Wasserstoff: Sound as a Living Form

Berlin-based composer and producer Christian Ogrinz, known as Wasserstoff, crafts a sound rooted in radical bass minimalism, merging melody and groove in a stripped-back, resonant style.

Eschewing traditional triads, Wasserstoff orchestrates with two elements: a melodic motif and a bassline. In the beat, the art of fugue emerges—two signals rarely collide, each distinct in its role, and the sound unfolds organically.

The ‘Real’ series stands as the foundation for Berlin Wibes’ South African-inspired debut album, blending Amapiano and Gqom vibes. With the iconic 808, Wasserstoff reaches into trap, bridging new-school rap energy with the pulse of ‚Leaders of the New World.‘

Each track in the Real series bears a name inspired by literary works, with Thomas Bernhard’s Extinction as a powerful first reference. As Wasserstoff continues to build, tracks evolve like kids at play—remixing, challenging, and inspiring each other.

Cooperation

Wasserstoff (‚water stuff‘, hydrogen) embodies the spirit of collaboration, mixing and combining effortlessly with diverse artistic expressions. Here, we feature a print by the awarded artist Majla Zeneli as the cover, showcasing the synergy between sound and visual art.

Genesis

Influenced by the liberating energy of Hip Hop and the pushy lines of Johann Sebastian Bach, as well as House Music and Reggae Dub, Wasserstoff arrived in Berlin seeking a detox experience akin to David Bowie and Iggy Pop—not from heroin, but from cigarettes. This journey reflects a blend of cultural influences that inevitably shaped his unique sonic identity.