Interview with Black Anthem Restore: SHITLABEL, Berlin’s Underground Scene & Staying True to the Art

Published: 12 March 2025

Watch the Full Interview Here:

Key Takeaways from Our Interview with Black Anthem Restore

1. Why Black Anthem Restore Started SHITLABEL
  • Founded SHITLABEL in 2005 as a reaction to the industry’s obsession with labels and mainstream recognition.
  • Wanted full creative freedom instead of fitting into industry expectations.
  • Originally started as a platform and event series, not a traditional record label.
  • Has focused on creating spaces for music experiences rather than chasing fame.
2. The Evolution of the Techno Industry & Staying Authentic
  • The early 2000s techno scene in Berlin was more organic—DJs got booked based on skill and connections, not social media clout.
  • Now, artists feel pressure to brand themselves first—DJing, producing, running a label, and managing social media all at once.
  • Black Anthem Restore’s approach: Avoid trends and focus on curation & experience instead of numbers.
  • Believes the industry shouldn’t revolve around gaining attention—it should be about playing great music and letting the crowd decide.
3. What Makes a Great Club Experience?
  • A well-structured lineup is more important than booking big names.
  • Focuses on musical flow throughout the night—openers should create a journey, not just play high-energy tracks.
  • Closing sets are special: The goal is to take the audience on a trip, making them lose themselves in the music.
  • Prefers intimate, immersive spaces where the vibe is more important than industry status.
4. The Meaning Behind the Name “SHITLABEL”
  • A response to industry gatekeeping and labels defining artists.
  • Inspired by the idea that artists should break genre barriers—she would even mix classical music into techno if it fits the moment.
  • Some people don’t get it, others love it—but that’s the point. The name acts as a filter for those who truly understand the vision.
5. Social Media & Rave Culture: A Necessary Evil?
  • Hates social media promotion and finds it exhausting.
  • SHITLABEL only posts minimal content from events—no overproduced promo videos.
  • Prefers to let events speak for themselves, focusing on real experiences over viral moments.
  • Believes too much social media focus kills authenticity in underground music.
6. Thoughts on No-Phone Policies in Clubs
  • Used to be against restricting people, but has seen how phones ruin the atmosphere.
  • Thinks it’s important to set rules that allow real freedom—people should be lost in the music, not filming themselves.
  • Discusses how younger generations are becoming more aware of this issue, making no-phone policies more accepted.
7. Upcoming Events & What’s Next for SHITLABEL
  • Next event: Full house party in Prague at Fuchs II & Bike Jesus.
  • Hosting events at Club Hall (Tallinn) and 1.1 (Riga) later this year.
  • Scaling back a bit to focus on quality over quantity, avoiding a “business mode” mentality.

Final Thoughts

This conversation with Black Anthem Restore gave deep insights into the philosophy of underground techno, event curation, and staying true to the art despite industry pressure.

🎧 What do you think about her approach to techno and the no-phone movement? Drop a comment below!

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