o many bands, so little time! In the thick of the festival bustle we meet young talents for a high-speed interview. Bayuk was supposed to be grabbing a quick bite to eat in the Prinzenbar before his gig. Instead, he’s talked all through the last few minutes – about pop in disguise, cool Scots and a childlike creative urge.

Hi! Please say something about yourself.

My name is Magnus, I’m 26 years old, live in Berlin and my project is called Bayuk. I grew up in Tübingen, studied literature, art and media in Constance and moved to Berlin after my Master’s. I’ve just brought out my debut album – without a major label at my back, but with the support of Initiative Musik, for example. Right now I’m making so much music in different constellations that I don’t really have time for a second job any more.

What kind of music?

Someone recently said that my music sounds a bit like The Mars Volta – I thought that was cool, because it’s actually more melancholy and quiet. I always say it’s pop in disguise. In other words, pop that has been alienated and taken off track by production. As a result, the whole sound goes into different dimensions and stays interesting. The motivation has always been there: as a child I always liked better to improvise on the piano rather than learn the pieces I had to practise. I shocked my cello teacher at the age of twelve when I said I wanted to write an opera. He was nice enough not to mock.

As a child, what musicians’ star-crop used to hang in your room?

In my teenage years, definitely artists that I thought it was cool to think were cool. The Black Eyed Peas, for example. But also people like At The Drive-In. I listened to a lot of indie music as a youngster, for example Interpol, Bloc Party and post-rock as well, such as Mogwai. Biffy Clyro, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead – they were the bands that accompanied me on my way.

Who would it be today?

I was always a huge fan of Biffy Clyro, still am today – even though they make totally different music from me. Because they’re just such nice, cool, Scottish guys. Who make such intelligent music, even though nowadays it’s a bit more pop. But it still totally moves me.

What does it mean for you to be a Wunderkind?

It’s definitely a fantastic opportunity to play here in front of people who may book me. Now, right before the show, I’m not really thinking about it too much, but I was just mega thrilled. Because I knew this here was the best showcase festival in Germany and this Wunderkinder part was a super cool affair. I’ve never done anything in this form before, so the whole thing is just super exciting for me.