Vanya Velin is part of a new generation of producers reshaping contemporary techno through hypnotic grooves and immersive sound design. Having recently relocated to Berlin, he has quickly immersed himself in the city’s creative energy while developing a distinctive sonic identity of his own. Following the success of his breakout track Oxygen Drift and a release on Molekül, he continues to build momentum with uncompromising productions, new collaborations, and an upcoming release on TRANSITION. We caught up with Vanya in Berlin after a photo shoot to talk about his musical journey, Berlin’s influence on his evolving sound, his production philosophy, and the next chapter of his rapidly growing career.
Hey Vanya, how are you? It was great shooting with you here in Berlin. For those discovering your music for the first time, tell us a bit about your story.
Hi Izabella! I’m doing good. 🙂 Thank you for the amazing photoshoot – I love it!
My journey started with music school when I was a kid, and later naturally shifted towards electronic music. About five years ago I was at a festival and something just clicked. I remember thinking, “This is it. I want to produce and play techno.” That moment completely changed my direction.
Groove or sound design – which comes first?
For me it’s all about balance, but groove always comes first. If there’s no groove, people won’t move – it’s that simple. Sound design comes afterwards and pulls you deeper into the journey.
Has the success of “Oxygen Drift” changed your musical journey?
The most valuable thing it gave me is connection. People from all over the world started reaching out and sharing how the track made them feel, and that really inspires me. Some of those people I eventually met here in Berlin, and now we’re collaborating, making music together and playing sets. It all naturally pushes things forward.
You’ve recently moved to Berlin. How much has the city influenced your sound?
I moved to Berlin from Barcelona about half a year ago, and my sound has changed a lot since then. The biggest shift happened after a Klubnacht this March. During Len Faki‘s closing set at Berghain, he was experimenting with sound in such a bold way – it felt deep and playful at the same time. After that night I came back full of ideas for my next EP. I hope it brings a fresh perspective to the Berlin sound and maybe even inspires other artists.
What’s one important lesson you’ve learned as a producer?
One of the biggest things I’ve discovered is that when a track feels like it’s missing something, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to add more. Usually you can get much more out of what’s already there through modulation, automation, and subtle changes over time.
What’s your story with Molekül?
Molekül was always a label I dreamed of releasing on. One day I found their email and decided to send them my music. Eventually they replied, inviting me to be part of their vinyl V/A release alongside talented artists like FANK, Vilchezz, MAURER, Rare Mamba and Josh Heywood. I’m really grateful to the whole label team for the opportunity and for the work they put into promoting the release. It really helped my music reach a much wider audience.
How would you describe your sound today?
I’d describe it as groove-driven techno with a strong focus on deep and experimental sound design. I’m constantly shaping it, adding depth, subtle movement and layers to build tension and tell stories throughout each track.
What’s next for you?
I’m excited about a new release coming out on TRANSITION this summer, along with a few European gigs that will be announced soon. I’ll also be continuing my video series where I approach strangers in Berlin and play them unreleased music. You can check it out on my profile -I honestly didn’t expect it to be this much fun! Big love to everyone supporting me. ❤️
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Get “Oxygen” from Molekül via BandCamp
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