What inspired you to create Techno Without Borders, and how does inclusivity play into the events you curate?
Saad Ayub: The vision for Techno Without Borders (TWB) was born during the pandemic as a way to bring people together despite physical limitations. Along with my partner Katrii, we wanted to create a space where music could transcend borders and embrace diversity. Inclusivity has always been central to our mission, reflected in our lineups, which highlight artists from various backgrounds, genders, and cultures.
How did the Techno Without Borders team come together?
Saad Ayub: The success of TWB is a result of the combined efforts of Katrii, Sam van Horne, and David Maters. Katrii’s creative vision, Sam’s operational expertise, and David’s deep knowledge of local music scenes have been instrumental in bringing our ideas to life and ensuring the success of each event.
What role does innovation play in your immersive techno experience?
Saad Ayub: Innovation is essential to TWB. We’re always looking to push the boundaries of sound and visual experiences, incorporating cutting-edge technology like spatial audio systems to create fully immersive environments for our audience. This commitment allows us to craft events that feel fresh, engaging, and truly unforgettable.
How did the collaboration with Ramon Tapia come about, and what can the audience expect?
Saad AyubL: I have been fan of Ramon forever. Being able to work with someone you look up to is a dream come true. This event marks our first collaboratio. We’ve admired each other’s work for a while, and it felt like the perfect time to join forces. The audience can expect an intense, high-energy set that blends our unique styles. This is just the beginning, as we’re already planning more exciting collaborations in the future.
How does the Amsterdam scene compare, and how does The Other Side’s L-ISA system enhance the event?
Saad Ayub: I have been coming to ADE for a while now and every year it’s something new and refreshing. Amsterdam’s scene is vibrant and intimate, offering a unique connection with the audience. The Other Side’s L-ISA spatial audio system enhances this experience by creating a 3D sound environment, making each performance immersive and elevating the overall atmosphere of the event.
You’re set to perform b2b with Nakadia at Techno Without Borders’ ADE event. Can you share how you two prepare for a b2b set and how your styles complement each other?
Sam Van Horne: I’ve always been inspired by Nakadia’s energy and her unique approach to sets, which has definitely influenced how I craft my own, so it’s an honor to share the stage and go b2b with her. When it comes to preparing, communication is key—both before and during the set. We focus on the vibe we want to create, and carrying that energy from the artist before us then flowing seamlessly into the next act. From there, we blend our individual styles: Nakadia brings her high-energy, driving sound, while I lean more into a similar yet hypnotic melodicvibe. Together, it creates this funky, groovy melodic journey that just clicks. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where our sounds melt together.
What unique challenges do you face in curating a diverse lineup for events like ADE, and how do you select artists to create a balanced and exciting experience for the audience?
Sam Van Horne: Curating a diverse lineup is about finding the right balance between established names and up-and-coming talent, while also maintaining diversity in culture and gender representation. One challenge is ensuring the lineup feels cohesive while still showcasing a range of sounds. Each artist brings their own unique style, but they also need to complement each other to maintain a smooth flow throughout the night. The goal is to take the crowd on a journey—building momentum, keeping things fresh, and making sure the energy stays high from start to finish.
The ADE lineup features a mix of established and emerging artists. How do you feel the techno scene is evolving, and what advice would you give to up-and-coming artists looking to break through?
Sam Van Horne: The techno scene is evolving in exciting ways, with more artists blending genres and breaking down boundaries. There’s a lot of experimentation, which keeps the genre fresh and allows new sounds to stand out. Established artists are collaborating with newer talent, which fosters innovation and growth within the scene. For new artists, my advice is to stay authentic and not chase trends. Listeners connect with originality. Keep refining your sound, be consistent, and seize opportunities to perform and collaborate. Building genuine connections in the industry is key, but it all starts with having a distinct voice that sets you apart. XThe techno scene is evolving in exciting ways, with more artists blending genres and breaking down boundaries. There’s a lot of experimentation, which keeps the genre fresh and allows new sounds to stand out. Established artists are collaborating with newer talent, which fosters innovation and growth within the scene.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the growth and evolution of Techno Without Borders, especially in light of the feedback and experiences gained from expanding into Europe?
Sam Van Horne: Europe has been a huge part of Techno Without Borders’ growth, and expanding here has taught us so much about adapting to new audiences and cultures while staying true to our core philosophy. We’ve learned that local partnerships are key, which is why working with talented people David Maters has been so crucial. His deep knowledge of the scene has helped us craft events that resonate with both the local audience and international attendees. Moving forward, we want to continue pushing the envelope by creating even more immersive experiences. Whether it’s through cutting-edge sound systems or unique venues, we aim to build events that people remember for the entire atmosphere, not just the music. We’re also excited about expanding our global presence in cities like Berlin, Barcelona, and Tokyo, while keeping that inclusive, community-driven spirit at the heart of TWB.
What are your thoughts on the impact of technological advancements like The Other Side’s 360-degree audio system on live performances? How do you adapt your sets to make the most of these innovations?
Sam Van Horne: Technological advancements like the L-ISA Spatial sound system at The Other Side are game-changers for live performances. They allow us to take the audience’s experience to the next level by making the music feel truly immersive. Whether the tracks are already created in spatial sound or we’re using AI tech to adapt non-spatial tracks live, it’s not just about hearing the music—it’s about feeling it in a deeper, more connected way. To make the most of this, I approach my sets with a spatial mindset. I think about how each layer of sound will surround the audience and create that immersive experience. These innovations offer more creative freedom and let us craft something that feels truly unique for each performance, bringing the crowd inside the music itself.