The 6th edition of Ombra is just weeks away, and the iconic community gathering is making its highly anticipated return to Barcelona, uniting legends and friends from around the globe. If you’ve been considering joining us, now is the perfect time to make that decision. The countdown is on, and you won’t want to miss out on this unforgettable experience.
To help you get a taste of what’s to come, we’ve connected with some of the incredible artists who’ll be gracing the stage at this year’s festival. We sat down with heavy hitters like Ancient Methods, KalteNacht, L.F.T., Puerta Negra, Mind Matter, Raderkraft, and Andi, along with festival director Raul, to talk all things Ombra, from the music to the atmosphere, and what attendees can expect this year.
From industrial rhythms to synth-punk / minimal synth/electro and classics. Ombra 6 promises to showcase a diverse range of sounds, bringing together a truly global mix of talent. Whether you’re drawn to the heavy beats of Ancient Methods or the dark, atmospheric vibes of Kalte Nacht, there’s something for every electronic music lover.
So if you’ve been hesitant, let these exclusive insights from the artists and festival organizers give you the final nudge. It’s shaping up to be an epic weekend of music, art, and connection — and we can’t wait to share it all with you in Barcelona!
First on the roll is the Ombra director Raul:
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going? What can we expect from this edition of Ombra? What do you think are the main differences between this edition of Ombra Festival and the previous ones?
The preparation for Ombra is in full swing, and we’re working hard to make this edition stand out.
You can expect an intense, immersive experience with a carefully curated lineup that reflects the darker, more experimental side of electronic music. We’re also expanding some aspects of the festival to make it more interactive and engaging for the audience.
One of the main differences this year is the addition of exclusive collectible items, like our album of artist cards, which attendees can only get through specific festival combos and interactive activities on social media. It’s all about enhancing the experience and giving fans something unique to take home.
Overall, this sixth edition of Ombra is all about pushing boundaries while staying true to the festival’s essence. It’s going to be unforgettable!
Ancient Methods, the founder of the Persephonic Sirens Label, has cemented his status as a steadfast presence within the electronic music sphere for nearly two decades. His venture embodies an unyielding and resolute passion for otherworldly, multifaceted music, underpinned by his distinctive “pitch black techno war funk.“
The project emblem, the fall of Jericho, is more than a symbol; it represents Ancient Methods’ firm conviction that innovation arises from breaking down barriers. This approach is perhaps most apparent in his kaleidoscopic DJ mixes, which use techno as a mere transmitter to celebrate the wide spectrum of musical diversity. This take is also evident in his numerous remixes, including those for Yello, The Soft Moon, Wishmountain, or Die Wilde Jagd: Industrialized beats embrace synth-pop, dark wave melodies, trans-traditional kraut- and experimental folk elements.
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going?
Ancient Methods: Not so bad. I mostly prepare gigs or work on music while I’m traveling, whether on the plane or on the train. I’ve been traveling quite a lot these past few weeks, so I’m not as behind on my duties as I usually am.
What are your impressions of the Ombra Festival, and what is your unique approach to it? What can we expect from your performance at Ombra?
Ancient Methods : It’s certainly one of Europe’s finest festivals. Despite its size it feel like a big family reunion. The lineups are thoughtfully curated, uncompromising and innovative. For the second year in a row I will play the opening party. Last year’s energy was unmatched and maybe for this and all the above reasons it already by now feels like a recurring ritual, like a tradition almost.
I will play again an uptempo synth-punk / minimal synth DJ set, a mix of classics and obscure stuff. Each track of the set will be an edit of mine I prepared only for this particular performance.
Puerta Negra is an electro-punk/EBM band in the tradition of 80s Wax Trax!, Cabaret Voltaire, Portion Control, Nitzer Ebb, and Skinny Puppy. They adopted their name from a song by the beloved norteño band Los Tigres del Norte. Puerta Negra’s lyrics are inspired by the horrors of colonialism, globalization, and nationalism.
Their 6-song debut EP Costo Humano was released on cassette in 2022 via Detriti and on vinyl via Oráculo Records in 2023. Their second EP Playa Sola was released on vinyl via Synthicide in June 2023.
As a live force, Puerta Negra has performed at Verboden and Substance in 2022, toured Southern California, Texas, and Europe in 2023, appearing at Kalabalik på Tyrolen in Sweden, Fekete Zaj in Hungary, as well as stops in London, Barcelona, and Berlin. They’ve shared the stage with other notable contemporary artists such as High-Functioning Flesh, Kontravoid, PC World, Kris Baha, Spike Hellis, Light Asylum, Patriarchy, Statiqbloom, Buzz Kull, MVTANT, Blu Anxxiety, and many others.
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going?
Maria: Lately the focus has switched to writing new songs and exploring different ways to deliver the performance that will hopefully be memorable. There is always room for more engagement with the crowd and I enjoy exploring that on different levels.
Mark: We are working on new songs hoping to debut one or two at OMBRA!
What are your impressions of the Ombra Festival, and what is your unique approach to it?
Maria: The way I see it, OMBRA is pivotal at connecting newer artists to an audience that is hungry for it as well as creating an atmosphere where we get to share the stage with incredible acts that have been influencing genres for decades. I approach it as an immense honor. I take it incredibly seriously and at the same time am completely elated. It’s an invigorating combination of feelings.
Mark: OMBRA strikes us as a singular festival, combining music, performance and visual art in a very unique way.
What can we expect from your performance at Ombra?
Maria: We have a special set with some new material prepared just for OMBRA and the OMBRA community. What we aim to share each time we perform is for people to walk away feeling like they understand the songs on a more personal level and that they understand me more intimately as a person through my lyrics and performance. I want everyone to feel the energy we are putting out and have the same sense of catharsis we feel when we play. There’s a release that happens.
Mark: We put a lot of energy into our live performances and we hope that will translate to and inspire the attendees to move their bodies – its a very kinetic experience.
Andi’s sets are electrifying, blending sleaze and sultriness with a dynamic, body-driven groove. A master of EBM, new beat, Italo, and freestyle, her performances are shaped by her deep vinyl collection, offering a unique yet focused sound. Based in NYC, Andi has played at iconic venues like Panorama Bar, Montreux Jazz Festival, Fold London, and Ombra Festival.
Her productions challenge the norms of traditionally masculine genres, blending bass-heavy grooves with samples from erotic thrillers and sci-fi films to create a wry, cinematic edge.
Andi released Corpse to Corpus (2020) and Compelling Evidence (2023) on aufnahme + wiedergabe, and the Torque Force EP with Randolph & Mortimer on Mecanica Records (2021). She also co-released the Parafernales EP with Machino on Mannequin Records (2023), and contributed to Curses’ Next Wave Acid Punx Deux and Dischi Autunno’s Intermezzo Tre compilations.
As the founder of the SYNTHICIDE party, label, and event series in Brooklyn, Andi has shaped the dark underground scene for over a decade. She’s a resident at Bossa Nova Civic Club, The Lot Radio, Gabriela, and a member of the ItaloMatic crew.
Hello, how are you today? What are your plans?
Andi: Hi, I’m good! My plan is to return to Ombra for the second year in a row with another vinyl set that exemplifies who I am as a DJ with some new beat, EBM, early weirdo techno—all with a bit of NYC flavor. Besides that, I’m excited to hang out with old friends and meet new ones, maybe buy a few records, too.
Sounds sick! A vinyl set makes it even more tempting not to miss. If you could reveal three records you’ll definitely play, which ones would they be? And which record shops do you plan to visit? Maybe we can check them out too!
I’m still putting together my set so I can’t say which ones I’ll play for certain, I do know there’ll be lots of fun samples. And I’ve never been vinyl shopping in Barcelona, I’d love some recommendations as well!
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going?
I’ve been buying records with more intention and planning the theme and flow of the set, there’s still a few records I’ve got my eye on that I need to grab. I’ll start putting the set together once I’ve got the last few pieces.
How do you usually build the theme and flow for your sets? Do you look back on your previous performances for this one, since it’s not your first time playing at Ombra?
I like to stay true to the ethos of the event I’m playing, but still maintain a sense of self. To me, the flow of a set has to include elements of intensity and suspense—it should veer to places you didn’t expect. Last year’s set was almost entirely new beat and EBM, this year I’m going to expand it a bit.
What are your impressions of the Ombra Festival, and what is your unique approach to it?
Honestly, Ombra was incredible last year in terms of the curation and the atmosphere, I can honestly say I’ve not experienced anything like it before. The sense of community was also another aspect I loved about the festival since the scene is not as vibrant in the US.
We can’t wait either! After being in Barcelona a few times, this will be our first time at Ombra. So far, we’ve only heard positive things about it. Why do you think every artist is preparing something new or pushing their limits to create something unexpected?
I think Ombra is the best place to showcase what you’re really about, the festival is one of a kind for this type of music.
What can we expect from your performance at Ombra?
It’s gonna be fun—and with some surprises.
Kalte Nacht began in 2017 as a solo project by Nikos K., soon evolving into a duo with Myrto Stylou on vocals. The project blends dark-wave urban beats with atmospheric sounds, featuring haunting vocals, analog synths, and drum machines. Inspired by the Athenian underground and human interactions, their music explores the space between shadow and light, engaging listeners through dynamic live performances.
Their self-titled debut album, released in March 2020 by Geheimnis Records, sold out within months. They’ve performed at major festivals like Wave Gotik Treffen (DE), Sinner’s Day (BE), and Death Disco Open Air (GR). In March 2021, they released the single “Our Moments Are Answers.”
In May 2022, Kalte Nacht joined the Cold Transmission label and re-released their debut album on CD. In March 2024, they dropped the digital single “Last Breath,” part of their upcoming album Urge, set for release in June 2024 via Cold Transmission. Urge will be showcased at major European festivals, including Cold Hearted (DE), Ombra (ES), and Cold Lake (DE) in autumn/winter 2024.
Hello, how are you today? What are your plans?
Kalte Nacht : Hey! First of all, thanks so much for having us! We are super excited and getting ready for our next European shows.
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going?
It’s going pretty well! We are rehearsing a lot, mainly our new album, in the studio, so it’s going to be ready to be presented to you at Ombra in December in a very special way!
Sick! You’ll be presenting a new album at the festival—that makes it even more special. Can you share a bit about the direction of the new tracks?
It’s been 4 years since the release of our debut album, which was created in a different way, mainly because we were living in different countries back then. At the time we were also still “discovering” each other musically, aesthetically, and as friends also. So, many things have changed since then.
We could say that ‘U R G E’ is a more collective and mature work, as far as the composition, the lyrics, and the aesthetics, in general. We took our time, spending lots of hours in the studio together, experimenting, trying new things, diving a lot deeper in every aspect of it, trying to observe ourselves and our feelings progress, which inevitably reflect in our music. These go side by side, as we continuously evolve as humans, in our daily life, our influences and experiences.
‘U R G E’ is -we could say- a more emotional album, with its high and low moments, deeper music vibes and atmosphere, and at the same time the explosive dynamism that characterizes us as a band! A little bit like life itself.
We recommend you give it a listen from the start ’till the end, before you come to our show at OMBRA festival, as the order is totally intentional, a true inner ride that we describe a lot in our Manifesto (included in our physical releases). But even if you don’t, we really think that if you let it, it will take you with it and place you gently into the core of the Kalte Nacht world!
What are your impressions of the Ombra Festival, and what is your unique approach to it?
Ombra is one of the best European festivals in our genre, and in general, as it presents bands that push the limits of genres, combining them, crossing them or re-inventing them. All of this, with being at the same time open to new music and a more experimental sound. Pure music explorers! It’s a rare gem, so we couldn’t feel more happy that we will have the chance to be a part of it and perform there, especially with this incredible lineup! It’s also our first time as a band in Spain. Our approach is to keep true to our Kalte Nacht vision and express ourselves as authentically as possible, while in the meantime absorb as many things as the festival has to offer to inspire us, and give back all we got and more.
It feels like every artist is preparing something unique and fresh for the festival. Why do you think Ombra creates such a special fusion of music within its atmosphere and crossing the limits?
Mainly because the people that host the OMBRA festival are pure music lovers. We felt that from the first time that we were in written contact, and later on it was confirmed when we had the chance to meet some of them in person this year! OMBRA is not just a festival. There is a whole vision behind it, carefully crafted and with attention to detail in every aspect of it. From the aesthetics to the way they approach us as a band. It holds something that is special for us too in the way we approach the band, the family feeling. They love what they do, they give their energy and passion to it 100%. It’s very very difficult to keep up at this level each and every year, trying to discover new music in different genres, and also give this big chance to new bands, at the same time. We think that this approach is the key, and the artists that participate really feel that. That makes us all so happy and motivates us even more to give a special performance there!
What can we expect from your performance at Ombra?
Definitely emotions to rise up, and lots of dancing! The set we are preparing will be dark, intense and dynamic, with the pure intention to invite the Ombra audience to our Kalte Nacht world and interact on as many levels as possible while performing. We will be performing many songs from our new album, but also some from the first album which we know that people would love to listen live!
We’re even more pumped for your show and can’t wait for it! Any chance you could reveal some lyrics from the upcoming tracks? What words would you share?
Myrto wrote a special piece exclusively for ‘U R G E’, which you can find in the new album physically as a poster. We call it the ‘U R G E manifesto’. It basically describes the backstory of each song, painting a picture of our collective vision which we express through this album. It’s taking you through the album and the song order we intentionally chose, as a necessary and ongoing internal process we all experience from time to time, or even just once in our lives. Something special from it:
It’s a bold act for sure. Almost rebellious. A rebel’s act.
It’s also a rewarding act, to trust.
Because we never think of breathing, right?
We trust we will always be able to breathe to stay alive, and somehow we do it.
The same goes for being.
You trust someone, you trust you, everytime you walk that you won’t fall.
Everytime you share a bit of you, that you will be accepted.
And you will be.
Thank you for your collaboration on it & have a great day!
Thanks again for this beautiful conversation. We can’t wait to see you in Ombra!
Raderkraft, the project of Amsterdam-based producer and songwriter Willem Stinissen, blends wave, minimal synth, and EBM into an irresistible sound. With a love for vintage synthesizers and drum machines, his DIY approach has led to four EPs, including his debut released by legendary Dutch club owner Eddy de Clercq.
Known for his raw, hard, and danceable live shows, Raderkraft combines cold, melodic electro with catchy hooks and the energy of 80s punk. His sound has been described as a modern crossover between DAF and Arbeid Adelt, featuring pulsating beats, driving basslines, and quirky vocals. Raderkraft’s music takes you from the Autobahn straight into the galaxy.
Hello, how are you today?
Raderkraft: Hello I’m good thank you! Can’t wait for Ombra Festival ‘24 🙂
How is your preparation for Ombra festival going?
I’ve done some interesting things this year leading up to the Ombra Festival. I released a single with Adam Tristar,
who’s also performing at Ombra ’24, and went on a small tour through Finland which was awesome! There is also a new Raderkraft track appearing on a Dutch compilation album curated by Dutch music journalist Oscar Smit, released by Suburban Records on November 22. It’s featuring new, adventurous, non-mainstream Christmas music by exciting Dutch underground acts like Dorpsstraat 3 and Truus de Groot (former Plus Instruments) It’s called:
‘A Dutch X-mas Party’ In the meantime I’m working on a new EP or mini-album which will be released in spring ’25.
What’s the vibe of the new album? I’m curious about the direction—still drawn to Smart Control, which could work as both the opening and closing track in a set. Can’t wait to hear it!
‘Smart Control‘ is not a typical Raderkraft track. It has a low-tempo Kraftwerk-inspired robotic electro vibe. Since many Raderkraft tracks are up-tempo and more minimal-synth / punk, it fits well as an intro to my set. I created this track back in 2017 because I like to try new things and avoid making too many tracks that sound the same, getting stuck in the same production process. I challenge myself by approaching things differently each time. This can mean a new workflow, using other gear, but also certain inspiration that sometimes comes out of nowhere from something I experience or thoughts that pop up in my mind.
I made ‘Smart Control’ right after I bought an original Korg MS-20. I was so impressed by this machine, at the time that it sparked a wave of inspiration.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was struggling, like a lot of fellow artists, with writer’s block and feeling completely uninspired. I decided to write what was on my mind. The song ‘Politiestaat?!’ (which means ‘Police State?!’) is about people shouting all sorts of ridiculous slogans during the COVID-19 measures, claiming that the Netherlands was a dictatorship or a police state. I found it so ridiculous that I wrote a song about it. For that time frame, doing it this way worked for me. I still like the result—it’s a banger!
Currently, I’m working on a more lo-fi muddy sound with a lot of analog gear and tape machines which is clearly evident in the track coming out on the Nov 22 Suburban Records Christmas compilation. Whether this will influence my new album further, I’m not sure yet…But I like to approach my workflow totally different each time in order to get surprising results.
What is your impression of the Ombra festival and your unique approach to it?
I think it’s great that there’s a unique festival in Spain that is mainly focused on the darker and experimental side of the electronic musical spectrum.
In Europe, this scene is not so big compared to other parts of the world like, for example, South America. I think Ombra is a great opportunity for people who are interested in adventurous darker music as well as discovering new and upcoming underground acts.
South America is vibrant—it’s exciting to hear that you think Ombra is heading in that direction. A fusion of both continents could work perfectly. Maybe Ombra in Brazil or Peru one day? 🙂
That sounds awesome!
What can we expect from your performance at Ombra?
I’m a solo artist, songwriter, and producer and handle most things by myself. But as I mentioned before, I really enjoy collaborating with other artists to work on and create music. On stage, however, Raderkraft is a solo act. This has both advantages and disadvantages. Since I used to play guitar in hardcore-punk bands back in the 90’s, working on my own suits me very well now. A drum machine is reliable and does it’s job when you want it to 😉 I can go on tour whenever I want and enjoy the freedom. When I look around at fellow artists, I notice more and more solo acts. I’m not sure if it’s a trend or not, but it definitely stands out to me. I often travel alone, or my label manager Marc Frijns from Wave Tension Records is joining me. When I first started doing shows with Raderkraft I would bring a lot of gear on stage .Later, I realized that it was a lot of gear to carry and using them all didn’t always contribute to a better show. You have to do so much at once that you don’t have time to focus on giving a show. That’s when I began to focus more on developing my stage performance and started experimenting with incorporating visuals to support my act. Now, my set features a progression that culminates in a highly energetic performance, supported by visuals, ending in an up-tempo apotheosis.
Could you tell us more about the visuals? They’re a big part of the projects we release, so I’m curious to hear what you’re working on.
Since I started experimenting with visuals, I’m receiving positive feedback of my audience. Because it works well as an addition, I’ve continued to use and develop it. Someone once said, “The symbiosis between image and sound creates a constantly shifting, raw yet sensitive aesthetic experience throughout the show” It’s a collage of images, self-made, collected, re-edited sometimes they tell a story, sometimes they don’t. I don’t want to go into too much detail about it because you have to experience it. I heard that a special type of projection will be used on my stage (Operator Stage). A visual sculptural concept by Eyesberg and VPM Studio, two creative laboratories that work together and are part of the Ombra creative team. (I’m not sure if I’m allowed to reveal this yet, I’ve asked about it and I am waiting for a reply.) It promises to be quite a spectacle, and I personally can’t wait. I’ll be performing on Saturday, December 7 at 17:30 PM at the OPERATOR STAGE. The exact time slot will follow. Hope to see you there!
MIND I MATTER is the main project of Paris based artist Théo Ferretti, finding its roots in post-punk and black metal, MIND I MATTER blends existentialism, esoterism and brutality with industrial, EBM & techno
Hello, how are you today?
Hi! I’m good thank you.
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going?
It’s going well! Getting ready and rehearsing a lot.
What are your impressions of the Ombra Festival, and what is your unique approach to it?
It’s truly an honor to be invited to perform at Ombra, such an iconic festival! I remember wanting to go there every year but never really had the opportunity so being invited to play here is a dream! It’s very rare to have quite a big festival with such quality in terms of lineups. As always it’s massive and there are many acts I really don’t want to miss.
What can we expect from your performance at Ombra?
Lots of things, definitely playing my last release La Complainte des Damnés on Forbidden Teachings, I’ll also play lots of new stuff that I’ve never played on stage yet. Very excited about this!
See you on Sunday at the Operator Stage!
L.F.T. (Love Fist Tears) is a DJ, producer, and live act rapidly making his mark in contemporary electronic music. His sound blends new wave and breakbeat-influenced electro, shaped by the distorted drum machines of The Hague and the romantic synth melodies of 80s San Francisco.
With releases on labels like Pinkman, Return To Disorder, and Mechatronica, L.F.T. has also dropped two albums on Mannequin Records and Osáre Editions. His third album is set for release next year on Mannequin, along with a 12-inch on Mechatronica.
As a DJ, L.F.T. seamlessly mixes electro and techno, creating futuristic soundscapes of both dread and hope. Live, he brings his productions and synthesizers to life. Originally from Hamburg and now based in Berlin, L.F.T. also curates the “Neoprimitive” night at the Golden Pudel Club with his friend Lukas Fischer.
Hello, how are you today?
I’m good thanks 🙂
Already full on I will be playing with my Band Schulverweis on Saturday and live as L.F.T. on Sunday at Operator Stage.
How is your preparation for the Ombra Festival going?
I have had a special connection to the festival since the first time I was there and supposed to play my first international live set, I caught COVID 2 days before and had to quarantine in my hotel room in Barcelona for a week and couldn’t perform.
Oh shit, that’s definitely memorable… glad it’s over! And now you get to play on two different days. What can you tell us about the differences between the two projects?
L.F.T. is my solo project where I DJ and play Live. It defines itself within Electro/EBM/Wave and Techno music.
Schulverweis is my band where I play together with my long-time friend Levente Pavelka. In this constellation, we only play Live and the sound is an interpretation of “Neue Deutsche Welle”.
A year after that, I finally got to play the live set there, and it was one of the best gigs I’ve ever had! So I am looking forward to returning this year!
What can you say about the community vibe during the festival ?
I think the community at Ombra is pretty special since you get the feeling everyone is part of a big family there. It’s all pretty focused on goth music and aesthetics so sometimes you feel like you’re in a “Bat cave”. Everyone there is a huge fan of the music, therefore the euphoria, when bands come on stage and play, is always amazing!
I have prepped a completely new live set, with lots of new songs to discover!
Sick! It feels like every artist is preparing something fresh—it’s going to be an explosion of new and old. Speaking of technical stuff, what gear are you bringing with you from Berlin?
The setup is quite minimalistic, since in my experience traveling with a lot of gear, only leads to problems.
Its mainly Roland 707+808, some keyboards, an Korg Electribe EMX1 and LOTS of pedals.
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