DeepChord

Rod Modell, widely recognized by his alias DeepChord, is an influential American electronic music producer and sound artist based in Detroit, Michigan. Emerging in the late 1990s, DeepChord became synonymous with a uniquely hazy, dub-influenced interpretation of techno that echoes both the atmospheric sensibilities of Detroit and the minimalist aesthetics of early Berlin dub techno. Originally co-founded with Mike Schommer, DeepChord began as a duo producing vinyl releases that garnered widespread attention within the underground electronic scene.

After Schommer’s departure, Modell continued the project solo, refining a sound marked by lush textures, immersive atmospheres, and intricate layering of field recordings and analog effects. His productions often blur the boundaries between techno, ambient, and experimental music, earning comparisons to pioneering acts like Basic Channel and Rhythm & Sound. In addition to his DeepChord releases on labels such as Soma, Modern Love, and his own echospace [detroit] imprint, Modell has collaborated extensively with Stephen Hitchell under the Echospace alias, pushing the boundaries of dub techno through both music and live performances.

DeepChord's work extends beyond the dancefloor, ranging from cinematic soundscapes to collaborations with visual artists and contributions to film soundtracks and multimedia installations. A meticulous sound designer and audio engineer, Modell draws inspiration from urban landscapes, nature, and the subtle interaction of noise and silence. His continual innovation and dedication to sonic exploration have earned him an enduring reputation as a pivotal figure in the evolution of modern techno and ambient music.