Francesco Belfiore is an Italian producer, sound designer and Live performer signed to the Made of Concrete, Semantica records among others. Early surrounded by vinyls and cassettes, Francesco developed a passion for the techno movement in 2004 and spent days with his brother at Re-mix record store in Roma. He's also the founder of the labels Truth or Consequences and Save the Blessed, which has signed artists as San Proper and The Analogue Cops. Now based in Greece, Francesco tells us more about his influences, his approach to modular-synth and the scene in Athens.

A glass of?

A glass of Fanta. It’s refreshing, fun, and brings a touch of nostalgia to any moment. Whether I'm taking a break from the studio or just enjoying a casual get-together, a glass of Fanta is my key to a little bit of simple joy.

Was music an important part of your childhood?

I come from a family that, although not strictly artistic, has always had a great passion for music. My father and mother had an extensive collection of cassette tapes of every genre. These sounds filled my childhood and fuelled my love for music. Although I did not have formal music education, I have always had a strong interest in electronics and technology, which led me to experiment with music from a young age. Growing up in Rome, I was fortunate to be exposed to a vibrant and diverse music scene that profoundly influenced my artistic journey. My family environment, although not made up of professional musicians, was always very encouraging regarding my artistic inclinations. This support allowed me to explore and develop my passion for electronic music, eventually leading me to move to Athens, where I found continuous inspiration and new influences.

You discovered electronic music at Re-mix record store…

I discovered electronic music during my high school years. I started playing music at 14. My younger brother, Lorenzo, and I would often go to Re-mix in Via del Fiume to buy records from Freddy K (editor's note: Re-mix was opened in March 1990 by Sandro Maria Nasonte and worked with Freddy K and together they launched the label Elettronica Romana). This shop was not just a place to get the latest tracks but a significant meeting point where we could connect with other enthusiasts and artists. The community and the environment there fuelled my passion and provided a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. The first vinyl I ever bought was at Re-mix.  I remember it vividly – it was a record by Aphex Twin. The intricate sounds and innovative style of his music captivated me immediately. Freddy K, the owner of the shop, recommended it to me, seeing my interest in electronic music. That purchase marked the beginning of my vinyl collection and sparked a deeper interest in exploring different genres and artists. It was more than just buying music; it was about immersing myself in the culture and community of electronic music, which has profoundly shaped my journey as a Dj and producer.

Your first approach to Djing?

A decisive moment was when our father came home one morning with a Dj turntable. From that moment on, both Lorenzo and I fell in love with vinyl. We spent hours listening, mixing and experimenting with records, developing a deep passion for electronic music. Remix became a vital hub for me, allowing me to immerse myself in the electronic music scene. It was there that I met several influential artists within the same niche, which expanded my horizons and deepened my passion for electronic music. These connections and experiences were instrumental in shaping my path as a Dj and producer.

Your main music influences?

Growing up, I was deeply influenced by my parents' cassette collection, which ranged from '70s rock to jazz, funk, and classical music. These diverse sounds certainly laid the foundation for my musical curiosity. In the realm of electronic music, I have been particularly influenced by artists such as Aphex Twin, Jeff Mills and Richie Hawtin. Aphex Twin impressed me with his ability to create complex and emotional soundscapes, while Jeff Mills and Richie Hawtin shaped my understanding of techno as a hypnotic and immersive art form. The music scene in Rome also had a significant impact on me. Local artists like Lory D and Leo Anibaldi showed me the power of creativity and innovation in electronic music. Additionally, the underground scene in Athens, with its community spirit and vibrant energy, continues to inspire and influence my work. Lastly, my love for technology and experimentation drives me to continually explore new sounds and techniques, always striving to evolve and innovate my musical style.

What about the Athens's electronic scene?

Athens has a vibrant and ever-evolving electronic music scene, and it's been a privilege to be a part of it. The city is filled with talented producers, artists, and collectives who are pushing boundaries and creating unique sounds that resonate both locally and internationally. One name that stands out is ATYPIKAL: a duo who has been instrumental in shaping the darker, more industrial side of Athens' techno scene. Their work with the Astron Club has been influential in defining the city's sound, and his productions are always forward-thinking and intense. Another key figure is my old friend K.atou, a Dj and producer who has garnered attention for his eclectic and raw approach to electronic music. Another very active club in the Athenian underground is Angie: a warm place with a varied audience, last night I had the opportunity to play all night long in this space that offers a thousand different faces during the same party, where the managers Konstantinos "Polatof" and Thanos have created an open-minded and colourful dancefloor. When it comes to collectives, Into The Abyss deserves a mention. This podcast from Iffie has been pivotal in bringing together a diverse range of electronic music styles, creating a platform for both established and emerging artists. Her commitment to fostering a strong community vibe makes it a vital part of the Athens scene. Lastly, Cannibal Radio is a collective that plays a significant role in promoting experimental and techno music in Athens. They’ve been curating events at B-Side Athens that explores the more avant-garde side of electronic sounds, offering a fresh perspective within the city’s diverse music landscape. These artists and collectives are just a glimpse of the dynamic and thriving electronic music culture in Athens, and they all play a crucial role in shaping its future.

Your approach to modular-synth? 

My approach to modular synthesis is rooted in my love for experimentation and exploration. Modular synthesisers offer an incredible level of flexibility and creativity, allowing me to craft unique sounds that are truly my own. I was first drawn to modular synthesis because of its hands-on nature and the endless possibilities it presents. Unlike traditional synthesisers, modular systems let you build and customise your own instrument by connecting various modules, each with its own function and character. This approach allows me to dive deep into sound design, creating intricate and evolving textures that are impossible to achieve with other tools. When I work with my modular setup, I start with a basic idea or sound and then experiment by patching different modules together. I love the unpredictability and the happy accidents that often occur during this process. It's a bit like painting with sound – each patch is a new canvas, and the outcome is always a surprise. Modular synthesis has also taught me a lot about the fundamentals of sound and synthesis. It has deepened my understanding of how different elements interact and how I can manipulate them to create the desired effect. This knowledge has not only enhanced my modular work but has also influenced my overall approach to music production. In essence, modular synthesis is a vital part of my creative process, offering endless inspiration and pushing me to explore new sonic territories.

Your top 3 record labels?

. Warp Records has been a significant force in the electronic music scene since its inception. Known for its innovative and genre-defying releases, the label has been home to influential artists like Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada, and Squarepusher. Their commitment to pushing the boundaries of electronic music and embracing experimental sounds has made them a major influence in my own work.

. Ostgut Ton affiliated with the Berghain club in Berlin, is renowned for its high-quality techno and house releases. With artists such as Ben Klock, Marcel Dettmann and Steffi, Ostgut Ton captures the essence of Berlin's vibrant electronic music scene. The label's focus on deep, immersive sounds and its impeccable production standards make it a key player in the techno world.

. Minus founded by Richie Hawtin is a label that epitomises the minimal techno genre. With its emphasis on clean, precise sounds and innovative production techniques, Minus has been instrumental in shaping the minimal techno landscape. Artists like Hawtin himself, as well as Minus regulars like Gaiser and Matador, have consistently delivered groundbreaking music that continues to inspire.

These labels represent different facets of electronic music that resonate deeply with me, each contributing to the evolution of the genre in its own unique way.

Your top 3 record stores?

Ultrasuoni (Rome), Hardwax (Berlin), Rush Hour (Amsterdam).

Your top 5 New Releases

. Holy Tongue Meets Shackleton “The Tumbling Psychic Joy Of Now”

. Erik Jabari “Headspin”

. Azu Tiwaline & Forest Drive West “Fluids In Motion EP”

. The Untouchables “Onward Forward”

. Hoover1 “What You Want”

Your top 5 oldies?

. Mood II Swing “All Night Long”

. Romanthony “Let Me Show You Love”

. The Vision “Spectral Nomad”

. Basic Channel “Q-Loop”

. Round One “I’m Your Brother

Anything else?

In addition to everything we’ve discussed, I’d love to talk about my residency on ElectronicRythm. It’s been an incredible platform that allows me to explore and share my musical journey with a wider audience. Being a resident there has provided me with the opportunity to connect with listeners from all over the world, and it’s been a great space to experiment with different sounds and styles. The community around ElectronicRythm is vibrant and inspiring, and I’m excited to continue contributing to it. As for my upcoming releases, I have some exciting projects in the pipeline. I’m currently working on a new Ep that dives deeper into the more experimental side of my sound, blending analog synths with modular elements. It’s a project I’m really passionate about, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone. There are also a few collaborations with other artists that I’m thrilled about—these will showcase a mix of influences and fresh ideas that I believe will resonate with listeners. I’m looking forward to what the future holds, both in terms of my personal projects and my continued work within the electronic music scene. Thank you for giving me the space to share all of this!

Interviewed by Sabrina Bouzidi / Photo (c).