From studio to stage: Life on the road with TOWNSHIP REBELLION
A deep dive into the touring life of techno collective from Germany
The German powerhouse TOWNSHIP REBELLION has become a force in melodic and progressive techno. Known for their deep, emotive soundscapes and storytelling, they’ve gained attention through releases on Rose Avenue, Hilomatik, Factory93, Filth on Acid, Truesoul, and many more legendary labels. They’ve also toured the globe, playing prestigious events like EDC Las Vegas, Fusion Festival, Burning Man, Drumsheds, Electric Forest, and many more.
Recently, they made their debut on HI-LO’s label with their track ‘Midsommar’ together with Roemisch. Featured as part of a powerful 7-track EP alongside other producers, Midsommar marks an exciting moment in their journey. We caught up with them to talk touring, studio testing, and advice for newcomers.
How many shows would you say you are doing annually?
It fluctuates a bit, but we are usually on tour every weekend of the year.
Who usually comes along on tour with you?
Depending on the routings we either travel together or solo.
How do you try to stay as healthy as possible when on the road?
Traveling so much is very demanding and honestly not really what humans are made for. It's very important to be fit and healthy. Doing sports/training definitely helps a lot.
What would be your best tip for a starting DJ looking to book his first shows?
Work on your craft. Don't believe the hype. If you do good work, things will follow naturally. Of course you have to share what you do with others to get noticed. Despite some marketing efforts trying to tell people otherwise, almost nobody starts immediately with touring globally. Try to get connected to your local scene, other artists, and be present at raves. And most of all: ask for opportunities! You will have plenty of opportunities in your career to get used to getting 'no' as an answer. And usually if you're nice to others & do good work, people are happy to give you a chance at some point. Just be patient, and don't stop going for it.
What are essentials to bring with you on the road?
It's probably obvious, but noise-canceling headphones are worth the money for sure. You won’t regret having some.
When do you feel like it’s worth investing in a tour team, and who should be part of that team?
It depends on the workload and kind of shows. And especially for logistics that are very tightly scheduled and difficult to pull off. But usually we are all good with traveling on our own. Bigger teams increase the budget needed quite fast. Still what's always a must for us is to bring a photo/videographer with us.
Do you prefer to travel by plane, train or car?
Depends on the route. Everything has its advantages in certain situations.
Do you road test brand new productions before releasing them? And if so – what do you tend to focus on when testing them?
Always! Focus is basically on all aspects of the track—mix, master, audience reception.
Quickfire Round
Top three cities to play a show in?
There are too many! But if we have to name three: Berlin, Montreal & Los Angeles.
Craziest thing you’ve ever received from a fan?
Only the nicest things. From painted portraits to heartwarming letters… we’ve had a lot of nice gestures so far. One fan even had our super old promo CD framed in his room, which is quite the rare thing, as it was really one of the first TR promos we ever did over 10 years ago and most people don’t even know about it.
First thing you do when you get back home from touring?
Adjusting back to the timezone, so it's easier to get back in a daily rhythm that doesn't feel too exhausting. Depending on the duration of the tour, it’s also important to take a break after to charge up some energy with family & friends.
On Joining Hilomatik
What brought you to Hilomatik to release 'Midsommar'?
We have met HI-LO multiple times during our tours over the last years and are big fans of his sound. We have been sending stuff back & forth for quite some time. ‘Midsommar’, made with our dear friend Roemisch, was the perfect fit to debut on the label’s new EP. I look forward to more to come!
When you think of Hilomatik, what's the first thing that comes to mind?
An outstanding mix of multiple genres.
What's your favorite song among all the Hilomatik releases (you can’t pick your own!)?
The “Born to Love” release from HI-LO & Sarah De Warren is amazing!
