sonar kollektiv

The Unseen Sound: A Journey into Sonar Kollektiv’s World

Sonar Kollektiv isn’t just a record label. It’s a sonic universe, an exploration of the electronic soundscape that began in the heart of Berlin’s vibrant 90s club scene. Founded by two passionate music lovers, Markus “Mar” Klett and Jens “J-P” Kuhl, the label has become a haven for artists pushing the boundaries of electronic music, embracing a diverse palette of sounds from ambient to techno, jazz to IDM.

Their story began in 1996, a time when Berlin was a breeding ground for experimentation. Mar and J-P, armed with an innate understanding of music and a shared love for the underground, decided to create a platform for the artists they admired. Their first releases were a testament to their taste: minimal techno from Monolake, the ambient soundscapes of Pole, and the haunting melodies of Porter Ricks.

Sonar Kollektiv’s early years were marked by a spirit of exploration. They weren’t afraid to embrace the unconventional, working with artists like Thomas Fehlmann, who once recorded a track using a children’s toy synthesizer. They released experimental soundscapes from Stars of the Lid, whose tracks were so atmospheric they were initially mistaken for ambient noise.

But the label wasn’t just about pushing boundaries. They also championed accessibility, introducing electronic music to a wider audience through compilations like “Sonar Kollektiv: 01,” which became a cult classic.

Over the years, Sonar Kollektiv has remained true to its core values, supporting emerging talent and establishing a distinctive sonic identity. They’ve become a family, nurturing artists like Mika Vainio (whose sound was so unique it was once described as “like listening to a machine that makes other machines”), and releasing groundbreaking albums from Tycho, who initially gained popularity for his atmospheric music, despite admitting he was a “terrible” guitarist.

Sonar Kollektiv is a story of passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication. They’ve built a legacy of sonic excellence, celebrating the unexpected and pushing the limits of electronic music. Their journey has been a testament to the power of collaboration, a reminder that the most compelling music is often born from a shared love for sound and the audacity to explore uncharted territories.

Fun Facts:

• Pole’s “100% Silk” (1996) was released on a single 12-inch vinyl record, making it a prized collector’s item.
• Markus “Mar” Klett once admitted he “accidentally” discovered the soundscape artist Stars of the Lid, after mistaking their music for ambient noise in a record store.
• Mika Vainio’s sound is so unique that he was once described as “making music for robots.”
• Tycho, known for his ambient soundscapes, started his musical journey as a graphic designer.
• Sonar Kollektiv’s early releases were often pressed on limited edition vinyl, making them highly sought after by collectors.

This journey through Sonar Kollektiv’s history, punctuated with a few amusing tidbits, paints a vibrant picture of a label that has profoundly shaped the landscape of electronic music. It’s a testament to their dedication to pushing boundaries and their unwavering commitment to sonic exploration.