Shawn Rudiman

In 1989 Shawn Rudiman started production work with Ed Vargo as part of the seminal Industrial group T.H.D. (Total Harmonic Distortion). This EBM/Elektro unit became quite popular in the EBM/Industrial music scene of the early to mid 90′s. They released 4 full-length albums, countless remixes and compilation releases on both European and domestic labels. During these formative years, Shawn developed a fascination with vintage music machines. In 1997, he decided to stray from his Industrial-EBM roots to explore the depths of pure rhythm and sounds in Techno music. At this time he also relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. The transition from industrial to techno presented a challenge due to the difference in sound layers, structures and refinement of rhythms, but results proved positive. He began producing Techno and experimenting with live sets at the same time.

Rudiman's all live sets of non-stop, improvised techno became his trademark. His innate understanding of hardware drum machines, sequencers, samplers and synthesizers gave his performances the fluidity and smoothness of any DJ set, but entirely flexible in direction and tempo (well before the introduction of software live applications). These performances gained international attention throughout the global Techno community and have become the stuff of legend.

Soon after, Shawn started HyperVinyl Records with Trevor Combee. This led to a longtime friendship with Detroit Techno legend, Anthony "Shake" Shakir and releasing tracks with Dan Bell on his label: 7th City Records. Since then Rudiman has had releases on Matrix, Cache, Finest Blend, Neutonmusic, X-Trax, Sound Architecture, 11th Hour, Detroit Techno Militia and several others.

Today he resides somewhere in Pittsburgh, still releasing records and remixes. Always a consummate producer and studio enthusiast, Shawn maintains, repairs and builds analog and vintage synthesizers while keeping a busy international touring schedule.