French producer and DJ D3LMAT has been steadily shaping a distinctive space within contemporary electro and EBM.
Photo credit: The lead image for this feature is a digital photo illustration created using generative AI, based on original press photography.
Based in Paris and influenced by the electronic movements of the 1980s and 1990s, his sound blends elements of Detroit techno, indie dance, and electroclash through cold rhythmic structures and melodic tension. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Kraftwerk and Jean-Michel Jarre, he continues to refine an aesthetic rooted in underground club culture while pushing toward a more modern sonic identity.
Now returning to Mélopée Records for his second release on the label, D3LMAT presents ‘No Escape’, a four-track EP built around raw textures, industrial energy, and direct dancefloor functionality. Across the release, he explores the intersection between past and future influences, channeling the spirit of late ‘90s and early 2000s electronic music through a contemporary lens.
In this conversation, D3LMAT reflects on the making of ‘No Escape’, his relationship with darker sounds, and the ongoing challenge of developing a distinct artistic voice.
EG: Hi D3LMAT, welcome to EG. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us. How have you been doing? Where are you today?
D3LMAT: Hello, and thank you for having me. It’s truly a pleasure! I’m doing very well. To be honest, I’m getting happier and happier knowing that this EP is about to be released; it’s a mix of excitement and curiosity. Right now, I’m at home, mostly in my very rudimentary home studio.
EG: Let’s dive in. Congratulations on your new EP ‘No Escape’ via Mélopée Records. There’s a strong sense of tension running through these tracks. What was driving you when you started working on this release?
D3LMAT: First of all, thank you very much! The sonic identity of this EP, despite its eclecticism, is rooted in the influence of early 2000s electroclash, represented by artists like The Hacker, Vitalic, and DJ Hell. Personally, I really enjoy the fusion of genres and cultures. In this case, the electroclash scene is a perfect blend of everything I love. I simply brought all the sounds I liked into this EP, then added my own touch, always with a dark, raw edge suited for clubs, just the way I like it.
EG: The EP draws from EBM and early 2000s textures, but it doesn’t feel like a throwback. When you’re working with those references, what are you trying to preserve, and what are you trying to push forward?
D3LMAT: My influences vary a lot depending on periods and personal moods. For example, on this EP, the track ‘No Escape’ is very raw and industrial, while ‘Dream Machine’ is deeply inspired by Detroit electro, but still with a melodic touch that suits me perfectly. I can’t help it; I always feel the need to add a gimmick or a melodic motif. As for references, one of my main goals is for listeners to feel them through my tracks. I like the idea that someone might recognize a Dopplereffekt-style bassline or a martial rhythm reminiscent of Front 242.
EG: There’s something very direct and physical about your sound. When you’re in the studio, what tells you that a track is hitting the way it should?
D3LMAT: Generally, when I start vibing to it myself, that’s when I know it’s validated on my end. That said, I work a lot by involving friends or family members to get independent feedback.
“Being unique in your artistic direction is essential—it comes down to hard work. But with all the great tools we have now, it’s more accessible than before, which is a positive thing”
EG: This is your second release on Mélopée. What makes this label the right home for your music at this stage?
D3LMAT: Mélopée is simply the first label that believed in me. I remember sending demos to many labels in the past. Like most artists, I got a lot of rejections saying I wasn’t ready. Then Mélopée gave me a chance, and I’m extremely grateful for that. On top of that, we get along really well, we speak the same musical language, and share references. That’s very important to me.
EG: The title ‘No Escape’ suggests a certain emotional intensity. Does that reflect something internal for you, or is it more about the environment you imagine these tracks living in?
D3LMAT: I’ve always loved melody; it’s what brings emotion. I felt that the EBM I wanted to produce lacked emotion, for it to truly represent me. I love sounds from the past, but what’s even more interesting is taking them somewhere else, using today’s technology, to create the music of the future.
EG: Looking at the current landscape, it feels like electronic music often moves in cycles. What draws you personally to the darker, more industrial side of the spectrum?
D3LMAT: I grew up with a fairly diverse musical background. My father passed on his passion for underground techno, EBM, and electronic music in all its forms from that era. On my mother’s side, it was more rock, post-punk, even new wave. My musical education quickly formed around this mix of cultures. Then one day I heard a Kraftwerk bootleg for the first time, and it was a revelation. My father eventually gave me that record, and everything followed. I discovered the album ‘Two’ by The Hacker & Miss Kittin, an absolute double shock. My taste for darker sounds especially comes from the track ‘1000 Dreams,’ a classic where I find everything I love. I tend to stay away from overly colorful, festive, and especially cheerful music; I’ve never really liked that.
EG: Looking ahead, where do you want to take your sound next? Is there a direction you feel yourself moving toward?
D3LMAT: Over time, I’ve realized that what I prefer most in the music I want to make is the “less is more” technique, being effective with fewer elements. I’m working on that.
“I love sounds from the past, but what’s even more interesting is taking them somewhere else, using today’s technology, to create the music of the future”
EG: What would you say is one of the biggest challenges for artists trying to carve out a distinct identity today?
D3LMAT: I think about it myself all the time, and it’s very difficult. It takes a lot of time and practice to get there. The issue is that so many projects are released every day, and competition keeps growing. Being unique in your artistic direction is essential; it comes down to hard work. But with all the great tools we have now, it’s more accessible than before, which is a positive thing.
EG: Thank you so much for your time. We wish you all the best with ‘No Escape’ and what’s to come. Take care!
D3LMAT: Thank you, see you soon!
D3LMAT’s ‘No Escape’ is out now via Mélopée Records. Stream and download your copy here.
Follow D3LMAT: Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram
