In The Green Room: NELYA

Interviews
Written By The Note
 

Spinning club beats from around the world, NELYA is at Ancient World for new Illuminate Adelaide mini-fest Supersonic – a roving exploration platforming Australia’s most diverse and talented techno sounds.

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Hi NELYA! We’re excited to see you play Supersonic for Illuminate Adelaide. For the uninitiated, tell us about yourself. What inspires you?

I’m a local DJ and multidisciplinary creative here in Kaurna/Adelaide. I’m inspired by other people’s art. I get so excited when I hear specific sounds and instruments from Iran and the SWANA region, like the Ney-anbān, which is similar to the bagpipe, and Dāf, a percussion-type instrument. There’s nothing more inspirational than seeing someone create and share their passion with the world.

What should we expect from your set?

I love sharing and exploring music from the Global South. I love heavy bass beats mixed with a bit of C*NT, if you know what I mean. I DJ for the Queers, so there are always some fun remixes that will get the crowd moving.

Who else are you looking forward to catching at Supersonic?

Mbodj is definitely on the top of the list – the rhythmic beats mashed with that jungle vibe are *chef’s kiss*. I also want to shout out my friend and one of my fave local DJs, Hello Moto. She always shares the most infectious and top-shelf Afro Club tracks.

Why are events like this important to Australia’s underground/club scenes?

The club scene is so vital as it’s a beautiful space for connection and enjoyment for folks, especially for minorities. It’s a way to listen and feel connected to something bigger than yourself. Also, dancing is a great exercise and mood booster!

Where else can we expect to hear you throughout 2025?

At the moment, I’m in post-production for my web series Rules to Being a Fuckgurl, so I’m keen to finish it and have it out in the world in the next few months!

See NELYA as part of Supersonic for Illuminate Adelaide this July 19 at Ancient World. Single tickets and multi-passes are on sale now via illuminateadelaide.com.

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