Question Time with Kölsch
We caught up with Kölsch ahead of his return to Australia to chat about his early days, returning to Australia after 4 years & life on tour. Catch him playing Piknic Electronik, Sunday 5th of February - Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
When did you first discover electronic music/DJing?
I discovered DJing and electronic music when I was still a child, I guess around 11-12 yrs old. I got into breakdancing and DJing at my youth club.
There was a disco where the breakdancers met, and I'd play some early electro, new beat, and hip-hop. I wasn’t good at it, but I was drawn to that sound.
Being introduced to electronic music so young, was there anyone producer/dj/human being that inspired you to get behind the decks?
My Mothers old Friend Zig taught me musical integrity and encouraged me to respect my own art.
At the time I was producing music on an Amiga 500 with 4 tracks. I had no other options as I just didn’t have any money. Zig taught me that the equipment doesn’t matter and limitations can be an advantage. I still carry that with me today.
It's been 4 years since you last toured Australia, what are you most excited about for your return?
I can’t wait to see the whole gang. I don’t know what it is with Australia, but every time I visit, I seem to find more great friends. So many amazing people to catch up with.
You all have such an amazing attitude toward life. That’s why the parties are always so incredible.
Other than making new friends, do you have any particular memories that stand out from your past visits to Australia?
Getting blind for the blind at Revs (charity show for the Fred Hollows Foundation), playing the beautiful Forum theatre in Melbourne and KAWS, Basquiat Hering at NGV. Also, Classic motor racing with Carl Cox was a blast.
Talk us through a day in the life of Kölsch when you arrive on tour. Do you have any rituals? Catch up with friends, explore, get dinner?
All of the above! Top Paddock is a must. Cookie, Dom Panino, Revs, Bondi walk, maybe a bit of sneaker shopping. Just seeing great people.
Now we know what you like to get up to on your travels, name 3 things that apart from the essentials come with you in your suitcase on every tour?
1. The HAT
2. Portable Soundcard- so I can make music anywhere.
3. Electrolytes.
What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I’m Irish German, and Kölsch is my actual sir name.
We are super excited to have you back in Melbourne this week, what can we expect from your Piknic Electronik set?
I was split between playing my Garth Brooks/Enya tribute and my Celine Dion cover versions set, so I've decided to just play Kölsch bangers instead.
