Return of Moni annouced

Techno Icon Monika Kruse Makes Triumphant Return to the Stage in Münster

Following a three-year hiatus, veteran DJ Monika Kruse took the spotlight once again at the refurbished Dockland in Münster, Germany last weekend, marking her first set worldwide in 2025. The location was chosen deliberately by Kruse, who praised Münster's warm, friendly audience in an interview prior to the event.

Before her performance, Kruse expressed her appreciation for Münster, even greeting her followers from Aasee in a Instagram post the day before her show. Explaining her affection for the city, she mentioned the open, welcoming nature of its people and the unique bond she’s always shared with her audiences there.

Münster has held a special place in Kruse’s heart for many years. Her ties to the city go back to the 90s, and while she couldn’t recall any specific anecdotes from her time there, she described a lasting sense of familiarity and warmth that has remained with her since her early days playing there.

Speaking of the new Dockland, Kruse commended the venue for its upgraded aesthetic, warm ambiance, and protective transparent roof. The venue's improved lighting added an extra layer of energy to the setting, making for an impressive atmosphere.

Originally scheduled to return to the stage in early September 2022, Kruse faced a setback due to a bout of panic attacks which led to the cancellation of all her subsequent performances. But Münster, with its sense of security and supportive audience, was the perfect choice to launch her comeback. She admitted that the city's familiar environment provided her with the confidence and reassurance she needed to once again take to the stage after a prolonged absence.

Kruse's two-hour set drew from her extensive discography, spanning several decades of the genre. Well-known tracks by Jeff Mills, Der Dritte Raum, Emmanuel Top, and DJ Rolando were among the highlights. Crafting her "comeback set," she combined new tracks, all-time favorites, and old songs that she felt would be fitting if it were her last set—delivering a comprehensive overview of her musical repertoire.

Throughout her illustrious career, Kruse has been a trailblazer in the male-dominated DJ scene, alongside other pioneers like Miss Yetti, Ellen Allien, Marusha, and Miss Djax. Kruse expressed her delight at the rising number of successful female DJs and expressed hope for continued progress, making it easier for up-and-coming artists to avoid the obstacles she faced in the past.

Over 30 years into her career, Kruse has been involved in several extraordinary locations, including illegal techno parties in WW2 bunkers, on moving trams, and even on a military training ground. One such experience involved setting up a DJ console in a tank, an unusual and memorable setting for her performance.

In 2000, Kruse founded the charitable organization "No Historical Backspin," aimed at combating homophobia and racism. Following incidents of discriminatory violence involving her friends, she felt compelled to take a stand. Kruse expressed her concerns about the current political climate, particularly the rise of extreme right-wing parties and the growing acceptance of hatred towards certain groups. She implored the electronic music scene to remain engaged in fighting against discrimination, emphasizing the importance of younger generations using their voices to promote inclusivity and equality.

Estimating that she still has around 20,000 records at home, Kruse reflected on her extensive vinyl collection and considered the possibility of spinning vinyl again. She revealed that her life has undergone significant changes in recent years, leading her to focus on personal passions such as caring for stray cats and spending more time with her father. Kruse plans to play only four gigs this summer and isn’t making any further commitments, instead choosing to follow her instincts and enjoy life.

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Bastian E. (be) - Author, PhotographerMunster resident, cineaste, and photographer with a pronounced love for music (80s, Breakbeat, House, Techno). Loves cinema, artist interviews, sound from vinyl. Latest articles from Bastian E.- Moni is back! Techno legend Monika Kruse celebrates a spectacular comeback at Dockland (May 29, 2025)- Wilsberg dried up - New episode "With all the waters washed" runs tonight on ZDF (May 17, 2025)- Friendship has something to do with eye level "Fiderallala": Münster's Tatort celebrates TV premiere (April 6, 2025)