Dutch techno duo LUSU have been on a meteoric rise, carving out a distinctive sound that bridges the gap between deep, experimental techno and the raw energy of the dance floor. With their recent ‘Move 2 the Groove’ EP on Drumcode and a feature on the label’s prestigious A-Sides Vol.14 compilation, Mike and Wiwek have proven that their creative chemistry forged in remote woodland studios and refined through years of collaborative exploration is resonating with audiences worldwide.
From their serendipitous connection with Adam Beyer through HI-LO to their unique approach of escaping to nature for their most productive sessions, LUSU represent a new generation of artists who blend artistic integrity with an unwavering commitment to the dance floor. In this interview, they open up about their creative process, the evolution of their sound, and what it takes to break through in today’s ever-evolving techno landscape.
1. You’ve built a strong relationship with Drumcode, now appearing on the A-Sides Vol.14 compilation. How did you first connect with the label, and what has it been like working with them as your profile continues to rise?
Our first connection with Drumcode happened when we made ‘Dizzy’ together with HI-LO. He sent the track to Adam Beyer, and that’s how we got in touch with the label. Adam started playing not only that track, but also our solo material. From there, conversations started about doing our first solo release on Drumcode as well.
2. Looking back to when you first started out as a duo, what were those early days like? How did you find each other and realize you wanted to make music together?
We met back in 2012, when we had just started our solo projects. We began collaborating and played shows together around the world under those individual projects. During COVID, we rented a house in the woods and decided to simply be creative and make music without a specific goal. That’s when the idea of starting a duo really began to take shape—a project where we could make music that didn’t necessarily fit our solo artist identities.
3. How would you describe the evolution of the LUSU sound, and what key moments or influences shaped that journey?
The very first tracks we made—ones nobody ever heard—were deep, experimental techno. From there, we gradually shaped what has become the current LUSU sound. We started getting more influenced by other scenes, and that inspiration pushed us toward the sound we’re creating today.
4. As a Dutch duo, how would you describe the current state of the techno scene in the Netherlands? What makes it unique, and how has your local scene influenced your development as artists?
At the moment, the scene in the Netherlands is very focused on hard techno. That said, the local Amsterdam sound has definitely influenced our journey with LUSU. There are so many festivals and clubs with well-curated line-ups that showcase local talent. It’s inspiring to hear sets that aren’t restricted by specific genres and are purely focused on dancing.
5. In the studio, what’s your production setup and workflow like? Do you both have specific roles, or is it a fully collaborative process?
We don’t really have a fixed formula. Sometimes Mike comes in with an idea, sometimes Wiwek does, and other times it all starts with a sound we discover together and build on collaboratively. Our most productive sessions usually happen when we rent a house in the woods and work on music surrounded by nature. We’ve been doing this twice a year for about three years now, and that’s where many of our best ideas come from.
6. AI is becoming increasingly present in music production and DJing. What’s your perspective on AI tools in electronic music? Do you see them as helpful assistants, or are there concerns about where the technology is heading?
We’re currently exploring how AI is evolving and how we can make the best use of it. It’s here now, so the challenge is figuring out how it can support our creativity and existing workflows. We see AI as a helpful tool, but it should never take over the creative process.
7. When you’re playing festivals versus club nights, how does your approach to DJing change? Do you prepare your sets differently depending on the venue and crowd?
Yes, we always look at the kind of vibe we can expect, as well as our time slot. Based on that preparation, we have different directions we can take during the set and adapt in the moment.
8. For someone inspired by your success and looking to follow a similar path, what advice would you give to upcoming techno producers trying to break through right now?
Focus on finding a unique sound. Listen carefully to what the scene is offering, and try to envision what you can add to it.
9. Looking ahead, what are your goals for the next year or two? Are there any dream collaborations, labels, or new directions you want to explore?
We’ve been producing a lot, shaping our sound, and building on that foundation. Now our focus is on bringing this energy to the dance floor. We see our fanbase growing worldwide, and it would be amazing to give something back through our DJ sets and live performances.
LUSU’s ‘LIKE THIS’ features on A-Sides Vol.14 out now. Listen / buy it here