Throughout our Last DJ Set series, we’ve asked a range of artists including Alinka, David Morales, Alan Oldham, Spencer Parker and Julia Bondar to recall their last gig before government-ordered lockdowns and travel bans went into effect in March, forcing clubs and festivals to close. Along the way, we were able to relive magical moments as we hope for better days to come.
For the final installment of the series, we spoke with Rome-born, Florence-based DJ/producer Matisa.
The vinyl-only decknician is known widely for championing a diverse style that embraces house, electro and any style that’ll move a dance floor.
Having released The Elsewhere EP on Biologic Records featuring a remix from Kim Ann Foxman in June, we connected with Matisa and asked her to recall her last DJ gig before turntables stopped spinning.
Here’s hoping we can launch our new series, My First DJ Set After COVID-19 Lockdown, very soon.
When and where was your last DJ gig?
Matisa: My last gig was in Glasgow at SWG3. I was Jackmaster’s guest at his party!
How did it go?
It was dope. There was good energy there! Great spirit and desire to exchange positive vibes. I played in the first part of the party from the doors opening to the change with Jack. What a vibe, what a wonderful crowd!
What was your mindset going into it? Where had you played previously?
I was very excited and charged. The welcome in the Scottish city was extraordinary. Before Glasgow, I had been a guest of La Mona in Paris. That too was a beautiful party, more intimate and in a smaller club. I have wonderful memories of that gig too! Everything perfect: clubs, people and the city. I love Paris.
Did any tracks, in particular, go over especially well during that gig?
Dominica’s “Gotta Let You Go” (Bicep Edit). I will never forget how people screamed and how everyone sang this track. Wow.
What is your best memory from that gig?
I stayed in Glasgow for three days. It was a new and nice discovery for me because I had never been there before. I went to Rubadub, a record shop that I recommend. It always has some incredible releases! I tasted some incredible food at Ramen Dayo. I met lovely people and also played on Clyde Built Radio. This too was fun and refreshing.
Everyone can’t wait for clubs and festivals to begin again. What do you miss most about DJing? How are you keeping your skills sharp?
I spend my time researching and digging. My musical research is stimulated by my curiosity to know new music and new artists. I have a lot of time to do this business now. I have many podcasts to make and I am waiting for the pandemic to end to return to clubs and festivals. I really miss playing. I miss the contact with the crowd. I miss visiting new places and being inspired. Very often when I travel for work I also find inspiration to produce my music. This makes me love my job!
A lot of DJs have been doing live streams and working on tracks What have you been working on during the lockdown? How can fans support you right now?
I have spent a lot of time producing new tracks and developing new ideas with my manager Mirko.
How to support me? Buying my productions and my music. My best record The Elsewhere EP came out in full lockdown. Unfortunately, I have not yet had the opportunity to hear it play and play it in clubs and festivals.
Any last words on your last gig?
Pure emotion! I still have the chills.