techno is increasing its popularity among young people and in all the society. We can see techno being played at “Haute Couture” fashion shows by Chanel, LV or Dior, trendy restaurants, tv shows, series, films, etc. Techno is played anywhere with a powerful character. A lot has changed since Detroit Godfathers made up the first sounds. They could have never imagined what techno (house music) would become. And myself, I will keep on writing techno sounds and techno music. That is what I love. Since that day when I listened to those “weird” sounds on the radio, I knew that was all about me.

04. Where do you most enjoying playing? Crowdy festival places or more intimate clubs?

I am all about the music, so I do enjoy playing at any place where you can build up a great atmosphere and make people feel it. I have also played at fashion shows and every venue and crowd has something special.

05. Do you prefer to play live/dj or is it all about the music production?

I feel comfortable with Dj sets, music production, etc. I am a versatile artist and I really want to express my feelings and emotions through my music. I also run 3 music labels (CZ which is part of Bonzai group, Ibiza Boys, and Van Czar Series) and I am always in touch with so many different artists and new talents that it also takes part of my time in this industry.

06. Tell us your most proud moment in your career to date?

I wouldn’t pick “a moment”, but I’d have to admit that when my friends from Bonzai gave me the opportunity to release my music on their label, it was such a milestone in my career. It was also an honor to be remixed by Kevin Saunderson (Bonzai vinyl). That was the music I grew up with and they are the best-known Belgian label worldwide so I am really proud to be part of its history. I have had plenty of digital and vinyl releases on Bonzai, not to mention my latest vinyl with renowned Japanese artist Ken Ishii and Top producer Robert Babicz.

07. What music/genres do you listen to when you’re at home?

When I am at home I choose the silence as music. I am always composing, dealing with lots of music for my labels CZ, Ibiza Boys, and Van Czar Series, so I rather disconnect from music when I am not working on it. I have quite a lot of plants at home and I enjoy taking care of them in my little free time.

08. What parties and festivals should we not miss this year (2018)?

You shouldn’t miss Bonzai stage at Tomorrowland 2018. Mondo Club in Madrid (Spain) is also highly recommended and Fuse in Brussels. They always have amazing techno sounds which will not disappoint.

09. Do you have any does or don’ts regarding tips to upcoming talents?

New talents? I am thrilled to discover them. I have got a bunch of great guys on my labels; G-Prod, Protyv, just doc. A 16-year old boy called Frankie Bromley. They are an example for upcoming young artists. Every artist is different and talent and inspiration is something unique which will define their music and sounds.

They should follow their own paths and try to accomplish what they feel like it is good for them. You need tons of strength and resilience to be part of this world, but it’s worth it.

As a clever advice for this artists careers and for all the techno community I am going to share my own experience:

As some of you know I have had several collabs and works with Terence Dixon and Orlando Voorn. We had a commercial relationship and both of them tried to not allow me to release their tracks which I had already bought. I decided to help them as they said they were struggling.
They assume that as they have been in this business longer, they have hundreds of fans and mad people around them and feel they are entitled to cheat, threat and rip off whoever they like.
I hope this advice helps either established artists or young artists who are more vulnerable to avoid being cheated by people without morals and values.

We mustn’t allow ourselves to be cheated, insulted or threatened by those famous artists or the ones we like …

The worst part of it all is that both of them told me how bad they were doing in their lives and that’s why I accepted to help them and as I admired them it was really shocking the way they behaved. Anyway, what is done is done, and I don’t regret having worked with them.

10. Can you tell us more about your plans for the coming 12 Months? Do you have any new productions/collaborations?

As I mentioned before, my recently released vinyl KITAI on Bonzai with Ken Ishii and Robert Babicz and some collaborations with Samuel L.Session on Kevin Saunderson’s KMS. I am really excited for my upcoming Ep RUSH on Cherry Moon Records. I also have some cool tracks on Spanish label A100 with Detroit maestro Tim Baker and some new stuff on my labels with friendly Tim Baker too. BTW, I would love to play at Tomorrowland next year with my Bonzai friends or at any of their international events. I wish I can keep on doing great work and earn it !!

Social Networks

• FB: facebook.com/VanCzarOfficial
• TW: twitter.com/van_czar
• SC: soundcloud.com/van-czar
• BP: beatport.com/artist/van-czar/274912
• RA: residentadvisor.net/dj/vanczar