Get To Know: MOTVS

DJ, producer, and founder of Excetra Records, MOTVS, is a thriving talent of Italy's underground techno scene.

Having joined the PENTAPHONIA label back in Spring, MOTVS reflects on his epic collaboration alongside Gabry Ponte and shares his insight into what it takes to cut through the noise on today's electronic scene.

For anyone who hasn’t yet heard the infectious sound of MOTVS, how would you describe your studio sound and your energy behind the decks?

Well, a good description of my style is already in the name MOTVS itself; in fact, it is nothing more than the word movement written in the ancient Latin language (Motus). From here, you can understand what to expect from my music — energy, style, and desire to move.

You were one of the early artists to sign to PENTAPHONIA Records, dropping ‘When I Rock’ with label-boss Gabry Ponte himself back in March 2025. How did this collaboration come about?

I had the opportunity to listen to this idea from Gabry, still in the construction phase, and I immediately felt that it was very much in line with what I currently produce and play. I offered to give my contribution to the production, and within a few days the track was completed as you know it… and we were both very proud of the final record!

Now that the track has been out for a few months you’ve hopefully got to test it in the clubs! What has the live crowd reaction been like when you’ve played ‘When I Rock’ in your DJ sets?

This track immediately gave me the impression of having an easy mood — ideal for those club room gigs where the right amount of power is required — but it also has that touch of deep atmosphere that transports you away. It’s never missing from my playlists!

When working with a new label, what are the green flags you look for as an artist?

Seeing your work appreciated without further changes makes you feel immediately at ease. A team that knows how to do their job well, know what direction to take the track in, and knows how to make you feel part of the project — even if at that moment you are a ‘guest’ of the label — are huge green flags.

You’re a label owner yourself. What excites you about Italy’s techno scene right now? Can you shout out any upcoming DJs/producers that you’re currently loving the sound of?

In Italy, we have always been good at creating and experimenting with new styles, which later turned out to be trendy even outside our country. In the current panorama, both abroad and in Italy, there is so much incredible music that honestly, I could not choose a name in particular, without excluding many others equally talented.

What’s the last track(s) that you added to your USB?

Showtek — Save The Day (Once Again)

What top tips would you share for new producers on getting their music heard and in front of the right people?

Don’t be easily satisfied. There are many shortcuts nowadays to get an instant result, which, at first, may seem good, but in reality, they lead to nothing except repeating trends already heard.

Be creative, innovative, original, and be yourself. Your style is your identity card; only those who possess it can be recognised.

What are your plans for summer 2025?

My projects folder is always full of work-in-progress tracks, so my summer will be the same as last winter: working hard and trying to give my best.