The Atheist: A Hypnotic Wet & Hard Classic

The Atheist captures the essence of the Wet & Hard era: driving basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and an unmistakable raw energy. Produced in 2000 in my living room studio, Narodni Podník 1 in Berlin-Wedding, this track represents a pivotal moment in my career. It’s the embodiment of a sound deeply influenced by artists like Timo Maas, Thomas P. Heckmann, and Giorgio Moroder, whose iconic basslines inspired me to craft my own groove-centric approach. At its core, The Atheist is a reflection of my vision for Wet & Hard: a style that blends the hypnotic with the visceral, merging subtle melodic shifts with relentless momentum.

The Production: Minimal Gear, Maximum Impact

In the late ’90s, my studio setup was modest but effective. Armed with a 16-track Yamaha digital mixer and an array of carefully chosen effects, I worked tirelessly to give The Atheist its signature clarity and punch. A standout feature of the track is the inclusion of the Tardis sound, sampled from the iconic Daleks movie. This element, woven into the break, takes listeners on a sci-fi journey from tension to explosive release, all anchored by a bassline that’s as groovy as it is Wet & Hard.

From Berlin to Ministry of Sound

The Atheist (Released in 2001 on Flesh) found its way into the hands of Ministry of Sound, where it became a cult favorite among Wet & Hard enthusiasts worldwide. Its pulsating rhythm and cinematic details made it a standout in DJ sets, resonating with both underground audiences and the larger techno scene. However, the release wasn’t without challenges. The transition of Paul van Dyk to Ministry of Sound and internal tensions within the scene limited the track’s full potential in the UK market. Despite these hurdles, The Atheist maintained its status as a dancefloor weapon, celebrated for its ability to captivate crowds with its hypnotic groove.

The Philosophy Behind The Atheist

The title The Atheist isn’t just provocative – it’s introspective. It represents a paradox that reflects my own beliefs, where atheism and theism coexist as parallel truths. This duality is mirrored in the track itself: minimalistic yet full of depth, structured yet chaotic, a sonic contradiction that keeps the listener engaged. This concept is something I explore further in my memoir, where I delve into the intersections of faith, creativity, and the ever-evolving identity of an artist.