Get to know: Kiasmos | Janus Rasmussen

Combining his work ethic and experimental approach to producing, Janus Rasmussen makes up one half of the live electronic duo Kiasmos. Building a sound based around a robust variety of drum machines, synthesisers and tape delays to result in a signature, deeply textured rhythms, Kiasmos have evolved from local shows in Reykjavík to New York, Amsterdam, Melbourne and many more.

Alongside the BAFTA-winning Icelandic composer Ólafur Arnalds, the pair have dropped ambient releases on the genre-defying imprint Erased Tapes, showcasing their love of minimal, emotive melodies to the fore. 

Joining us for the first time on Saturday, April 28th for DJ Mag Sessions alongside Woo York (Live), Baikal and Tom Law, Janus will illustrate the sound of Kiasmos by playing solo solely in the form of a DJ set, something that’s equally captivating due to his enviable collection of contemporary, classic and unreleased cuts from the depths of his sonic library. 

We caught up with Janus ahead of the show to delve into the origins of Kiasmos and how both artists have evolved since stepping into the intense realm of live production… 

Tell us the meaning of the word ‘Kiasmos’ and why you produce and DJ under this moniker? 

We had vaguely decided to name our duo Chiasmus, which is when two phrases mirror each other in one sentence in order to make a larger point. However, when it was time to officially name our duo, we misspelt the word and out came Kiasmos! It’s fun to extend the sound of the Kiasmos universe, which is why we also like to dj under this name. It’s a big part of exploring our concept. 

How has the sound of Kiasmos evolved since starting the project back in 2014 both in live production and DJ sets? 

It has gotten a lot more defined and we know better what kind of sound we’re going for. In the beginning, we were much more of a clean slate, but now we have a very clear vision. Whether that’s a good thing or not, I guess time will tell! There’s a vast range of experimental producers who hail from Iceland, from the likes of Biogen to Björk amongst many others. 

Has there been an Icelandic producer who has made a significant impact on your approach to sound and life itself? 

It’s very hard not to be inspired by Björk. Especially from the perspective of a producer. Her environmental stance and activism is also incredibly inspirational. It will be your first time DJing in Egg LDN on April 28th but you’ve played in London a few times before this. 

What do you like about playing for a UK crowd? Is there a certain energy present? Londoners are such diverse people and I believe that creates a very beautiful vibe. It’s a very special experience. 

Leave us with a record that you consider to be particularly engrossing and why? 

I always want to answer this question with Voodoo by D’Angelo. When we were writing the Kiasmos LP we pretty much only listened to it. If you listen closely you might be able to spot some of our inspirations.