Altars

Est. 2018
Promoting the symbiosis of music and art. 
In constant change.

Lover of electronica and hard beats, deep bass and sharp synths

Berghain and Khidi resident
@bitelabel head
Ostgut Ton | BITE | Jealous God
Booking: chris@elitemm.co.uk

Emerging as Phase Fatale in 2014, Berlin-based DJ, producer and label owner, Hayden Payne is rewriting the discourse of Techno with his cross-pollination of gnarly basslines, sensual narratives and mind-control mechanics. Demonstrating his vision through an authentic, highly curated sonic-lens of techno, the New York native’s rhythmic excursions draw on his roots in the underground scenes of his respective cities as well as his reputable experience performing to dancefloors globally. Exemplified by long-standing tenures as a resident for esteemed institutions such as Berlin’s Berghain as well as KHIDI in Georgia's capital Tbilisi, Payne demonstrates a resolute understanding of harnessing club synergy across his productions and DJ sets.

With three full length albums under his belt, including the 2020 sophomore release ‘Scanning Backwards’ on Berghain’s imprint Ostgut Ton, Payne’s sonic signature pushes the boundaries of techno sensibilities and reflects the zeitgeist whilst staying true to his own vision. Wasting no time since his solo project’s inception to showcase his expert sonic ability, Payne has toured throughout Europe performing at renowned clubs and festivals worldwide, releasing numerous records on labels including Jealous God, Ostgut Ton, and his own label BITE.

Payne launched the BITE imprint in 2018 as a means to platform cutting-edge sound production across a diverse roster of international artists. Along with fellow Soft Crash protagonist Pablo Bozzi pioneering ‘Italo Body Music’, BITE’s seminal synthesis of curated techno solidifies the label as a tour de force taste-maker within electronic music with showcases worldwide including Berghain and their 5 year anniversary compilation ‘Shedding Skin’ in 2023.

Hailing from post-punk roots, Payne draws on his depth of musical knowledge and multitude of influences. His merging of nuanced references and high concept narratives remain geared towards the dancefloor at its core, subtleties of his multifarious sonic palette act as the foundations for his layered wall of sound.