This Week in Techno: Drunken Kong & Chris Liebing
Drunken Kong - Spark
Our primary focus in recent weeks has been largely concentrated on big room techno. Although big room techno is likely the most popular form of the genre, there are many other styles within the techno sphere. One of the main sub-genres is typically described as raw, hypnotic, and driving. This style of techno can often be similar to trance music, and is known more for its pace and rhythm rather than huge builds with massive drops. “Spark” by Drunken Kong is a prime example. A repeating vocal sample cascades over drum patterns that will keep feet moving without falling into generic traps that often harm techno.
Chris Liebing - Beatport Reconnect - In Solidarity with Ukraine 2022
Playing for Beatport in order to raise money for Ukrainian’s during the war, Chris Liebing gives his fans an hour of his signature style of driving, raw techno. Like many in this subsection of techno, Chris performs a live set, utilizing a Pioneer mixer alongside multiple beat pads and a computer, demonstrating his immense knowledge of technology, and showcasing how this style of techno is best served in a live format. A true creator, Chris Liebing knows how to maintain energy while quite literally crafting songs live.
DJ Rush - Get On Up (Chris Liebing Remix) - 2002
A double feature for the legendary Chris Liebing, his 2002 remix of DJ Rush’s “Get On Up” is a weapon he still plays out 20 years later. Bringing vocals into an old techno track is rare, yet it works in this instance. The track is pure. scintillating energy, that is a back pocket track for any techno DJ playing an extended set.
