Within the techno community there is no doubt that Ellen Allien is one of the most respected djs, producers and label owners out there. Ellen is your favorite DJ’s favorite DJ; the influence to many artists that we look up to today. Her widely successful label Bpitch Control and UFO Inc have been techno taste makers since their inception in 1999. At this past Movement in 2024, Orly Gal of FMLA and HDDNSYMBLS talked to Ellen Allien about the challenges and highlights of performing at the Movement festival in Detroit, emphasizing the importance of safety, community, and the unique raw energy of the event.

Orly Gal: I just ran into Ellen Allien backstage at the Movement festival’s Underground stage. Ellen, what brings you here today?

Ellen Allien: I'm here until Tuesday evening, so I'm spending some time hanging out. I couldn't make it to the Underground stage yesterday because of the rain. Everything shut down just as I arrived with my USB stick and headphones. The rain started pouring, and I thought, no way, it's storm time. But the festival handled it well, prioritizing safety first. Once the storm passed, they extended the festival hours, and it turned out to be an amazing experience. Everyone came together, and I had the best time! I'm a bit tired today, though, and I'm even drinking Red Bull, which I usually never do.

 

Orly Gal: Last night, I was here interviewing Hector Oaks while Fatima Hajji was playing. The music suddenly stopped, and we were all confused until we found out they had to evacuate everyone. It was quite a moment, but you're right, the organizers did a fantastic job, and we got to see some incredible performances once we returned.

Ellen Allien: Exactly. They had to act fast to ensure everyone's safety, stopping everything immediately. It's tough to communicate with all the DJs across different stages in such situations. They shut down and then reopened, and it worked out well. I just hope the weather holds up tonight so we can enjoy some good music without interruptions.

 

Orly Gal: Safety first, but the party must go on! We saw you give an amazing performance at the Russell Center last night. Was that your first time playing there?

Ellen Allien: Yes, it was my first time playing at the Russell Center during Movement. I've been there for other events but not for Movement. It felt great to be in Detroit. We had a fantastic lineup with our collboration with Paxhau called "We Are Not Alone"- with Stingray and Paranoid London, mixing European and Detroit artists.

Movement always brought underground DJs mixed with commercial techno electro house DJs. This year really enjoyed the metalheadz floor. Movement brings us all together and reflects our house, techno, electro movement. 

 

Orly Gal: The vibe there was a unique blend of raw Detroit energy and a bit of Berghain’s atmosphere.

Ellen Allien: Exactly. The two-floor setup allowed people to move around, and I requested simple red lighting without any fancy visuals to keep that raw, warehouse feel. Sometimes, less is more. The venue itself is already special because it's a warehouse. It's a rare experience to dance and listen to techno in such a setting.

 

Orly Gal: I caught your set at the Underground stage a few years ago. How did you feel about it?

Ellen Allien: I played there three years ago, and it's a crucial stage because it has that intimate, clubby vibe. It's the perfect place to dive deep into your sound without worrying about daylight. It's important for festivals to provide such a space where DJs can experiment freely. Detroit holds a special place in my heart. Movement festival has revitalized the city, which felt even more empty when I first visited. Now, more buildings and people are here, with many artists moving to Detroit to make music. Movement and the Jazz Festival are vital for bringing people and music back to the city.

 

Orly Gal: There’s something unique about Detroit—the vibe, the energy. Among all the US festivals, Detroit feels the closest to Europe in terms of how much people care about the music and the community, especially when it comes to techno.

Ellen Allien: Absolutely. There’s less advertising and overproduction here. The festival has been around for a long time and works well with the location. As a European, seeing legends like DJ Godfather, Stingray, and Kevin Saunderson play here is inspiring. They’ve taught me so much, and it feels right to be part of this. The team at Paxahau, especially Chuck who books the festival, are passionate and have kept the spirit alive.

 

Orly Gal: I agree! Thanks for taking the time to talk to us.

Ellen Allien: Thank you. Send my regards to 6AM—they’re doing so much for the LA scene!

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