Tanzwise 011: A Deep Dive into Germany’s Underground Pulse
If you’re looking for an album that slaps harder than your morning coffee, Tanzwise 011 by Various is the ticket. Released in 2013 on Tretmuehle—a label that knows how to keep things gritty and raw—this beast of a compilation dives headfirst into the realms of Deep House, Tech House, and Techno. It’s not perfect, but damn if it doesn’t feel alive.
Let’s get one thing straight: this isn’t some polished, overproduced mess made for Instagram influencers sipping mocktails at rooftop parties. Nah, this is German electronic music with teeth. Tracks like “(T)Raumstation” and “Desire” hit so hard they could knock the wind outta you.
Take “(T)Raumstation,” for example. The track kicks off with a bassline so thick you could spread it on toast. Then comes this eerie, almost industrial beat that feels like walking through an abandoned factory at 3 a.m.—equal parts unsettling and hypnotic. You can practically smell the rust and hear the distant hum of machinery. This ain’t music; it’s a vibe. A dark, brooding, don’t-fuck-with-me vibe. And yeah, maybe I’m romanticizing it too much, but when something grabs you by the throat like this does, who cares?
Then there’s “Desire.” Oh man, this track sneaks up on you like a cat in the night. At first, it’s all smooth and sultry, lulling you into a false sense of chill. But about two minutes in, BAM—it drops this acid-laced synth line that just won’t quit. It’s sexy as hell, but also kinda dangerous, like flirting with someone you know is bad news. By the time the percussion kicks in full force, you’re already hooked, swaying uncontrollably even if you’re just sitting in your car stuck in traffic.
Now, sure, not every track here is a banger. Some tracks, like “Good Night My Love” or “Schwarz & Weiss,” are forgettable filler—the kind of stuff DJs throw on when they need a breather between real bangers. But honestly? That’s fine. Not every moment has to be peak energy. Sometimes, you need those dips to make the highs feel higher.
What makes Tanzwise 011 special is its unapologetic roughness. There’s no attempt to sound radio-friendly or TikTok trendy. Instead, it’s raw, edgy, and dripping with attitude. It’s the kind of album that reminds you why underground scenes exist—to give people something real instead of another mass-produced playlist clone.
And here’s the kicker: listening to this album feels like eavesdropping on a secret conversation happening deep within Berlin’s club scene. Like, imagine being at Berghain (or any legendary spot) back in ‘13, surrounded by strangers who somehow understand exactly what you’re feeling without saying a word. That connection? Yeah, this album nails it.
So yeah, Tanzwise 011 might not change your life, but it’ll definitely change your mood. Just don’t play it while trying to relax—this shit will have you itching to move. Or fight. Or both.
Random thought: If techno had a face, would it punch you in it? Whatever. Press play and find out yourself.
