Berlin-based DJ, producer Oliver Koletzki has just released his twelfth studio album “12” via Stil vor Talent, marking another milestone in a career spanning more than two decades at the forefront of electronic music. A deeply considered and emotionally rich body of work, the twelve-track opus moves between introspective storytelling and refined club energy, capturing Koletzki’s signature melodic sensibility in its most distilled form. Following a string of singles — including the groove-led “Schnapsidee” — the album arrives as a cohesive and purposeful statement, balancing atmosphere, restraint and detail with a natural sense of flow. On the occasion of the release, LoudLife caught up with the Stil vor Talent boss to chat about it!
Interview With Oliver Koletzki
Hi Oliver, congratulations on your new album “12.” How are you feeling about releasing it into the world?
It feels really good. I’m proud of the songs I’ve written and glad that I was able to express myself again and put together an entire album.
If you had to describe 12 in three words, what would they be?
Hope, mourning, self-reflection
What does this number and moment in your career personally represent to you?
It’s actually mainly the number of albums I’ve written—two years ago, I thought I was writing my tenth album, but I actually miscounted. To make sure that doesn’t happen again, I named this album “Twelve” so I can remember how many albums I’ve written so far 🙂
Compared to your earlier work, what do you think has changed the most in your production mindset?
Of course, I always try to keep improving my production, songwriting, and mixing skills. However, the biggest difference is that this time I didn’t work with as many vocalists or do as many collaborations – instead, it’s more of a pure Oliver Koletzki album.
What inspires you more these days, the people, nature, or introspection?
Self-reflection was actually a major theme, because I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on myself over the past two years. Of course, people—just like nature—are also a theme, since I wrote most of this album in Cape Town.
Stil vor Talent has been a key part of your journey — how has your vision for the label evolved over time?
The overarching vision is, in principle, still the same: promoting young talent, releasing high-quality music, supporting art and culture, and celebrating our electronic music at parties and festivals
How do you stay relevant without chasing trends?
I simply compose, produce, and release the music that flows naturally from me, without trying to please anyone. I firmly believe that if I do this for myself, that’s the best way to ensure others will enjoy it too.
Was there ever a moment when you questioned continuing your career in music?
Never.
What advice would you give to young producers trying to build a long-term career today?
Young musicians should make music for fun, without thinking about a career. They should try to create something unique and special of their own, rather than just copying others.
