Clif Jack on His Latest Release, “Ark in the Dark,” and the Future of Techno

Italian techno artist Clif Jack continues to rise in the electronic music world with his latest release, Ark in the Dark, out now on Balthazar & JackRock’s Renesanz.

Known for his epic synths and explosive percussion, Clif Jack has been steadily making a name for himself, releasing music on respected labels like Reinier Zonneveld’s Filth on Acid and Spartaque’s Codex. In this exclusive interview, Clif Jack shares insights into his creative process, the inspiration behind Ark in the Dark, and the future of his label, MJA the Vision.

The Inspiration Behind Ark in the Dark

Ark in the Dark is not just another techno track—it’s a personal story of resilience and hope. When asked about the inspiration behind the track, Clif Jack said, “This track holds a special meaning for me. The inspiration came during the lockdown, a challenging time when I navigated uncertainty and darkness. Music became my refuge, my way of building a mental ark to protect myself from negative emotions.” The emotive vocal featured in the song, combined with dark atmospheric elements, creates a soundscape that resonates deeply with listeners facing tough times.

For Clif Jack, the creative process behind the track was personal and intense. He aimed to convey hope and resilience, not just for himself, but for anyone going through hardship. “I wanted to create something that reflected the feeling of being immersed in darkness but with the understanding that we can find our way out by building something solid within ourselves,” Clif explains.

A Perfect Match: Renesanz and Clif Jack

Releasing Ark in the Dark on Balthazar & JackRock’s renowned label, Renesanz, was a natural fit for Clif Jack’s artistic vision. The label has a reputation for pushing the boundaries of techno, which aligns perfectly with Clif’s approach to music. “Collaborating with Renesanz feels perfect because their commitment to high-quality, innovative tracks aligns with my artistic vision,” Clif shared. “With this track, I’ve found a space to express myself fully, and I believe it fits perfectly within their catalogue—it’s deep, powerful, and emotional.”

Clif Jack also expressed his admiration for the label’s work with Reinier Zonneveld and other prominent figures in the techno scene. He mentioned some of his favorite tracks, like Take Me Higher and Prana Flow, praising Renesanz for consistently delivering innovative music that pushes the techno genre forward.

The Message Behind Ark in the Dark

The message of Ark in the Dark goes beyond just beats and rhythms—it carries a message of resilience and finding light in the darkest moments. Clif Jack explained, “I wrote the lyrics during a difficult time—the lockdown—when uncertainty loomed over us. The line, ‘While the world feels the dark, I find the strength to build my ark,’ perfectly captures my experience.”

With Silke’s unique vocal delivery, the track resonates emotionally with its listeners. “This track speaks to transformation and self-discovery,” Clif emphasized, “reminding us that music can be a beacon of hope as we dance away the shadows.” It’s a powerful reminder of how music can help us navigate tough times.

MJA the Vision: Clif Jack’s Creative Hub

In addition to releasing music, Clif Jack has also launched his own label and event series, MJA the Vision. This venture was born out of his desire to create a platform that reflects his commitment to musical quality and artist support. The vision for the label, according to Clif, revolves around pushing boundaries and fostering creativity. “MJA the Vision is about pushing boundaries, being yourself, dreaming big, and moving forward through music,” Clif shared.

The label’s unique symbol—a snake eating its own tail—represents the cycle of positivity, rebirth, and evolution that MJA the Vision aims to embody. Clif explained, “The snake symbolises an endless cycle of positivity and rebirth, reflecting growth and continuous flow.”

The Future of Techno and MJA the Vision

As an artist who has seen the techno scene evolve over the years, Clif Jack shared his thoughts on its current state. While he acknowledges the popularity of faster, harder techno, he believes that the genre’s emotional depth is what truly stands the test of time. “The current trend at the top of the wave doesn’t excite me,” Clif admits. “I’ve started releasing tracks with slower melodies and rhythms, focusing on evoking more emotion through music.”

Clif Jack’s label, MJA the Vision, aims to shape the future of electronic music by staying true to its core values. “We want to collaborate with artists who are ready to invest in themselves and believe in music’s power to forge meaningful connections,” Clif said. As he continues to curate talent for the label, Clif looks for artists with a deep passion for music and a desire to push boundaries.

Conclusion

Clif Jack’s journey in the techno world is one marked by innovation, resilience, and a dedication to artistic authenticity. His latest release, Ark in the Dark, is a testament to his ability to infuse emotion and depth into his music, creating a track that resonates with listeners on a personal level. As Clif Jack continues to grow his label and evolve as an artist, there’s no doubt that he will remain a prominent figure in the techno scene for years to come.