CARV’s philosophy is all about the music, not the person behind it, as he makes his debut on Sara Landry’s HEKATE label.
Frankfurt born DJ and producer CARV chooses to keep his identity a secret for reasons that go much deeper than one may imagine. Aside from taking cues from masked hardcore legend Angerfist, CARV believes that as the mask he wears remains mysteriously static, he is then able to truly express himself through his music – which is anything but motionless.
By building a persona that is so intrinsically focused on the music, CARV has become something of a renegade producing a frenetic blend of hardcore, techno and hard dance that defies categorization.
Whilst 2024 was a crucial year for the enigmatic masked man with regards to musical output – launching his own Masked Rules imprint and appearing on labels such as ARTCORE Records, Vermillion Trax, Revised Records, and Trouble Maker Records. In 2025, CARV is looking to take his pulverising sound global with dates already lined up in Lithuania, Germany, Scotland, England, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland, USA, Croatia and Australia.
To coincide with this imminent run of worldwide shows, CARV released a two-track EP titled, ‘Make You Move’ on Sara Landry’s HEKATE Records.
We spoke with CARV about all of this, so let’s hear what he had to say.
Thanks for talking to us CARV. Very big new release on Sara Landry’s HEKATE is coming in February. Have you always been a fan of her label? Can you tell us some of their favourite releases?
Great talking to you as well! Yes, ever since Sara started playing some of my tracks like ‘Say My Name’ and ‘Brembo’, I’ve been following HEKATE closely. The label has built a strong identity and it’s been amazing to see its impact on the scene. Some of my favourite releases include ‘No Sleep’ by Sara Landry, as well as ‘Heaven’ and ‘Rave 2000’ both collaborations between Sara Landry and Alt8.
Let’s talk about the production of the release. Can you tell us some of your key studio gear and software used and how?
For production, I work in Ableton Live. When it comes to creating deep and immersive atmospheres, I love using the Moog Sub37 – its analog warmth adds a unique texture to my sound. Aside from that, I rely on digital plugins like Serum, Sylenth1, and Omnisphere to craft my synths, leads, and pads. For mixing, I use Adam Audio A7 monitors, which give me a clear and precise representation of the sound. This setup allows me to balance analog depth with digital flexibility, helping me shape the energy and power behind my tracks.
This release seems groovier than some of your previous, especially with the vocals. Was this a conscious move and is this a sign of what’s to come from you this year?
I always enjoy experimenting with new elements in my music. With this release, I wanted to bring more groove and vocal work into the mix while still maintaining the signature CARV sound. It’s important for me as an artist to showcase variety without losing my core identity. Pushing boundaries and trying new things is essential for growth, and this year will definitely bring some exciting surprises. Stay tuned!
You’ve remained unknown for years, can you tell us why you like to remain anonymous?
For me, the focus has always been on the music. Staying anonymous allows me to keep the attention on my sound rather than my personal life, which I prefer to keep separate. The mask has also become a strong part of my identity – it’s not just a visual element but a symbol that represents the project. In the end, it’s all about letting the music speak for itself.
Tell us one memory from 2024 which was a turning point in your career?
One of the biggest turning points for me in 2024 was playing at Verknipt Arena. It was an absolutely overwhelming experience – the scale, the energy, and the connection with the crowd were on another level. Seeing 40,000 ravers lose themselves in the music, feeling that intensity in real-time, was something I’ll never forget. Moments like that remind me why I do this and push me to take things even further. It was definitely a defining moment in my career.
We have heard you will be doing a debut Australia tour in February, with 4 dates across the country. What do you expect from the scene there? Is this hardcore sound really developing down under?
I’m really excited for my debut Australia tour in February! I’ll be playing at Shlømo Invites in Sydney, Welcome Back Devil at PICA in Melbourne, then a show in Brisbane with The Garage Session, and last but not least POV in Melbourne again. The scene there is definitely evolving, and you can feel a growing openness to harder sounds. It’s amazing to see how the music is expanding globally, and I’m looking forward to bringing my sound to the Australian crowd for the first time!
A resident for Verknipt, how has this brand helped your career to date?
I see my relationship with Verknipt as a loyal and respectful collaboration rather than just a residency. They have played a huge role in helping my name grow, giving me the platform and trust to fully express my style. Being able to showcase my sound without limitations has been invaluable, and it’s always a pleasure to work with them.
You’re returning to Croatia for the Verknipt Croatia Holiday Festival. How was your experience here last time, and what do you expect from this year’s edition?
Last year was the first-ever Verknipt Croatia, and it was absolutely insane! The energy, the crowd, and the seaside setting created something truly special. You could feel that everyone was hungry for this kind of event—pure, high-intensity excitement in one of the most stunning locations. It was an unforgettable experience, and being part of that first edition felt incredible.
This year, I expect things to be even bigger, louder, and wilder. With the foundation already set, the energy will be next level. I’m bringing fresh, unreleased tracks, pushing my sets even further, and making sure the crowd goes all in. Verknipt is known for its madness, and I’m ready to take it up another notch!
Finally, we want to know what you listen to at home…..can you tell us one of your favourite tracks of all time for at home listening?
I listen to a wide range of music at home – everything from ’70s and ’80s classics to all kinds of electronic music across different subgenres. My taste is pretty diverse, and I think that variety also influences my own productions. Some of my all-time favorites include Angerfist – Incoming, The Prodigy – Invaders Must Die, and KC & The Sunshine Band – Get Down Tonight.
Follow CARV on SoundCloud, Spotify, TikTok and Instagram.
