Porteix is a French producer and live performer playing with analog modular synths. In 2018, he released his first vinyl on Flash Recordings and since then, he has signed Eps one after the other on notable labels such as Hayes Collective, S.Lab Ltd, Dynamic Reflection, Subsist to name a few. Lately, he has appeared at various renowned venues like Tresor, Rex Club, La Machine du Moulin Rouge. Having patiently awaited the perfect moment, his new release entitled “1961” is now out on Arts. Porteix unveils four tracks, characterised by a deep and hypnotic sound, already supported by the biggest including Inigo Kennedy, Lewis Fautzi, DVS1, Tommy Four Seven, Kwartz, Luke Slater and many more. From his studio based in Bordeaux, he shares more about his roots, his project “P&S” in duo with Shaney, live jam sessions with his crew “Unerwartet”, “Pantha Negra” with MP-57 among others. 

Welcome, a glass of?

A glass of Bourgogn. 

How was your childhood and music environment in which you grew up?

A complex childhood like many others with a father who loved music, mainly rock.

How did you discover electronic music? What was decisive to become a producer?

At my first festival: Garorock.  The happiness I received, I wanted to give in return.

Who are your main influences?

My influences are very varied but regarding techno music, I would say Jeff Mills, Mike Parker, Oscar Mulero, Surgeon, P.A.S, JUDAΣ.

Where is your studio? What are the gears you use to produce?

Home Studio, I produce mainly with my Modular synth, VSTs, samples and of course Ableton to finalize my tracks.

Has your way of production changed since your release “Flash Tape 01” on FLASH Recordings?

Absolutely not! (laughs)

Which format do you prefer the most: tape or vinyl?

It's hard to choose, I like both.

How have you been approached by the label Arts?

Emmanuel started following my work and we built solid connections. Anecdote: I was playing golf when he announced to me that he wanted to sign me! I'm very proud to be part of this wonderful family; it's been my goal since I started.

I’m interested in your release “1961” on Arts, could you speak a little bit about this? (stream above)

Yes, it's very synthetic but this Ep is dedicated to my father who is no longer here and “1961” has been the result of a year-long of work during my year living in Paris. Concerning the final mixes, my best friend Shaney helped me. “1961” is my father's birthdate.

For you, what does Techno represent in 3 words?

Less is more!

A banger for you?

Unerwartet “The first planet on the map” on Hayes Collective

Speaking of which, how were your Live performances at La Machine Du Moulin Rouge and at Rex club?

Unbeatable human experiences, I only have good memories.

And what’s next for Unerwartet?

Beautiful things, but I can't say anything or only with the consent of my friends Darzack, Shaney, DC11 and ZPKF, but we started strong with our contribution to the Portuguese label Hayes Collective. More to come!

How was your experience at Tresor? And what do you particularly like in Berlin?

It was the best experience of my life to play there! I am grateful to Dinamite (a resident at Tresor, Editor’s Note). Concerning Berlin, I won't be able to live there but I love its culture for the good techno.

In terms of BPM, how much do you never exceed?

145 BPM.

Could you speak a bit about your project P&S?

For Shaney and me, it was natural to work together. We are friends who love sharing moments of life, making our passion a common bond! We are not very active as a duo but we have been preparing several projects for 2 years. And, Shaney is coming to live in Bordeaux during the summer, I'll let you imagine the rest...

And about your project “Pantha Negra”?

My Synthwave and EBM duo formed with my lifelong friend MP-57. A person who enormously influenced me musically. I wasn't producing yet, so I spent my lunch breaks watching him jam at his house. A big reference for me!

Your 5 favourite labels?

ARTS, S.Lab, NON Series, Warm Up recordings, PoleGroup

Which producer is currently blowing you away?

Oscar Mulero.

What about your second passion: golf?

Ah golf... My new love, I discovered this discipline a short time ago - about 9 months ago - and I'm completely hooked. I spend around 30 hours a week in order to be the best possible. A passionate sport. Thanks to Léo and Maxime who are my teachers.

What do you think about AI?

There are good and bad points. I don't have a strong opinion on the topic.

Without music life would be…

Sad.

Your top 5 new releases?

- Temudo “Set The Tone”

- Oscar Mulero “Cosmic Glasses”

- Oscar Mulero “Outside The Time Zone”

- Michel Lauriola “Disturb The beast”

- Michel Lauriola “Fierce Drill”

Your top 5 old releases?

- Mike Parker “Triceratops”

- Mike Parker “Copper Variations: CV1”

- Surgeon “Fall”

- Translate & Pulso “Mind Paths”

- Planetary Assault Systems “Tri Fn Trp”

Finally, who is the current Porteix in 3 words?

Fulfilled, Hardworking and Passionate.

Anything else?

Thanks Star wax mag for having me!

Interiewed by Sabrina Bouzidi / Picture by Théo Miege