Very excited to present the first edition of our new interview and mix series today! Over the next two months, we will be joined by a selection of the world’s finest resident Djs, who, along with providing an exclusive recording/mix, will be giving us an insight into their process, their local haunt and much more!
Kicking off the Residents Series, we welcome renowned Brazilian dj Aninha. The Curitiba native has won the plaudits of major international spinners like Loco Dice, Luciano and Laurent Garnier for her passion and skill behind the decks. That said, she also excels in the studio, signing tracks to the likes of NYC imprint King Street Sounds and Private Business in Berlin. The last decade has seen her rise in conjunction with her home Warung Beach Club, now one of the most recognised and highly lauded electronic music venues in the world. We’re honoured to have her on board. You can make the introduction below! What’s more, she has provided a groovy 60 minutes from her Carnaval set before Loco Dice and Bella Saris at Warung last weekend. Enjoy!
WWD: To kick things off, tell us a little bit about how you got involved with Warung! Was a residency there a goal of yours from the start?
Aninha : Gustavo Conti (partner and founder of the club) saw me play at a party for the first time in a 2002 and liked my music. He introduced himself to me and said he was building a seafront bar and would love to see me play there . One year later I was called to play at Warung and 2 years later (2005), received the invitation from Conti to take the ‘Garden floor’ and was very happy. I never imagined that I would become a resident DJ and also that the club would have a worldwide recognition. Everything was always very natural with us.
WWD : Warung’s reputation as a music venue and experience has spread across the world. For you, what makes the vibe there so special?
Aninha : I believe it is a set of factors. The energy that comes from the sea , which comes from trees that are around us , the wooden architecture, leads to all who enter the club feel good . So every song you play reflects on a smile, a sigh, a beautiful look and makes it a unique moment.
WWD : Can you tell us about the first time you were asked to play there?
Aninha : It was beautiful . A mixture of sensations, was anxious and nervous at the same time. I was well received by the staff and all my friends were with me and cheered at each change of music. Very good to remember that, thank you 🙂
WWD : Having played with everyone from Dixon & Luciano to Villalobos & Loco Dice, What can you tell us about your approach to your sets?
Aninha : To warm up, I try to do something more discreet and songs that usually only work for the early evening . If my schedule extends until later I need to keep people aware of what I am doing until the main artist takes the decks , but try to leave the next artist comfortable to play.
WWD : What are the key ingredients for controlling the dance-floor to optimum effect?
Aninha : I believe that when you put the maximum reflection in the music it is the essential.
WWD : You’re signed to the likes of King Street Sounds NYC & Private Business in Berlin. With such a big emphasis on production these days, did you feel almost on obligation to take to the studio or was it a natural progression?
Aninha : It was natural. So much so that I do not do many songs per year. I do when I feel inspired and the will . I do not like pressure , as this does not work very well with my creative side .
WWD : Having travelled extensively as a DJ, who are the resident djs that have stood out for you as extremely skilled?
Aninha : We have many talents in Brazil , but here are some : Antonela Giampietro (Terraza BC) , Adnan Sharif (D-Edge), Ale Reis ( Warung ) , Gromma (Club Vibe) , the duo Look Like (Beehive) , Ricardo Albuquerque (Warung) , Nana Torres (Fosfobox) and Komka (5uinto).
WWD : Are there still any venues/parties you’d love to tick off your to-do list?
Aninha : Yes, I always have 😉 But not like before . I’m more focused on working with 24bit Management and the AIA Records in the coming years and exporting our artists . But it would be not bad play some clubs in Berlin, London, Paris, Japan and Spain .
WWD : You’ve kindly provided us with a recording from your recent set at Warung. Can you set the scene for us?
Aninha : Yes . I sent you a part of the set recorded at Warung Carnival. It was the warm up for Bella Saris and Loco Dice tonight . Made with much care and love to all who were in the club.
WWD : Before, signing off, are there any important dates (releases/shows) on the horizon that we should keep an eye out for?
Aninha : We are in the final adjustments to launch our own label (AIA records), focusing at first on the new national artists of house and techno . The intention will be to make a cool story and launch the music only on vinyl. This year I want to release another solo ep as well, but no hurry to do this.
Soundcloud: @aninhadj
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Aninha.Artist
Warung Beach Club : http://www.warungclub.com.br/en