Ruben Ganev talks about his Collector's Series on mould.audio
The second installment of the series is already a fact and there is more to come
Summer is almost here and the mood is rising by the day. Good weather, more music and more positive news for the European electronic music scene. While it feels like we have almost gone back to a normal dancefloor, I am tuning in to supply you with more quality music.
Last year, I had the absolute pleasure to present to you mould.audio, which is my dear friend’s Ruben Ganev imprint. I have been supporting his label and his career in music since day one, and I am happy that he returns to Nachbtlumen for a short catch up about his latest concept. As the label turned 2 years in April, I wanted to hear a few words and impressions by Ruben on this time, and what his plans are for the rest of the year. Stick around to check out the sound of his collector’s series and what is the core concept behind them.
In the past year, Ruben put in so much work and heart into developing his label and all of us could see that. Since we last spoke, the young artist has added 4 strong releases on mould, and went brave into 2022 with another one that came up for the 2nd anniversary of the label on the 1st of April. Overall, it’s been two years of hard work, unconditional dedication to the music, and a rollercoaster of emotions. Looking back on that time, I wanted to know if Ruben was happy with what he has achieved so far and where does he currently stand? ‘‘ When I look back, it's been definitely an emotional ride for me in a very good way. When I started this label, I did not expect that it would all turn out so good, and it’s a thrill for me realizing that this is actually a successful project already. It’s growing organically every day, and I am very grateful and happy with all the people from around the world, who discover me every day and share their appreciation for my work. My heart is full, when I know that this is not an extension of myself, but it is an independent thing that grows on it’s own terms. That’s the way I like to think of it at least, like a pet that I am taking care of, but it is still growing on their own. I am very much looking forward to see what the future brings. The schedule is pretty full till the end of that year for sure. And maybe the beginning of next year. I'm looking forward to releasing more music from my friends work.’’
Ruben Ganev
Speaking about his Collector’s Series, it was interesting for me to understand the core idea behind it. Usually, when we are talking about ‘‘collectors’’ editions, most of the time that relates to a limited edition of a vinyl, but in this case Ruben is redefining the term by presenting it in a digital format. What makes these editions special is the way they are produced. ‘‘I wanted to challenge myself to publish something even more personal. I wanted to put out music, that I have created entirely, meaning that from idea to final project including mastering it is all me. The Collector's Series catalogue is an expansion of mould.audio, a personal space for expression where I delve further into my understanding of sound, and see through the mastering process myself.’’ This is certainly an interesting contemporary take on special editions and I like the way Ruben presents it. [mldcs002] embodies his evolution into a deeper creative mindset and technical workflow.
What is also interesting in the second installment is the fact that for the first time we hear an ambient piece by the young producer. The opening track ‘‘Transition’’ serves as a prelude to the EP and the inspiration behind it is a ambient project made in 2003 by Virginia Zaharieva. The heart of the project, called House of Medusa, is a Roman Water Cistern in Istanbul’s Basilica, a place which gives us the vivid feeling of distance and space. It creates the sense of residing on a windy interplanetary station, or in catacombs where people and otherworldly creatures roam. A place which compliments the ones who are brave enough to meet their fears through embracing the unveiled shadows lurking in them to eventually illuminate a space for individual expression.
“The Collector's Series catalogue is an expansion of mould.audio, a personal space for expression where I delve further into my understanding of sound, and see through the mastering process myself.’’
My personal favourite in this release is the closing track of the EP - ‘‘Navigator’’. It’s a very powerful piece, that shatters the dancefloor as soon as it goes through the sound system. It has depth and it is a testiment to the production skills of Ruben. In the words of the artist himself ‘‘This composition is a ticket to another constellation of sounds, and with its tribal feel and warm low-end groove, it prepares us for a giant leap.’’ I couldn’t agree more, and the last few weeks have shown that I am not the only one. This release has been supported by artist like Rødhåd, Claudio PRC, Ben Klock, Takaaki Itoh, Emily Jeanne, Nihad Tule, Blazej Malinowski, and the list goes on. It is clear that the boundaries of ‘‘sub genres’’ within techno are not limiting the success of Rubens sound.
Until the end of this year, the fans of mould.audio will be happy to know that there are at least two more exciting releases planned. New faces and fresh ideas will appear on the label, so stay tuned to find out. In the mean time, enjoy the music, but as always don’t forget to support the artist!