Name: Pig&Dan
Members: Igor Tchkotoua & Dan Duncan
Interview: Dan Duncan
Nationalities: Scottish (Dan), Spanish (Pig)
Occupation: Producers, DJs
Recent release: Pig&Dan's "Electricity," featuring LIVI, is out via Get Physical.

Tool of Creation: REAKTOR
Type of Tool: Graphical modular software music studio
Designed by: Native Instruments
Years produced: 1996-
Country of origin: Germany

If you enjoyed this interview with Pig&Dan and would like to stay up to date with their music, visit their official homepage. They are also on Instagram, Facebook, and Soundcloud.

We also recommend our earlier Pig&Dan interview in which they expand on a wider range of topics. Or check out our conversation with the duo about the relationship between technology and creativity. 



What was your first encounter with REAKTOR?

I was lucky enough to have run into Native Instruments at an early stage, and I've been in love their products from many years back.
 
Just like any other piece of equipment, REAKTOR has a rich history. Are you interested in it? And if so, what are some of the key points from this history for you personally?

For me, that it all stems from the modular world is something I think represents its core.

And how it’s been translated into the plug-in realm is simply outstanding.
 
What, to you, are some of the most interesting recordings made with REAKTOR?

I would say “Saturn storm” on Herzblut. An obscure ride through sound and where REAKTOR really shines. Slightly awkward inventing sounds.  
 


What interests you about REAKTOR in terms of it contributing to your creative ideals?

The crazy arpeggiators it features and the random madness it comes out with.

It takes your story and twists it up which sometimes is super romantic sonically speaking.
 
What are some of the stand-out features from your point of view?

As I mentioned above, the arpeggiator and the overall warmth and analogism … so cozy

Prior to using it for the first time, how did you acquaint yourself with REAKTOR? Will you usually consult a manual before starting to work with a new device – and what was that like for REAKTOR?

I am not a manual kind of guy. Both Pig and myself love a good shot in the dark. We really pride ourselves on experimental creativity.
 
Tell me a bit about the interface of REAKTOR – what does playing it feel like, what do you enjoy about it, compared to some of your other instruments?

It’s naive, simple 80s-esq graphics add that authentic feel to it.

There’s a lot to play with and some things that are just off the chart wild. It’s the child in me that relates to the interface and how odd it is in the very best way.

The results are what matters. But retro goodness also adds to the creative fun ...
 
How would you describe the sonic potential of REAKTOR?

Unlimited.

In which way does REAKTOR influence musical results and what kind of compositions does it encourage / foster?

It’s a magical box of inspiration. Sometimes it inspires but you don’t even use what inspired you in the track. It’s a companion!!
 
Could you describe working with REAKTOR on the basis of a piece, live performance or album that's particularly dear to you, please?

Pretty much everything we do has some REAKTOR in it.

How does REAKTOR interact with some of the other tools in your studio?

It doesn’t really.

And in honesty, I am happy it’s solely its own world.  
 
Are there other artists working with REAKTOR whose work you find inspiring? What do you appreciate about their take on it?

I’m not sure - but if it’s ever talked about it’s always a loved subject for those who are not extreme purists.