Stef Mendesidis is an acclaimed international DJ and techno producer, born in the Soviet Union, raised in Greece, and currently based in the Netherlands. Widely recognized as one of the most dynamic and technically gifted talents in contemporary techno, he is celebrated for his minimalist, high-energy sound driven by rich, rolling grooves. A rigorous self-taught artist, he spent years studying the architecture of analog instruments, developing a musical approach deeply influenced by constructivism and cinematography. Kangding Ray, the alias of French musician, DJ, and record producer David Letellier, is a highly influential figure based in Berlin known for bridging the gap between club-focused techno and avant-garde sound design. Over the years, particularly through landmark releases on cult labels like Stroboscopic Artefacts, his sound evolved toward darker, more physical, and hypnotic techno rhythms without losing its conceptual depth. In 2019, he established his own independent record label, ara, dedicated to exploring a more raw, visceral, and emotional side of techno. Beyond the club circuit, his multidisciplinary approach has extended into visual arts and cinema, culminating in winning the Best Soundtrack award at the Cannes Film Festival for his score on Óliver Laxe’s drama film Sirāt.