Behind the Tracks: Markus Schulz and Nicola Fasano Discuss HILOMATIK's A-Sides EP 2 Part 1

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 first part of this interview series, we kick off with Markus Schulz (‘Rave Generator’) and Nicola Fasano (‘SIRIUS’).

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?

Markus Schulz: I think the synths in the background of the breakdown are my favorite part. They have a psychedelic feel, and I can totally get lost just looping that section. The track itself is a nod to the old acid house and UK rave scene, and with those psychedelic textures in the background, I feel it adds a sense of beauty within the chaos.

Nicola Fasano:

The element that stands out most to me is the use of original Moog synthesizers to recreate the iconic melodic themes. While many might assume it’s a digital emulation, there is a specific harmonic richness and organic tension that only the original hardware can provide. A subtle detail listeners might only notice after a few plays is how I’ve layered the atmospheric textures in the background—they create a bridge between the 1982 progressive rock vibe and a futuristic, industrial techno space.

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

Markus Schulz:

Of course, I approached this track very differently from my previous productions. With so much nostalgia around old rave tracks being remixed lately, I wanted to lean into that feeling while still creating something original. Being a teenager during those early rave days definitely inspired this track. When I close my eyes and listen to it, I can still almost smell the old warehouse.

Nicola Fasano:

For this release, I focused heavily on the technical 'weight' of the track. I used high-end converters and a very specific signal chain to ensure that the kick and bassline had enough drive for the dancefloor without losing the cinematic clarity of the original 'Sirius.' I also spent more time on the sound design of the transitions, ensuring the transition from the melodic break to the techno drop felt seamless and powerful.

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

Markus Schulz:

I really like Sirius. Especially since we were just talking about nostalgia, and I’m a huge basketball fan, so images of Michael Jordan twirling glow sticks cannot be avoided. It was tastefully done, and I like it very much.

Nicola Fasano:

If I had to pick a favorite other than my own, it would definitely be 'Rave Generator' by Markus Schulz. I’ve always respected Markus’s ability to craft tracks with incredible scale, and this one is no exception. It has that raw, uncompromising energy that perfectly captures the spirit of the underground while maintaining a massive production quality. It’s a powerful tool that fits perfectly into the flow of the EP.

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

Markus Schulz:

Next week is the launch of Ibiza season, and I’m looking forward to playing this track throughout the summer at Eden. I’m sure it’s going to get a great response.

Nicola Fasano:

Yes, I’ve had the chance to test it out during my recent sets, and the reaction was incredible. There is a 'spark' of recognition when the main arpeggio starts to filter in you can feel the energy in the room shift. When the techno beat finally drops, it creates a massive peak-time moment. It seems to resonate with both the older crowd who remembers the original and the younger generation who just wants a powerful, modern techno anthem.