Valhall Records is thrilled to announce an electrifying new chapter in its journey with the addition of Chris Maico Schmidt—also known as Mike S.—as an official label partner. This strategic collaboration promises to inject fresh energy into the techno scene, beginning with their highly anticipated joint release, VRE003: Hammerschmidt – Sound of the Underground, dropping on August 29, 2025.
Chris Maico Schmidt: A Visionary in Electronic Music
Chris Maico Schmidt is a name synonymous with innovation in electronic music. As co-founder of Evosonic Radio, the world’s first radio station dedicated exclusively to electronic music 24/7, Schmidt has been a pivotal figure in shaping the electronic landscape for over three decades. His extensive portfolio of number-one releases across prestigious labels underscores his prowess as an artist, producer, and curator.
Reflecting on this partnership, deKai, the founder of Valhall Records, expressed his enthusiasm:
"For me, Mike is far more than a new addition—he's a true asset. Our journey together began in 2016 at a legendary, albeit technically challenging, Evosonic 'live broadcast.' Since then, we've been in regular contact—now it's official."
The Debut Collaboration: Sound of the Underground
The first fruit of this partnership, VRE003: Hammerschmidt – Sound of the Underground, is set to redefine dark, driving techno. This release comprises the Original Mix along with three distinctive remixes, each showcasing the unique styles of renowned producers.
1. Original Mix:
The Original Mix is a masterclass in minimalist, raw techno. It kicks off with a thunderous, punchy kick drum that sets an uncompromising pace. The hypnotic groove is constructed through deft layering of percussive elements, subtle industrial textures, and an ominous bassline that resonates deep within the listener. The track’s dark underground vibe is accentuated by sporadic, eerie synth stabs that create an atmosphere of relentless intensity—perfectly engineered for peak-time club performances.
2. Mike S. Remix:
Chris Maico Schmidt’s own remix takes a darker, more technoid approach. The remix is characterized by its precision-engineered deep basses and a harder, more straightforward rhythmic structure. Schmidt employs a hypnotic loop as the track’s backbone, subtly modulating its parameters to maintain dynamic energy. The use of granular synthesis and spectral filtering adds an extra layer of depth, making it a mind-bending experience on a quality sound system.
3. Michael Kohlbecker Remix:
Michael Kohlbecker’s remix is a powerhouse of dark techno energy. With a driving groove and a hypnotic atmosphere, Kohlbecker crafts a relentless soundscape through densely packed drum patterns, metallic hi-hats, and distorted synth layers. The rawness of this remix is accentuated by aggressive automation of resonance filters, creating tension that’s released with perfectly timed drops.
4. Schremser Remix:
Schremser’s remix contrasts sharply with the others, infusing the track with an almost trance-like energy. This version is rhythmically dense, featuring intricate polyrhythms and a melodic touch that adds emotional depth without compromising the track’s driving force. The melodic elements are skillfully woven into the arrangement, providing a euphoric lift amidst the dark undertones—a perfect closer for an intense techno set.
Technical Mastery Behind the Sound
Across all versions, Sound of the Underground showcases meticulous sound design. The producers employ analog synthesizers alongside cutting-edge digital plugins, achieving a rich sonic palette. Sidechain compression techniques ensure the kick drum remains dominant, while EQ sculpting creates space for each element within the mix. The dynamic range is carefully managed, preserving the track’s punchiness even at high volumes—a testament to expert mastering.
Final Thoughts:
Valhall Records’ collaboration with Chris Maico Schmidt marks a bold step forward. Sound of the Underground isn’t just a release; it’s a statement—an uncompromising exploration of dark techno that resonates with raw energy and technical finesse.
Stay tuned for August 29, 2025, because when this record drops, it’s going to be loud.
