In our City Beats series, we explore underground scenes in cities worldwide, both past and present – and this week, we’re diving into how Popcorn in Brussels in the ‘70s defined the sound of European house and techno music today.




The Significance of Club Popcorn




Most will cite Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, or London as the birthplace of Europe’s techno scene. But some will say it started in Ostend, Belgium, in the 1970s. Today, this small coastal town, located about 10 miles west of Antwerp, is known for its neoliberal architecture. But back then, it was synonymous with Club Popcorn, a converted farmhouse originally used for Sunday afternoon dance contests.




The club became so popular, and the crowds so lively, that it gradually expanded to occupy the surrounding outhouses and barns, eventually transforming into a sprawling cultural hub that attracted partygoers from all over Belgium. As the space grew, so did the music, and American soul tracks took on a distinctly Belgian twist when DJs started playing them 8 BPM slower than usual to encourage the dancers to keep grooving.




The DJs Championing the Sound




One of these DJs was Gibbe Govaert. A dedicated digger, Govaert spun his funk and soul discoveries every weekend at Club Popcorn to over 3,000 ecstatic partygoers. The atmosphere was sweaty, raw, and queer – and unlike anything else in Europe at the time. In interviews, he describes the energy at Popcorn as electrifying. The audience would lose their minds when he dropped tracks like “Comin’ Home Baby” by Mel Tormé or Sam Fletcher’s “I’d Think It Over,” so he played them multiple times a night. Unbeknownst to him, he was laying the groundwork for a new Belgian subculture that would come to define global club culture.




Popcorn in Brussels




Club Popcorn inspired a wave of clubs across the country, several of which opened in Brussels. Brussels is an open-minded city, so venues and party-goers embraced the slow groove and raw energy of Popcorn’s sound, which blended funk, soul, and experimental beats.




Despite its popularity, Popcorn had some competition, and in the mid-'70s, it was eventually overshadowed by the rise of disco. But it didn’t vanish entirely. It left behind a lasting influence for slow grooves and musical experimentation, so when the '80s arrived and punk and anarchist synth-pop bands like Telex and Pas De Deux began to push back against mainstream disco culture, Belgium’s underground scene was primed for the shift.




From Disco to New Beat




These bands introduced 4:4 dark-wave, anarchistic music, heavy on synths and reverb into Brussels’ psyche. The bright, optimistic ‘70s were over, and Europe was on edge. The Cold War was intensifying and people were eager to release their pent-up tension.




In 1985, the Belgian band Front 242 coined the term EBM (Electronic Body Music) to describe their No Comment EP, and just like that, a new genre was born. Bands like Throbbing Gristle, Cabaret Voltaire, DAF, and Die Krupps helped propel EBM into the spotlight, merging industrial effects and synths with 4:4 beats to create music for people to get lost in.




New Beat seemed to emerge overnight. Even the key figures debate whether it began in Brussels, Antwerp, or Ghent, but one story stands out. In 1987, at Brussels’ Ancient Belgique club, DJ Dikke Ronny (aka ‘Fat Ronny’) played A Split-Second’s EBM track “Flesh” at 33 BPM instead of 45, and the crowd completely lost it. New Beat was in the building.




Popcorn's influence played a pivotal role in shaping the Brussels scene, particularly as it laid the groundwork for the New Beat and acid house movements that would soon take over the nation's capital. That’s how Brussels became a hub for the emerging electronic music culture of the late '80s and early '90s.




New Beat to House to Techno




Because New Beat had been Belgium’s most popular genre for close to a decade, by the ‘90s the Brussels scene was eager to receive the sounds of Detroit and Chicago as they made their way across the ocean. Musically speaking, it wasn’t a dramatic shift when New Beat evolved into house. Soon, Brussels was transformed into a hotspot for Europe’s emerging acid house scene.




In the ‘90s, a unique wave of Belgian techno began to emerge. Producers like Frank de Wulf, Maurice Engelen, Oliver Adams, and Nikki Van Lierop led the charge with a hard and fast sound that would set the foundation for modern techno.




Then Fuse opened in Brussels in 1994, which gave the city’s techno heads and artists a place to call home. Today, it’s one of the world’s longest-running and most prestigious clubs. Since opening its doors, the venue—a former 1920s cinema—has played a key role in shaping the European techno scene. A small "wall of fame" in one of its back rooms showcases a list of legendary artists who graced its stage in the 1990s, including Carl Craig, Richie Hawtin, Aphex Twin, Daft Punk, and even Björk in 1997.




The Underrated Heart of Europe’s Underground




Brussels is often overlooked on the European techno stage. It’s a laid-back city, which is perhaps the reason why so few people know of its rich musical history. But it’s played a pivotal role in global club culture, and shaped the sound of house and techno as we know it today.

City Beats: Brussels

In our City Beats series, we explore underground scenes in cities worldwide, and this week, we’re spotlighting Port Louis, Mauritius.




The Heart of Mauritius’ Underground Music Scene




Mauritius is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, best known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. However, beneath the idyllic tourist landscape a thriving underground music scene pulses with creativity, rebellion, and subculture, and Port Louis, the bustling capital of Mauritius, is at the heart of this artistic movement.




This scene was championed on the world stage in November 2024, when Boiler Room set up shop in Port Louis to showcase the talent the island has to offer as part of their ‘System’ series, which spotlights sound system culture worldwide.




The line-up featured a huge range of talent, from DJ GREG to rap/singer duo Caro and Wendiva to rap crew Joker Cartel, gliding from sega to shatta to dembow to dancehall. Many of these artists showcased the popular music emanating from the island today, but arguably the most viewed and talked about set of the night came from Babani Soundsystem.




Port Louis’ Musical Revolution




Since they formed in 2017, Babani Soundsystem has helped shape the cultural landscape of Port Louis, all while retaining the ancient soundscapes of the island. Their music is rooted in the rhythms of the Indian Ocean and champions the percussion and melodies indigenous to Mauritius.




By fostering strong connections with some of the oldest musicians and artists still active on the island, Babani Soundsystem’s mission is to maintain the rhythm and authenticity of traditional sounds while blending them with contemporary influences.




However, the Babani concept expands far beyond Babani Soundsystem. Babani was founded by Avneesh Bacha in 2017, a Mauritian event producer and artist with more than two decades of experience in the music and entertainment industry. Babani encompasses a range of various projects, including Babani Records, Babani Soundsystem, event production, art and visual design, and a recording studio.




As a result, Babani quickly grew into an island-wide collective dedicated to preserving the island's musical heritage.




Babani Records not only focuses on new releases but also works to revive forgotten tapes from the island's past, acting as a bridge from the Indian Ocean to the world, all while exploring and preserving the distinctive rhythms of the region.




Preserving Mauritius’ Musical Heritage




“Babani was an idea that grew bigger than me,” Avneesh says. “We teamed up with a guy on Reunion Island who has the biggest record collection on the Indian Ocean. So we started approaching these artists to re-issue their music.”




Many of the artists they approached haven’t heard their own music since they recorded it, and didn’t have copies themselves. So Babani Records revives, reclaims and archives forgotten music of the island so it can never be lost.




“The Babani project is our passion project and showcase,” Avneesh says. “We include art, visuals, and sound under that umbrella.”




The word Babani refers to a traditional Mauritian drum, and the collective’s primary goals are to channel the authentic and raw sound of the streets of Port Louis, connect with the youth, and showcase the power of the sound system culture. That’s exactly what they did with their Boiler Room set, playing a percussion-infused set mixed with electronic elements such as synths, stabs, kicks, and basslines.



Another notable Boiler Room performance belonged to GREG. He’s arguably Port Louis’ biggest musical export, currently residing in France, and his set was so high energy it cut halfway through – because the stage broke. He’s a resident of La Creole in Paris and regularly releases on Boukan Records, which showcases high energy club music with an eclectic twist.




GREG is just one of a growing number of internationally recognized artists from Mauritius. The energy and musical history of the island gives DJs and producers a unique edge that sets them apart, all of which was showcased in their unforgettable Boiler Room.




The Growing Influence of Mauritius on the Global Music Stage




The underground music scene in Port Louis is rich with diversity and creativity, and Babani is one of its most influential forces. Through their commitment to promoting authentic, boundary-pushing music, the collective has become a beacon for the youth and music lovers in Mauritius.




With their ability to blend reggae, dub, and electronic influences, Babani Soundsystem exemplifies the power of cultural fusion in shaping a unique and dynamic sound, deeply rooted in tradition while remaining modern. And thanks to the Babani project, the underground music scene in Port Louis has become an exciting space for innovation and artistic expression on the global stage.

City Beats: Port Louis, Mauritius

In our Ones To Watch series, we spotlight exciting new producers who are shaking up the game and progressing dance music culture while they do it.




Rory Gilmore, better known by his stage name Body Clinic, is a London-based artist from the North of Ireland. With a style that spans everything from tech-house and UKG to progressive, his sound is anything but ordinary. Today, he’ll share insight into his musical journey, his impressive production portfolio, and his big plans for the future.




The Beginning




At just 21 years old, Body Clinic has an impressive body of work by anyone’s standards. He was born and raised in Bangor, a small city just south of Belfast, and grew up in a musical family. “My parents ran an Irish Trad [Traditional Irish] festival in Belfast that eventually moved to Bangor,” he says. “I grew up with artists staying with us, so I was always around it. And then I started playing drums 10 years ago, and played in cover bands in pubs.”




One night, Rory’s sister threw a house party and a friend left their decks behind. “I used them over the weekend,” Rory says. “And I just loved it and knew that was what I wanted to do.”




Although he grew up listening to rock, punk, and jazz, he was instantly drawn to house music. He secured his first gig when he was just 14 at a pub in Bangor—when it was technically illegal for him to be there. Soon after, he tried his hand at production and started building towards the artist we know today.




From Bangor to Belfast to London




When Rory was a teen there wasn’t much going on in Bangor, so a few friends decided to launch a club night called Jungle Book Legion. That’s where Rory was booked to DJ repeatedly, and where his sound began to form. From there he got bookings at Belfast institutions Thompsons and Shine and then started throwing his own events. “I held them in The Bone Yard in Belfast and invited Jordan Nocturne and Twitch, and it was class,” he says. “It’s difficult to play unless you have your own event, so that gave me a chance to play.”




Belfast is a small city with very few clubs and many extremely talented artists—optmst, Plain Sailing, Bicep, Holly Lester, and Hammer, to name just a few. So Rory decided to relocate to London to find more opportunities to play and grow as an artist.




Body Clinic’s Production Journey




Rory launched the Body Clinic project in 2023, after creating and releasing a variety of genres under a different alias for several years. “I released everything from jazz to techno,” he says. “I was experimenting and trying to find out what I wanted to do.”




It all fell into place when he turned his hand to UK house. “It’s a spectrum, but my sound is progressive house moving towards old-school tech house,” he says. As soon as he landed on that sound he hit the ground running. In a very short amount of time, he released on HARDLINE, Piff, Goddezz, 39 Records, and Duality Trax.




In just one year, he dropped 19 tracks, 7 releases, and 4 vinyls. In 2024 he played major festivals across the UK, made his Boiler Room debut, and won support from names like LUXE (Boiler Room, Rinse FM), Papa Nugs (Rinse FM), Jamz Supernova (Selector Radio), Jaguar (BBCR1), Yaeji (NTS), Jennifer Cardini, and more.




The Body Clinic project has been off the ground for less than two years and Rory’s already shared the stage with Denis Sulta, Amelie Lens, and Yung Singh. His DJ sets have taken him all over the UK from the Isle of Man to Scotland, and his tracks regularly receive air-time on Rinse FM and BBC R1 and write-ups in DJ Mag, Clash, District Magazine, Hot Press, and FourFour Magazine.




And there’s no slowing down for Body Clinic. He just released an EP with fellow artist Wigs titled Body Wigs and released “159 Revolutions Per Minute” on Holly Lester’s Duality Trax, a label he’s proud to be part of. “I love the label and that was a goal of mine,” Rory says. “Holly does so much for the music industry in Northern Ireland, so it was a real privilege.”




Looking Forward




“I have two EPs signed and one in the works,” Rory says. “I’ve got an EP coming out on Papa Nugs’ label so I’m really excited for that, and one on ec2a as well.”




Rory says he’s always been productive, but since he streamlined his sound and launched the Body Clinic project he’s become unstoppable. And with just about every bucket list label checked off his list and a full summer of bookings lined up, there’s no doubt Body Clinic is all set to make even more waves in 2025.

Ones to Watch: Body Clinic

In this series, we spotlight up-and-coming collectives who are paving their own way while driving the culture forward.



Femme Bass Mafia is on a mission to redefine the global bass scene through artistry, activism, and inclusivity. The DJ and production mentoring programme for FLINTA folk (Female, Lesbian, Intersex, Non-binary, Transgender, and Agender) are known for their powerful performances, boundary-pushing sounds, and unwavering commitment to creating space for marginalized genders and voices. So let’s take a closer look at the crew leaving an indelible mark on the global underground landscape.




How Femme Bass Mafia began

The seed of the idea for Femme Bass Mafia was planted in the brain of Lilia van Beukering, aka Dangermami, in 2020. She was stuck at home in Berlin during lockdown, surrounded by post-it notes of hopes, dreams, and ambitions. One that stood out was learning how to DJ, but her experiences working in the music industry were hardly encouraging.




“I was only working with male artists, and I couldn’t see myself asking any of them for help,” Lilia told Crack Magazine in a 2023 interview. “My flatmate was inviting friends over to play records, but only the guys would spin and the women stayed on the couch. I tried a few times to practice with men, but they would say stuff or do things that wouldn’t feel right. Like standing behind me breathing down my neck, or saying in patronizing tones, ‘Oh no, love, you shouldn’t touch this button.’”




Nevertheless, she bought a second-hand set of Pioneer CDJ850s, borrowed her flatmate’s analog mixer, and spent lockdown teaching herself how to mix. She was drawn to booty bass, footwork, and UK bass, and soon started reaching out to other women with the same taste. “Having a crew of friends and the notion of community was so far away from me at that time,” she says. “I hadn’t found my roots in Berlin yet – my real family. I was trying to find where I belong.”




She launched Femme Bass Mafia by herself in November 2020, and kicked off proceedings with Berlin club institutions Paloma and Crack Bellmer, who allowed her to use their space and equipment to host training sessions. Then she teamed up with Berlin-based radio stations Refuge Worldwide and HÖR Berlin to give graduates a space to showcase their new skills.




“I reached out to Luz1e (FBM’s Community, Education & Content Coordinator) on Instagram,” Lilia says. “We had a few friends in common. I invited her over to my house to eat guacamole. She was like, ‘I’m in.’ I saw Marie play at Crack Bellmer, so I was like, ‘I have this project I want to talk about.’ She came to my house, and we ate cake. Food is real magic! I knew DJ Fuckoff from friends of friends; she called me and was like, ‘Yo, I want to be in babe!’ in her New Zealand accent. Suddenly, we had courses on performance and how to use your voice during DJ sets.”




A Platform for Diverse Voices

What makes Femme Bass Mafia particularly unique in the underground scene is their dedication to inclusivity. They champion non-binary and gender non-conforming artists, ensuring the collective is a space for all marginalized identities in electronic music. They’re committed to giving space and a voice to those sidelined in an industry that historically prioritizes male artists, producers, and DJs.




Since 2021, Femme Bass Mafia has run dozens of DJ workshops and expanded their repertoire to teaching production which runs between three and six months. They call their graduates Bass Angels and regularly run club nights, mix series, radio takeovers, and one-off training events and workshops. They’re committed to creating safer spaces for their community, challenging the gender norms often associated with bass music, all while ensuring that creativity and artistic expression are valued over traditional notions of "success" in the industry.




All about the Bass

Femme Bass Mafia champions the various subgenres of bass music, including dubstep, grime, trap, drum and bass, and experimental bass. Their community play and produce music characterized by heavy basslines, intricate rhythms, atmospheric soundscapes, and vocal samples. As a community, they focus on themes of resilience, independence, and social justice, using club nights and radio take-overs to amplify the social causes they care about. Within that, they advocate for gender equality, racial justice, and LGBTQIA+ rights.




In September 2024 they celebrated four years of existence with a Europe-wide tour, with FBM graduates such as EMA and LazerGazer playing at some of the continent’s most prestigious underground clubs. The crew also hosted workshops, panels, radio shows and listening sessions in London, Paris and beyond.




The collective is dedicated to inspiring future generations of artists by providing mentorship and resources for women and gender minorities. So it’s fair to say Femme Bass Mafia is not only transforming the sound of underground music but paving the way for a more equitable and progressive music industry.




To keep up to date with this crew, make sure you follow Femme Bass Mafia on Instagram.

Collective Spotlight: Femme Bass Mafia

The Ibiza season is almost here, and the island is already buzzing with some major residency announcements that are bound to make this summer one for the books. Whether you're heading to the island for the first time or returning for another epic season, there’s no shortage of amazing parties to check out. From iconic venues like Hï Ibiza, consistently ranked among the top clubs in the world, to the grand opening of the brand-new UNVRS club, and the historic Pacha, we've handpicked 12 must-visit spots for you and your crew this summer.




Mondays at Amnesia: Ben Hemsley and Kettama

Amnesia Presents is leveling up Mondays this summer with two exciting new residents: Ben Hemsley and KETTAMA. From June 23rd to October 6th, 2025, these two powerhouses will take over the iconic Terrace at Amnesia Ibiza. Ben Hemsley, one of the hottest names in the scene, has built a loyal fanbase and had massive headline shows across the UK, breaking sell-out records. He’s ready for his debut full-season residency at Amnesia, with 16 dates lined up. Following his huge success last summer, he’s bringing even more heat this year.



KETTAMA, the Irish dynamo, whose music caught the attention of Mixmag and DJ Mag, has seen his rise in the scene skyrocket. He’s shared stages with Patrick Topping and Armand Van Helden, and sold-out shows across Glasgow, Aberdeen, Manchester, and Edinburgh. The combination of these two standout artists makes Mondays at Amnesia a must!



Tickets can be found here! 



Tuesdays at Chinois: Appetite

Nestled in the heart of Ibiza's iconic Marina Botafoch and just a short walk from the legendary Pachá, Club Chinois attracts a mix of partygoers, celebrities, and high-rollers from all over the world. London’s underground party, Appetite, is returning for another season at Chinois, with six exclusive events lined up throughout the summer. Known for showcasing some of the biggest names in the underground house and minimal scenes, last year's Appetite sessions featured the likes of Skream, Josh Baker, Archie Hamilton, and more behind the decks.



For 2025, Appetite is bringing fresh energy with a series of one-off dates, starting with the opening party on April 24th, followed by events on May 27th, June 17th, July 29th, September 2nd, and September 30th. As Club Chinois continues to establish itself as one of Ibiza’s most intimate and forward-thinking venues, Appetite is sure to bring an elite vibe to its underground setting.

Tickets can be found here! 

Tuesdays at Amnesia: Eastenderz



Eastenderz, the influential label and party series founded by London's East End Dubs, has announced a major 12-week residency at Amnesia Ibiza for the 2025 season. What began as an intimate event in East London has grown into a well-known name across Europe’s top clubs, including a successful four-show run at Amnesia's sister venue, Cova Santa, last season. This residency marks a huge step for Eastenderz, with even more exciting plans in the works. 



The brand has earned praise for championing emerging talent, with artists like ALISHA, Max Dean, Luke Dean, and Wheats gaining exposure through its platform. Fans are already eager to see who they’ll be booking for this summer's events.




Tickets can be found here! 

Wednesdays at Amnesia: Resistance

RESISTANCE is returning to Amnesia Ibiza for the 2025 summer season, after a successful run at Privilege from 2017-2019 and recent events at M2 Miami. The iconic party, known for its memorable moments like the Sasha and John Digweed reunion, will take over Amnesia every Wednesday from July 23rd to September 17th.



Leading the 2025 residency are Adam Beyer and ARTBAT, who will alternate between the Main Room and Terrace each week, alongside a lineup of guest DJs yet to be announced. For more details and tickets, check out RESISTANCE's website.

Tickets can be found here! 

Wednesdays at Pacha: BLOND:ISH Presents Abracadabra



BLOND:ISH is set to make history as the first woman to hold a residency at Pacha Ibiza in the club’s 50-year history, starting this May. The Canadian DJ and producer will bring her indelible Abracadabra party to the iconic venue for eleven Wednesdays, from May 21 to July 30, 2025.



Known for her irresistible energy behind the decks and insane track selections, BLOND:ISH is ready to showcase her sought-after sound at Pacha, alongside big names like Solomun, Mau P, and ANOTR this summer.


Tickets can be found here! 

Thursdays at Pacha: Defected

Defected is making its highly anticipated return to Pacha Ibiza for the summer of 2025, marking a major homecoming after a 13-year hiatus. The iconic house music brand will take over Pacha every Thursday from May 8th to October 2nd, reclaiming the legendary residency it held from 2005 to 2012. 



The residency will take over from Robin Schulz's Pure Pacha night and join a stacked Pacha lineup that includes Camelphat, Music On, and early-season shows with Solomun b2b Mau P, ANOTR, Purple Disco Machine, and Keinemusik. With tickets starting under $40, this residency is set to be one of the most major events of the summer.


Tickets can be found here! 

Thursdays at Akasha: Sven Väth Presents T.R.A.N.C.E.



Sven Väth is launching his T.R.A.N.C.E. residency at Las Dalias & Akasha, focusing on the powerful forces of transformation, connection, and ecstasy that music can unlock. Running throughout the season, the residency promises a series of nights filled with transformative sounds, unifying rhythms, and an atmosphere that elevates the crowd. 



T.R.A.N.C.E. is about celebrating the primal energy of music and the joy of shared experiences. Don’t miss this chance to witness an epic journey through the essence of house and techno.


Tickets can be found here!

Fridays at Hï: Joseph Capriati Presents METAMORFOSI



New for 2025, the Hï Ibiza Theatre will be transformed for Joseph Capriati’s residency, METAMORFOSI, celebrating the power of music to inspire personal and collective change. This residency marks a new chapter in Capriati’s artistic journey, inviting you to experience his evolution as an artist.



With a focus on high-quality music, Capriati has curated a lineup featuring both established stars and up-and-coming talent across various electronic genres. The production will feature a mix of nature and futurism, symbolizing growth and transformation, inspired by the metamorphosis of a butterfly.

Catch Joseph Capriati Presents METAMORFOSI every Friday at the Hï Ibiza Theatre from July 4th to October 3rd.



Tickets can be found here!


Saturdays at UNVRS: elrow

In 2025, elrow teams up with Ibiza’s groundbreaking "hyperclub," [UNVRS], to put on a residency that promises to change the clubbing experience. Starting June 7th, elrow will bring its iconic themed parties to [UNVRS] every Saturday until October 4th, with immersive shows and stunning stage designs enhanced by the venue’s cutting-edge technology. 



The lineup will feature four reimagined themes—Hallucinarium, Kaos Garden, Nowmads, and Sambowdromo—each offering a sensory overload of creativity. A surprise fifth theme will close out the season during the Closing Party.




Sundays at UNVRS: Carl Cox



The King of Ibiza, Carl Cox, returns to Ibiza for a highly anticipated residency at [UNVRS], the new “hyperclub” opening on the site of the former Privilege, once the largest club in the world. This marks his first Ibiza residency since ending his legendary 15-year run at Space Ibiza in 2016. Cox will take over a regular Sunday night slot at [UNVRS] from June 22 to September 21, 2025, with his residency being the first to be announced at the new venue.


Tickets can be found here! 

Sundays at Pacha: Mau P Presents Baddest Behaviour

Mau P is bringing his party, Baddest Behaviour, to Pacha Ibiza for his first residency this summer. Known for hits like “Metro” and “Drugs from Amsterdam,” the Dutch DJ and producer will take over the iconic venue every Wednesday, from the opening on August 6th to the closing on October 8th, 2025.



Expect an exciting atmosphere as Mau P plugs his lethal USB into the decks of the cherry club. Tickets and VIP tables are available now, so don’t miss out on the upcoming summer nights at Pacha.


Tickets can be found here! 

Sundays at Amnesia: Pyramid

Pyramid, one of Ibiza’s top underground parties, is returning to Amnesia for another season of Sunday night madness from June 8th to October 5th. The residency will feature a stacked lineup of the hottest house and techno acts in the game, keeping the island’s rave spirit alive.



The opening party will kick off the summer with Josh Baker b2b Rossi., Deborah De Luca, Nina Kraviz, and more, with additional big names expected throughout the season. Pyramid joins Do Not Sleep, Eastenderz, Resistance, and Bresh on Amnesia’s 2025 roster, with Ben Hemsley likely to be announced soon. Sundays at Amnesia are set to be unmissable.


Tickets can be found here!

Top 12 Ibiza Residencies You Can’t Miss This Summer

No Hype, No Ego—Just Music: An Interview with Robyn Balliet

In 2017, the legendary DJ Paul Oakenfold transformed Everest Base Camp into the world’s highest dance floor. Imagine this: at an altitude of 5,380 meters, he streamed a live performance of epic progressive house beats on Facebook. It was a moment that not only raised funds for charity but also captured the world’s attention. But here’s the kicker—despite this remarkable achievement, Nepal’s dance music scene has been struggling to keep the momentum going. Why?



Nepal has always been a haven for free spirits. Back in the 1960s, it was known as "Hippie Heaven," a place where legal cannabis and adventurous travelers created a bohemian energy that still lingers. Fast forward to the turn of the millennium, and you had secret psychedelic raves in the jungles beneath the Himalayas, and underground house/techno nights in Kathmandu. This is where things get interesting.



Meet Pravin Rayamajhi, a Berlin techno evangelist and a Tresor disciple who returned to Kathmandu in 2003. He transformed a bungalow from 1905 near the Royal Palace into an upscale restaurant that secretly doubled as a dance music haven. "It was rebellion," he recalls, explaining how dance music offered an escape during Nepal’s civil war. 



Then there’s Biraj Bahadur Bista, a prog-house disciple who got hooked on Sasha & Digweed’s mixes during his college days in the U.S. in the 1990s. He dove into Kathmandu’s underground dance music scene and, in his 30s, made a remarkable transition to become the Minister of Science and Technology. Enter Ranzen, the sorcerer of Nepal’s music scene, whose unforgettable musical collaboration with Paul Oakenfold at Everest Base Camp continues to resonate.




In 2017, Oakenfold and Ranzen, along with a crew of intrepid ravers, embarked on a 10-day trek to Everest Base Camp for SoundTrek. This high-altitude mission aimed to raise awareness of climate change and funds for global charities. "Moments like that only happen when the spiritual forces align," Ranzen recalls. 



For Oakenfold, it was "life-changing." This incredible journey is captured in the documentary *SoundTrek: A Music Journey to Mount Everest* (2021), which chronicles Oakenfold’s milestone as the first DJ to perform at EBC. The same year, an album featuring 21 stirring tracks was released, now available on Spotify.



Fast forward to today, and Nepal’s dance music dream is still on pause. Political instability and rising populism have intensified the suppression of cultural expression, with dance music often dismissed as "Western decadence." But the spirit of electronic music refuses to die. Ranzen is leading this renegade revival, headlining mega gigs and curating the Bhoomi Folk Festival. Bista, once a politician, has shifted gears to full-time activism, arguing that the government is ignoring a major tourism opportunity: the fusion of legal cannabis and electronic music. "Goa’s government is investing in a permanent electronic music zone," he points out. 



Meanwhile, Rayamajhi sees electronic music as an economic catalyst for Nepal, especially with the governments of Goa and Thailand investing to attract international dance music festivals—Tomorrowland is coming to Thailand in 2026.

The stars are aligned, and the world is ready to rave in the Himalayas. One policy shift could trigger the music industry's Revolution 2.0 in Nepal. Will Nepal seize this opportunity and become the next global dance music hotspot? The potential is undeniable.

Nepal: From Hippie Heaven to High-Altitude Raves

In our Ones To Watch series, we spotlight exciting new producers who are shaking up the game and progressing dance music culture while they do it.




When Patrick Pache launched the ATRIP project in 2022, he had a clear vision: to create a musical ecosystem rooted in inclusivity and community that champions the emotional side of dance music.




The Story Behind ATRIP




Born in Poland and raised in Munich, Patrick grew up surrounded by nature. As a teen, he moved with his family to southwest London, where he found himself in the leafiest part—Richmond.




“It’s very green, super safe, but at the same time unbelievably boring,” Patrick says, chatting from his home studio. “I wasn’t exposed to music, and Richmond is to blame for that.”




The seeds of Patrick’s music taste were planted back in Germany when his father would play 50 Cent and The Prodigy on long drives to football matches. An uncle introduced him to trance and hardcore, and after that he wasn’t able to contain his curiosity. So at age 11, he downloaded production software to figure out how it was all made.




Patrick never lost that curiosity, and spent his teen-hood and early twenties neck-deep in London’s bass-heavy underground, equally inspired by Benga and Coki as he was by Avicii and Skrillex.




He studied business management at university and started working for an A&R company, all while releasing his own productions and DJing at house parties and small clubs. Patrick quickly learned the ins and outs of the music industry, and although he was getting booked to play shows and produce popular tracks, it felt like something was missing. Then, when COVID hit, he took the opportunity to make music only for himself, and not long after that ATRIP was born.




The ATRIP Project




ATRIP’s first release came in the form of “FÜR IMMER” in 2022. His sound emerged fully formed – emotional, contagious, and irresistibly danceable. The UK influence shone through, underscored by a clear international direction. The subsequent singles – “Elsa,” “Salt,” and “Me + You” – only confirmed this, and these three universally relatable dance music tracks shot into the stratosphere and took the ATRIP project along with them.




And his gig calendar followed suit. There’s a particular energy at ATRIP shows – the crowd seem particularly euphoric, dancing without self consciousness. And a big reason for that is the community at the heart of the ATRIP project.




“It’s essential to me to curate a space with maximum openness,” Patrick says.




He solidified this concept after the release of his first TANZPARTEI mixtape in 2023. He had a gig lined up in Hackney, and a couple of days before several people messaged him separately to say they were worried about going alone and not knowing anyone. So he started a WhatsApp group.




“Now, if I play a show in London, there’ll be 50 people in the pub before, they’ll make friends in there and we’ll go to the show together,” Patrick says. “Some of those people have become true friends of mine.”




That is exactly the energy ATRIP carries into his shows. “That excitement, openness, and curiosity is really important to me,” he says.




Patrick sees the ATRIP project as bigger than himself – a community-driven concept that’s open to everyone. This shines through in his TANZPARTEI mixtapes, of which he’s released two so far. He holds intimate launch events in subterranean venues around London, which have become just as important to the ATRIP project as the music itself.




ATRIP unapologetically treads the line between pop and dance music. 2024’s “Rainbow” topped Beatport’s dance/pop charts, with “Friday (Alone Right Now)” hot on its heels. Now, the entire dance music world is locked in – he’s featured on BBC Radio 1, sold out fabric and played international festivals Desert Air, Into The Woods, and Secret Garden Party.




So with everything he’s achieved so far, what are Patrick’s hopes for the future? “This year I want to embark on my third mixtape and start that process,” he says. “But there’s only so much control I have over these things so instead of trying to define every single element of my future and my career, I'd rather just trust my gut, and take every decision as it comes.”




He may trust his gut, but Patrick’s work ethic is unparallelled. At the beginning of each year, he creates a list of attainable goals and faraway dreams, sticks them up on his wall, and works his way through what he can. “At the end of the year I look through the list to reflect on what I’ve achieved,” he says. “And I try not to beat myself up on what I didn’t.”

Ones To Watch: ATRIP

In this series we spotlight up-and-coming collectives who are paving their own way while driving the culture forward.




PullUp Recordings

PullUp Recordings’ rise has been unconventional to say the least. The UK-wide crew based largely around South Wales started as a birthday event in 2019 at now-closed Cardiff nightclub Undertone. That evolved into a nation-wide community, complete with run clubs, an annual festival, a label, and millions of streams.




Founded by Sam Southan and John Lewis when they were just 18 years old, PullUp Recordings champions the best of bass music, with a community of DJs, producers and dancers. They release a wide range of genres on their label, ranging from D&B to dancehall, UKG to UK house.




Their social media looks all fun and games, but this crew takes their work very seriously. John works non-stop managing the label and events, while Sam has passed on major career opportunities to be closer to the label in its hometown of Cardiff.




Since their debut release in 2020 they’ve grown exponentially, creating their own unique culture and platforming some of the UK’s most exciting new talent, all while giving the Welsh underground a much-needed boost.




Today we’ll spotlight some of PullUp’s biggest achievements, their core values and what makes them unique.




New Artists

At the heart of PullUp Recordings is the label. They’re committed to releasing the best of UK bass music, championing high-energy dance music while spotlighting fledgling producers. As a result, PullUp has become a launchpad for emerging talent, with artists like SMG, BSEARL, Arkala Dre, and Kippo growing alongside the label.




PullUp Recordings gives their community opportunities to DJ at their events alongside established artists, and they don’t stick to one genre, instead championing a particular energy. So expect to hear feel-good house alongside dark D&B, all connected by the same charismatic, and energising thread.




Pop-Ups

Just like the rest of the UK, Cardiff has been badly affected by the closure of small nightclubs. But that’s just pushed PullUp Recordings to get creative. They throw pop-up raves in skate shops, skate parks, burrito bars… you name it. The closure of small clubs has pushed them to fill up bigger spaces, and they regularly throw sell out shows at The Vaults in Cardiff. Their ultimate dream is to do the same at Printworks in London.




GemFest

Just like everything else PullUp-related, GemFest developed organically. It started as a 21st birthday party for crew mate Gemma Curtis in a field in Ross-On-Wye on the border of England and Wales. She wanted to celebrate with a private festival with 500 friends, and invited EJ Kitto, Burt Cope and James Hireath to perform.




Gemma organized everything, even down to finding the field for the festival. “I literally went round this neighborhood, saw a field I liked and asked who it belonged to,” Gemma told One More Thing in a 2024 interview. “I found out, emailed them and the wife of the farmer called me and said, ‘What a great idea!’ From that we knew we could do something. We have a venue, we have DJs, we can do this!”




It was such a success they decided to turn it into a real-life festival. So in June 2024, PullUp Recordings presented the very first GemFest. It’s now become an annual affair, with the next festival scheduled for June 2025. They’ve invited underground royalty like Phibes, Pola & Bryson and Oppidan to perform, as well as tons of their mates. Tickets are air-punchingly affordable at £50 ($51.00 USD) each, and the vibe is very DIY – just how they like it.




Run Clubs

Burnt out from their previous events roles, John and Sam decided to launch the run club as a reaction to dance music’s bender culture. They threw their first event in 2024 in Cardiff and now have chapters all around the UK – and it’s done wonders for community-building.




John says that people who joined the run club have since come to their raves, which they would never have done otherwise. “They didn’t think it would be for them but because of the social angle, they’ve come along and found out they really enjoy it,” John told One More Thing in 2024. "I think so much of that is down to the fact most people are connected and know each other so it is a really big group of friends. It’s the same with the pop-ups.”




Now health and wellness are a central pillar to this community and helping them grow a loyal following despite the challenges in UK club culture. So it’s fair to say that this crew is paving their own way, and taking their whole community with them.

Collective Spotlight: PullUp Recordings

Rune Reilly Kölsch, known mononymously as Kölsch, has made a profound impact on the dance music world with his introspective and deeply personal music style. From performing at the peak of the Eiffel Tower to the floors of Ibiza’s Space, Kölsch has ticked off a massive number of successes in the industry. Growing up in Denmark, a country known for its broad musical influences, Kölsch absorbed a wide range of sounds from Drum & Bass to Indie. The long, dark Scandinavian winters played a massive role in developing his emotive sound, which he refers to as "Scandi noir." His albums, notably '1977', '1983', and '1989', are narratives of his life, encapsulating memories from childhood travels to early teenage years.



In the studio, Kölsch blends technical proficiency with tangible elements from his vast record collection, proving his hands-on approach to music production. His muses often come spontaneously—from snippets of overheard conversations to deep personal experiences—informing both his tracks and thematic album explorations. A collaboration with Coldplay transformed "A Sky Full of Stars" into a poignant expression of longing, emphasizing his skill in reinterpreting existing music to evoke new feelings. This connection shines in his live performances, where he adapts his sets to reflect the spirit of the venue and its surroundings, making each show a special experience for the audience. Our interview reveals the layers of his artistic persona and offers a glimpse into the mind of a musician who interprets the world through a distinctly melodic lens.




How has your experience growing up in Denmark influenced your musical style and production choices?

Growing up in Denmark influenced me in many ways. The scene here was and is tiny, so the musical influences were always very broad. I've been hugely inspired by everything from Drum & Bass to Indie over the years. The biggest takeaway from being in Denmark is the long dark winters. Most of my music is very emotional, and that stems from there. Scandi noir, if you will.



Can you describe your artistic flow when you start a new track or album?

That's two very different processes. An album starts with a feeling. An idea lingers and slowly comes to light, something I need to express and see come to light. My album 'I Talk to Water' was about the passing of my father, so all my albums stem from personal memories.



A track is more of a spontaneous process. It can be something I only make for DJ sets; it can be something that is inspired by a moment. It doesn’t always have to be so serious.

How do you approach collaborations with artists from different musical backgrounds, like Coldplay?

I always try to add another dimension to an original piece. With Coldplay, I wanted the song to take on a different meaning. The original is very hopeful and optimistic. I felt it could be a song about longing and feeling lost. I used the vocal in a slightly different way, and rewrote the music behind it. It's fascinating how context can change the meaning of music.



What was it like performing atop the Eiffel Tower, and how did that setting influence the performance? Do you have another bucket list location you’d like to play at?

The Eiffel Tower was something. My stepmom is French, so Paris has always held a very special place in my heart. I used to visit every summer, and a lot of my early life memories stem from there. The pure resilience of the city has always inspired me so much. I vividly remember performing quite closely after the terrorist attacks and just feeling this act of defiance. 



The Parisians refused to be scared and partied even harder. I'm guessing this must have been very similar in New York after 9/11. My set at the Eiffel Tower was an ode to the city. I released the track 'Left Eye Left' at the same time, a comment on the act of no revenge and resilience.



Your albums often have personal significance, especially noted in their titles like '1977' and '1983'. Could you share more about the significance of these years in your life?

As mentioned, all my albums stem from personal experience. My first trilogy is about growing up. '1977' revolves around early memories from my childhood. 



'1983' processes traveling with music during my early years. Finally, '1989' centers on my early teenage years, just before I got into making music. 



It was all an exploration of early influences. I've always been fascinated by the tendencies we have to incorporate the most minute influences in our taste. An example is an old organ I played with at my aunt's place. That sound holds so many memories and is a core value of who I am.



What gear or software do you find indispensable in your music production?

A boring answer would be the laptop, but sadly that is very true. I have a perfect replication of all the hardware I have in my studio on my laptop, so it is easily interchangeable when I return to my studio. Another element I have been exploring a lot lately is my record collection. 



I've been deep diving into sampling drums and small elements from obscure records that are long gone from streaming platforms. There is so much amazing music out there.

How do you prepare for a live set, and do you prefer festival stages or club environments?

I always focus a lot on creating a special experience for the city/venue of the performance. I'll create special edits or versions of tracks for that moment. A great memory was a NYC show some years back, where I felt the urge to play Stooges—I Wanna Be Your Dog. That song has always been pure New York to me. Thankfully, it was a shoe-in, and the crowd exploded.



What’s the most unexpected source of inspiration you’ve encountered in your career?

Second-hand conversations, I think. Plucking a combination of words from someone passing by you mid-sentence. May seem random, but often it can be poetic. Something really special. One of my favorites is still, “Give me back those words.” No clue what the context was, but an amazing saying nonetheless.



If you could remix any track from the 80s, which one would it be and why?

So many goodies. If I had to choose one, it would have to be 'Hypnotic Tango' by My Mine. It always struck me as being super underrated. Love that song.



Which one of your hats is your favorite to wear?

I only have one type of hat, as we started manufacturing them some years back. My favorite color would have to be the Yves Klein blue.

To wrap up, if you could only play one of your tracks to someone who's never heard your music, which one would you choose and why?

I would say listen to 'All That Matters.' It is such a beautiful and touching song. Troels Abrahamsen wrote the lyrics for his kids and told me many years later. The song has taken on a life of its own and feels more relevant than ever.

The Kölsch Dialogue:  A Comprehensive Q&A

If you’re into the underground house scene, there’s no way you haven’t come across DXNBY by now. Born and bred in Doncaster and now holding it down in Leeds, DXNBY has been on a roll, steadily building a name for himself. Drawing from UK garage, hip-hop, and bassline, he blends these influences into a sound that’s raw, fresh, and unmistakably his. If you haven’t already, it’s time to keep reading—or, better yet, hit play on his tracks.

DXNBY got hooked on house during the rise of Solid Grooves back in 2017/2018, with tracks from artists like Jamie Jones and Djoko lighting a fire under him. Since then, he’s been cooking up his own sauce, releasing tunes like “White Tiger,” which went off on TikTok and SoundCloud, and dropping killer EPs like ‘ENDZ058’ on Eastenderz. His DXFiles series gives him a space to let loose creatively, breaking free from any label restrictions and letting fans into his world.



Live, he’s no stranger to legendary venues. Warehouse Project? fabric? Cova Santa? Tick, tick, tick. He even hit the MiNT Fest main stage for a B2B set with Jamie Aramayo—a highlight for him so far. But he’s not stopping there—Space Miami is high on his hit list, and he’s itching to take his sound stateside.

With a new EP dropping this February and big plans for 2025, DXNBY’s got plenty in the pipeline. We caught up with him to chat about his story, his creative development (hint: late-night Ableton sessions are key), and the highs and lows of making music on his own terms. This isn’t just another artist profile—this is DXNBY, straight up.




You grew up in Doncaster but are now based in Leeds—how have those places influenced your music?

When I was younger, my local scene was garage and bassline orientated. I think you can hear this in some of my tracks.

You started off with hip-hop and rap influences. Do you ever sneak those vibes into your house tracks?

Of course, always experimenting with different rap samples. I’d say 80% of the music I listen to day-to-day is hip-hop.



What pulled you into the underground house scene? Was there a specific moment or track that hooked you?

House had always been something I’d heard over the years but never really acknowledged when I was young as I was so obsessed with hip-hop (I wish I knew what hip-house was back then!).



But it was Jamie Jones, Green Velvet, MK, etc. I’d say the specific thing that hooked me was the rise of Solid Grooves around 2017/2018. I wanted to do something like that… Also, Djoko (Kolter) tracks started popping up on YouTube recommendations, and Rossi. started to develop this really nice, minimal cheeky house that pricked my ear after being a big UKG/bassline fan for a while from 2015-2017.

What’s your go-to move when you’re stuck on a track and need a creative spark?

I dig for records, and when I hear something I think, “I wish I made that,” it gives me the motivation to start something that made me feel how the track I just listened to did.



Where do you get your best ideas for music? Is it in the studio, on the road, or somewhere random?

Usually, 3 a.m. in bed just messing around on my MacBook. I find the knowledge that everything and everyone is asleep and quiet enables me to focus. No distractions—just lost in the music.



Chris Stussy, East End Dubs, Kolter—your influences are solid. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from their music?

The basics are important. Kick, clap, hat, snare, bass. If you perfect those, the rest will follow.

If you could collab with anyone in the world right now, who’s at the top of your list?

Burnski, Garrett David, Locklead. Luke & Max Dean would take some beating… who knows if that will ever happen ;)



How did it feel getting support from heavyweights like Michael Bibi and Sidney Charles? Did it open any big doors for you?

When Bibi played my "Onlooker" EP at Creamfields, it was a personal goal for me… From there, the support just kept getting stronger and stronger.



DXFiles feels personal. What makes a track or project worthy of being part of that series?

For me, DXFiles is an outlet where I can express myself beyond the boundaries of any label, so anything can fit.



“White Tiger” blew up on TikTok and SoundCloud, and your EP ‘ENDZ058’ on Eastenderz popped off—what’s it like to see your tracks take off like that?

It’s a great feeling. However, I am always hungry to reach the next milestone and push the next boundary.



Can you share some background about your upcoming release on neXup?

This is still in the works. We actually had an A-side locked in but had issues with sample clearance! Next EP out 14th Feb with some heavy house bangers.



You’ve played some iconic venues like Warehouse Project and fabric. Which one’s been the most unforgettable and surreal for you, and why?

The Warehouse Project was a big bucket list tick. I think a big one for me was the B2B with Jamie Aramayo on the MiNT Fest main stage last year—that one meant a lot. My favourite might be The Loft in Manchester. That’s a special place.



What’s one venue or festival you’re dying to play but haven’t had the chance yet?

Space Miami! Get me to the United States!

What’s a challenge in the music world that you’re determined to crack?

Being put in a box and controlled by labels and trends. Everyone’s susceptible to trying to be on trend—even myself. I try to fight this by making music for myself as much as possible.

If you could soundtrack a movie or a video game, what kind of project would it be, and what would it sound like?

I’ve always liked the idea of having a track on FIFA. However, to have a track on GTA would be a dream. I’d love to one day soundtrack a game or film, if and when it’s right.



If you had to make a track in the most random location ever, where would it be, and what vibe would it have?

Coffee shops in Phuket are cool places to cook up ideas for sure—the best smoke, comfortable seats, cats and dogs chilling with you, friendly people. But the most random place I’ve ever made a track was probably on the floor of my friend’s garage, sitting in an upturned inflatable swimming pool as a makeshift bench at 9:40 a.m., still up from a gig the night before. ;)

An Interview with DXNBY: From Doncaster Roots to Leeds Beats

TOBEHONEST, it’s hard not to vibe with a DJ who knows how to bridge the best of both worlds. Hailing from Los Angeles, this DJ and producer fuses Latin grooves with European house influences, creating tracks that fire up fans across the globe. With releases like “Daka,” “Maquina de Bailar,” and “I Am The One,” TOBEHONEST has secured spots on Beatport’s Top 100 and earned support from heavyweights like Chris Lake, Gordo, and John Summit.

But there’s more to him than just his music. TOBEHONEST’s story is one of authenticity, from helping his uncle build cars as a kid to finding his passion for DJing while balancing a 9-to-5 job in LA. His love for old-school hip-hop and Latin classics brings a distinctive flair to his sound, one that feels nostalgic yet fresh. Beyond the studio, he’s a sports enthusiast who finds peace on the volleyball court or playing tennis and basketball—especially when the beach is involved.



With a growing tour history that includes performances at iconic venues like Brooklyn Mirage, Concourse Project, and Sound Nightclub, as well as sets at EDC Las Vegas and Splash House, TOBEHONEST is building a reputation for bringing energy and precision to every performance. His sets often include hidden gems, like his track “Conga,” a secret weapon for those in the know.

In this exclusive interview, TOBEHONEST opens up about the highs and lows of his career, his approach to creating music, and the moments that have shaped him into the artist he is today. Whether it’s his favorite pre-show snack, the memory of his first Latin American gig, or his honest take on rejection and growth, TOBEHONEST keeps it real.



What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I helped my uncle work on and build cars when I was younger.

If you weren’t a DJ/Producer, what would you be?

I would probably be stuck in an office job in LA. When I first moved here, I wanted a stable income, and that was my job until I got too consumed with music and was fired haha.



What’s the most memorable moment of your career?

Probably this past weekend. I played in Brazil, and it was the most humbling/amazing experience I’ve ever done in a long time.

Who’s an artist that inspires you right now?

There are a couple—AYYBO, Chris Lake always, and this Brazilian named Ragie Ban.

What’s a track you play when you want to get the crowd hyped?

"Horny" for sure. Or Adam Ten and Mita Gami’s Rufus Du Sol remix.



What’s your go-to snack or drink before a show?

This is going to sound bad, but definitely a shot or two of tequila. It calms the nerves. I love Asian cuisine. Korean BBQ to sushi, it doesn’t matter to me. All of it is so good.

What’s your favorite city to play in, and why?

Favorite city is New York or Rio. I love the energy in both of these places so much. Unmatched in my own opinion.



How would you describe your sound in three words?

Groovy, nostalgic, and impactful.

What’s one non-music-related thing that makes you happy?

Playing tennis, basketball, or volleyball. I’m a big sports guy, and anytime I can get out of the house to do something active, it always makes my body and mind feel brand new. Unmatched vibes. 

What’s a track that always brings you back to your roots?

"Full Clip" by Gang Starr. I pull a lot from old-school hip-hop, and I love the simplicity of it. Or "Evil Ways" by Willie Bobo. My best friend’s family used to play Latin music from the ’90s on repeat. Willie was one of them.



If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?

Man, this one is tough. Probably anybody part of the Wu-Tang Clan. The cadence and their come-up is something I feel is unmatched.



If you could time travel to any era of music history, when would it be and why?

The ’90s. Music was peaking back then in my own opinion. A lot of what you hear today are samples of music during that time!



What’s a record that never leaves your crate or USB?

"Conga." It’s a little secret weapon of mine I released back in 2023, and not many people know it. The true heads continue to dig it up. Adam Ten, James Hype, and more. The song for sure has legs.



If you weren’t touring or in the studio, where would we find you?

On the beach in the Caribbean. Can never get enough of that part of the world.

What’s a fun fact or hidden talent that has nothing to do with music?

I can build you a desktop with all the right tools. I used to be a huge computer nerd and would create desktop computers for my friends and myself from age 12–16.

What is simple that makes you smile?

Fluffy dogs or cats. Can’t go wrong with them if they cuddle you too.



What’s a memory you never want to let go of?

My first show in a Latin American country, the Dominican Republic. Gordo invited me out. It was such a culture shock and a phenomenal experience. I want to go back and play as soon as possible.

When do you feel at most peace?

In my bed watching cartoons.



What are some things you forget but feel better when you are reminded about?

How far I’ve come in just three years of producing and DJing. I still have a lot to give as well :)

What’s something meaningful to you, but not to others?

My necklace my grandmother gave to me when she passed. I’ve never taken it off.

What personal prison have you built out of fear?

Rejection. It’s easy to point out your failures instead of your successes. Don’t focus on the rejection and do not get discouraged. Everyone gets told no. What matters is what you do about it.



What’s something normal to you that other people find weird?

I’ll eat the plain Cheerios with nothing else on them…. Might be my serial killer trait hahahah.



If you could compliment yourself, what would you say?

I’m proud of what you’ve accomplished so far. When you feel invisible, remember how far you’ve come and how much more you have to prove and give.



As someone who deals with technology and computers to write music, has there been a gut-wrenching story where you lost your music or the track/beats you were working on?

Yes, multiple times I’ve made a beat, forgot to save it in the process, and Ableton crashes. Such a depressing thing to happen.

What makes you cringe when you listen to your early material?

No sidechain on the bass. The mixes are also terrible hahah. Can’t even feel the bass when the drop kicks in on one of my earliest productions.



What do you find yourself obsessing about most in the studio? From every perspective of creating a track.

If I truly like the song and where it would fit in my sets and others. I take a lot of chances when I make music. Sometimes it works out and other times it doesn’t at all. So I’m always nervous to see how my material is perceived.

What is your favorite set time and duration?

2 hours right at 11 in North America. 2am outside of North America. Most people head home early in the US and are too drunk or tired by around 1. Besides LA, New York, and Miami.



If you had the power to erase & abolish one musical genre—what would you abolish for all eternity?

Man…. It might have to be dubstep. I can’t do it, man. I respect them and the genre, but I can’t stand through a set longer than 30 mins.

Quick Takes With TOBEHONEST: Rapid Fire Highlights

Delia Derbyshire was a sound pioneer who transformed how we think about music and its possibilities. Born in Coventry in 1937, she grew up surrounded by the industrial hum of a working-class city, sounds that would later influence her work. Evacuated to Preston during World War II, she absorbed the rhythms of clogs on cobblestone streets and the eerie wail of air raid sirens—elements that resurfaced in her later compositions.



Delia’s journey into music wasn’t straightforward. At school, she excelled in music and mathematics, a combination essential for her future in electronic sound design. After studying at Cambridge, she visited the Brussels World's Fair in 1958, where Edgard Varèse’s Poème Électronique left a lasting impression. This fusion of sound, architecture, and art sparked her interest in electronic music, a field not yet taught academically.



After being rejected by Decca Records because women weren’t allowed in their studios, Delia joined the BBC in 1960 and later transferred to the Radiophonic Workshop in 1962. There, she created her most iconic work—the Doctor Who theme. Using electronic sound generators, tape machines, and her skill in manipulating sound, Delia transformed Ron Grainer’s score into a groundbreaking piece of music. Her eerie, futuristic arrangement remains a cornerstone of British electronic music history.



In the video transcript, Delia explains her process of shaping electronic sounds into something unique. She discusses three fundamental sound waves: the sine wave, a pure, smooth tone; the square wave, harsher and harmonically rich; and white noise, a chaotic blend of frequencies resembling static. 



If you watch the YouTube video, take a moment to notice her voice—while the information she shares is fascinating, her soft and soothing tone stands out, making it easy to imagine how beautifully it could be sampled and woven into a modern producer's track.



While these raw sounds are intriguing, Delia emphasized that they need to be shaped, layered, and molded to become musical. She often recorded real-world sounds, like a hollow wooden knock, and manipulated them to create rhythmic elements, proving that inspiration could come from both electronic and everyday sources.

Her hands-on, experimental approach involved adjusting tape speeds, layering tones, and crafting rhythms. This flow highlights her technical skill and drive to invent entirely new auditory experiences, redefining how sounds were created and used in music.

Delia’s talents extended beyond Doctor Who. Her collaborations with Barry Bermange on The Inventions for Radio blended public voices with haunting soundscapes, challenging perceptions of music and class while exploring philosophical themes.



Though Delia left the Workshop in 1973, her influence never faded and remains profound. Today, artists and composers continue to celebrate her for showing us that music can come from anywhere—an oscilloscope, a lampshade, or even the echo of childhood memories.

Delia Derbyshire: Engineering the Art of Sound

How nightclubs in Georgia’s capital became a symbol of resistance




A Brief History of Techno in Georgia



Electronic music became a fixture of Georgia’s cultural psyche not long after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. The fall of the Iron Curtain gave Georgian artists access to recordings from Europe, new equipment, and technical knowledge from around the world. And with over a quarter of the country’s population living in Tbilisi, that’s where the techno scene emerged.




Dima Dadiani and Nika Machaidze spearheaded Tbilisi’s techno revolution. They used sequencers, drum machines, and basic recorders to create Georgia’s first techno tracks and organized Tbilisi’s first event, 'A Sweet Evening of Electronic Music,’ in the late '90s.




In the early 2000s, they launched the electronic artist collective Goslab. Members released on German techno labels which created a bridge between Tbilisi and Berlin, Europe’s capital of techno.




Techno as Resistance




Georgia’s electronic music artists have always been on the fringes of society. They connect with the liberal values of Europe, rather than the restrictive norms of their Soviet past. This means the club community has always been resistant to any return to the Soviet Union era.




Bassiani is widely cited as Georgia’s first techno club. Founded by Zviad Gelbakhiani, Tato Getia, and Naja Orashvili and named after the 13th-century independence war of the Georgian kingdom in Basian, they opened their doors in 2014 to expand the cultural landscape of Tbilisi and connect Georgian artists with the rest of the world. Since then, Bassiani has become a beacon of club culture in Central Europe. Over the years, it’s become the epicenter of like-minded progressives who meet, dance, release, and exchange ideas. Because of this, the community naturally joined the front lines of political protests, especially surrounding issues of Russian influence in Georgia’s government.




Café Gallery opened in 2008 as the city’s first queer event space. They host local and international techno artists and provide a space for marginalized communities to come together, free of society’s pressures. It’s part venue and part art space, which means the walls are often covered with political art which protests the country’s increasing authoritarianism and promotes liberal values.




The Left Bank is another Tbilisi nightclub known for its progressive values and strong sense of community. They opened their doors in 2020, with the aim of creating a post-industrial club and community space in the heart of Tbilisi.




From Raves to Raids




Tbilisi’s underground clubs are safe havens for marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+. This makes them a target for Georgia’s conservative authorities, and in 2018 Bassiani and Café Gallery were raided by armed police under the guise of an anti-narcotics operation. Bassiani is connected with the White Noise activist movement, which campaigns for the liberalization of Georgia’s drug legislation. Eight alleged dealers were arrested after the deaths of at least five young people believed to have taken drugs while clubbing.




The raid led to mass protests across Tbilisi and violent altercations with armed forces and right-wing extremists. Since then, Russian influence has continued to rise, so Tbilisi’s nightclub community repeatedly clashes with authorities. In 2019, protests erupted when the government allowed a Russian representative to take over the seat of the head of parliament.




The most recent clashes started in October 2024, after the right-wing party Georgian Dream won the parliamentary election. They soon announced the delay of Georgia’s EU accession process, and the election has since faced allegations of fraud.




Tbilisi’s nightclub community quickly mobilized in protest, and they closed their doors for 40 days to urge the community to take to the streets instead of the dance floors. The clubs re-opened for New Year's Eve, however celebrations were muted.




”Upcoming NYE is bound to be anything but an ordinary celebration,” wrote the Left Bank on social media. “Amid ongoing challenges, we all gather at the Parliament building to welcome the New Year, with our doors opening later than usual.”




With authoritarianism on the rise in Central Europe and beyond, there’s no doubt that Tbilisi’s nightclubs, promoters, artists, and dancers will continue to fight for a new social order. One that’s rooted in freedom, equality, and solidarity, and soundtracked by techno.

City Beats: Techno in Tbilisi

Space 92 is a name that needs no introduction for anyone who’s spent time on a packed dancefloor or scanned Beatport’s Techno charts in recent years. Since 2020, he’s held the title of best-selling Techno Peak Time artist, earning his reputation with an unmistakable sound that blends melodic depth, acid textures, and gritty percussion. Born and raised in the South of France, Space 92’s productions carry a nostalgic nod to his love for vintage 80s Sci-Fi, giving his tracks a futuristic yet familiar edge.

With releases on heavyweight labels like Drumcode, Filth on Acid, and Factory 93, Space 92’s discography reads like a who's-who of techno's most respected imprints. His collaborations are equally impressive, including work with giants like Reinier Zonneveld, Carl Cox, and Hi-Lo. On top of that, his remixes for Nicole Moudaber and Layton Giordani have held top spots on the Beatport charts, earning his place as one of the genre’s most consistent producers.



Whether headlining Resistance Ultra Tokyo, playing legendary clubs like WOMB, or igniting festival stages at CRSSD and Ultra Miami, Space 92 delivers a level of precision and energy that keeps him in demand across the globe. And if his solo sets weren’t enough, his collaborative live/hybrid project Turbulence with French artist POPOF has been raising the bar for techno performances. Featuring exclusive tracks and tailor-made edits, Turbulence has already torn through Resistance stages in Tokyo, Seoul, and Miami.

From chart-topping tracks to marathon sets and a ceaseless pursuit for the studio, Space 92 is in a league of his own. Dive into our full interview to hear more about his process, his quirks, and the journey that’s taken him from Toulouse to the biggest stages in the world.




What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

Many people don’t know that I’m French, including French people! Also, I really like cheesy 80s’pop music. :)

If you weren’t a DJ/Producer, what would you be?

I’d probably still be a computer geek!



What’s the most memorable moment of your career?

There are too many of them to just pick one. I’d say, not in any particular order: my first Beatport Number 1, my first post-Covid show, my first award as a producer, my first mega festival, my first tour outside Europe, and the launch of my own label (spoiler alert!).



Who’s an artist that inspires you right now?

Mathame, Anyma for the melodies. Then I would also say upcoming talents such as Linska, Dok & Martin, Pablo Say, and Karla Blum.

What’s a track you play when you want to get the crowd hyped?

My latest sounds are super pumped-up and dancefloor-oriented, and I’ve been very successfully testing them these past months. So, I’d say any T1 2025 Space 92 track!



What’s your go-to snack or drink before a show?

Definitely a gin tonic. Not too many of them though, because I try to be reasonable. I usually have a couple throughout my entire set – except when I’m in Poland because my fans over there keep sending me shots when I’m playing, and, you know, I’m polite. I drink them. Haha.

What’s your favorite city to play in, and why?

I would probably pick Buenos Aires because the crowd is so incredibly warm, knowledgeable, and energetic. I honestly feel so much at home every time I go back. BA is a gorgeous city and culturally so rich. I also love New York, Tokyo, Beirut, and Shanghai for the same reasons.



How would you describe your sound in three words?

Ass-kicking, melodic, trancey.



What’s one non-music-related thing that makes you happy?

FOOD (and hiking).

What’s a track that always brings you back to your roots?

Cirez D - On Off.



If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?

Stephan Bodzin.

What’s your favorite non-music-related hobby?

Movies (and hiking).

If you could time travel to any era of music history, when would it be and why?

The late 90s'/early 90s' when all the trance classics were released one after the other. The majestic Tiesto / Paul van Dyk / Armin van Buuren / Hardwell /etc. era. I was too young to fully comprehend what was happening musically at the time.



What’s a record that never leaves your crate or USB?

My collaboration track with Hi-Lo, ‘Mercury.’ I cherish it so much.



If you weren’t touring or in the studio, where would we find you?

There is a 90% probability you’d find me on my couch in my underwear watching a movie and trying to recuperate from touring!

What’s a fun fact or hidden talent that has nothing to do with music?

I ate chicken feet and duck tongues in China, and my tour manager convinced me to eat giant smoked ants in Colombia; all of which I did not particularly enjoy. Haha.



What is simple that makes you smile?

A silly joke, my manager’s outfits, cheesy pop music.

What’s a memory you never want to let go of?

None of them; the bad and the good.



When do you feel at most peace?

When I’m with my family.

What are some things you forget but feel better when you are reminded about?

That I’m fucking lucky to be able to do what I love the most and make a decent living off of it.



What personal prison have you built out of fear?

My anxiety. I struggled to keep it in check for many years, but I’m doing better now, and I’m seeing a professional. Mental health is a very serious matter.

What’s something normal to you that other people find weird?

Most people around me cannot comprehend why I would fly 13 hours to a country on the other side of the globe, land, perform, and leave on the same day. My reply would be: because of obligations.



If you could compliment yourself, what would you say?

Your nose is perfect!

From a production perspective, what’s the most expensive mistake you’ve ever made in an effort to put on a kick-ass show?

None, because I’m such a pro.

As someone who deals with technology and computers to write music, has there been a gut-wrenching story where you lost your music or the track/beats you were working on?

Thankfully, no, but someone tried to steal my USB once after my show. My manager chased and caught the culprit, so it’s all good.

What makes you cringe when you listen to your early material?

I used to make minimal techno, suffice to say.

What do you find yourself obsessing about most in the studio? From every perspective of creating a track.

I’m both a perfectionist and a control freak, so I obsess about everything. It can take me months to find the right sound.



What is your favorite set time and duration?

Probably the 1 AM to 3 AM slot. Two or three hours is good. That being said, I did six hours once in Barcelona, and I had a blast.



If you had the power to erase & abolish one musical genre, which one would you abolish for all eternity?

None of them. Diversity is good. Someone from my management made me listen to an atmospheric Doom track once (Hello, person from management here: Hagazussa soundtrack by MMMD. Cheers.), and I hated it, but I wouldn’t erase it though.

An Interview with Space 92: Techno’s French Kingpin

In the music industry, there are few names as universally recognized as Luca Dea. For over 15 years, Luca has documented the heart and soul of the scene, creating a vast archive of iconic moments that allow fans to relive performances from their favorite artists. From the smallest Sunday parties in his hometown of Treviso, Italy, to monumental events like Miami Music Week and Ibiza closings, Luca has transformed his passion for capturing moments into a career that resonates with people worldwide. While his work serves as documentation, it also acts as a bridge for those who can’t physically be there.

Tracing the Start

Luca’s journey began in 2008 when he launched his YouTube channel. “I started recording because I wanted to keep memories for myself,” he shares. “After uploading to YouTube, I realized that a lot of people couldn’t attend these events, just like me in the beginning. Sharing those moments became something much bigger than I anticipated.”



His path into dance music wasn’t immediate. As a teenager, Luca was more interested in rap and hip-hop. It wasn’t until friends invited him to Sunday afternoon parties in Italy that he began exploring the house and techno scene. “I started going every weekend, and eventually, I wanted to see more than the same events. That’s when I decided to travel and capture new experiences,” he explains.



By 2011, Luca was tired of the routine and took a leap. “I didn’t want to be a public relations guy anymore. I wanted to travel on my own and discover new places,” he says. That same year, he attended Miami Music Week for the first time, which he describes as a pivotal moment. “For European people like me, going to Miami is an important experience. It opens your mind to a different culture and a different way of doing parties. That trip made me realize how far I could take this.”



From Simple Clips to a Global Archive

Early on, Luca relied on a €150 camera to record sets. His focus wasn’t on technical quality but on capturing the energy of the moment. “It wasn’t about creating professional videos—it was about showing the best moments in the best way I could,” he says.



Over time, he upgraded his equipment, eventually transitioning to using an iPhone 14 Pro in 2022. “I realized the iPhone was good enough for what I do. My videos aren’t meant for massive screens or professional sound systems—they’re for people to watch on their phones or computers.”



This practicality defines Luca’s approach. “What I capture is different. It’s not about polished, post-event edits—it’s about sharing the feeling of the night with people who couldn’t be there.” One of Luca’s most iconic videos is of Sven Väth’s set at COCORICO in Italy. The 2012 clip captured not just the music but a piece of dance music history. “It’s still one of my most viewed videos,” Luca says. 



Yet, when reflecting on standout moments, he points to Michael Bibi’s return to Ibiza after his battle with cancer. “I was recording with two phones—one live-streaming on Instagram and the other capturing the set. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about the emotion of that moment. It was unforgettable.”



The Famous Logo

In 2016, Luca introduced his now-famous logo, a camera lens that appears on all his videos. The one we can all immediately recognize because it's incredibly iconic. “I avoided creating a logo for years because I didn’t want to make it about me,” he says. 



But as his content began appearing on social platforms like Facebook and Instagram, he noticed it being reposted without credit. “That’s when I realized I needed to protect my work. The logo isn’t about self-promotion—it’s about making sure my content stays connected to me.”



Despite this, Luca’s focus has always been on the music and the people. “I’ve always preferred to keep my videos clean. The logo is there for protection, not to take attention away from the DJs or the events.”

Turning a Dream Into Reality

Luca’s work has garnered admiration from fans and artists alike, with Michael Bibi tweeting in 2022 that Luca deserves a documentary. “It was during the Ibiza closings, and I was recording a lot of events. Seeing something like that from Michael was a true pleasure because I feel like just a normal guy with a dream to always grow” he says.





If a documentary were ever made, Luca says it would focus on his journey from humble beginnings to global recognition. “I started with nothing—no money, no connections. I just went to the closest parties in my hometown and built from there. I hope my story shows that if you have passion, you can achieve great things.”



Luca also reflects on the sacrifices he made along the way. “When I was younger, I didn’t spend money on unnecessary things. I saved everything for what mattered to me—going to events and recording. It’s all about focusing on what you love.”



Eyes on the Horizon

While Luca is proud of how far he’s come, he feels like his journey is still unfolding. “I’m not at the highest point of what I want to do. I still have so many projects I want to pursue,” he says. Whether it’s expanding his content or exploring new creative ventures, Luca’s focus remains on capturing and sharing the moments that connect people to the music they love.



Luca Dea’s work has become an integral part of the dance music community, not just for its historical significance but for its ability to unite fans worldwide. As he continues to record and share the best moments in house and techno, his story serves as a reminder of the power of passion and perseverance.



A Note from the Journalist

On a personal note, conducting this interview was a true honor. It was refreshing to speak with someone of Luca’s level and status who remains so kind, sweet, and humble. In an industry where conversations can sometimes feel intimidating, talking to Luca felt like chatting with an old friend. He’s one of the coolest and nicest individuals I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the future takes him.

Luca Dea: The Lens That Connects

Lisbon-born, London-raised Nãnci Correia occupies a unique position in the world of jungle and Drum & Bass: she’s one of the genre’s very few vocalists. Today, we’ll find out more about her formative years attending raves in London, the joys and challenges of being a jungle vocalist, and how 7 years of touring non-stop with Congo Natty has changed her perspective on music, songwriting and life.




Raving in South London



Nãnci’s love for singing formed when she was just five years old, when she was drawn to the sound of jazz, soul and blues. But growing up in south London exposed her to an eclectic mix of genres ranging from dubstep to reggae to UKG. As a teen, Nãnci spent every spare minute at raves, soaking up the energy of dubstep, jungle and Drum & Bass at underground and free parties.



“Obviously Rinse FM now is mainstream, but back then it was still pirate,” Nãnci says, speaking from her home in Kent. “They used to have a website called Dubstep Forum that had this spreadsheet of all the underground events in London.”




It was 2005, and Nãnci and her mates would look out for jungle, dubstep and D&B events. “We’d fill our calendars with raves from Monday to Sunday and go to every single one,” Nãnci says.




“Growing up, I always loved music but there’s something about the sound of really good bass,” Nãnci says. “Like whether it’s energetic jungle, D&B or jump up, or even slow old school dub-inspired dubstep. That’s what came with sound system culture, we were around insanely good sonics.”




She soon realized she wanted to pursue a career in music, so she went to music school in East London while working in events for brands like Outlook Festival, Vagabondz and Pack London. The office was upstairs in Brixton Jam, where jungle producer Congo Natty had his studio.




Life as a Junglist Vocalist




For those who don't know, Congo Natty is one of jungle's most well-respected producers, toasters and MCs. Nãnci had seen him perform in a side room at a warehouse dubstep rave, but she wasn't aware that he’d been listening to her MySpace page too. So when they ran into one another outside his offices, he suggested they collaborate on some tracks along with Nãnci’s singing partner Phoebe.




“At the time, we were obsessed with this track “Notorious” by Turbulence,” Nãnci says. “And Phoebe started singing it on the guitar and I started doing harmonies, and we recorded it and made Congo Natty’s whole album literally in a week.”



“Notorious” became an instant anthem on the jungle scene, and the next thing they knew, Nãnci and Phoebe were on tour with Congo Natty.




“I didn’t take a breath for seven years,” Nãnci says. “We just traveled around the world, we toured around Africa, China, we went to Nepal and India, and travelled all around Europe.”




Nãnci says it was an invigorating time in life, but it took everything in her power to ensure her vocal chords could stand up to the almighty sound systems. “I’m not a host or an MC, I'm a singer,” Nãnci says. “You essentially need to be an athlete, and I was in an environment for seven years on stage with five men shouting at the tops of their voices and competing with the world’s biggest sound systems.”




Amongst it all, Nãnci released with the likes of Tenor Fly and Daddy Freddy, and got airtime from Radio 1 veterans Annie Mac, David Rodigan and Mista-Jam. “It was a really amazing, beautiful time, but now it’s nice to be back at my roots,” she says.




Nãnci’s Roots




Nãnci studied jazz and blues at college, and that’s what she’s returned to in the last few years. Jungle and D&B will always be close to her heart, and she’s still very much involved in the scene, but combining her love of bass music with music from her birth country is her current mission.




“I'm Portuguese, so my soul gravitates towards flamenco, fado, all that folk, traditional stuff,” Nãnci says. “I love the rawness of a folk acoustic guitar and the insane energy of bass, so that’s what I’m exploring now.”




Being a jazz singer in the global jungle scene was unusual to say the least. “What was smart about adding a vocalist is that it packaged jungle up into a more consumable form for everyone,” Nãnci says. “I think that was smart.”




Clearly, Nãnci’s vocals are versatile enough to fit with any genre. In 2023 she released her trap single “Dolls House” which was remixed by Wiley, and before that she released “Bathe in your Waters,” with her rich vocals soaring over a 2-step, Latin beat.




Today, Nãnci’s working on nothing but passion projects. “I'm working on an album, and I’m also just enjoying life,” Nãnci says. “Everything was decided for me for a long time, and I’m enjoying the process of creating and sharing and not putting too much pressure on things."

D&B in Focus: Nãnci Correia

The world of nightlife and entertainment is poised for a game-changing moment as elrow, the legendary event production brand, teams up with Ibiza’s [UNVRS], the world’s first “hyperclub,” for an unforgettable residency in 2025. This groundbreaking partnership promises to reshape the way we experience clubbing, combining cutting-edge technology, spectacular stage design, and immersive storytelling.



elrow at [UNVRS]: The Next Frontier

Starting June 7th, 2025, elrow will bring its legendary themed parties to [UNVRS] every Saturday night until October 4th. Known for its immersive shows and jaw-dropping productions, elrow will elevate its experience even further with the help of [UNVRS]’s state-of-the-art facilities. The lineup includes four reimagined themes—Hallucinarium, Kaos Garden, Nowmads, and Sambowdromo—each promising to deliver a sensory overload of creativity and spectacle. A fifth surprise theme will cap off the season during the Closing Party.



What Makes [UNVRS] Unique?

[UNVRS], led by Yann Pissenem, the visionary behind Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza, is not your typical nightclub. It’s a “hyperclub,” a space that merges advanced technology, stunning architecture, and large-scale production capabilities. The venue is designed to break away from traditional club formats, offering an environment where every corner contributes to the narrative. From aerial acrobatics to animatronic characters, [UNVRS] transforms a night out into a fully immersive journey.



The Themes: A Deep Dive

Each elrow theme has been supercharged for [UNVRS]:

Hallucinarium: A cosmic, psychedelic trip inspired by Alex and Allyson Grey’s art. Expect kaleidoscopic visuals and mind-bending effects that dissolve the line between reality and imagination.



Kaos Garden: A colorful, chaotic reinterpretation of Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights, brought to life by artist Okuda San Miguel with vibrant sets and interactive elements.



Nowmads: A fusion of cultural diversity and intergalactic exploration, featuring tribal influences, animatronic performers, and ever-changing landscapes.



Sambowdromo: A Brazilian carnival-inspired spectacle with kinetic sculptures, jungle vibes, and samba rhythms creating an electric atmosphere.



The Global Announcement



The partnership was unveiled in Barcelona with a cinematic trailer that played to a packed audience of 500 industry leaders and media figures. Produced by creative studio Codea, the trailer starred elrow’s founding family and Pissenem himself in a whimsical interstellar adventure, setting the stage for their collaboration.



Following the screening, elrow founders Cruz and Juan Arnau joined Pissenem for a panel discussion, where they shared their excitement about taking the elrow experience to the next level. The Arnau family, whose entertainment roots stretch back over 150 years, emphasized that this collaboration is the culmination of their Ibiza journey, which began in 2012.

A Historic Moment for Nightlife



With this residency, elrow is set to redefine what a clubbing experience can be. Attendees can expect a mix of the world’s top house music talent, cutting-edge technology, and epic visuals. Tickets are already on sale, and demand is expected to be sky-high.



This partnership between elrow and [UNVRS] marks the dawn of a new era in nightlife. Whether you’re a die-hard partygoer or someone seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, summer 2025 in Ibiza is shaping up to be unmissable.

For more information, visit elrow.com and unvrs.com.

The Birth of Ibiza’s First Hyperclub: elrow Announces 2025 Residency at [UNVRS]

KILIMANJARO, a Zambian-born DJ and producer with a background in modeling and design, started building his sound through residencies in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Moving to London proved to be a pivotal moment, creating opportunities that helped him step into the spotlight of the music industry. His Boiler Room London set has become legendary, with over 1.5 million views and counting. Personally invited by Fred Again.., KILIMANJARO stepped into the Boiler Room with one mission: to go BEAST MODE.



From the opening track, the room lit up with the energy only KILIMANJARO can bring. Known for blending Afro House, Amapiano, and sped-up classics, his set had an unpredictable yet seamless flow that kept everyone jumping and swiveling their hips. The mix wasn’t just music—it was a full-throttle experience, with rhythms that felt like they were pulled from every corner of the globe.



As the night rolled on, the crowd became more than an audience—they were fully in sync with him, the true meaning of a Boiler Room set. KILIMANJARO’s selections felt like they were made for this exact moment, tracks that hit harder with every transition, turning the room into a dancefloor nobody wanted to leave. And then came that moment—shirt off, sweat pouring, and the crowd going absolutely crazy behind him. It was pure chaos in the best way.



The set was a perfect mix of house, Amapiano grooves, Afro-inspired drums, and a few unexpected classics thrown in for good measure. Each track brought a fresh wave of energy, making it impossible not to move, playing some of his own music as well. By the time he wrapped up, the vibe was still immaculate, leaving the crowd buzzing and wanting more.



KILIMANJARO’s Boiler Room set is one of those performances you have to see to believe. It’s raw, unfiltered, and showcases exactly why he’s become a name to know in music.


From the Tracklist Legend in the Youtube comment section:

1: &ME - Cape Coast

2: Francis Mercier, Magic System - Premier Gaou

3: Hyenah, Mr. V - 3rd Eye

4: Rami Ali - 50 Pence Genc

5: Melé - Groove La Afrika

6: Lubelski - Soothing Rhythms

7: Hammer & KILIMANJARO - Muleña

8: Hammer & KILIMANJARO - Step It Up

9: KILIMANJARO & Third Son - Mukiti

10: Les Petits Pilous - Russian Forest

11: Tessela - Hackney Parrot

12: Kelis - Millionaire (feat. André 3000)

13: TNGHT - Higher Ground

KILIMANJARO’s Boiler Room Takeover: A Set for the Ages

No one's influenced the global sound of D&B and jungle quite like MC Chickaboo. She’s the first female jungle MC, and has been fighting for the mic since day one. As one of the most instrumental players in the growth and boom of D&B worldwide, she reflects on her long and fruitful career, the early days, the golden eras, and her part in the latest resurgence of the genre.




Chickaboo's Contribution to Jungle and DnB




Chickaboo is a name synonymous with the evolution of jungle and D&B. Born to a Jamaican dad and an Irish mum and raised in Birmingham, her early experiences with jungle came through free rave and soundsystem culture.




“I was just obsessed with music as a kid, I’d buy records and play at my local youth club from the age of 13 or 14,” Chickaboo says.




She started playing records at house parties and then joined a sound system that played reggae and soul. “Kids in the area started asking me about rave music and I said I wasn’t into all the bleeping,” Chickaboo says. “But I started playing some rave music and the kids would jump around and go nuts.”




Chickaboo didn’t connect with the acid house played at raves, but when her sound system played hardcore, she started messing around on the microphone.




“That’s what you do in sound system culture,” Chickaboo explains. “You have a selector, a person on the microphone, the operator, and you all swap and change. It’s a collaboration of like-minded people.”




One day, a promoter heard Chickaboo's whip-sharp MC skills and invited her to perform at his party.




“It was a club in Birmingham, and that’s where I met G.E. Real,” Chickaboo says. “He asked if I would MC for him, so we went and did a gig and it just went crazy.”




After that, Chickaboo and G.E. Real became an unstoppable team. G.E. Real was often mixing on three decks and Chickaboo wowed crowds who’d never seen a woman MC before. They were invited to play at some of the UK’s biggest raves including Fantasia, Dreamscape and Jungle Fever, but in 1996, just as their careers were taking off, G.E. Real became unwell, and passed away a few months later.




Chickaboo's Early Career




Crushed with grief, Chickaboo was unable to leave the house, let alone perform, but their agent Tanya convinced her to get back out on the stage. The following year, Chickaboo moved to London, and started MCing for jungle’s biggest players including Bryan Gee, Aphrodite, DJ Zinc, and Shy FX.




Chickaboo’s galvanizing vocals featured on some of jungle’s most loved tracks, gaining her global respect not just for her versatile vocals, but for her ability to wrestle the mic off all the men.




“It would get physical getting the mic,” Chickaboo says. “But I’m quite brave, so I’d get in there, grab it and then be so good they’d be too intimidated to take it back.”




In 1999, Chickaboo got a call from Knowledge Magazine in the USA, who invited her to MC on their tour. “We had British and American DJs coming in and out and I did the whole 6 weeks,” Chickaboo says. “So I exploded there, and then DJ Dazee and I became a team, and we were in the US every two weeks.”




In 2002, Chickaboo teamed up with Timo Maas to sing vocals on his track “Shifter.” The song became one of the seminal tunes in deep house music, hit number one on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and has gone down in history as one of the most influential tracks of the era.




Chickaboo and Soul II Soul




In the early 2000s, Chickaboo received a phone call with a familiar voice on the line. “I knew exactly who it was,” Chickaboo laughs. “He said ‘it’s Jazzie B from Soul II Soul’, and I said ‘I know!’”




Jazzie said he was looking for a MC, so Chickaboo invited him to her gig that night. “I was so nervous I was shaking, and the next day he called and said he had a gig for me this Friday,” she says. “So suddenly I was on stage looking at Jazzie B and Rose Windross in front of 2000 people, and I’m like fuck. I’m on stage with Soul II Soul. Little Chickaboo from Birmingham!”




That led to a long and fruitful partnership for the next 12 years, brushing shoulders with the likes of Debbie Harry, Alicia Keys, Nile Rogers and James Brown. “So I left Drum & Bass and Jungle because I was so busy,” Chickaboo says.




Returning to Jungle




In 2018, Chickaboo had to take time off her music career after an accident led to a botched knee surgery which left her house-bound for several years.




“When lockdown happened, I’d spent the last three years on the sofa,” Chickaboo says. “So it wasn’t so bad because I was already in a lockdown.”




Then DJ Mantra, DJ Flight and Sweet Pea formed EQ50, a collective of women working towards fairer representation within drum and bass. Chickaboo shared her unparalleled energy on their live streams, reminding everyone why she’s such a historical figure in the genre. “I was the busiest MC,” Chickaboo says. “I was just doing all the streams because I'm quite an excitable person.”




Chickaboo had a successful knee surgery, and as the world emerged from lockdown, so did she – just in time for round three of Drum & Bass. Chickaboo’s phone started ringing off the hook, with the new wave of D&B artists wanting Chickaboo’s old school energy on the mic.




“Oh my gosh – the DJs that emerged during lockdown,” Chickaboo says in disbelief. “Everyone was sitting at home doing streams in their bedrooms, and it’s amazing that so many of them are women. I feel like a proud auntie.”




Although Chickaboo won’t be touring anywhere near as much as she used to, she’s regularly playing gigs across the UK, either with her OG jungle crew or with new talent. “My absolute dream is to see more people in the scene like me,” she says. “After that, maybe I can retire.”