Christopher Coe returns to Filth On Acid with ‘Riot’, a new collaboration with KIAH that pairs hypnotic, driving Techno with a vocal performance that adds warmth and tension in equal measure. The release continues Coe’s exploration of live-focused electronic music, following years spent developing an improvisational approach that has taken him from a residency at DC10 Ibiza to performances at Awakenings, Glastonbury and beyond.
Alongside his work as co-founder of Awesome Soundwave with Carl Cox and his ongoing Modular Lounge concept, Coe remains committed to pushing live electronic performance forward. Ibiza Music Charts caught up with him to discuss the island’s evolving underground scene, the importance of context in live performance, and why improvisation continues to shape every set he plays.
You held a residency at DC10, one of Ibiza’s most influential clubs. What did that experience teach you about connecting with Ibiza crowds?
It taught me so much about improvisation and the need for flexibility in my performances. Each week was different and fresh, and so much fun. We had so many different live guests that year and everyone had wildly different approaches to their craft.
Ibiza has changed enormously over the years. What still makes the island special for underground electronic music artists?
Well, it is an inspiring place to spend time for sure. I am not sure there is an underground scene there any more, to be honest. I love being there, but I do wish there could be more support for the left-of-centre styles. Pikes do their bit, and there are a couple of new places coming online soon, Nocturna for one. Akasha is a beautiful place and they have their music policy set. I am sure there could be more. But, as a place to be inspired and hide away near the sea to do some work, it is gorgeous.
There are also some great studios there. I work a lot with Jonno at The Hub Studio, which is really amazing. He is a truly gifted engineer, and they have three dedicated studio rooms, including one for mixing in Atmos. It is a great place to work.
Your live sets rely heavily on improvisation. How does playing in Ibiza differ from performing in cities like Berlin or Amsterdam?
I play my music how I feel it, wherever I play. If the crowd is up for Techno, then I play it; if the crowd likes a deeper sound, then I go there. Sometimes I feel that perhaps the music listeners in Berlin or Amsterdam are more informed and serious about challenging music. Ibiza is a beautiful, warm, party island, so it is not the place for deep introspective music unless the setting is right.
I think there are those that would appreciate this there, and I hope to bring a series of intimate Modular Lounge events there where we can go deeper and more experimental. Usually, the setting for these types of events is a smaller, more exclusive and cosy venue, not really party music as such.
Having already brought Modular Lounge into intimate and unconventional settings, what have those experiences taught you about the relationship between sound, space and audience connection?
Context is everything. As described in my previous answer, the space for a Modular Lounge requires intimacy and freedom of expression for a small group, where people can genuinely connect, feel safe and enjoy the musical journey without all the trappings of the club or festival setting. It is a word-of-mouth thing; if you know, you know.
I think the setting informs the music, as it is improvisational, it is always different, and sonically, it is important to ensure the sound is inviting and warm, not harsh or loud. Hence, the importance of a unique space that allows for these criteria.
I have learned that context is vital.
You have played the likes of Awakenings and Glastonbury, but does Ibiza still hold a unique energy compared to the global festival circuit?
Yes indeed, the energy here is unique.
Ibiza crowds are known for long nights and open-minded music discovery. Does that freedom allow you to take more risks during live performances?
If that is the case, then yes. But at the moment, as I said above, the underground in Ibiza is less obvious nowadays, and I think a lot of people on the island would like to see it return.
You blend warm analogue textures with driving Techno rhythms. Do you think Ibiza audiences are becoming more interested in live electronic performance again?
I honestly do not know. I would love to say categorically yes, but I am not sure this is true just yet.
As co-founder of Awesome Soundwave, how important is it to support artists who perform live rather than simply DJ?
I think it is vital. I believe that this is one of the places you can still find unique and strange music, and it is becoming increasingly important with the rise of AI-driven music. Hearing live music with all its quirks and weird synchronicities is becoming more and more exciting. I believe it is very important as it is part of the evolution of truly innovative music.
If you could design the perfect sunrise Modular Lounge session anywhere on Ibiza, what would the setting and atmosphere look like?
Oh, you are articulating my dream. I think a beautiful clifftop villa terrace facing east with lovely soft cushions for lounging around the infinity pool, a warm and lovely sound system, not too loud, and, most importantly, a group of lovely people who are all friends. Oh, and plenty of shade and a cool, soothing breeze. I mean, I could go on.
Can you tell our readers about your favourite locations on the island? They can be anything from bars, restaurants or beaches.
Cala Mastella Chiringuito for the chicken. Of course, Fish Shack. The Hub Studios. Casa Lhasa for sunset dinners up in the hills. So many places!
Whether performing at clubs, festivals or intimate Modular Lounge sessions, Christopher Coe continues to explore the possibilities of live electronic music through improvisation and experimentation. With ‘Riot’ out now on Filth On Acid and plans to bring Modular Lounge to Ibiza, his focus remains on creating performances that respond to their surroundings while championing live electronic music in all its forms.
Christopher Coe’s ‘Riot’ feat. KIAH is now on Filth On Acid and is available to stream & purchase here.