Berlin, Germany – DJ/producer Wankelmut initially caught the global dance community’s attention in 2012 with his stirring remix Asaf Avidan’s “One Day/Reckoning Song.” Then, his profile rose further the next year with his earworm track “My Head Is a Jungle” (with Emma Louise). The iconic MK remix of the latter tune brought even more attention and that led to high-profile DJ gigs and a slew of remix opportunities.
Since then, he’s released a steady stream of productions and remixes, some leaning toward the deeper side of house, but always maintaining a uniquely catchy flavor. In fact, since the pandemic, he’s been most prolific – he’s released more than a dozen productions or remixes.
Lately, Wankelmut has been involved in lots of collabs, including the snappy houser “Good in Goodbye” (with Felix Samuel and Xoro on Perfect Havoc), the ethereal “Cross My Mind” (with Marie Bothmer and NOØN on Kontor) and the soon-to-be-released hookfest “Greenlight” (with Tobtok featuring Louis III on Perfect Havoc).
We recently caught up with the Berlin-based Wankelmut – aka Jacob Dilssner, 33 – to discuss his latest studio projects.
Musically, what were your first influences? What made you want to pursue music?
Wankelmut: My first influences were the classic-rock acts my dad was listening to in the car: Neil Young, Deep Purple, CSN&Y, and so on. I’m still very much in love with rock-n-roll, but I don’t have enough talent when it comes to playing guitar or drums. That’s why I chose DJing and producing; I’m more comfortable working with a computer. My first electronic influences were probably Music Instructor and Wamdue Project.
Let’s discuss process a bit. Creatively, how did you approach your “Good in Goodbye” project with Felix Samuel and Xoro?
Wankelmut: I wanted the track to slap – ha! But seriously, I tried to give the drums and bass a lot of punch to work as a counter to the deep lyrics. The collaboration process did go down like all the studio collabs right now – over email and WhatsApp. Xoro and Felix Samuel had written the song together, and Xoro asked me if I would like to jump on the production, which I happily did.
These days, what’s your main studio gear and software?
Wankelmut: I’m working with Ableton Live as my DAW. The newest version finally added comping, so there’s no need for me to switch to Logic for vocal recording. My monitors are Genelec 8030s; but to be honest, I almost always produce on my beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro headphones. I own very little hardware apart from a handful of guitars – Fender and Hapas. I sold my last analog synth, an Access Virus TI, a couple of weeks back. But I’m looking forward to buying a Prophet-6 real soon!
Which producer/remixers do you most admire?
Wankelmut: There’s so many! I really do love whatever Kink is putting out, and Cinthie is always delivering quality house music. But I also admire SG Lewis for his funkiness, Wh0 for their raw power, and TSHA for her soulfulness.
In the DJ booth, what gear do you use?
Wankelmut: I use three Pioneer CDJs and the DJM mixer, like everybody else. I started out with Timecode Vinyl and Native Instruments Traktor, but ended up opting for USB sticks and the Pioneers. It’s just way less stress for everybody.
How would you describe your style of DJing?
Wankelmut: While DJing, I try to blend catchy pop vocals with an underground attitude. But it always depends on the setting and crowd. Being versatile and flexible is a DJ’s best quality, in my opinion.
Which DJs do you most appreciate?
Wankelmut: I’ll never get tired of hearing Laurent Garnier play. Saw him live a couple of times now and he never disappoints. Also, I’m really enjoying the sets by Eli & Fur.
What are three tracks that are always in your “DJ box” and why?
Wankelmut: Moderat’s “Bad Kingdom (DJ Koze Remix)” from 2014. It’s iconic, works anywhere and anytime, but best to bring a DJ set to a close. BURNS’ “Talamanca” – for me, this was the tune of 2021. Incredible energy! Also, Random Soul’s “Vast Universe” from 2021. It has an amazing groove and perfect for effortlessly filling a dancefloor.
How did you survive the lockdown? With the extra time on your hands, did that allow you to create something special?
Wankelmut: Yes, I spent way more time in the studio than I would have while having a regular touring schedule. This way I could get my workflow and production skill on a next level. Also, I had time for exciting projects, like working on my own MasterClass with FaderPro, developing tunes for a movie soundtrack and putting out more than a dozen tunes this past year alone.
You became known for your 2012 remix of Asaf Avidan’s “One Day/Reckoning Song.” But for many people, “My Head Is a Jungle” with Emma Louise from 2013 is a starting point for their appreciation of you the producer. How much did that song and that MK remix help your career?
Wankelmut: “My Head Is A Jungle” and especially the MK remix opened up the U.K. market for me. I’m still in awe at MK’s work on the remix – it’s iconic! The remix also became an Ibiza anthem for two years in a row, which really helped me to get some gigs on the White Isle. Normally, Ibiza isn’t really a market for German DJs.
What’s next for you?
Wankelmut: I’m continuing to hone my skills in the studio and will put out bangers on a wide range of labels in 2022. But I really can’t wait to get back on the road again and play tunes for a live crowd – I miss touring like crazy!
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