On May 28, 2026, TECHNO Records, the label founded and led by Nastia, releases TECH040 “INTRO”, a various artists compilation focused on the very first moments of a DJ set. The project brings together artists including Steve Rachmad, Mark Broom, Conrad Van Orton, DJ Dextro, Hot News, and Nastia, who also marks a key milestone with her first solo production on the release.
Among the highlights, we are premiering Steve Rachmad’s “Ostinato 2.0”. The track unfolds through orchestral inspired sound design and gradually building tension, capturing the opening spirit of the compilation. Its cinematic textures slowly give way to rhythm, creating the sense of a long journey just beginning.
In the interview, Rachmad explains that the track originated during the Covid period when he studied film scoring and explored more cinematic approaches to composition. By integrating these techniques into his techno workflow, he developed a sound that expands beyond traditional club structure while remaining deeply functional in a DJ context.
The full interview explores his approach to opening set music, the creative process behind “Ostinato 2.0”, and his connection with Nastia and TECHNO Records.
Interview with Steve Rachmad
What makes a track feel right for the beginning of a set rather than its peak moment?
I think it really is exactly that — a feeling. An opening track has to create the right atmosphere and emotional direction without giving everything away too early.
For me it’s about tension, space and setting the tone for the journey ahead. But in the end it’s also very personal; every DJ will feel that moment differently.
Could you tell us more about your track “Ostinato 2.0”?
“Ostinato 2.0” came out of a period during Covid where I focused heavily on learning film scoring.
I started experimenting with more cinematic textures and orchestral instruments, and slowly integrated those elements into my regular production workflow.
The track reflects that crossover between filmic storytelling and techno functionality.
What does the “opening moment” of a DJ set mean to you when you are behind the decks?
I see the opening moment of a set as the beginning of a journey you take people on.
It’s the moment where you create trust with the crowd and introduce the emotional world of the night.
I always enjoy building things gradually and letting the atmosphere unfold naturally.
How did your collaboration with Nastia’s TECHNO Records first come about?
Nastia and I actually met many years ago already and stayed connected over time.
Nowadays we also share the same agency, which brought us into more regular contact. We had been speaking on and off about doing something together for TECHNO Records, and eventually I decided to give her this special track for the release.
Recently we also did our debut b2b set together at Tillatec in Amsterdam, which felt very special. I think you’ll be seeing more of us together in the future.
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