In an age of intricate digital productions, Janko and Leander stand apart with “Stream”, a testament to pure, completely computer-free setup where effects-laden guitar converses with an experimental rhythm section, weaving electroacoustic jazzy soundscapes with electronic textures. Read our discussion below!
Describe your sound in 3 words
Leander: Free. Experimental. Energetic.
Tell us a few things about Stream. What is the story behind it?
Leander: We used to meet in the studio purely to jam—without any musical or commercial agenda. Over time, we discovered that it was possible to create the sound of a full band with just the two of us. Still without specific goals, we began composing across genres. Through multiple sessions, a modern and unconventional interpretation of techno and dance music began to take shape. Stream is one of the most genre-defying pieces that emerged from this process.
How do you approach improvisation in your duo, and how do these spontaneous elements evolve into structured pieces?
Janko: Sometimes we bring ready material to our meetings, but it’s most fun when we improvise. It’s immediately clear, when something we played stands out and we build on that.
The commitment to zero samples and crafting everything live is a core tenet of your approach. What challenges and freedoms does this impose on your creative process?
Janko: The challenge is immense—and so is the freedom. Using a computer on stage is the norm and often the easier route, but we deliberately chose the more demanding path: performing entirely live and without any backing tracks. Computers are prone to failure, and in a live setting without a large production crew, even a small glitch can derail an entire performance. Technical issues also restrict creative flow. This is precisely why we committed to a fully live, computer-free setup.
How many takes did Stream need to get it right?
Janko: The studio version is pretty much a faithful reconstruction of one of our jams. The video took three takes!
Artists and people that have influenced you?
Leander: Paul Kalkbrenner, Richard Spaven, Fred Again
Janko: Clark, Schrotthagen Eivind Aarset
If the music of Janko vs. Leander was a film, which film would that be?
Janko: Dark City! Also, we’d love to score a film!
Can you share each other’s funny habits?
Leander: Constantly buying new gear—no matter the time, place, or need.
Janko: Cooking Arrabbiata at least once a week.
Thank you!
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