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PAULA CAZENAVE
Welcome Paula, it’s a pleasure to have you in our space. How would you describe your journey in the music industry and how did you become a prominent figure in the global techno scene?
Hello, thank you for interviewing me, it’s a pleasure to answer your questions. My journey in the music industry has been a rollercoaster full of ups and downs, but always driven by my passion for electronic music, specifically Techno. I started from scratch, with no resources, from the most underground scene, learning more about music production every day and honing my skills as a DJ.
As I gained experience and confidence, I started performing at local events and small clubs in my hometown (San Sebastián-Donostia) and the Basque Country, which allowed me to meet other artists and techno enthusiasts like myself. Over time, I had the opportunity to play at larger events and recognized festivals nationally and later internationally.
I believe that my dedication, commitment, and authenticity have been key to keeping me in the techno scene until today. It’s been years of hard work, but interesting opportunities have arisen. I have always tried to stay true to my style and roots, while exploring new frontiers within the genre.
Furthermore, the support of the people who have followed me for so many years has been fundamental in my career. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I appreciate every opportunity that has come my way and I am excited about what the future may bring.
Could you highlight some of your most relevant releases and talk about the inspiration behind your productions? How did your collaborations with other artists influence your musical approach? Is there any particular collaboration that marked a turning point in your career?
One of the earliest notable releases in my career was a track that came out on a vinyl compilation album in 2009 under the alias Daisychain, which was the name A.Professor and I used. This album included our track “Mamasei,” released on the iconic techno label Patterns. The inspiration behind this work stemmed from my fascination with a Michael Jackson song called “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” which had African vocals at the end of the track that I loved. We decided to use these vocals to create a hardgroove track focused 100% on the dance floor. The combination of these vocals with tribal percussion elements resulted in a success and gave us international recognition.
Another significant release was my collaboration with Ben Sims on an EP released on my own label Combine Audio. This collaboration was really special as he made two brutal remixes, and we merged our individual styles into an EP that turned out great and is still resonating in many places today.
Something else that marked a strong point in my career would be my first tracks on Symbolism, Ben Sims’ label. One named “Datura” was released on a VA, and later I released an EP titled “Otto” in honor of my deceased dog. This EP, characterized by its darkness, I made during the pandemic, influenced by the pain and confusion I was experiencing at that time. Honestly, I am very proud of the final result of this EP. This provided me exposure to a much wider audience and helped me further solidify my position in the techno scene.
In summary, each release and collaboration has brought its unique touch to my development as an artist and has shaped my musical approach in different ways. I am grateful for all these experiences that have enriched my career and have allowed me to grow both personally and professionally in the music industry.
Are you an artist who prefers the moments of introspection in the studio or the euphoria of the dance floor? Can you share with us a specific moment that you remember and has been especially significant for your growth?
I enjoy both moments equally, but I would say I find a balance between introspection in the studio and the euphoria of the dance floor. Creativity alone in the studio allows me to freely explore my ideas, experiment with sounds, and develop new techniques. On the other hand, the energetic connection with the audience on the dance floor is incomparable and vital to me.
One particularly significant moment for me was when I had the opportunity to perform at Awakenings. It was a challenge and a responsibility, but also an incredibly rewarding experience. Being able to convey my musical vision to such a diverse audience from other countries gave me valuable insight into the unique connection established between the DJ and the audience at a festival of such magnitude.
At that moment, it was amazing to see how my music connected with people, creating an atmosphere where we all shared the same passion for techno. It was a powerful reminder of why I started this journey in the first place: electronic music has the power to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences. That event not only marked a milestone in my career but also served as a catalyst to continue exploring and evolving in my sound.
As the founder of “Combine Audio,” your own record label, how did the idea come about and what vision do you have for the label? Can you share any insight into standout releases you plan to launch this year?
The idea of founding Combine Audio arose from the collaboration between Gayle San and myself. In 2017, we decided to join forces to create a project that included collaborations and four-deck sets, along with establishing a record label. With the label, our goal was to provide a space to release our own tracks and those of other artists, while also offering opportunities to emerging talents. However, later on, Gayle San withdrew from the scene due to personal reasons, leaving me in charge of the label.
The sound of Combine Audio encompasses a variety of styles within Techno. I’ve always maintained an eclectic musical mindset and never wanted to confine myself to a specific subgenre of Techno, but always keeping an underground essence.
As for the releases planned for this year, I’m very excited about the EPs that are coming out, as they reflect the diversity and innovation in today’s techno. There are planned EPs with established artists as well as emerging ones who are taking the genre to new horizons. I don’t like to give too much away until it’s released, but we have some very interesting names that I’m sure will please the label’s followers. So stay tuned.
Apart from your career as a DJ and producer, do you participate in any other projects or initiatives in the music world that you would like to share?
I’m collaborating on a project with my friend Pushmann where we plan to release several EPs and perform together in a versus format, using two mixers, at various events and festivals, such as Monegros Desert Festival.
Additionally, this year I’ll be working as a promoter for a series of events to be held at The Garage in Barcelona. For now, I can’t reveal the line-ups until they are officially announced, but I can say that the first event is scheduled for Saturday, April 27th.
If I wanted to add something more, what would it be?
I want to wholeheartedly thank all the people who follow me. Their constant support is what drives me to continue being a DJ and to keep creating music in my studio. I hope to continue offering exciting musical experiences for all of them. Thank you for being part of this musical journey with me.
Website: http://www.paulacazenave.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/djpaulacazenave
Instagram: http://instragram.com/paulacazenave
Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/artist/paula-cazenave/84198