Contributing Writer
Berlin-based Austrian producer My Secret Playground returns with End Of Noise, a four-track EP drawing together melancholic synth music, Indie Dance, 80s electronics and Florian Herzberg’s longstanding influences from rock and metal.
Originally from Vienna and based in Berlin for more than a decade, Herzberg has developed a sound shaped by both cities: romantic and nostalgic in places, tougher and more immediate in others, with broad synths, vocoders and vocal lines meeting pounding drums, distorted textures and arrangements that push beyond conventional dancefloor structures.
With the EP out now, we asked him to put together a playlist feature for MI4L.
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Electronic music is becoming increasingly fast-paced. Let’s talk, therefore, about songs from the Indie Dance bubble that, in my opinion, will stand the test of time. Here are 10 dancefloor essentials.
Adana Twins – My Computer feat. Glowal
One of my first major influences from the indie dance scene. I still find their knack for a touch of theatricality and killer hooklines to be unique to this day.
Alex Metric & Oliver – Galaxy
This track radiates so much energy and joy. Sophisticated, and always a winner on the dance floor.
Myrddin – Electric Disco (David Body Remix)
Whenever I get goosebumps, it’s always a good sign. I’ve been playing this track for many years, and it always reminds me of my good friend and colleague Phillipe, alias Myrddin.
SNYL Remix – Sci-Fied (Original Mix)
As soon as the vocoder kicks in during the drop, the crowd goes wild. It’s a classic track—one that makes choosing the next song incredibly difficult.
Darlyn Vlys – Runner
Darlyn Vlys remains one of my favorite producers from the indie dance scene to this day. Unpretentious and always delivering innovative tracks! Every time I hear this song, it transports me straight into a *Blade Runner* film.
Doctr – Now You Can Fly feat. Julia
For many years, Doctr has been one of my top 10 producers. Always varied, with recognizable vocal lines—all without drifting too far into the commercial realm. An authentic 80s-style track for the 21st century.
Alan Dixon – Motel 4000
This song pretty much always works. I love the positive vibe and, of course, that awesome arpeggio. It’s been in my playlists for years. The perfect closing or peak track 🙂
Panthera – Radiant
None of my playlists would be complete without music by Panthera. His tracks often serve as a reference for me and definitely stand out within the otherwise rather polished Indie Dance genre.
Franz Matthews – The Monsters of Your Mind
And here’s another contender who stands out for variety and constantly surprises with fresh ideas. More of this, please!
My Secret Playground – Vienna
“If you don’t believe in your own music, how can you expect others to?“ – I am particularly proud of this track. Both artistically and emotionally, it reflects everything I wanted to express.