On the eve of their special stage takeover at Ritvales Festival in Medellin, Colombia this November, EDMTunes spoke with the DJ/producer and stage curator, Jetzen, about his inspiration as an artist and what led to this moment. Footage from past years’ Ritvales Festivals show Jetzen’s Aeonica stage as being accessed after patrons ride a human-sized “toy train” from what appears to be the main festival grounds to a secluded outdoor area under a canopy of sub-tropical trees. This secluded area has drawn a bigger and bigger audience each year, with some years seeing even mainstage performers sneaking over to play an unannounced set. The Aeonica stage is set in a clearing on the grass where music-lovers can vibe-out with their bare feet grounded directly to Mother Earth, if people so wish, and the area is such that the “dancefloor” naturally expands outward from the DJ booth based on how many people gather. The Aeonica stage can be as intimate or as large as the crowd dictates, and the atmosphere according to past festival-goers is one of mystical, naturalistic wonder.
For readers of EDMTunes who may already be attending Ritvales – or who may be considering attending – a pair of super-exclusive VIP “deluxe package” tickets will be available by emailing [email protected]. The deluxe VIP packages include meet-and-greets with select artists, entry to the official pre-party, entry to the festival itself, plus other goodies. (Packages do not include flights, ground transportation or hotels.)
EDMTunes sat down with Jetzen to find out what makes him tick.
EDMTunes: From what we’ve been able to glean, you seem a bit mysterious as an artist. What can you tell us about yourself — and your philosophy — to help readers better understand you?
Jetzen: As an artist, I thrive on the enigmatic nature of creativity and the infinite possibilities it offers. My philosophy revolves around exploring the depths of sound to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and ultimately, to connect with listeners on a profound level. Through my music, whether in the studio crafting new tracks or performing live onstage, I aim to transcend boundaries and create experiences that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
EDMTunes: What’s the significance of your DJ alias, Jetzen?
Jetzen: The Jetzen alias embodies my artistic vision and journey. It symbolizes a fusion of high-energy propulsion and Zen-like tranquility, reflecting my approach to music as both a thrilling adventure and a deeply introspective experience. Through Jetzen, I aim to propel listeners into new sonic dimensions while inviting them to find moments of peace and reflection within the music. It’s about striking a balance between dynamism and serenity, of creating a harmonious flow that resonates with the soul.
EDMTunes: There’s a Jetzen Remix on your label’s latest E.P., Lla Lluvia, that’s really groovy. Was there a story behind that release?
Jetzen: The track “Lla Lluvia” delves into the profound symbolism of rain as a manifestation of emotion and spirit. For the remix, I wanted to immerse myself in that concept, capturing the essence of rain’s transformative energy. I incorporated actual rain sounds to enhance the emotional depth, using instruments like the rainmaker—a unique tool that mimics the gentle cascade of raindrops. This approach allowed me to weave the natural rhythm of rain into the remix, creating a sonic experience that resonates with the raw, evocative power of the elements.
EDMTunes: What’s your feeling about the growing chorus of DJs/producers speaking-out about banning cellphones at live shows? What’s your opinion as an artist and performer?
Jetzen: From my perspective, the issue of banning cellphones at live shows is complex and ultimately falls on the venue to navigate. Venues are responsible for balancing the needs of both artists and audiences, including considerations about filming and privacy. If an artist prefers no phones or recordings during their performance, it’s crucial that they discuss and agree on these terms with the venue beforehand. Each venue has its own culture and guidelines, and it’s important for them to understand and address these social nuances to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
EDMTunes: Art doesn’t exist in a vacuum. So, speaking about the arts in broader terms, can you name the “top three” most influential films that have had the biggest, most lasting impact on you?
Jetzen: Three films that have profoundly impacted me are. “The Fifth Element,” “Interstellar “ and “Spaceballs.” “The Fifth Element” stands out for its blend of nostalgia and futurism, combining serious themes with playful elements in a masterful way. “Interstellar” captivates with its exploration of time, space, and human connection. Its stunning portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world leaves a lasting impression. Lastly, “Spaceballs” offers a hilarious and fun perspective, reminding us to enjoy the journey and not take things too seriously. Each of these films uniquely influences my approach to creativity and storytelling.
EDMTunes: Which artists, musicians, performers do you take your musical cues from today? Which artists do you admire, as a consumer of art yourself? What is it about each of these artists that changed your perception of music or art? Did they influence your journey as a music-maker?
Jetzen: As a music-maker, I draw inspiration from artists like Solomun, Boris Brejcha, and Deadmau5, who each bring a unique perspective to electronic music. Their innovative approaches and distinctive sounds have profoundly influenced my own work. Beyond these contemporary influences, I also admire legendary artists from various genres, such as The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, and Prince, as well as more recent acts like Radiohead and Pearl Jam. The diversity and mastery in their music serve as a rich source of inspiration and have shaped my journey as an artist.
EDMTunes: Where can music-lovers come out to see you DJ? What are the biggest shows you have coming-up for the remainder of 2024?
Jetzen: I’m DJing at a few exciting events this year, including a special show at Sound Nightclub in LA on September 5th. While my schedule is packed with various projects, I’m also set to perform in Medellin, Colombia on November 2nd and 3rd at the Aeonica stage at Ritvales Festival. I’m committed to making each performance memorable and unique for those who attend.
EDMTunes: What can attendees expect from the Aeonica Stage at this year’s Ritvales Festival? What’s the lineup? Can you describe the stage/area? What distinguishes the vibe of the Aeonica Stage from the other stages at Ritvales?
Jetzen: As the curator of the Aeonica stage at Ritvales, we invite artists who embody our core values, serving as ambassadors of our sound—not merely for their ticket-selling power. This year, alongside our team of artists, I’m thrilled to welcome the wonderful Ida Engberg, the dynamic duo Pig and Dan, the ever-evolving DJ Tennis, the iconic GusGus, and, to top it all, the master of musical wisdom, Maceo Plex. In tribute to Colombia’s culture, we’ve also invited several local talent, including the legendary Kamilo Sanclemente and Juan Pablo Torrez closing the event at our after-party—iIt will be the perfect way to welcome the sunrise over the beautiful Medellín skyline.
EDMTunes: We’ve listened to your weekly Aeonica Radio show on LittLive Radio and Radio Eibiza. What’s the process when programming your weekly radio show in terms of track selection, setting the theme of each episode and creating a mood or atmosphere with your mix?
Jetzen: Programming my weekly Aeonica Radio show is an experimental and creative process. I start by categorizing the show’s theme—whether it’s mysterious, uplifting, or chill—and select tracks that fit within these categories. I often draw inspiration from previous shows and different geographic or genre influences, like a Middle Eastern or Afrobeat theme. It’s like curating a menu at a restaurant: each show is a unique blend of styles and sounds, designed to offer a cohesive and engaging listening experience.
EDMTunes: As parting words, can you describe the essence of the art-of-creation that motivates you as a music-maker? What keeps you going?
Jetzen: For me, the art-of-creation lies in the pursuit of sonic innovation and emotional connection. It’s about channeling raw inspiration into melodies that move hearts and rhythms that move bodies. What keeps me going is the thrill of exploring uncharted musical territories, the joy of crafting something unique that resonates with listeners, and the belief that through music, we can transcend barriers and touch souls. It’s a journey of discovery, passion and continuous evolution, where each new track is a testament to the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.
