Toy Tonics Art Jam, 2026: A New Beat in Berlin’s Nightlife

Berlin has long stood as a beacon of electronic music, where the stark beats of techno have shaped its nightlife culture. Yet, as the city evolves, so too does its soundscape, with a refreshing shift towards vibrancy and inclusivity in the club scene. One of the leading forces behind this change is Toy Tonics, an eclectic house label that aims to shake off the shadows of traditional techno and inject some positivity into the nightlife.

A Warm Welcome

When you think of Berlin’s nightlife, images of cold queues, stern bouncers, and the intimidating atmosphere of clubs like Berghain often come to mind. Yet, at a recent Toy Tonics Art Jam event at the newly-launched Studio 1111, that paradigm fades away. The streets surrounding the venue pulse with energy, alive with an impromptu jam session featuring a lively hip-hop band, contrasting sharply with the traditional, solemn aesthetic associated with the city’s techno scene.

Mathias Modica, the founder of Toy Tonics and known by his stage name Kapote, describes this revitalization as a need to cultivate a culture defined by kindness and warmth. “In times when extreme right-wing politicians are known for their arrogance, and when we are surrounded by growing economic problems and new wars, it’s not the time to be cool and cold; it’s the time to be open and friendly,” he emphasizes.

Colorful Inspirations

The aesthetic and musical direction of Toy Tonics draws influence not just from the traditional club sounds but also from vibrant cultural figures like Andy Warhol and contemporary German artist Isa Genzken. Modica, adorned in a bright blue cap reading “Fuck Bauhaus,” sees this as a rebellion against the austere remnants of Germany’s rationalist past. Toy Tonics embraces a “screzztura”—a cool, informal ease and positivity that rejects conventions.

The gatherings are marked by a diverse crowd dressed in everything from colorful print tees to black leather jackets, clearly demonstrating that individual expression and authenticity are not just accepted but celebrated.

Emphasizing Connection

One of the standout moments of the Art Jam was when the doorperson stepped away from her post to join the festivities, freestyling with fervor. It’s clear here that Toy Tonics’ philosophy extends beyond just music; it’s a communal experience. The motto “kindness is the new coolness” encapsulates this spirit, positioning the event as an inclusive space where positivity reigns.

As Modica puts it, the ethos of Toy Tonics starkly contrasts with techno’s often solitary experience. His parties give space for dancing, joy, and connection among attendees—something many seek in the harsh climate of contemporary life.

Shifting Horizons

With the decline of techno’s mainstream appeal—evident through the shuttering of clubs and diminishing techno tourism—the emergence of alternative party experiences like Toy Tonics is not simply refreshing; it’s necessary. The organization boasts an impressive 190 events in the last year alone, forging new paths and proving there’s a thirst for these vibrant, affirmative gatherings amid the cultural shifts.

Many in the scene share this sentiment, noting that after the pandemic, there seems to be a broader move towards music that celebrates joy and silliness, breaking away from the more serious tones that had overtaken the club scene. This aligns with the rise of an upbeat approach where artists like Skrillex and others are championing a new energy that echoes this longing for escapism and togetherness.

A Future of Acceptance

Undoubtedly, the spirit of this vibrant evolution can be traced back to the club experience of the 1980s, when techno was more intertwined with house music, merging joyous elements rather than existing in a tightly controlled niche. Attendees today are looking for spaces that honor diversity and acceptance over the rigid expectations of traditional clubs.

As Berlin continues to navigate this shift, it seems that the future of nightlife lies in venues where the cold encounters of past years become memories, replaced by warm welcomes, dancing, and a communion of differing musical tastes.

As you explore the gallery from the Toy Tonics Art Jam, immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this movement, where the music isn’t just about beats; it’s about creating a joyful community and celebrating life through sound, dance, and connection.