Interview With PAN-POT
Discover the journey, inspirations, and insights of techno legends PAN-POT in this exclusive Q&A interview. Dive into their creative process and notable achievements.
In the ever-evolving world of techno music, few names resonate as powerfully as PAN-POT. Comprising the dynamic duo Tassilo Ippenberger and Thomas Benedix, PAN-POT has carved out a unique niche in the electronic music landscape. This Q&A interview delves into their journey, inspirations, and the intricate workings behind their influential sound. Through this conversation, we gain a rare glimpse into the lives and minds of these techno titans, offering fans and newcomers alike a deeper understanding of what makes PAN-POT a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
The Dynamic Duo: Who is PAN-POT?
PAN-POT, formed by Tassilo Ippenberger and Thomas Benedix, has become a prominent name in techno music. Their journey from students at Berlin’s SAE Institute to leading figures in the electronic music scene is a story of passion, collaboration, and innovation.
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Formation and Origin Story
PAN-POT‘s journey began in the vibrant city of Berlin, where Tassilo and Thomas first crossed paths at the renowned SAE Institute. Both driven by a shared passion for techno, their initial collaboration focused on blending electronic experimentation with minimalistic stylings. This early partnership laid the foundation for what would become their signature sound – a seamless fusion of dark, murky undertones and kinetic grooves.
Background of Tassilo Ippenberger and Thomas Benedix
Tassilo and Thomas, the creative minds behind PAN-POT, bring complementary skills and backgrounds to the table. Tassilo’s technical prowess and meticulous production techniques perfectly balance Thomas’s intuitive feel for rhythm and energy. Their combined talents have enabled them to push the boundaries of techno, creating music that is both innovative and deeply resonant.
Early Influences and Inspirations
Their early influences are as eclectic as their sound. From the raw energy of Berlin’s underground techno scene to the intricate compositions of classical music, PAN-POT draws inspiration from a wide array of sources. This diverse palette is evident in their music, which often blends hard-hitting beats with melodic elements and atmospheric textures.
The Rise to Fame
PAN-POT‘s rise to fame is a testament to their relentless dedication and innovative approach to music. They have consistently pushed the boundaries of techno, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Initial Musical Efforts and Releases
PAN-POT‘s initial releases set the stage for their ascent in the techno world. Tracks like “Obscenity” and “Black Currant” on Mobilee Records quickly garnered attention for their innovative approach to minimal techno. Their commitment to precise, undulating grooves and sonic experimentation established them as rising stars in the electronic music scene.
Key Milestones: Release of “Pan-O-Rama”
The release of their debut album, “Pan-O-Rama“, in 2007 marked a defining moment in their career. The album showcased a 360-degree view of techno, blending peak-time club anthems with deeper, more intricate tracks. “Charly“, one of the standout hits from the album, became a staple in their live sets and cemented their status as leading figures in techno.
Touring and Live Performances: Key Festivals and Clubs
PAN-POT‘s relentless touring schedule has been instrumental in their rise to fame. From intimate club nights to massive festivals like Awakenings, Timewarp, and Creamfields, they have performed at some of the most iconic venues worldwide. Their ability to read and engage with any crowd and deliver electrifying performances has earned them a dedicated global following.
Establishment of “Second State” Label
In 2014, PAN-POT launched their own imprint, Second State. This label not only serves as a platform for their music but also nurtures a community of like-minded artists. By fostering creativity and collaboration, Second State has become a hub for innovative techno, further solidifying PAN-POT‘s influence in the electronic music landscape.
Behind The Music: Creative Process and Inspiration
Understanding PAN-POT‘s creative process provides insight into the genius behind their music. Their inspiration comes from a blend of natural beauty, personal experiences, and collaborative efforts, all contributing to their distinctive sound.
Sources of Inspiration: Nature, Life Experiences, Travels
Nature is a profound source of inspiration for PAN-POT. The duo finds creativity in the organic flow and energy of natural landscapes. Additionally, their life experiences and travels significantly shape their music. Whether it’s the vibrant energy of a city or the serene beauty of the countryside, these experiences are woven into their tracks, adding depth and authenticity.
Creative Routines and Rituals
PAN-POT‘s creative process is dynamic and collaborative. They often start with a spark of inspiration – a melody, rhythm, or sound – and build upon it through experimentation and layering. While they don’t adhere to strict routines, certain habits help them stay focused. Brainstorming sessions, physical activity, and breaks from the studio play crucial roles in maintaining their productivity and creativity.
Collaboration and Dynamic Between Tassilo and Thomas
The synergy between Tassilo and Thomas is a cornerstone of their success. Their collaborative approach allows them to challenge each other creatively, pushing the boundaries of their music. This dynamic interplay results in tracks that are both innovative and finely crafted, reflecting the unique strengths of each member.
Notable Achievements and Impact
PAN-POT‘s contributions to the techno genre extend far beyond their own productions. Their influence on the electronic music scene and their numerous accolades highlight their status as industry leaders.
Major Releases and Remixes
PAN-POT‘s discography is a testament to their versatility and mastery. From their early EPs to their critically acclaimed albums like “The Other“, their music consistently pushes the envelope. High-profile remixes for legends like Carl Cox and Stephan Bodzin further showcase their ability to reinterpret and enhance existing tracks, earning them respect from peers and fans alike.
Influence on The Electronic Music Scene
PAN-POT‘s impact on the electronic music scene is undeniable. Their innovative sound has influenced a generation of techno artists, and their relentless touring has brought their music to audiences worldwide. By consistently delivering high-quality productions and unforgettable live performances, they have set new standards in the industry.
Contributions to The Techno Genre and Their Unique Sound
PAN-POT‘s contributions to the techno genre are profound. Their music blends driving beats with atmospheric elements, creating a sound that is both powerful and immersive. This unique blend has not only defined their identity but also expanded the boundaries of techno, influencing countless artists and reshaping the genre.
Personal Insights
Personal insights from PAN-POT reveal the human side of these techno legends. Their reflections on their journey, challenges, and connections with fans provide a deeper understanding of their artistic integrity and dedication.
PAN-POT’s Perspective on Their Journey
Reflecting on their journey, PAN-POT acknowledges the challenges and triumphs that have shaped their career. From their early days in Berlin to headlining major festivals, each step has been a learning experience. They emphasize the importance of staying true to their vision and the joy of sharing their music with a global audience.
Significant Moments and Challenges
Key moments, such as their debut at Berghain and the release of “Pan-O-Rama“, stand out as pivotal in their career. However, they have also faced challenges, such as maintaining artistic integrity in a commercially driven industry. Overcoming these obstacles has strengthened their resolve and commitment to their craft.
Interaction With Fans and Audience
PAN-POT‘s connection with its fans is a vital aspect of its success. The band strives to create memorable experiences through its music and live performances. Interacting with fans directly and via social media builds a loyal community and fosters a deeper connection with its audience.
Maintaining Artistic Integrity in a Commercial World
Navigating the pressures of the music industry while staying true to their artistic vision has been a significant challenge for PAN-POT. They prioritize authenticity and innovation, resisting the urge to conform to commercial trends. This dedication to their unique sound has earned them respect and admiration within the electronic music community.
Life Beyond The Decks
Beyond their professional achievements, PAN-POT‘s personal lives and interests provide a richer context to their music. Their hobbies, family, and future aspirations offer a glimpse into the individuals behind the iconic name.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Outside of music, PAN-POT enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests. Whether it’s exploring nature, engaging in sports, or spending time with family, these activities provide balance and inspiration. Their personal lives enrich their music, bringing a sense of authenticity and relatability to their work.
Family and Personal Life
Tassilo and Thomas value their personal lives and the support of their families. Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial, and their close relationships provide grounding amidst the hectic pace of touring and production. Their families’ support is a cornerstone of their success, offering encouragement and stability.
Future Goals and Projects
Looking ahead, PAN-POT remains committed to evolving and innovating. They have ambitious projects and goals, including new music releases, collaborations, and further expansion of their label, Second State. Their vision for the future is one of continuous growth, creativity, and connection with their audience.
Techno Airlines’ Q&A Interview With PAN-POT
As Techno Airlines, we are thrilled and honored to present this exclusive interview with PAN-POT. Their influence on the techno music scene is unparalleled, and we are excited to share their insights, stories, and creative journey with you. This Q&A interview offers a unique glimpse into the minds of these iconic artists.
What inspires you the most in your life, and how do you incorporate these sources of inspiration into your creative process?
Nature is our biggest inspiration. Being connected to the roots and surrounded by natural beauty helps us stay grounded and sparks creativity. We try to incorporate these elements into our music, bringing a sense of organic flow and energy to our tracks.
Tassilo: Life experiences, travel, and interactions with different cultures play a big role in shaping our music. The energy of the cities we visit, the landscapes we see, and the people we meet all contribute to our creative process.
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What period or event in your artistic journey has had the most significant impact on you?
Time Warp has had the most significant impact on us. It’s a place where we see and party with everyone. The energy and community at Time Warp are incredible, and they have profoundly influenced our music and performances.
Tassilo: One of the most significant periods in our journey was undoubtedly when we first started playing at Berghain. The club’s unique atmosphere and its reputation for pushing the boundaries of electronic music really shaped our approach to our sound. Playing there was a pivotal moment because it pushed us to dig deeper and experiment more with our music.
Another key event was the release of our debut album, Pan-O-Rama, in 2009. It was a major milestone that allowed us to showcase our versatility and set the foundation for our future work. The process of creating that album taught us a lot about ourselves as artists, and about the kind of music, we wanted to create. It was a period of intense learning and growth.
Additionally, touring internationally and playing at major festivals like Time Warp and Awakenings had a huge impact on us
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Which three words would you use to describe your life, and why?
Chaotic, Great, Loyal. Our life is chaotic due to constant touring and the fast-paced nature of the music industry, but it’s also great because we get to do what we love. Loyalty is important to us, whether it’s to our music, fans, or each other.
Can you share some insights about the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame them?
Thomas: I was scared of planes and flying, which is a massive challenge when you’re touring constantly. But I conquered my fears; it’s just part of the job.
Tassilo: One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced in our career has been maintaining our artistic integrity while navigating the ever-changing landscape of the music industry. There’s always pressure to conform to trends or to produce music that’s commercially viable. We’ve had to constantly remind ourselves to stay true to our vision and not lose sight of what makes our sound unique.
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How do you aim to interact and communicate with your audience or viewers throughout your life?
We try to interact directly or via social media. In person, Tassilo sometimes climbs into the crowd and feeds them Jägermeister to connect. We love being close to our fans and creating memorable experiences. We always welcome our fans with open arms.
Tassilo: Interacting and communicating with our audience during live performances is one of the most vital aspects of our work. We aim to create a connection that goes beyond just playing tracks. It’s about crafting an experience that resonates on an emotional and physical level.
We pay close attention to the energy in the room and respond to it in real-time. If we see the crowd reacting to a particular beat or melody, we’ll build on that moment and take it further. Our sets are dynamic and fluid, allowing us to adapt and create a journey unique to each performance. This way, every show becomes a shared experience between us and the audience.
We also use social media and other platforms to stay connected with our fans outside of live performances. Sharing behind-the-scenes content, snippets from the studio, and personal insights helps us build a closer relationship with our audience. We believe that transparency and openness foster a deeper connection, and we love hearing from our fans and getting their feedback.
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How has your artistic approach or style evolved over time?
We started with minimal, then moved to house, and now we’re into techno. Our style is ever-evolving as we experiment and grow as artists.
Tassilo: Our artistic approach and style have evolved significantly since we first started. In the early days, we were heavily influenced by the minimal techno scene that was prevalent in Berlin. Our tracks were more stripped-down, focusing on subtle shifts and a minimalist aesthetic.
As we gained more experience and exposure, we began to experiment more with our sound. We incorporated a wider range of influences, from deep house to more melodic and atmospheric elements, leading to a more layered and dynamic sound. Our debut album, Pan-O-Rama, was a turning point where we showcased a broader spectrum of our musical capabilities.
Touring and performing at different venues around the world also had a big impact on our style. We started to understand how different crowds respond to different sounds and energies. This pushed us to create music that not only works well in the studio but also translates powerfully to live settings. Our sets became more versatile, blending harder techno with more melodic and emotional moments, creating a journey for the listener.
The launch of our label, Second State, gave us even more freedom to explore and release music that truly represents our vision. It allowed us to take risks and support other artists who share a similar passion for innovation. Collaborating with these artists has further influenced our style, bringing new ideas and perspectives into our music.
Our evolution has been about staying true to our core while continuously pushing our boundaries. We’re always learning, always evolving, and always striving to create something that moves us and our audience. Our goal is to keep our sound fresh and exciting for ourselves and the people who listen to our music.
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Which of your works holds a special meaning for you and why?
All the albums we’ve made hold a special meaning. The process of creating an album is always unique and personal, and it’s a journey we cherish every time.
Tassilo: One of the works that holds a special meaning for us is our debut album, Pan-O-Rama. Released in 2009, it was a defining moment in our career. This album represents a significant period of growth and discovery for us as artists. It was our first major project where we had the opportunity to fully express our musical vision. The process of creating Pan-O-Rama was incredibly challenging and rewarding. We experimented with new sounds, techniques, and structures, which allowed us to explore the depths of our creativity. Tracks like Charly and Confronted still resonate with us and our audience and often serve as highlights in our sets.
Another work that stands out is our EP, The Other. This release marked a turning point in our sound, showcasing a darker, more atmospheric side of Pan-Pot. It was a reflection of our evolving tastes and the influence of our experiences touring globally. Tracks like “Sleepless” and “Substance” received a lot of positive feedback and became staples in our performances.
Additionally, our collaboration with rising artists on our label, Second State, has produced meaningful works. These collaborations allow us to mentor and support new talent while also learning from their fresh perspectives. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see these artists grow and succeed, knowing we’ve played a part in their journey.
These works hold a special place in our hearts because they represent key moments of our artistic evolution and the milestones we’ve reached together. They remind us of where we started, how far we’ve come, and the endless possibilities ahead.
Last but not least, our FORTE collection from 2023 was a transformational step into the new PAN-POT sound and marked the very important musical definition of PAN-POT for the future.
What are your thoughts on the role and impact of your life in society?
We’re pretty happy to have the privilege of playing our music for people. It’s an honor to be able to influence and entertain so many through our art.
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What does your creative process look like, and do you have any routines or rituals when working on a piece?
A lot of sports, healthy food, and keeping an open mind are crucial for our creative process. Staying physically and mentally fit helps us stay focused and inspired. Balance!
Tassilo: Our creative process is dynamic and collaborative, and it often starts with a spark of inspiration that can come from anywhere – a melody, a rhythm, a sound, or even a fleeting emotion. From there, we build on that initial idea, layering sounds, experimenting with arrangements, and shaping the track into something cohesive.
We don’t have strict routines or rituals, but we do have certain habits that help us stay focused and productive in the studio. For example, we like to start our sessions with a brainstorming session, where we share ideas and concepts for new tracks. This helps us get into the right mindset and establish a direction for the music.
We also believe in the importance of taking breaks and stepping away from the music when needed. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make all the difference, so we’ll go for a walk, grab a coffee, or even just chat about non-music-related topics to clear our minds.
Collaboration is a big part of our process, and we constantly bounce ideas off each other and provide feedback. Having two perspectives allows us to push each other creatively and explore new possibilities. It’s a give-and-take process that ultimately leads to stronger and more innovative music.
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What projects or goals do you hope to achieve in your life in the future?
Maybe to win a Grammy someday! But more importantly, we want to avoid becoming ignorant and continue living with an open heart and mind.
Tassilo: Looking ahead, we have several projects and goals that we’re excited to pursue. One of our main focuses is continuing to evolve and innovate as artists. We’re always exploring new sounds, techniques, and collaborations that push the boundaries of electronic music. We want to keep challenging ourselves creatively and creating music that resonates with people on a deep level.
Conclusion
Reflecting on PAN-POT‘s journey, it’s evident that their passion, creativity, and relentless drive have been the keys to their success. From their early days in Berlin to their current status as techno legends, PAN-POT continues to inspire and innovate. Their music, live performances, and dedication to their craft have left an indelible mark on the electronic music scene. As they look to the future, their commitment to pushing boundaries and connecting with their audience remains unwavering.
Images: Dominik Hoang
