A captivating journey of connection, KABELMANN was born out of collaboration with Mother Berlin and is accompanied by Paul Kalkbrenner’s latest EP of the same name.
For more than 20 years, techno legend Paul Kalkbrenner has been crafting an impressive portfolio of innovative techno productions. His visionary artistry has secured him a dedicated fanbase and a distinguished status within the global techno scene through exceptional live performances across the globe.
Known for his distinctive style, Kalkbrenner has remained prolific with a series of singles and remixes following the release of his Speak Now EP in 2020. He now presents the eagerly awaited project, KABELMANN, which features a two-track EP alongside a multi-episode cinematic film developed with director Björn Rühmann and creative agency Mother Berlin.
Paul Kalkbrenner’s artistic brilliance is evident in every vibrant track of the EP. The pieces “Kabelmann 1” and “Kabelmann 2” showcase his hallmark intricate melodies and driving beats. Together, they evoke the emotional nuances of the compositions, creating a rich soundscape that beautifully complements the visual segments.
“I have always loved exploring how my music can translate into visual mediums, whether live or through cinematic projects like this. The concept of Kabelmann resonated with me, embodying my analog approach to music and performance, which often sets me apart in contemporary electronic music.”
Paul Kalkbrenner
Serving as a narrative of connection, the film follows Kabelmann (translating to “cable man”), a representation of Kalkbrenner’s commitment to analog production and his passion for live performances. The initial chapter explores the artist’s emotional landscape, highlighting his quest for genuine human interactions amid feelings of isolation and loneliness.
In the next chapter, set to “Kabelmann 2,” viewers are transported to a surreal afterlife, contrasting intense conflict with a sense of hope. As the music builds and recedes, the conclusion reflects Kabelmann’s ambiguous fate, adding profound depth to the storytelling and prompting audience reflections on themes of existence and belonging.
Filmed in Manchester and Berlin, the cinematic piece premiered at the esteemed Ciclope Festival in Berlin earlier this week. This production showcases the chemistry between the artist and the director, with Kalkbrenner’s music serving as the emotional nucleus for Rühmann’s vision in bringing Kabelmann’s universe to life. This marks their second collaboration, following last year’s successful project for the short film accompanying the track “Schwer.”
Experience the two-part film below, listen to the Kabelmann EP on Spotify or your preferred platform, and follow Paul Kalkbrenner for updates on his latest endeavors.
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