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“After more than two decades of DJing, it was time to produce my own music” Aleno interview

With over two decades of electrifying performances under his belt, Swiss DJ Aleno has firmly established himself as a pivotal figure in the Swiss house music scene. Emerging from Bern’s dynamic dance music community, he played a key role in shaping the city’s nightlife culture through legendary events like Doublekitsch and Kitty Klub. Known for his infectious energy and evolving sound, Aleno is now stepping into the spotlight as a recording artist and producer. Joining forces with musical veteran giacca. for his debut single ‘Through’, Aleno opens a new chapter in his impressive career.

“Through” is your debut single as a recording artist. How does it feel to finally step into the spotlight with this release, and why did you choose to collaborate with giacca. for your first track?

With two decades of electrifying performances under my belt and having dedicated time to honing my craft as a music producer, I met giacca. a few times ago within the Sirup Music family and we immediately connected – especially in our musical understanding. Being the renowned artist that he is and with an impressive musical catalog, he took me under his wing and “Through” is the result of that collaboration. I hope this release will raise my profile and start an exciting new chapter in my career.

Can you tell us about the creative process behind Through? How did you and giacca. work together to craft the sound and vibe of the track?

Since giacca. is based in Dubai and I am based in Switzerland, and with our busy calendars, we still managed to connect. We both love to joke around, and so we ended up laughing the night away as we sat together for the production. I am still amazed that the track came out so “romantic” as our vibe was more on the happy, fun and celebratory side…

The track blends afro house with other delicate, intricate sounds. How did you decide on this style, and what was your vision for the vibe you wanted to convey?

The track features smooth grooves and lush piano melodies that evoke passion and energy, making it the perfect soundtrack for unforgettable nights filled with electric vibes and pulsating beats. With its melodic hook line, “Through” is sure to captivate.

You’ve described Through as a track for both beach and club vibes, day and night. What do you hope listeners feel or experience when they hear this track in these different settings?

Personally, giacca. and I are both hopeless romantics who adore love songs, so we wanted to add a touch of that to a track meant for dancing and togetherness. I hope it evokes emotions and brings back memories of someone special, helping people to remember a cherished moment.

As someone who has been a pivotal part of Bern’s nightlife scene, how has your background as a DJ influenced your approach to production on this track?

I’ve always been the type of guy who loves to be behind the decks and thrives on the connection with the crowd, which also leads to finding inspiration for new music. There are a lot of changes going on in Swiss nightlife right now. Going out is changing and classic clubbing is under pressure, while private parties, day dances, etc. are on the rise. This leaves room for a new, more vibrant sound – just like “Through”.

Club Control Records is an iconic label with a 25-year legacy in house music. What does it mean to you to debut on such a respected platform, and how does it align with your artistic vision?

First, we are beyond excited to have the opportunity to release the track on the esteemed Swiss label Club Control Records. celebrated for its impressive legacy and a roster of groundbreaking artists such as Mas Collective, Dario D’Attis, EDX and more. We feel honored, as Club Control sets extremely high standards for signings. As we are just about to start the promotional campaign, “Through” is still a well-kept secret. But we have been playing it up and down at our gigs and the crowd has literally gone crazy for it. EDX played “Through” in his latest episode of the NO XCUSES radio show… We think the song has great potential as it works in clubs as well as on the radio.

You’ve built a name over two decades in the Swiss house music scene. How does producing your own music fit into your career, and what do you hope this new chapter brings for you as an artist?

After more than two decades of DJing, it was time to produce my own music… 🙂 Seriously, I’m at a point where I know exactly where I want to go musically, and I feel that now is the right time to take off again as Aleno. With my own label LAGOOON, a big network and a lot of support from labels, management, the DJ bubble and many more. There is a lot of support and I can be sure that my music will be heard.

What was it like working with giacca., who has over a decade of experience and significant success in the house music world? Did he bring any unique perspective or technique to the project?

We’ve tried something new by using vocals as an atmospheric element. With lots of reverb and delay, the vocals resemble pads, subtly hinting at the melody to come, creating a sense of familiarity before the main vocal hits for the first time. When it comes to standing out, I think it’s powerful to embrace something with more depth and emotion, perfect for moments and spaces where people want to ‘vibe’ rather than go all-out.

The track was partly inspired by a sunrise on a quiet beach. Are there any other memorable locations or moments that have influenced your music style or creative approach?

My second home is Paxos in the Ionian Sea in Greece, where my mother lives. This is where I recharge my battery and come up with ideas for music, DJ sets or parties. Basically, giacca. and I were in the same mood before we made “Through”. He lives in Dubai and goes to the beach every morning at sunrise. So, we felt we needed to create a soundtrack for those slower, more emotional moments.

Looking ahead, what can fans expect next from you? Will you continue down this collaborative path, or do you have plans for solo releases in the near future?

There are many specific projects in the works. I have already finished a follow-up to ‘Through’. The track is called ‘Vida Loca’ and is a Melodic/Afro house track with a catchy vocal sample. There are many national bookings coming up and dates in Brazil and Greece are already confirmed for 2025. With Lagooon I am starting my own event label with a big team and a lot of effort – in 2025 we will offer festival hostings and a love mobile at the Street Parade in addition to our own signature events.

giacca. & Aleno – Through is out now via Club Control Records: https://club-control.lnk.to/Through

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