Mariana BO: I\’ve composed music for short films and brands. These experiences have influenced my productions

In this interview, Mariana BO delves into her new EP Memento Mori, exploring themes of mortality and transcendence while blending industrial sounds with spiritual and cinematic elements. She shares how her classical music background and experience composing for films have shaped her unique style, combining emotional depth with techno precision.

Mariana also discusses the spontaneity of her live performances, featuring violin and live finger drumming, and reflects on her collaboration with Filth On Acid. She reveals her future goals, including working with artists like Adam Beyer and Indira Paganotto, and shares how she stays inspired and creative despite a busy schedule. This interview offers a glimpse into the vision and artistry of one of electronic music’s most exciting talents.

Your new EP ‘Memento Mori’ explores themes of mortality and transcendence. How do these deeper concepts influence your approach to storytelling in music production? 

Just like music, ‘Memento Mori’ reflects the idea that even though death is present, we are also infinite. Through music, we can experience that sense of infinity. That’s what I want to convey — that music is both a reminder of our limitless nature and a game, a new beginning where style and genre can evolve.\”

Your live sets often feature both electronic elements and live violin performances. How do you balance the spontaneity of live instrumentation with the precision of techno in your shows? 

Yes, my live sets feature a rhythm box, finger drumming and violin, all performed live. This blend creates something more original and dynamic than a typical DJ set. Balancing the precision of techno with the spontaneity of live instrumentation makes the experience unique and fun, and I truly enjoy the energy it brings.

Filth On Acid has a reputation for bold and boundary-pushing releases. What was it like collaborating with the label, and how did their vision align with yours during the production of ‘Memento Mori’? 

It was crazy, I sent six tracks for approval and we ended up choosing three for the ‘Memento Mori’ EP and a further two for another EP in the near future. I feel that with the characteristics that ‘Memento Mori’ has, Filth On Acid was the perfect fit. I couldn\’t be happier.

The EP blends industrial and acid influences with spiritual and ethereal elements. How do you approach fusing such contrasting sonic textures while maintaining cohesion? 

Yes, my style is acid but with faster BPMs. I also integrate choirs, which have become a distinctive feature in my productions. These elements help create a unique blend that balances the raw energy of acid with a more ethereal, spiritual feel.

Your sound feels cinematic and emotionally charged. Have other art forms, like film or visual arts, ever inspired your music or helped shape the mood of your productions? 

Yes, as a classical musician, I\’ve composed music for short films and brands. These experiences have influenced my productions, giving them a cinematic and emotionally charged style that shapes the mood of my music.

With an already established global presence, what new challenges or goals are you setting for yourself as an artist in the next phase of your career? 

Continue to grow my name through my music, and be able to collaborate with great artists in the techno industry

Collaboration can often lead to unexpected creative breakthroughs. Are there any producers or artists, from the techno scene or beyond, who you’d love to work with in the future? 

Adam Beyer, Umek, Indira Paganotto, Sara Landry, I Hate Models, Nico Moreno, Space 92.

Touring and producing music demand very different energies. How do you stay creatively energized and find inspiration while navigating such a hectic schedule? 

I always bring my computer with me, so I\’m constantly creating new music. While touring, I use my spare time to work on and finish projects. This allows me to stay creatively energized and keep the flow going despite the hectic schedule

Many artists have a unique process for overcoming creative blocks. What’s your go-to method for staying inspired and pushing through moments when ideas aren’t flowing as easily? 

I don’t usually experience creative blocks, as I love being in the studio. If I do feel blocked, it\’s usually because I’m exhausted. In those moments, I find that getting enough sleep or spending some time at a spa helps me recharge and regain my energy.

What role does your cultural background play in your music, and are there ways you aim to incorporate more of those influences into your future projects?

As a classical musician and violinist, I always try to bring something different to my productions and shows. People seem to enjoy it, and I think this uniqueness is what sets me apart.