Modeselektor is a German electronic music duo formed in 1997 in Berlin. The group consists of Gernot "Gern" Bronsert and Sebastian "Sascha" Szary. They are known for blending elements of techno, IDM, glitch, hip‑hop, and experimental pop, and for their high‑energy live performances.
History
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Formation and early releases: Bronsert and Szary met while studying at the Hochschule für Musik "Hanns Eisler" in Berlin. Their first release was the single “Loud” (1999) on the Berlin label Monkeytown Records, which they co‑founded in 2005. Early EPs such as We Know the Face of the Game (2003) helped establish their presence in the German electronic scene.
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Breakthrough and albums: Their debut full‑length album, Hello Mom! (The Album), was released in 2005 and received critical praise for its eclectic production. The follow‑up, Happy Birthday! (2007), included collaborations with artists such as Thom Yorke, Tobi, and Kaito, further expanding their audience. In 2012, the duo released Modeselektor, a self‑titled album that featured contributions from Thom Yorke, Omar Souleyman, and Anwar. Their third studio album, Who Else (2019), continued their collaborative approach and incorporated a broader range of vocalists and instrumentalists.
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Other projects: In 2020, Modeselektor formed the supergroup MODUS with the British electronic duo The Faint. The group released the EP Modus (2021), which combined the stylistic traits of both parent acts.
Musical style and influence
Modeselektor’s music is characterized by complex rhythmic structures, heavy basslines, and a synthesis of analog and digital sound design. Their productions often juxtapose aggressive club‑oriented beats with melodic pop elements. Critics have noted their influence on the evolution of German techno and the broader global electronic music landscape, particularly in the realms of glitch‑hop and bass‑heavy club music.
Live performances
The duo is renowned for dynamic live shows that incorporate live drum machines, synthesizers, and on‑stage visual effects. Their performances frequently include guest vocalists and improvisational sections, reflecting their emphasis on spontaneity and audience interaction.
Record label
Monkeytown Records, co‑founded by the members of Modeselektor, serves as a platform for their releases as well as for other artists in the electronic and experimental music spheres. The label has released works by artists such as Jan Jelinek, Trikk, and Bicep.
Recognition
- Modeselektor has been nominated for and received several awards within the electronic music community, including the German Music Authors' Prize (2010) for Best Electronic Song.
- Their track “The DMX Will Rock The Village” was featured in the soundtrack for the 2014 video game Grand Theft Auto V.
Discography (selected)
- Hello Mom! (The Album) (2005)
- Happy Birthday! (2007)
- Modeselektor (2012)
- Who Else (2019)
See also
- Monkeytown Records
- German techno
- IDM (Intelligent Dance Music)
References
- AllMusic. “Modeselektor Biography.”
- Pitchfork. “Modeselektor: Who Else Review.”
- Resident Advisor. “Modeselektor Profile.”
This entry reflects information verified up to 2024.