As we step into the dynamic world of Affentanz, we encounter electrifying music effortlessly blending with boundless creativity and their latest masterpiece, "Cage," stands as a memerizing proof of this. “Cage” enthralls with a tantalizing fusion of legendary influences like Depeche Mode and Kraftwerk, skillfully infused with a contemporary twist of pop, big beat, and downtempo electronica vibes. But there's more to this talented group of artists than just crafting awesome music – they fearlessly delve into society's themes and emotions through their thought-provoking lyrics.
And that's not all – Affentanz has even more surprises in store! From club versions that ignite a dance frenzy to a mind-blowing remix by producer Martin Hollwitz, this band knows exactly how to keep their audience on their toes, eagerly anticipating what's coming next.
Here is an exclusive interview where Affentanz spills the beans on the magic behind "Cage" and shares their thrilling plans for the future. Read on because you wouldn’t want to miss this for the world!
What inspired you to create the song "Cage"? Can you tell us about the journey that led to its creation?
„Cage“ sounded in an early version pretty much like the song we released but the devil was in the details. The low end didn’t work proper. We worked a long time on bass and Bassdrum. And when this was fixed my Co-Producer on this Album Andy Haywire made the suggestion to record my lead vocals again and do some harmonic recordings with his voice. So we went into his studio and recorded take by take. I am not the best Singer - so it took a time. His recordings where done much faster. And then the magic happened! „Cage“ turned into one of my favorite tracks of the whole album „Follow their words“
In “Cage," we see a fusion of various influences and sounds. Can you shed light on some musical directions or artists that inspire your sound?
Our new single „Cage“ was hardly influenced by bands like Depeche Mode or Kraftwerk. We both grew up with Albums like „Violator, Black Celebration, Songs of Faith and Devotion“, or tracks like „Das Model“. Even Depeche Modes „Ultra“ had a deep impact on our writing. But I cannot ignore actual influences. I love to listen to Pop, Big Beat, Dub Step and Break Beat, nevertheless we decided to create the drums not as huge as possible because it did not help the song. All drums where made with Native Instruments Reaktor. So they do not sound like heard very often. With the effects on the vocals we really could get nuts. We played around with a lot of granular synthesis.
Lyrics play a significant role in this track. Can you share some insights into your songwriting process?
With „Affentanz“ I can switch into a role of someone else who is watching society. I am not Martin anymore. Then I try find a topic and a different view on it. Not always very common. Sometimes even hard topics like suicide. But we always try to leave some room for interpretation for the listener. Words take the people by their hands and I love to do that. Sometimes we lead them in the wrong direction.
You have released two more versions of “Cage.” One is a club remix and the other is a Neo Lectro remix. Could you enlighten us on these two additional versions of “Cage”?
Sure. „Cage“ is a very slow song as we always do downtempo electronica. To reach another audience in the club we created a Club Version that is slightly faster. But if you ask me, you can also dance to the Original Version.
Neo Lectro aka Martin Hollwitz is some kind of friend of „Affentanz“. He just asked to do a remix and I said: go for it. I love his detailed work on his previous releases. Do me a favor and listen to his stuff on Spotify or wherever you find him. It’s really worth listening.
In addition to being musicians, we've learned that some of you are involved in other artistic endeavors, such as film and TV scoring. Can you tell us a little about that?
Andy Haywire is owner of the Label called „All these demons Records“ where he publishes and writes huge orchestral and hybrid stuff that finds place on various German tv formats. I do this work under my real name „Martin W Hillebrand“ for shows like „Bachelor, Bachelorette“ and these type of shows. So if you need some stuff for your next tv series of Film get in touch with us.
As a band, how do you balance the diverse influences that each member brings to the table while still maintaining a cohesive musical identity as Affentanz?
I love influences from people. If someone wants to try a guitar in a track that is already finished I will always give it a try. Even if we are an electronic band. Live - if possible - we go on stage with our drummer Moritz Zielke. So every show sounds really different and the audience has something cool to watch. A few guys twisting knobs on stage may sound great but it does not always look great. When I am on vacation I always do field recordings that may find their way into the songs. A bell here or a table tennis ball there. In the end it has to fit the song. When it does I am happy because it’s a new dimension.
Finally, with this new song under your belt, what exciting plans or projects can we expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming releases, collaborations, or live performances you can share with your fans?
Right now we are working on a short music video for „Cage“. Always keep an eye on our YouTube channel. Our director Cyprian Hercka always come up with weird ideas. Meanwhile you can watch our award winning music video to „Hunter“.
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