M.F.S: Observatory is back with his signature underground vibe with the upcoming release of Triangle EP on December 5 via Black Line Recordings.
M.F.S: Observatory’s Triangle EP channels the essence of after-hours techno, perfectly balancing primal club energy with razor-sharp production. From pulsing low-end frequencies to cutting percussive frameworks and haunting vocal fragments, the EP captures the tension and immersion of the dancefloor between darkness and dawn.
Ahead of the release, we spoke with M.F.S: Observatory about the making of the EP and its musical inspirations.
Hi M.F.S: Observatory, could you briefly introduce yourself for those who may not be familiar with your work?
I’m Mattia, originally from Italy but based in London for almost nine years now. I’m a music producer and sound designer, and I’ve been part of the electronic music scene since 2012. I work under the name M.F.S: Observatory and also run my own label, Observatory Music. My sound is rooted in deep, hypnotic techno — raw but detailed — always focused on energy and atmosphere. Over the years, I’ve released music on labels like Kneaded Pains, Second State, Illegal Aliens and Diffuse Reality, and played in places like Berlin, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and of course, London. For me, it’s all about building a strong connection between sound, space, and emotion.
What inspired the raw and hypnotic sound of your new Triangle EP?
A lot of my inspiration comes from traveling and from the cities I spend time in. London plays a huge role in how I think about sound, from the rhythm of the streets to the noise of the underground and the mix of people and cultures. For example, in “Le Grand Bain,” the fourth track of the EP, I used field recordings I made while walking around Paris. And in the title track, “Triangle,” I used a recording from a London tube station as a background texture. I love combining these real-life sounds with synth work because it makes the music feel alive and connected to the world around me. Every sound has a story behind it.
How does producing your tracks live in the studio influence your overall sound?
Producing live completely changes how I approach music. When I’m jamming with drum machines and synths, I’m not overthinking, I’m just reacting in real time. It’s a very instinctive process, full of little imperfections that give the track personality. Those moments where something unexpected happens often end up being my favorite parts. Recording live helps me capture that raw energy and spontaneity that I also bring to my DJ sets. I want people to feel that human touch in my tracks, that sense that the sound is breathing, evolving, and alive.
How do different cities and dancefloors shape your approach to DJing or production?
Every city has its own pulse. When I travel, I like to explore local underground scenes, small venues, and record shops. It gives me a sense of what makes that place move. Playing in Berlin brings out a darker, hypnotic side of my sound, while in London I feel more experimental and groove-driven. Those experiences constantly feed back into my production. The energy of each dancefloor and each crowd helps me understand what works emotionally, not just technically.
What does your typical studio workflow look like when starting a new track — do you begin with rhythm, beat, or a particular texture?
I almost always start with rhythm. The kick drum is the foundation, and once I have that, everything else starts to fall into place. From there, I build layers of percussion, bass, and textures, trying to shape a groove that feels natural. Sometimes I bring in field recordings or modular sounds to add a bit of unpredictability. I try not to force anything and let the sound guide me. When I’m in that flow, time disappears and it’s just me and the music.
Collaboration seems to be a big part of your journey. What do you look for in a creative partner?
For me, collaboration is about connection. I like working with artists who share the same passion for experimenting and who aren’t afraid to go beyond the usual formulas. I started out as part of a duo, so I’m used to bouncing ideas back and forth. When you find the right partner, it’s like a conversation through sound. You inspire each other and end up creating something neither of you could have done alone.
Can you share a memorable moment from your DJ sets that shaped how you approach performing today?
One that really stands out was when I played at Sisyphos in Berlin on a Saturday night. The crowd was incredible, the energy on that dancefloor was unreal. For three hours, it felt like the music and the people were feeding off each other. That night reminded me why I love what I do. Since then, I always approach my sets with the same mindset: follow the vibe, read the room, and let the music build naturally. It’s all about creating a shared experience where everyone loses themselves in the sound.
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