Martin Merkel is a somewhat mysterious figure within the European Techno scene. The maverick German producer has often stepped away from the egotistical glare of publicity, preferring his music to do the talking. He quietly creates his own self-described brand of “Soulful Melodic Techno”, steeped in complex emotions and with an attention to musical detail that comes from many years of dedication to his chosen craft. <br><br>Originally inspired as an artist by the experimental attitude of Italo Disco and the embryonic Techno scene, via parties at the likes if Dorian Grey and Omen (Frankfurt) and Tresor (Berlin), Martin Merkel’s nascent career saw him develop an early love of analogue synthesisers – and saw him fill his studio with a desirable collection of Moog, Roland and Waldorf machinery. In recent years he has moved towards a more compact, travel-friendly digital studio set-up, but his love of synthesisers remains a defining characteristic of his uniquely distinctive musical output today. A master of sonic excellence and musicality, his creations have previously often crept out on the likes of Cinematique, Bonzai, Secondary Tones, JOOF, Monkey Business, Neverending and his own Shelter 54 imprint. Now, under the auspicious guidance of Platipus Records the most exciting new chapter of his career is about to begin.