Interview with Saefro

Saefro, a rising talent in the techno scene and member of the Society 3000 collective

Editor USM

Fri 17 Jan 2025

Congratulations on your debut release, "Artificial Balance"! Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the EP and the overall creative process?
Thank you so much! In terms of sound, I have mostly been affected by labels and artists that “live” in the spectrum of hypnotic and psychedelic techno. As a person I think i have been inspired by the constant struggle of humans to find their inner balance using artificial psychological tools.
The creative process was more interesting than my inspirations though. It was quite a long trip for the last 1.5 year since the first demo I sent to USM. I tried to have the “less is more” approach. The stack I used is Ableton Live 11 for the overall production and mixing process. I really enjoy jamming what I have designed and recording instead of doing too much editing on the arrangement. I also used the AKAI’s controller APC key 25 MK2 to handle some of the automation more conveniently.
While tracks were revisited many times, other have been completed in 3-4 days, such as “Artificial Balance.” I constantly learnt and tried many things to define the sonic identity of this release. And these have come not only from the feedback of friends/artists and the label’s feedback, but also from the overall experience on the dance floor where I always try to observe and think both as a raver and producer.

How did your involvement with the Society 3000 collective shape your musical development and influence your sound?
Society3K consists of my first acquaintances and co-players when I returned to Athens some years ago. I found a space where we could collectively set up projects with long-term vision, rather than just producing 'firework' projects. Also, I have been influenced as a raver at our events and as a listener to the Society’s producers.

Your music has been described as having a hypnotic and psychedelic quality. How do you achieve this effect, and what is your intention behind creating such an immersive experience for the listener?
This work is intended to make the listeners express themselves through their body language either on the dance floor or elsewhere. The hypnotic and psychedelic elements offer a soundscape such that one can close the eyes and observe how the body and mind react. Regarding the way I achieved these elements, there are some tools I am keen on using like resonators, pads, delayed reverb, and panning effects.

You're making your debut on USM Recordings. What attracted you to this label, and what are your expectations for this collaboration?
USM Recordings is playing a pivotal role in the electronic music scene by consistently releasing fresh, innovative sounds while maintaining a strong identity. They have a deep understanding of the underground electronic music landscape and an “egoless” expression motivating new artists to get dirty with synths, frequencies, and step into the world of music production. I was intrigued by the level of professionalism and their approach to each action they take and the commitment to push boundaries.  
This collaboration is to not only grow as an artist but to find a platform where my work can connect deeply with listeners. I have also been totally aligned with the DIY philosophy that also exists in USM. The most representative example is Undefined Shapes, a DIY festival organized in cooperation with SOCIETY 3000 and ΣΥNTHESIS. I am looking forward to seeing what we can create together!

What are your thoughts on the current state of the techno scene, and where do you see yourself fitting into it?
Given that we live in a country with a musical character deeply shaped by Balkan and Eastern influences, the scene is full of potential. There are many well established artists and teams while new ones continue to rise. I want to keep contributing not just with my skills, but also with a mindset focused on building a community where both ravers and artists feel safe, be supportive of each other and break free from the roles that society often puts on us.

What can fans expect from your upcoming performances, and what do you hope people take away from your music?
Potentially, I also need to express myself through live sets, and once I have the proper equipment in place, I will work on setting it up. I would love for my sessions to unlock people’s bodies, helping them transition from a static state to movement, leading, of course, to dance!

Beyond music production, are there any other creative outlets or interests that you pursue?
The last years I have been deeply interested in exploring the piano sonatas of W.A.Mozart, teaching classical piano and music theory/harmony, and improvising spontaneously. Some parts of these improvisations turn into interesting composition ideas, which I write down. As a result, my drawers are filled with notebooks full of unfinished ideas! :p

What advice would you give to aspiring electronic music artists who are just starting their journey?
Keep alive the relationship between yourself and the way you explore music.

Thank you for taking the time to share your insights with us, Saefro. We're excited to see what the future holds for you and your music.

Best of luck with your debut release on USM Recordings!

Listen to Saefro - Artificial Balance EP