Behind the Tracks: Deus Deserto and Jochem Hamerling Discuss HILOMATIK's A-Sides EP 2 Part 2

Earlier this month HILOMATIK released their second EP “A-Sides EP 2”. This marks the start of an exciting new phase for the label. The EP consists of 6 carefully selected tracks where each artist contributes their own interpretation of modern techno, covering the full spectrum, with songs ranging from minimal- to hard techno.

To celebrate the EP’s release, we asked the artists behind the project about their creative process, their favorite record on the EP, and the reactions they have been receiving from dancefloors across the globe. In the second part of this interview series, we talked to Deus Deserto (‘REP’), Jochem Hamerling (“Shooting ‘Em Down’)

Is there an element in your track that really stands out to you? Or something special that listeners might only notice once they’re made aware of it?

Jochem Hamerling: This track has a big grooving bassline and some pretty rough beats, but I wanted to add something extra to make it stand out from similar tracks. I spent a long time experimenting with synths to find a sound I was truly happy with. In the end, it became this relatively small lead sound, but I think it really gives the track a unique vibe.

Deus Deserto: For me, it has to be the massive bass. I wanted to create a real shock element with this track, especially during the first break when the anticipation starts building. The moment the vocals cut off and the bass hits, it’s meant to feel like a complete shock to the system. That contrast and impact is probably my favorite part of the track.

When producing this track as part of Hilomatik A-Sides EP 2, did you do anything differently compared to your previous releases?

Jochem Hamerling: I usually play deeper, more groovy and melodic music, so this track is a bit outside of my comfort zone. But then again, I’ve never been someone who likes to fit into a specific musical box, so for me this was simply a new exploration of sound. Being able to release it on HILOMATIK is amazing, because I really feel like the track belongs there.

Deus Deserto: Definitely. The whole writing process was different compared to my previous releases. I wanted to create something that felt more groove-driven while still keeping the harder and faster energy. I focused a lot more on movement and rhythm this time around, while still maintaining that heavy impact throughout the track.

If you couldn’t pick your own track, which track on the EP would be your favorite, and why?

Jochem Hamerling: As I mentioned before, I don’t usually play this kind of techno, so there aren’t many tracks on the EP that I would personally play in my sets. That said, it doesn’t mean they aren’t awesome. If I had to pick one, I’d go with the legend Markus Schulz. The energy on that track is incredible. And being featured on an EP alongside someone who truly inspired me while I was discovering and developing my passion for music is really special.

Deus Deserto: It has to be Markus Schulz’s “Rave Generator.” Markus is one of the many producers that inspired me when I was younger, so it’s really special to be part of the same EP. His track is something I would definitely play in my sets, and it’s one I genuinely enjoy listening to as well.

Have you had the chance to play this track live? If so, where did you play it, and how did the crowd respond?

Jochem Hamerling: I do play it live whenever it fits into my sets, and the crowd response is always great. It also stands out because it’s one of the hardest tracks I play, which gives it an extra impact.

Deus Deserto: Yes, I had the chance to test out REP at one of my shows here in Doha. The crowd reaction was massive. You could tell people weren’t expecting that huge saw bass to come in the way it did. Overall, the track worked really well that night, and it got me even more excited to hear other DJs play it as well.