Rontronik on ‘Zero Eight’

In July, New York producer/DJ/creative director Rontronik (Ron Croudy) released his latest album, Zero Eight. Recorded live, the 40-minute project reflects on the period following the COVID lockdown with its experimental, ambient, and noise-driven sound. Growing up in Flint, Michigan, Croudy was influenced by the Detroit techno and Chicago house scenes, as well as industrial and jazz music. Those sounds would shape his eclectic musical style. After experimenting with electronic music in college and co-founding the label Töshöklabs, Croudy began releasing his own work. Zero Eight, conceived during the transition out of quarantine and initially performed live via streaming, captures the uncertainty and anticipation of a world reopening. We spoke with Rontronik to discuss growing up in Flint, his influences, and more.