Kölsch

Hailing from Denmark, Rune Reilly Kölsch brings a little of the emotional and whimsical to the stereotypically dark, cavernous spaces that techno has been known to inhabit. A lighter, playful sound imbues all of his work, whether it’s seminal tracks like “Loreley,” from his breakout debut LP, ‘1977’ and “Grey,” from his second album, ‘1989’, or his extended remix of Coldplay’s classic ‘A Sky Full of Stars.’ Professionally known by just his surname, the DJ/producer has also released music under countless monikers. But despite this, each of his tracks undoubtedly possesses that special something which has subsequently defined elements of the genre and pushed other aspects forward.

Perhaps his sound is so unique because of his upbringing—which was anything but typical. Kölsch, who is half Irish and half German, spent his formative years in Copenhagen’s Freetown Christiania, an autonomous, anarchic commune, spending summers with his grandparents in Germany. His less-than-common experiences growing up became the fodder for his first album, and the inspiration for his second was drawn from the sounds, feelings, and climates he experienced during his extensive travels through Europe.

Now, Kölsch is a name of worldwide dance music acclaim. Currently signed to Kompakt, a label imprint based in Cologne, Germany, he’s a regular at legendary venues like Ibiza’s Ushuaia, Space, and Amnesia, and London’s fabric. Over the course of his career, he’s garnered support from the likes of Pete Tong and DJ Annie Mac at BBC Radio 1 and collaborated with artists including Antz, Gregor Schwellenbach, and Troels Abrahamsen. Kölsch has also graced the lineups of major festivals like Tomorrowland, Creamfields, and Coachella.