Liho Warm Up Mix @ Gewölbe Cologne 26.01.2013

Liho.
It’s 2025 in Cologne, Germany.
Since 2008, the Cologne underground music scene has seen a rise in new promoters, DJs, producers, and label owners; a new generation, and Denis Lihotzky, or better known as Liho, is one them. Motivated by his passion for music, Liho is a co-founder, resident DJ, and main programmer of the Cologne-based “Bergwacht”. He founded Bergwacht with long-time friend Max Keck back in 2008 to focus on bringing melodic techno producers and DJs to Cologne. Today, Bergwacht has become a household name in Cologne hosting monthly parties with guests from around the globe from Microtrauma, Anthony Rother and Gregor Tresher to name a few. Liho’s devotion, backed by a tight-knit group of resident DJs, has shaped Bergwacht into a brand that is not only beloved in Cologne, but has also influenced fans around Germany, Holland, Belgium and France. After five successful years of promoting events and presenting their understanding of melodic techno, Liho and Keck founded Bergwacht Records to further bring forth their passion to the public.

As a DJ, Liho has become a diverse and tactful DJ. He refers to his roots when playing for his own events by presenting a mix of current and classic melodic techno. One could expect to hear new works from Microtrauma or Ryan Davis supported by an old classic from Johannes Heil or Sven Väth. However, he is equally as capable to play a Deep House set or a sunrise set at an outdoor festival. For this reason, Liho is often booked in and around Cologne and boasts performances in Holland and France as well. He plays with an air of confidence that shows he’s an artist that knows what he’s doing, but with a sensibility that shows he doesn’t just play for himself; he cares about his fans. Liho is a lovely guy and an approachable person. It’s no wonder that Liho’s circle continues to grow and his events and label become more popular each day. With a firm hold on the the Cologne Techno scene, it is exciting to watch where he goes from here!

In 2008, Denis Lihotzky and Max Keck noticed a void in the Cologne underground music scene. So the two friends decided to start a project with the aim to fill that void: to provide Cologne with a regular event, which focuses on Melodic Techno. As an ode to their homeland, the Oberbergischer Land, they named their event Bergwacht or “Mountain Rescue”, and began to host parties once a month in Cologne’s Artheater. Denis “Liho”, who not only manages its bookings, but is also Bergwacht’s resident DJ, programs each event with an eye for upcoming talent and an ear for extraordinary music. Bergwacht’s guest DJs continue to attract a loyal and energetic audience, and by 2012, Bergwacht has become an important part of the Cologne underground Techno scene. Continuing to follow their passion, in September of 2012, the Oberbergischer troupe launched Bergwacht Records as an outlet to curate and present the music they love most, “Melodic Techno”. Their debut release features Max Keck and his longtime friend and collaborator Sven Kirchner as Tool..8 with remixes by Lanny May and Boss Axis. Bergwacht releases will be available on Vinyl and as digital download. Open your ears and let Bergwacht rescue you.