Today on “Anja Schneider’s Backstage,” I’m welcoming a true techno legend: a dazzling, extraordinary personality with a wild story — Oliver Chessler aka The Horrorist.
His journey began in early ’90s New York City. Shaped by nights at the legendary Limelight and influenced by figures like Lenny Dee, Oliver, together with John Selway, developed a completely unique musical language. Punk, industrial, and techno merged into something raw, uncompromising, and impossible to fit into a single genre.
We talk about how Oliver met John Selway, why they immediately connected both musically and personally, and how they created their own definition of techno. Of course, we also dive into his iconic 1996 track “One Night in New York City,” which unexpectedly became a number one club hit in Germany thanks to Chris Liebing’s remix — even though Oliver himself had no idea at the time how huge the track had become there.
Oliver also shares stories about his very first gigs, the wild New York club culture of the ’90s, and one particularly special chapter of his youth: in 1988, at only 15 years old, he was one of the famous “bus kids” featured in Depeche Mode’s legendary concert film “101.” Traveling with Depeche Mode became a deeply formative experience for him, both musically and personally.
This is an intense and deeply intimate conversation about cultural history, early techno, the spirit of New York City, and the energy of an era that still resonates today. Complete with original flyers, personal memories, and fascinating stories from a time when techno still felt like a real adventure.
We also talk about Oliver’s relationship to music today. He has largely stepped away from the scene and now runs one of Berlin’s best oyster restaurants. The musician has become a true foodie — which is why, for the very first time on Backstage, we’re enjoying oysters and wine together.
Get ready for New York City in the house, unforgettable stories, wild memories, and a truly exceptional conversation with Oliver Chesler aka The Horrorist.
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