A series where music lovers share some of their hidden gems.

Number 74 is by Frank Haag (VBX), a Dutch selector based in Amsterdam.

Tell me about your musical roots‍

I started buying vinyl at 17, and back then, my influences were rooted in various forms of techno and electro. Artists and scenes from Berlin, Detroit, Rotterdam, and Chicago, like Jeff Mills, Robert Hood, and Heiko Laux, shaped my early musical tastes. Later, labels such as Perlon and Playhouse became significant influences. I used to gather with friends to play our wackiest records (still do :)), which really helped me push the envelope creatively. I vividly remember Sandrien showing me "Funny Little Man" by Aphex Twin one time, a groundbreaking moment haha.

What is Your favourite place to dig and why?

Sometimes I look for music on Bandcamp or Discogs in the comfort of my home, but I also enjoy hitting up the local shop, Killacutz. I've known Richard (who runs it) for a long time now, and there are always some familiar faces around. That atmosphere makes the search all the more enjoyable.

What do you listen to when you want to chill?

Actually, maybe not so original, but I’ve been listening to a lot of David Bowie and Prince again. It just never gets old. I keep discovering new favourite songs from their discographies. Amazing how they kept on creating so much till the very end. For me, definitely two of the best songwriters ever.

Can you share with me your favourite podcast at the moment?

Hard to pick only one; the other day I was listening again to Marginal Mix 02 by KRN. KRN, for sure, is one of my favourites.