Schugar presented a pre-recorded set that highlighted his deep dive into electronic music's experimental edge. Utilizing a blend of Moog devices including the DFAM and Mother 32, alongside the non-linear circuits Null-A with its dual VCFs, Schugar crafted a sonic landscape that was both avant-garde and deeply rooted in the foundations of modular synthesis. The incorporation of various filters, notably a ladder filter emulating Moog's iconic sound, added layers of complexity to his performance. Schugar's approach is deeply informed by his rich musical history, from early tape experiments to his vast experience across genres, and his current involvement with Degrees of Separation, a label that echoes his ethos of boundless musical exploration.
HEXMODE, on the other hand, delivered a dynamic live set, bringing a structured yet improvisational energy to the stage. Centering his setup around the Roland TR-8S, HEXMODE leveraged its powerful drum sounds as the backbone of his performance, illustrating his shift from a purely Eurorack-based setup to incorporating hardware that delivers the punch and immediacy needed for live techno. The Subsequent 37 Moog synth added depth with its dark, compelling basslines and leads, showcasing HEXMODE's focus on delivering a live techno experience that rivals DJ sets in continuity and energy. His setup, routed through a Traktor S4, not only showcased his technical adeptness but also his vision for Hexmode as a collaborative project, indicating an exciting direction for live electronic performances.
During the discussion, there was a significant focus on understanding and meeting audience expectations during live performances, especially within different musical contexts and venues. Hexmode highlighted the pressure of performing in a live setting where the audience has specific expectations for energy and continuity, akin to a DJ set. The challenge of avoiding repetition and maintaining engagement was emphasized, particularly when transitioning between different musical styles or environments, such as moving from a pure modular setup to incorporating drum machines for a more potent sound.
Sugar shared experiences of performing in various scenes, from experimental noise to techno, noting a rekindled passion for live shows and the changing dynamics of audience engagement over the years. Both discussed the complexities of performing live electronic music, including the necessity of adapting to the audience's vibe and the potential for more experimental or atonal performances in less traditional settings like art galleries or experimental music venues.
The conversation also touched on the evolution of the electronic music scene, particularly in Los Angeles, where there's a growing appreciation for darker, more underground styles of techno. The importance of collaboration in live performances was highlighted, with Hexmode mentioning a shift towards collaborative sets to share the workload and create a more dynamic live experience.
