Take It Easy w/ Ben Klock

Spotlight about the DJ’s came back at Circolo Magnolia.

It had been nearly six years since Milan last had the pleasure of hosting one of the pioneers of modern techno, Ben Klock. This long-awaited return was made possible by the Milanese collective Take It Easy, who brought him back to the city last Friday at Circolo Magnolia.

Circolo Magnolia, an ARCI non-profit social promotion association, has been a beacon for music enthusiasts since its inception in 2005. Nestled within the lush Idroscalo park, this venue has consistently hosted electrifying concerts and parties featuring both national and international luminaries. In a world that often takes itself too seriously, the Milanese collective Take It Easy emerged with a mission to inject a dose of levity into clubbing, without compromising on quality. Since 2009, they have been reshaping the nightlife experience.

Take It Easy’s mission is twofold: to elevate culture by showcasing top-tier international talent alongside deserving local artists, and to educate, drawing inspiration from the vibrant nightlife scenes of other European cities. The impressive roster of DJs who have graced their decks includes Moodymann, Jeff Mills, Ben UFO, Tama Sumo, Levon Vincent, DJ Boring, Christian Löffler, Tony Humphries, Paranoid London, Kerri Chandler, Radio Slave, and many more.

The night began with Fabio Alampi, aka DJLMP, the founder and resident DJ of Take It Easy, who kicked off the festivities from 10 PM to 12:45 AM. His set, steeped in 90s German influences, transitioned seamlessly from brisk, hypnotic tones to the deep, resonant sounds of 80s Detroit.

From 12:45 AM to 2:45 AM, it was finally time for Ben Klock to take the stage and remind the Magnolia audience of what they had been missing for six long years. Those who witnessed his performance were treated to a masterclass in diversity and depth, with Klock’s ability to craft an immersive experience rather than just play tracks. His set was intense and powerful, reflecting a fervor that captured an artistry and emotion often absent from the techno genre.

He also possesses an uncanny ability to adapt his music to any environment, a talent that sees him headlining both massive festivals and intimate club settings around the globe. His early career was defined by marathon sets—a hallmark that honed his skills and cemented his reputation—but even in his more concise performances today, he crafts intricate narratives and seamless flows that set him apart as a DJ.Ben Klock’s enduring relationship with the legendary techno institution has been pivotal to his rise, offering a platform that has elevated him to one of the most sought-after DJ-producers of his generation.

Closing the party from 2:45 to 4 AM was VOID founder and resident DJ, Richey V. VOID is a weekly techno event that has been electrifying Milan since 2014, blending musical inspiration with a striking visual identity to create a powerful collective imagination where darkness and pure fun coexist.

Richey V, known for his vibrant and open-minded approach, constantly challenges conventions with his ambitious and multifaceted sets. His productions and DJ performances are a relentless pursuit of emotions and contrasts, embodying a unique fusion of techno with a punk attitude.

We hope it won’t be another six years before Ben Klock graces the Milanese stages again. As luck would have it, his set began under a sudden downpour that lasted throughout the night. Yet, despite the rain, the energy was palpable—I’ve rarely seen so many people dancing like there was no tomorrow. This was probably what made his set more magical and harder to forget.

Ben Klock / Take It Easy, Milan

Credits:

DJ: Ben Klock / @ben_klock
Giorgia Amato / @giama_
Fabio Alampi aka DJLMP / @djlmpmusic
Richey V / @richey_v
Collective: Take It Easy / @takeiteasymilano
Venue: Circolo Magnolia / @circolomagnolia
Words: Gianmaria Garofalo / @gianmaria.garofalo
Editor: Anca Macavei / @ancamacavei

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