Shantel (born Stefan Hantel, 2 March 1968, Mannheim) is a Frankfurt-based German DJ, producer and bandleader of mixed Greek and Bukovinian-Jewish heritage. In the early 2000s he pioneered what became known as Balkan beats - blending electronically reworked Romani brass and Eastern European folk with club rhythms - through his Bucovina Club DJ nights and the compilations released on his own Essay Recordings label. His 2007 album Disko Partizani broke him internationally, and the Bucovina Club compilations won the Club Global award at the 2006 BBC Radio 3 Awards for World Music. Over three decades he has released more than a dozen albums and collaborated with artists ranging from Massive Attack and Björk to Serbian brass king Boban Marković.
Shantel released the single 'Night in Athens' featuring Thomas Konstantinou, Yann Keerim and Petros Klampanis in 2026.
A live recording 'Rio Mahala Medley (Live at Muffathalle Munich)' was released as a single in early 2026.
Shantel released the album 'Mentsh United' on 21 November 2025 via Essay Recordings.
Shantel is part of the Mentsh United European cultural project, which raises awareness of Jewish life through music and film.
Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem announced a run of European tour dates including Cologne, Berlin, Vienna and Munich.
Shantel and Bucovina Club Soundsystem bring Balkan electronic music and dance energy to Essen.
Concert by Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem. A music event at the GLORIA club.
Concert by Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem, specialists in Balkan sounds and electronic dance music.
Concert by Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem, blending Balkan sounds with contemporary club music.
Concert by Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem, known for their electronic sound and Balkan influences.
Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem take the stage at LKA Longhorn in Stuttgart.
Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem bring Balkan-infused electronic dance music to the HIRSCH club.
