RA Exchange

"We put all of these philosophical concepts into our lyrics." Sister Bliss talks about the band after Maxi Jazz, weaving politics into rave anthems and the dance floor as salvation. Even if you're not into electronic music, chances are you've heard tracks like "Insomnia" or "God Is A DJ" on the radio or in a film. These '90s rave anthems were written by Faithless, a British electronic band that received huge acclaim in the UK especially. Its original members, who launched the project in 1995, were Sister Bliss, Rollo and charismatic lead singer Maxi Jazz, who died in 2022. At their peak, they sold millions of records, performed all over the world and played giant festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury to hundreds of thousands of people. Faithless is now toured solely by Sister Bliss, the keyboardist and songwriter. She speaks with Chloe Lula about the band's trajectory and the legacy left behind by Maxi Jazz. In her words, Faithless appeals to such a wide audience because its output isn't dance floor music in a traditional sense. Instead, it occupies a space where poetry, beats and melodies meet. With Maxi Jazz as their frontman, the group spoke to themes around human rights, politics, protest, equity, collapse, spirituality and the notion of dance music as a secular religion. Their transcendent live shows—which Sister Bliss will revive in 2025—have even been called a "church for the unchurched." Maxi Jazz was a practicing Buddhist monk whose lyrics and message of connection and compassion touched legions of fans over the years. In this Exchange, Sister Bliss reflects on Maxi Jazz's death, being a mother on the road, continuing to release music under the Faithless banner and what it ultimately means to find salvation in faith, music, community and life at large. Listen to the episode in full.

"Why would you care about anyone else's opinion?" The DJ and dancer talks about work ethic, living authentically and the power of lifting each other up. DJ and dancer Patrick Mason emits high vibrations and high-energy dance music. But that wasn't always the case. Before he was playing the world's biggest techno festivals, he grew up in conservative Bavaria, where he claims that he "suppressed his truest self" as a closeted Black man. Born to an American GI father and a German mother, he learned the power of visualisation and hard work in order to launch himself to Berlin and the freedom of expression it represented. It was in the capital that he had his first sexual experiences and climbed the ranks of fashion and modelling, spending weekend stints at Berghain and immersing himself in the new world of techno. Career burnout and the Covid-19 lockdowns set Mason down the path of DJing in 2020, and he's since carved out a niche as a party-starter known for flamboyant selections that accompany his elaborate dance routines behind (and even on top of) the decks. In this interview recorded live at ADE 2024, he speaks with Chloe Lula about the obstacles he's overcome to get to the top, personal trauma and struggles with self-acceptance, body dysmorphia, depression, and male culture's sometimes unrealistic physical ideals. He also discusses his ambitions to marry the worlds of fashion and music, and his vision for a more authentic music industry. Listen to the episode in full.

Sven Marquardt, the iconic bouncer and photographer from Berghain, shares his journey from rebellious queer punk in East Berlin to a central figure in contemporary nightlife. He reflects on the evolution of Berlin's club scene, emphasizing the shift from exclusive spaces to more diverse atmospheres. Sven discusses the impact of political changes and shares personal stories that highlight the vibrant club culture of the past. He also explores the relationship between photography and music, revealing how these art forms intertwine in his creative vision.

The beloved DJ unpacks his most influential records in our flagship live series, Playing Favourites, recorded at Dekmantel in August. Palms Trax, the beloved British DJ and producer considered a "veteran" of the scene at only 33 years old, hit it big with a career breakout back in 2015. Since then, he's become known for his long-running radio show and record label, Cooking With Palms Trax, where he releases new music, reissues and more. His style is soulful, gravitating towards low-BPM house, disco, zouk and everything in between. Recorded at Dekmantel in August, this RA Exchange is the latest edition of our flagship live series, Playing Favourites, where we invite artists to curate and dissect some of the records that shaped their approach to music. Palms Trax speaks to RA editor Gabriel Szatan about the song that acted as a gateway to his musical education; the track that turned him onto the idea of making music; and the band that he considers to be the "coolest of all time," as well as forthcoming music on his own label. What unites these releases, Palms Trax says, is a powerful, ageless and immediately accessible sensibility. They aren't about technical mastery but about feeling. As music-making has become easier with the advent of perfectly engineered online samples, there's more and more appeal in music with humanity and character. Listen to the episode in full.

The trio behind our party of the year discuss creating space for the FLINTA community, their most outrageous live performances and more. Resident Advisor is wrapping up the year, and alongside our best-of-2024 records and tracks lists comes our favourite party: Barcelona-based platform MARICAS. The self-described "loving and pervy LGBTQIA+ techno collective" started in 2018 when ISAbella, Eloisa Blitzer and graphic designer Gina Guasch decided it was time to create a fun space for women and nonbinary people in their city. Since then, MARICAS has become a celebrated international series, revealing in its ascent how much of the techno scene—even in its queerest corners—continues to cater to men. In this RA Exchange, the trio talk about their humble origins as well as the ongoing obstacles they face in promoting the party in the face of discrimination. Performance plays an important role in their events, and they take an entertaining trip down memory lane, discussing some of the most outlandish theatrics and installations that have made it onto their dance floors: a Catholic confessional booth where the priest gave kisses, a livestreamed toilet stall where people undressed in front of the camera and a make-out session from figures covered in paint. Underneath the showmanship, however, is an unwritten code of respect and acceptance that extends far beyond the rave—their mission is to transform the social taboo surrounding difference into a positive force in our world. Listen to the episode in full.

Joseph Capriati, a renowned Italian DJ and producer, dives deep into his passionate journey through electronic music. He shares insights on his early start at just 11 and the evolution to his current sound in the ‘business techno’ realm, despite facing criticism. Capriati opens up about his struggles with mental health and his commitment to sobriety, showcasing the therapeutic love of music. He reflects on the contrasting experiences of performing in intimate clubs versus massive festivals, emphasizing authenticity and community in his artistry.

Gabrielle Kwarteng, a rising DJ and radio host from New York, now based in Berlin, dives into the rich musical tapestry that shaped her. She reflects on her Bronx upbringing in a Ghanaian household, highlighting the influences of reggaeton, highlife, and jazz. Kwarteng shares her transformative experiences with radio, the challenges as a female minority in the industry, and the differences in music culture between the US and Europe. The interview also touches on identity and empowerment, showcasing her journey and aspirations in blending fashion with music.

In this engaging conversation, Rüfüs Du Sol members Tyrone Lindqvist, Jon George, and James Hunt discuss their decade-long journey in music, revealing their refined creative process shaped by wellness practices. They share the challenges of balancing parenthood and touring, emphasizing the need for personal recharge. The trio reflects on the excitement of their upcoming album, 'Inhale / Exhale,' and their thrilling festival preparations. They also delve into the emotional significance behind their Grammy win and the evolution of their sound in the ever-changing electronic music landscape.

Sofia Kourtesis, a Peruvian DJ and producer based in Berlin, weaves her music around sociopolitical activism and her personal experiences. In this engaging conversation, she passionately discusses the impact of her mother’s battle with cancer and the gratitude that led her to invite the neurosurgeon to her show. Kourtesis explores the intersection of art and activism, addressing LGBTQIA+ rights and community issues through her acclaimed work. Her journey of self-acceptance and the collective strength of her Latin American heritage shine through as she reflects on the power of music in advocating for social change.

Quincy Jones, a legendary composer and producer, shares insights from his expansive career and his influence across various music genres. He discusses the evolution of technology's impact on artists, particularly in R&B and hip-hop. Quincy emphasizes the importance of creativity in adapting to the music industry’s challenges, such as piracy. He reflects on his transition from classical training to jazz, highlighting collaborations with iconic musicians and the artistry behind blending styles. This conversation uncovers the lesser-known facets of a monumental career.