How many DJs are as at home in an art gallery as in a nightclub? This dichotomy is central to London-based DJ, producer, composer and vocalist FAUZIA’s identity, who oscillates between immersive instrumental live performances and high-energy DJ sets drawing on jungle and footwork. At the core of both, however, is an undeniable mysticism.
FAUZIA’s upcoming performance at RALLY Festival in London’s Southwark Park seems set to tie together both aspects of her identity. “My club sets seem like the polar opposite of my live shows. The set at RALLY will probably be a middle ground,” FAUZIA tells Dazed. “I’m doing a downtempo, ambient set, which I only ever get to do on radio, so it’s a nice change.”
Artistic freedom is foundational to RALLY’s ethos, which was inspired by London’s DIY and grassroots music communities. This year, the lineup is rooted in the theme ‘a common purpose’, featuring art installations, talks and spoken word performances aimed at drawing human connection, as well as performances from CASISDEAD, Floating Points, Ben UFO, MIKE, Amore and more.
In anticipation of this weekend’s events, FAUZIA creates a relaxed mix to welcome in the end of summer – listen above, and read FAUZIA’s thoughts behind the selections below.
Hey FAUZIA! How’s your summer going?
FAUZIA: Yes, it’s been very nice, thank you. I was in Berlin last weekend to study.
From breaking out as a jungle and footwork DJ to performances spanning classical and experimental music, you have a pretty hard-to-pin-down sound. How do you see these elements tying together?
FAUZIA: I see it as different parts of me, so I would say I’m the thing tying it all together.
What are some of your earliest music memories?
FAUZIA: Going to a squat rave and hearing jungle for the first time.
Where do you find musical inspiration?
FAUZIA: I guess I listen to a lot of music. But I would say it comes more from playing with other musicians and learning from others.
Where do you see club music going? Are there any trends you’ve observed lately?
FAUZIA: I’m not really sure. I would say I’m on the periphery of club music. It’s definitely become oversaturated, and people miss the underground. It would be nice to have that again.
What’s the best and worst advice you’ve ever received?
FAUZIA: Things are impermanent; everything changes. Worst advice, I’m not sure. I’m currently removing my tattoos, so whoever convinced me it was a good idea?
What are you listening to at the moment?
FAUZIA: It’s between Keith Jarrett and Burial.
Tell us about your Dazed Mix.
FAUZIA: It has The Smiths, Burial and My Bloody Valentine. It feels like the end of summer.
How were you feeling when you made it?
FAUZIA: Very relaxed.
TRACKLIST:
- DJ Python – “Marry Me Maia”
- Burial – “Comafields”
- Klein – “Who You Are”
- LORD TUSK – “Shame on You”
- The Smiths – “How Soon Is Now?”
- My Bloody Valentine – “Instrumental no2”
- Natural Wonder Beauty Concept – “Wicked Game”
- Shell Company & Older Brother – “Shard”
