In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, few artists manage to capture the essence of both nostalgic space disco and cutting-edge techno with such authentic finesse. Captain Mustache, the Paris-born producer whose journey began with a late-night Laurent Garnier mix discovery on MTV, has become a distinctive voice in the contemporary electronic scene.
From his humble beginnings as a teenage techno enthusiast collecting vinyl and writing for Rex Club fanzine to his current status as a celebrated artist releasing his fourth album in five years, Captain Mustache embodies the passion-driven ethos that defines true electronic music culture. His upcoming album “Luz,” set for release on September 12th via the prestigious Mobilee Records, represents a sonic exploration of his deepest influences—from Jean-Michel Jarre’s pioneering synthesizer work to Giorgio Moroder’s disco innovations and the raw energy of Detroit techno.
What makes Captain Mustache particularly compelling is his ability to distill complex nostalgic influences into something entirely contemporary. Working with a deliberately minimal studio setup—just FL Studio and select VSTs—he creates music that feels both timeless and urgently modern. His collaborations with industry legends like Dave Clarke, John Digweed, and Play Paul demonstrate not just his production prowess, but his genuine reverence for the electronic music lineage that shaped him.
1. Can you take us back to your beginnings in Paris? What first drew you to electronic music, and how did you make the transition from being a music fan to actually producing and releasing your own tracks?
So much to say… I fell in love with electronic music when I was around 14, after discovering a Laurent Garnier mix on MTV late at night.
From then on, I became a hardcore fan, buying all the electronic music magazines, collecting many CDs… At 18, I had bought MKII turntables, vinyls, I was writing for the Rex Club fanzine… I was a real techno maniac. After many years of DJing, moving into production felt like a natural next step.
2. You have a strong relationship with Mobilee Records, and you’re releasing a new album with them. How did your connection with this Berlin label develop?
I first sent the track “La Nuit” in collab with Popof in 2022. The label signed it, and it was an instant success. The following year, we released “La Vertu”. It was always a great collaboration, and I really appreciated Mobilee’s professionalism. After these two singles, I naturally suggested releasing a full album, and Ralf accepted. I’m super excited to present it at Mobilee’s 20th anniversary party at ELSE on September 6.
3. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your album?
The inspiration simply comes from the music I love: Detroit techno, electroclash, and especially space disco on this one. That sound goes back to my childhood influences (Jean-Michel Jarre, Giorgio Moroder…). They left a strong imprint on me.
4. When you’re working on a full album versus individual tracks or EPs, how does your creative approach change? Do you have a concept or theme in mind from the start, or does it develop organically?
For an electronic music producer, the beauty of an album is that it allows for more than just dancefloor tracks. That’s why I appreciate this format so much (this is my 4th album in 5 years).
It’s the result of a year’s work, shaped by my inspirations and mood of the moment. It feels like a snapshot of a chapter of my life in 2024.
5. How did your collaboration with Play Paul develop? Can you walk us through the creative process when working together and what this collaboration brings to your music?
I first met Paul back in 2009 when he sent me a demo for my label. I was already a big fan of his works on Gigolo and Crydamoure (“La La Land”, “Spaced Out”…), so I signed it immediately. Since then, we’ve become good friends. He’s a genuinely nice person, and we share a similar sensibility. Every time we work together, the result is great. Beyond being a solid producer, he’s also a unique lyricist and singer.
6. The electronic music industry has gone through significant changes in recent years. What have been your biggest challenges as an artist, and how do you see the industry evolving from your perspective?
After experiencing the shift to all-digital, the big challenge today is definitely dealing with the overwhelming importance of social media. We have to accept it and find ways to jump on the bandwagon, which isn’t always easy.
7. Your sound blends influences from space disco, Detroit techno, and electroclash into something uniquely yours. Can you give us insight into your studio setup and production process – what helps you achieve your distinctive sonic signature?
My setup is minimal. I sold almost all my hardware and now work only with an old FL Studio and some VSTs. That way, I can intuitively create everything I have in mind. In my creative process, I try to stay as unpolluted as possible by technical constraints. I just bring to life what I have in mind, with my soul and personality.
8. As someone creating contemporary electronic music, what are your thoughts on AI’s growing presence in music production? Do you see it as a creative tool, a challenge, or something else entirely?
AI helps me with everyday tasks, but absolutely not with music creation. It’s a bit scary, but we’re on the train of evolution, and it won’t stop.
9. What advice would you give to up-and-coming electronic music producers who are trying to make their mark in the industry? Are there any key lessons you’ve learned that you wish you’d known when starting out?
Honestly, my only advice is to work with passion and integrity. The rest is about talent and encounters. And nowadays, mastering social media is definitely a big plus.
10. What’s next for Captain Moustache? Are there any dream collaborations, labels, or creative directions you’re hoping to explore in the coming years?
I hope to tour more and more. DJing is my first passion and my childhood dream. In terms of production, I really don’t have a clear idea right now. Inspiration doesn’t come on demand, I just follow my mood and creativity in the moment.
As for dream collaborations, I love working with artists who inspired me. I’m like a fanboy collaborating with my idols: Dave Clarke, John Digweed, The Advent, Keith Tucker from AUX88, Arnaud Rebotini… That’s a real chance and honor for me. There are still many role models I’d love to work with: Laurent Garnier, Vitalic, Green Velvet, Felix Da Housecat…
Captain Mustache’s “Luz” is out now.