Contributing WriterMexican trailblazer Redraft Memories is at the heart of the global underground. In addition to being signed by the mighty Carl Cox to his latest label, 23rd Century, he has also released on Nervous and Steve Mac’s Jack Said What, while picking up further support from the likes of Chip E and Darren Emerson. Now a regular on huge stages like EDC, Tomorrowland and Timewarp, he shows off his forward-thinking take on techno in real style…
Welcome to Music Is 4 Lovers, Ricardo! As we head into the latter months of 2024, could you give us some personal highlights?
Thanks for the welcome to music is 4 lovers. First, there’s Carl’s November release on 23rd Century, and I’m also working on new music. I remixed Steve Mac and Lisa Moorish’s tracks and I collaborated with the house music veteran Chip E on a new version of his song ‘It’s House’.
Next month, your latest EP, ‘The Eclipse’ drops on Carl Cox’s 23rd Century label. We’d love to know more about this one and how you were introduced to this imprint.
Carl has been playing my music for a few years. I met him at EDC in February, and we spent some time talking before his show. He told me that he was releasing music from up-and-coming producers, so I sent him some unsigned tracks, which he tested in some of his shows before deciding to release some of them on this debut EP Eclipse.
Could you tell us about some of your experiences within Mexico’s dance scene and what led to your passion for techno.
Music is no exception to Mexico’s diversity, with numerous events taking place every weekend, and changing as social media and trends drive it, but I believe it’s becoming more recognized as COVID struck and Mexico continued to host parties, most of them on the beach and at Tulum. It is becoming increasingly relevant as time goes on.
My passion for techno started years ago listening to Global Radio in the old stereo of my dad but I confirmed this when I listened to Adam Beyer and Ida (extended set) at Pasaguero in Mexico City when I was in high school. That day everything changed for me.
‘The Eclipse’ is certainly a forward-thinking selection of cuts; talk us through your typical production process, do you use any particular pieces of kit?
To be honest, I just sit in the studio and start playing synths (hardware or software) unless it’s a remix that I have some sounds to follow. Kick and bass come first, followed by percs, depending on how I’m feeling that day. I switch to techno if I want to do more aggressive rhythms, or I’ll make something more tech house and housey if I’m feeling more groovy.
What’s the best rave you’ve ever been to and why?
Ceremonia in 2019 was the greatest event I have ever been to. Massive Attack, Aphex Twin, Kaytranada, Modeselektor, John Hopkins, and Parcels were among the artists on the roster. It was a fantastic trip, and I loved the day because of the incredible music system and graphics. I remember I came to celebrate my birthday with my friends.
Do you have any other passions outside of the studio?
Ancient cultures are fascinating to read about. The way that the world has evolved over the ages and how people made sounds in caves as an early way of music or utilize music to heal via frequencies fascinated me; so yeah, I’m a fan of history.
Where can we expect to see you playing during club season?
In addition to certain gigs at local venues in Mexico City (such as Terraza Catedra and others in November and December), I have a proposal to play Thanksgiving in Chicago, but I haven’t confirmed the date yet.
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