In the Green Room: Subvert

A three-hour vinyl set from Berlin-based DJ Mary Yuzovskaya is what local techno collective Subvert is gifting the Adelaide scene this month. Here’s what to expect...

For the uninitiated, introduce who Subvert is.

Subvert is a progressive, inclusive events series focused on pushing the boundaries of music through technology, music and art. It's a dance party with roots in the queer, alternative community that aims to showcase artists in an intimate and supportive space.

Why was Mary Yuzovskaya on your radar?

She's a trailblazer in the international techno community, with longstanding connections to Discwoman, The Bunker and the European techno scene. We've followed Mary since finding her on a Scandinavian record label, KVALIA. Then we found Mary's own label, Monday Off, which is full of releases that speak to us musically. This show is special for us as we facilitated the tour by connecting Mary and other Australian promoters. We're very grateful for the trust placed in us.

It’s a three-hour vinyl set. What do turntables add to this environment?

Turntables and records are such a massive part of underground dance music. Often, contemporary dance music is over-saturated with effects, loops and filters. We hope that stripping things back to basics will bring a clearer focus to the music and the dance - that ephemeral link between sound and audience that brings movement and connection.

Subvert also has a strong no photos/filming policy. Why?

The no photos policy is twofold. Firstly, it upholds the primacy of consent in interactions: not everyone wants to be filmed on the dancefloor while they're at a party; it's a vibe-killer.

Secondly, the modern world is over-exposed; particularly now with streaming, stories and TikTok playing a larger role in social media habits. Ensuring the dancefloor is free of phones allows us to facilitate a different connection, focus on the music and enjoy the freedom of the dance.

Subvert will host Mary Yuzovskaya this August 24 at Ancient World. Tickets available now.