✹ Tell us more about the scene you feel a part of.
My history with local scene in Baku started around 2015, that’s when the scene started to noticeably grow and gain popularity, mostly because of collectives and venues like IN and Sintetik, who brought techno-oriented parties to the nightlife of Baku. Unfortunately they are still facing many challenges, just to be able to provide a venue for the events for our community, including financial issues, problems with authorities and society we live in. However, I am impressed with their bravery and determination, that they are not only not giving up, but also inspiring new promoters and organizers to throw their parties. Although, there is a lamentable lack of diversity in terms of music genres, which might be disheartening for enthusiasts looking for a wider range of sounds. Nonetheless, it is uplifting to see that new, young artists are joining the community, contributing their creativity and passion.
✹ In your opinion, how inclusive is the local scene? Is it possible for new people to become a part of it? How diverse is it in terms of participation of different minorities?
I would personally want our scene to be more inclusive and diverse. Unfortunately, it takes more time in our country to get there, but we are trying to stay hopeful and see positive changes, even if this changes are gradual. While majority of our society is definitely not ready for openly queer representation, we do our best to create a safe space for all minorities at our parties. The presence of female DJs who support each other is another positive sign of change and empowerment within the scene. I would love to encourage more girls to start playing. That is also why we are curating a radio show „Casplay” together with Veronicami (Warsaw-based dj, originally from Baku) on polish Radio Kapitał, where you can hear live acts and dj sets by Azerbaijani artists once in a month. All the episodes are available on RK’s website.
It’s also worth mentioning, that last year Var Yox (art and cultural platform) organized first djing masterclass for women. As well as IN collective, who were throwing open decks parties at their previous venue, which was a new format for our club scene.
✹ Does the electronic / club music scene have an impact on politics in your context? Are there any connections between activist and music scenes?
Unfortunately Baku scene faces limitations when it comes to influencing politics or addressing social issues. Engaging in activism and advocating for change may have consequences, and can make it impossible for the promoters and djs to continue developing and maintaining our community.
✹ In the last decade, Georgia became a techno destination. Does it have any impact on your scene and on the visibility of the artists from the Caucasus region?
Georgian scene has definitely had an impact on the local one, at least because many people from our community (including djs and promoters) are often visiting Tbilisi, experiencing a valuable exposure to a faster-growing community, and to a bigger and more international scene. The long-lasting friendship with clubs like Khidi and Bassiani contributes to the development and enrichment of the local electronic music scene in Baku. You can often find Georgian artists headlining Baku parties.
