For more than two decades, Oscar Rosmano has occupied several corners of electronic music at once. As a DJ, producer, and the driving force behind Lisbon’s Temple Club, he’s spent years shaping dancefloors from behind the decks, curating line-ups and steadily refining his own productions.
Rosmano’s expansive career offers a unique lens through which to view the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music. While trends often change overnight, his commitment to the lasting power of melody and emotion provides a richly textured counter-narrative.
The Evolution of a Passion
Reflecting on his 25 years in the industry, Rosmano emphasizes a transition from a focus on finding new records to a deeper appreciation of music that withstands the test of time. “Twenty-five years ago I was always discovering records. Today I’m much more interested in music that still sounds special years later. Trends come and go, but emotion doesn’t,” he shares. This insight underscores the idea that in a world racing towards the next big thing, it’s the emotional resonance of a track that fosters genuine connections.
Creating Unique Environments
As the founder of Temple Club, Rosmano has dedicated significant effort to cultivating a unique atmosphere. “Temple was never designed to be the biggest or the best club in Lisbon. It’s about creating an environment where the music comes first and people feel connected to it,” he states. This focus on atmosphere is crucial for any club; he aims for guests to feel an immediate connection upon entering, grasping the essence of what makes his club different from others.
Insights from the Decks
In his dual role as both DJ and promoter, Rosmano has acquired a comprehensive understanding of what makes a great DJ. “Technical ability is only part of the job. A great DJ understands the room, reads the crowd, and knows when to take risks and when not to,” he advises. However, he admits that this dual perspective has also led him to a more nuanced view of the challenges that DJs face. “I see a lot of DJs come with a full track list to play. Many don’t improvise and instead play tracks in the sequence they planned. I don’t understand that!” His own approach remains rooted in spontaneity, believing it essential to seize the moment for a truly memorable performance.
The Birth of ‘Karyna’
His latest release, **Karyna**, encapsulates these principles of atmosphere and emotional depth. “It revealed itself over time. I rarely force a track to become something. I usually let it evolve naturally,” he explains. This organic approach allows the music to breathe and develop, creating a richer product. The evolution of **Karyna** over nearly two years in production speaks to his patience and commitment to quality over expedience.
The Intimacy of Releasing Music
Sharing his own music presents a unique vulnerability, distinct from the nurturing role of promoting others. “When you release your own music you’re sharing a part of yourself. Every track reflects your taste, your decisions and your personality,” Rosmano notes, highlighting the profound intimacy involved in making music. This personal touch adds a layer of authenticity that resonates with listeners.
Lessons from Peers
During his extensive interactions with guest artists at Temple, Rosmano has gleaned insights that continue to shape his productions. “One thing I’ve learned from many great artists is the importance of restraint. The best tracks often aren’t the busiest ones,” he notes. Understanding what not to add can be just as significant as knowing which elements to include, revealing a thoughtful approach to composition that encourages depth over complexity.
Aligning with Manual Music
His alignment with the Manual Music label feels natural, especially given their focus on creating records with lasting impact rather than succumbing to fleeting trends. “Karyna wasn’t written to follow a trend. It was written to create a feeling,” Rosmano emphasizes, recognizing that the true power of music lies not in momentary popularity but in its ability to resonate emotionally.
The People Behind the Music
Having experienced electronic music from multiple angles—DJing, production, and promoting—his time running a club has proven invaluable in understanding people. “You meet artists, audiences, managers, and promoters every day. It teaches you about relationships, expectations, and how people respond under pressure,” he elaborates. These lessons extend beyond the music and reveal a deeper understanding of human nature.
The Hidden Gems of Lisbon
While Lisbon has gained recognition as a vibrant clubbing metropolis, Rosmano points out that many visitors miss the city’s rich underground scene. “Lisbon is much more diverse than people think. Most visitors only see the bigger festivals and clubs, but there’s also a passionate underground community,” he explains. This community consists of dedicated promoters, labels, and artists who work tirelessly behind the scenes purely out of love for the music, deserving more attention and recognition.
The Thrill of Creation
Despite his years of experience, what continues to invigorate Rosmano is the thrill of creation. “Honestly, it’s hearing an idea become reality. It might start as a simple melody in the studio, then become a finished track, then get played in a club somewhere in the world,” he reflects. Witnessing the journey from conception to performance remains a profound source of excitement for him, ensuring that his passion for music endures.
Oscar Rosmano’s trajectory within the electronic music landscape illustrates that longevity stems from staying genuine, embracing emotional depth, and fostering community. Through his work at Temple and his productions like **Karyna**, he exemplifies how meaningful musical experiences can cut through the noise of transient trends, leaving an indelible mark on the scene.
Listen to **Karyna** below!
