Pole

Step into the Dub Cosmos: Pole Live at Sala El Hangar, Burgos

On Saturday, March 21st, 2026, the esteemed electronic musician Pole will descend upon Sala El Hangar in Burgos, promising an evening of immersive sound and sonic exploration. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an invitation to experience the hypnotic depths of dub techno and minimalist electronica at the hands of a true pioneer. For aficionados of atmospheric soundscapes and rhythmically intricate electronic music, this event represents a rare opportunity to witness an artist whose influence reverberates through the electronic music scene. Pole’s presence in Burgos signifies a commitment to bringing cutting-edge, thoughtfully crafted electronic performances to diverse audiences, and Sala El Hangar is the perfect canvas for his evocative sonic tapestries. Prepare to be transported as Pole crafts a sonic journey that will engage your senses and leave an indelible mark.

About Pole: The Architect of Dub Techno

Stefan Betke, better known to the global electronic music community as Pole, stands as an undisputed titan in the realm of dub techno and ambient electronica. Hailing from Berlin, his career, which spans over two decades, has been defined by a relentless pursuit of sonic purity and a distinctive, often melancholic, yet profoundly beautiful aesthetic. Betke first emerged from the vibrant Berlin underground in the late 1990s, quickly garnering attention for his innovative approach to dub, a genre traditionally associated with reggae but which Pole masterfully recontextualized within the framework of electronic music.

His early releases on the esteemed M=M (Minus) label, such as his self-titled debut album Pole (1998), 2 (2000), and 3 (2001), established his signature sound: a sparse, often heavily filtered palette of delayed synthesiser textures, deep sub-bass frequencies, and meticulously programmed rhythms that evoke a sense of vast sonic spaces. What sets Pole apart is his ability to create music that is both profoundly meditative and rhythmically compelling. His tracks are characterized by a deliberate pace, allowing listeners to become fully immersed in the intricate layers of sound. The signature “crackling” static and vinyl-like imperfections that often permeate his productions add a tangible, almost analogue warmth to his digital creations, giving his music a timeless quality.

Notable hits, though Pole’s appeal lies more in the immersive album experience and consistent sonic vision than in individual chart-toppers, include tracks like “Silberfisch” and “Fahrenheit,” which perfectly encapsulate his atmospheric sound. His influence can be heard in countless artists who have embraced dub techno’s hypnotic qualities, and his work continues to inspire new generations of producers. Beyond his studio output, Pole is renowned for his captivating live performances, where he masterfully recreates and expands upon his intricate sonic worlds, transforming venues into transcendental sonic sanctuaries. His discography also includes collaborations and remixes for artists such as M.I.A., Radiohead, and The White Stripes, further cementing his status as a respected and versatile artist within the electronic music landscape. His live shows are not just concerts; they are sonic pilgrimages.

Venue Information: Sala El Hangar – Burgos’ Sonic Hub

Sala El Hangar stands as a prominent cultural venue nestled in the vibrant city of Burgos. Renowned for its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions, the venue has carved out a reputation as a cornerstone for live music, particularly within the electronic and alternative scenes. Its intimate yet capacious setting provides an ideal environment for experiencing the nuanced intricacies of artists like Pole. The acoustics are carefully managed to ensure a pristine sound experience, allowing every sonic detail to resonate with clarity. The stage design and lighting are often thoughtfully curated to enhance the atmosphere of the performances, creating a truly immersive environment for the audience. Whether hosting up-and-coming local talent or internationally acclaimed artists, Sala El Hangar consistently delivers a high-quality experience for both performers and attendees. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect: A Voyage Through Minimalist Dub

Prepare for an evening of profound sonic immersion as Pole takes to the stage at Sala El Hangar. His live performances are renowned for their deeply atmospheric and hypnotic quality, a testament to his mastery of dub techno. Expect a set that ebbs and flows, drawing heavily from his extensive back catalogue, which includes seminal albums such as Pole, 2, and 3, as well as more recent explorations. While specific setlist highlights are always a delightful surprise, audiences can anticipate the signature crackling textures, deep sub-bass frequencies, and meticulously crafted rhythmic patterns that have become the hallmark of his sound.

Pole’s performance style is one of understated intensity. He is not one for flamboyant theatrics; instead, his focus is entirely on the sonic architecture of his music. Operating with a focused demeanour, he expertly manipulates his equipment, weaving a spellbinding tapestry of sound live. You can expect extended sonic explorations, where tracks evolve organically, allowing the audience to become fully absorbed in the hypnotic loops and echoing delays. The duration of his sets typically ranges from 90 minutes to two hours, providing ample time to delve into the depths of his soundscapes. The experience is often described as trance-like, a journey that moves beyond simple listening to a state of visceral engagement. Expect a journey that prioritizes texture, rhythm, and space, creating an environment where the audience can lose themselves in the intricate details of his electronic artistry. The atmosphere will be one of focused contemplation, punctuated by moments of undeniable rhythmic propulsion.

FAQs

Q1: What are Pole’s main musical influences, and how do they manifest in his sound?

Pole’s core musical foundation lies in dub, particularly the Jamaican dub music pioneered by figures like King Tubby and Lee “Scratch” Perry. However, he masterfully translates these principles into the electronic realm. You’ll hear the characteristic delay and reverb effects, the focus on the bass frequencies, and the sense of spaciousness that define dub. He also draws inspiration from minimalist techno and ambient music, evident in the repetitive, hypnotic structures and the emphasis on texture and atmosphere. These influences combine to create a sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and distinctly modern.

Q2: How does Pole’s live performance differ from his studio recordings?

While Pole’s studio albums are meticulously crafted sonic worlds, his live performances offer a more dynamic and expansive interpretation. He often extends tracks, allowing them to evolve and mutate in real-time. There’s a greater sense of improvisation and responsiveness to the room and the audience. His live setup allows him to sculpt the sound with incredible precision, often introducing subtle variations and new sonic elements that weren’t present on the recordings. It’s a chance to experience his music in its rawest, most immediate form, where the focus is on the sonic journey unfolding before you.

Q3: Can I expect Pole to play older, classic tracks alongside newer material?

Absolutely. Pole is known for drawing from his rich discography, so you can expect to hear some of his iconic tracks from albums like Pole, 2, and 3, which have become foundational to the dub techno genre. However, he also incorporates material from his more recent releases, showcasing his continued evolution as an artist. His live sets are a curated journey through his sonic universe, blending the established with the contemporary.

Q4: What kind of sound system and acoustics are typically found at Sala El Hangar, and how will this benefit Pole’s performance?

Sala El Hangar is known for its commitment to providing excellent sound quality, often featuring a robust and well-calibrated sound system. This is crucial for an artist like Pole, whose music relies heavily on nuanced bass frequencies, precise rhythmic detail, and the delicate interplay of textures. The venue’s acoustics are designed to minimise unwanted reverberation and ensure clarity, allowing every subtle delay, every crackle, and every deep sub-bass note to be heard as intended. This attention to sonic detail will undoubtedly enhance the immersive and hypnotic experience of Pole’s performance.

Q5: Is Pole known for engaging directly with the audience during his live sets, or is it more of an introspective experience?

Pole’s live performances are generally considered more of an introspective and immersive experience. His focus is predominantly on the sonic landscape he is creating. While he is present and actively shaping the music, he doesn’t typically engage in direct vocal interaction with the audience in the traditional sense. The connection is forged through the music itself, inviting the audience into his sonic world rather than breaking the spell with overt commentary. The audience’s engagement is with the sound and atmosphere.

Q6: What should I wear to a Pole concert at Sala El Hangar?

The dress code for Pole at Sala El Hangar is generally casual and comfortable. The focus of the evening is on the music and the experience, rather than making a fashion statement. Many attendees opt for practical clothing that allows for comfortable movement, as the hypnotic nature of the music can inspire subtle dancing or swaying. Think of it as dressing for an immersive auditory journey – comfort is key.