Monika Kruse has carved a stellar reputation for herself over the past 23 years as one Berlin’s finest most impressive djs, making a massive imprint on both the German and International scene as well as earning herself the moniker the ‘Grand Dame of Techno’. The Berlin native has also found time to curate her massively successful Terminal M label which has given light to releases from the likes of Paul C & Paolo Martini, Andhim, Pig & Dan and Piemont.
This Friday she visits The Button Factory for what is sure to be a phenomenal show. We had a quick catch up to find out more!
How has 2014 been for you so far, whats been good and bad?
The year started nice.. I spent some time in Ibiza for detoxing and getting grounded . I always do this little time out in the beginning of the year to get some energy back and focus on new things. My first gig was in Argentina for ULTRA Music Festival and it really kicked off. One of my best gigs in my life. The argentinien crowd is very open minded and full with good energy and love.
How much of an influence is Berlin on you as a Dj and producer. Does it effect what you make and listen to and play?
I am happy to live in Berlin, I really think that the vibe and the music is different than the rest of Germany – and maybe the world. The crowd does not need big peaktime tracks or breakdowns to go crazy .
Tell us about the label and its MO – do you only release music from people you get on with personally?
Well with some people I only had emal contacts in the beginning. And it took a while to meet them in person. But you mostly can tell from the conversation how that person might be. Plus of course there is gossip around .. some producers have a bad image and than I get a warning from my assitent. Or some producers “buy” tracks andn never did anything in the studio bythemselves. If I know that than of course I reject the tracks. I am happy aabout my Terminal M family innercircel which is Pig& Dan, Andhim, Luca Morris, PaulC & Martini, Manon and Pele & Shawnecy. I love them all!
In terms of sound what is it that you are looking for?
I am open minded, BUT: It must kick me. It must have something special. If it is only a tool, or a track which is filled with loop samples I am bored. I want that people can recognize the track in the club when somebody plays it and it does not sound like the other 100 tracks the dj played before.
Will you do anything special for the 15th year?
Yes I am planning something.. you will see.
What should people expect from you in Dublin? Do you plan much for each gig, depending on where it is, the size etc?
Well of course I search every week for new tracks . But what I play always depends from the crowd, the time and my mood.
What else are you excited about?
The irish Pubs!!!! J