Japanese artist Risa Taniguchi returns to Chris Liebing’s CLR label

Risa Taniguchi is a Japanese DJ and music producer from Tokyo, widely recognized as one of the most powerful and distinctive figures in the global techno scene. Known for her dark, raw and hypnotic sound, she represents a modern, uncompromising approach to techno that combines driving grooves, acid-infused basslines and intense club energy.

Before entering the electronic music world, Risa received formal classical music training, studying piano. This background strongly influences her productions, which are characterized by precision, strong structure and a deep understanding of musical dynamics.

Early career

Risa Taniguchi began her DJ and production career in the late 2010s. Inspired by European underground scenes—especially Berlin and London techno—she quickly gained recognition within Japan’s club circuit. Her early performances stood out for their intensity and technical control, drawing attention from international promoters and record labels.

Her first releases marked a major turning point, as they were rapidly picked up by established DJs and gained traction on digital charts. From the beginning, her sound was clearly defined: dark, driving techno designed for peak-time club environments.

Breakthrough and international recognition

As her career progressed, Risa released music on respected European techno labels, earning support from some of the most influential artists in the genre. These releases opened the door to regular performances at major clubs and festivals across Europe, Asia and North America.

One of her most significant milestones was reaching the top positions on global techno sales charts, solidifying her reputation as a world-class producer. She became one of the few Japanese techno artists to successfully establish a long-term presence on the international circuit.

Musical style

Risa Taniguchi’s sound is defined by:

• powerful, driving rhythms

• dark and atmospheric textures

• acid and industrial influences

• minimalism combined with high-energy impact

Her DJ sets are known for their narrative flow, gradually building tension and delivering intense peak moments. This makes her performances equally effective in underground clubs and on large festival stages.

Achievements in 2025

The year 2025 marked a major chapter in Risa Taniguchi’s career.

Risa Taniguchi and the Break It EP on CLR (2025)

In 2025, Tokyo-based techno artist Risa Taniguchi returned to Chris Liebing’s iconic label CLR with the Break It EP, released on August 29th. The two-track release marked her fourth appearance on the label, following Acid Flesh (2022), created in collaboration with Black Asteroid, and her 2024 releases Wakes From Coma and So Loud. Those earlier works received strong support from respected figures such as Dave Clarke, Kelly Lee Owens, and Luke Slater.

The title track Break It opens with uncompromising intensity, driven by pounding kick drums and a sharp, searing synth stab. The track steadily builds tension through icy hi-hats, powerful low-end pressure and evocative spoken vocals, culminating in a dark, strobe-lit roller designed for peak-time club moments. Its energy is relentless, precise and unapologetically raw.

The second track, Give Me Up, offers no release from the pressure. Razor-sharp percussion, unresolved looping motifs and a massive, rumbling bassline create a tense and confrontational atmosphere. The result is highly focused, precision-engineered techno aimed at maximum physical and mental impact on the dancefloor.

The Break It EP further reinforced Risa Taniguchi’s position as a core CLR artist, alongside her releases on labels such as Kneaded Pains, Second State and Mind Medizin. Her continued collaboration with CLR highlighted her long-standing relationship with the label and her role in shaping its modern sound.

Founded by Chris Liebing in 1999 and relaunched in 2021 after a five-year hiatus, CLR has long been a cornerstone of the global techno scene. The label has featured artists such as Shlomi Aber, Dubfire, Flug, Bjarki and DJ Dextro, while also supporting the development of newer talents. Risa Taniguchi’s 2025 release stood as a clear example of CLR’s commitment to forward-thinking, high-impact techno.

Music releases

Throughout 2025, Risa released several highly regarded tracks and EPs that showcased a refined and more aggressive evolution of her sound. These releases reinforced her reputation for consistency and artistic focus, while also expanding her creative boundaries. Her return to established labels and collaborations with major figures in techno were especially well received within the scene.

Collaborations
In 2025, Risa continued working with legendary and influential techno artists. These collaborations attracted significant attention and confirmed her position among the leading names in contemporary techno. Her tracks became regular features in sets by top international DJs.

Tours and performances
Risa Taniguchi completed an extensive touring schedule in 2025, performing across Europe, Japan and the United States. Her shows were praised for their intensity, precision and crowd connection. She was considered one of the most in-demand Japanese techno artists on the global market during the year.

Media presence and scene influence
Beyond clubs and festivals, Risa remained active in radio shows and music media, contributing to discussions about modern techno and club culture. She played an important role in representing the Japanese electronic music scene on an international level.

Position on the global techno scene

By 2025, Risa Taniguchi was no longer just a successful DJ and producer, but a key figure symbolizing the rise of Asian artists in global techno culture. Her dedication, consistency and unmistakable sound have made her an inspiration for a new generation of producers worldwide.

Summary

Risa Taniguchi’s journey from Tokyo’s local clubs to the world’s leading techno stages is a story of talent, discipline and artistic integrity. The year 2025 confirmed her status as one of the most influential and respected techno artists of her generation. With a continually evolving sound and strong international presence, Risa Taniguchi remains a defining force in modern electronic music.

Written by Ultramax (Ultramax)