Terminus: Uncovering South Africa's Techno Scene

Anthony Tanzer (AKA Terminus) is an influential producer, DJ, and promoter in Johannesburg. He has fostered a vibrant music community with the MUUD crew and regularly performs at South Africa's premier underground clubs and festivals.

With a strong portfolio that includes releases on notable labels like Newrhythmic, PRX, Secession, and SYXT, Terminus has gained support from renowned artists such as Ben Klock, Richie Hawtin, and Alarico with performances at lauded international venues and gatherings like Berghain, Awakenings, and Time Warp.

His sound encompasses a captivating blend of fast-paced, groovy percussion and deep, enveloping rhythms. Each set is a carefully crafted experience delivered with unwavering passion and focus, leaving a lasting impact on his audience.

Leading up to his performance at Future Frequency Festival, we caught up with Tanzer to give us a better understanding of South Africa's thriving techno community.

Check out Terminus on Beatport here.

Learn more about Future Frequency Festival here.

What are some words you would use to describe South Africa’s techno community?

Diverse, multifaceted, tenacious.

How has the techno scene in South Africa evolved over the years, and who are some key players/promoters/labels/clubs who have helped move the needle in a positive direction?

The scene has really been through some pivotal growth over the last few years. Our space is ever evolving and growing - and it has been amazing to see younger promoters and organisers do some amazing things!

Regarding the JHB techno scene, MUUD movement has been quintessential in breathing some fresh energy into the overall techno space. Some powerhouses making an impact in the JHB scene include TOYTOY and The Loft at Mary Jane’s Hacienda - both pushing the scene and space in their own unique ways.

Cape Town has so many good parties/festivals and crews; for me, festivals such as Future Frequency, Smalltown Beat, Gardeners, and Just Between Us stand out.

You hail from Johannesburg and play in Cape Town often. How would you describe the techno scene and the musical exchange between the two cities?

Ah, great question. Playing in Cape Town is an absolute blast, and the festival culture there is unmatched—however, Johannesburg’s club culture is something really special. There’s an edge to it that is really unique.

For those who have not been, tell us about what kind of vibe people can expect from Future Frequency Festival and how it has helped nurture South Africa’s techno scene.

A while back, a year before I started my career, Future Frequency Festival had one of its first parties in the container yard. Fast forward a few years later — we are reunited with that same concept in mind. Coming full circle and expressing this timeline is a testament to how the festival has grown, provided a platform for South African artists, and branched us into the international landscape. The team at Future Frequency Festival put in heaps of effort and the festival is nothing short of amazing. It’s definitely one of my favourite festivals to have the opportunity to play at. 

Show us an essential South African techno track.

Love this track by Kai van Dongen. It holds and builds the right amount of tension and has an amazing low-end. Sci-fi and futuristic textures definitely come to mind while still being simple and functional.

Now that 2024 is coming to a close, how would you describe your year and what are some exciting things you have planned for 2025?

The year has definitely been eventful from all angles , personally , as an artist and with our crew MUUD movement. All these branches have their own exciting projects and plans - especially now gearing for 2025. Keep your ears and eyes open!