711 is a female techno duo from Slovenia that is making a significant impact on the underground music scene through their performances and production work. Composed of Alja and Ursha, the duo showcases a blend of experience and fresh energy. Alja, the more seasoned of the two, has been a prominent figure in the alternative scene for over a decade. She serves as the editor-in-chief of Adrenaline magazine and web community, a well-known hub for alternative sports, culture, and lifestyle. Ursha complements her with her diverse background as a DJ, MC, producer, and designer, stemming from her roots in the hip-hop scene, which brings a dynamic vibrancy to their collaboration.
Although Alja possesses extensive knowledge and experience in music media, event production, and music compilations, she only began DJing and producing alongside the younger Ursha. Ursha, adept with music software and an accomplished hip-hop lyricist, found her true calling in techno, which inspired her to delve deeper into music production. Reflecting on their connection, Alja recalls, "We knew each other briefly from the after parties but we really connected only a couple of years ago. I’ve always wanted to learn music production, but the right opportunity never really came up until I met Ursha. We started talking music, and it wasn’t long before I visited her in the studio. I got sucked in right away and am quite satisfied with my progress, though some say I put too many ideas in single tracks. But why not? I like to experiment with sounds and tools. Music should have no rules when it comes to expressing thoughts and emotions."
While both artists contribute to their collective identity as 711, they prefer to work on the foundational elements of their tracks independently. They explore structures, loops, and sounds before sharing and refining their ideas. Ursha explains, “It seems we function better this way. The results are better if we work separately,” while Alja acknowledges Ursha’s skills as a producer, stating, “Ursha is more experienced and has a sharper ear, so I trust her with the balance of sounds and all that technical stuff.” Their remix of Marco Bailey’s "Bom Bang" and a reinterpretation of Plastikman’s "Ask Yourself" exemplify their signature sound, reflecting Alja's roots in the vibrant techno scene.
Funky, another name for Ursha, emphasizes their non-commercial motivation: “We’re not in it for fame and glory. Music is our passion, and that’s why we don’t limit ourselves to specific sounds and genres.” This philosophy has proven effective, as their productions are released through various labels, including Coalition Records and Noise Planet Records in the USA, Messerheld and Trackord in Germany, and Tainted Buddah and Incense Records in Spain. They note a particularly enthusiastic reception for their music in Germany, Spain, and Italy, while also receiving remix requests from France and the UK. With a recent surge of opportunities, they have signed numerous tracks to various labels, leading to a busy period for 711.
To truly experience their sound and energy, attending one of their live performances is essential. Their dedication to their craft was recently showcased when they participated in the Support Your Local DJ challenge, successfully reaching the final round—an achievement that both Alja and Ursha take pride in.
Record Labels: Coalition Records (USA), Messerheld (GER), Tainted Buddah (Spain), Incense Records (Spain), Trackord Records (GER), Noise Planet Records (USA), Electrico Records (USA), Progressive Tone (IRL)
Selected Discography of 711:
- 711 – Discoveries // Coalition Records (USA/EU) by 7ll
- 711 – Trans Atlantic // Tainted Buddah Records (SPA) by 7ll
- 711 – The Collapse of Civilization // Progressive Tone (IRL) by 7ll
- 711 – Talk To Me // Electrico Records (USA) by 7ll
- 711 – Sound Love // Tainted Buddah Records (SPA) by 7ll
- 711 – Redcore (EP) // Coalition Records (USA/EU) by 7ll
- 711 – Wild Little Giants // BomBeatz Music (USA) by 7ll
- 711 – Pixels of your Soul // Tainted Buddah Records (SPA) by 7ll
- 711 – Yellow Warehouse // Tainted Buddah Records (SPA) by 7ll
- 711 – Das Experiment (EP) // Coalition Records (USA/EU) by 7ll
- 711 – Paper Work (EP) // Messerheld Netlabel (GER) by 7ll