From dreamy synth beats to more punctuated and repetitive sounds, Oslo-based Kameliia has expanded her repertoire in the past few years, performing on a regular basis throughout Europe. The artist studied music for four years, and her knowledge of the art fuels her attention to music production. Her most recent EP from February, Arcanus, symbolises this time period.
Kameliia’s music is inspired by a range of emotions; no wonder she derives much of her inspiration from UK-based electronic artist Burial. In this interview, Kameliia speaks about the connection she feels among her creative community and how this ties into how she creates songs and interacts with crowds and other artists.
When performing, she likes to order her tracks from less dynamic to more, creating a sonic buildup that takes the crowd on an energetic trip that sees its peak towards the end, where her more 'solid’ tracks make their appearance. The DJ is opening on Eisbahn stage at Stone Techno Festival on July 12 from 12 to 16 p.m., where we will be looking forward to a mix of her already-available tracks, some unreleased music, and covers of other artists.
Hi Kameliia, how is your day going? What has been the highlight of your week so far?
You are performing at the Stone Techno Festival this week. What are you most looking forward to?
I’m super, super excited, as this is my very first outdoor festival, and from what I have seen in pictures, the venue looks like nothing else I have seen. It looks like some sort of industrial area, which makes it super interesting to experience.
What are the primary ways you prepare for a performance?
Well, this time it's a bit different as we are doing back-to-back with Amotik! Normally, I like to test out my new music, plus going through some promos, and, of course, listen to newly released music. We are doing the opening this Sunday on Eisbahn stage from 12:00 to 16:00 p.m. I have made a folder with tracks that I really like, both new and old ones. My track’s order is always by dynamic range. I always start with less dynamic tracks and build them up to the point where I can play the more solid tracks. For this back-to-back, we have had a little chat about what we are going to play, but it's going to be very organic and not really anything planned from our side. We are both looking forward to seeing how this will go.
Do you have a rider? If so, what is on it? Or if not, what would you have on your rider?
Hmm, I do actually have one special request on my rider, and that is no middle or window seats when flying! I only want seats like C or D, or exit seats.
The Stone Techno Festival represents not only exceptional techno music but a combination of musical, cultural, scientific, political, and social elements. When making music, do you incorporate any of these factors?
Yes, I do. Since it’s a big festival, there is a huge variety of people with both different music preferences and people from across the world sharing the same musical experience. Music does connect people in its own way and creates a sense of unity among people!
What are some of your main inspirations or influences on your music, whether they are people, places, experiences, or concepts?
Here, it's very simple. Burial is maybe one of my biggest inspirations. Places and experiences are also very inspiring. New places that you feel in love with can remind you of them while making music, and they can also lead to very beautiful tracks! People do also give me inspiration. As for me, emotions are the main source of my mood when making music, both when sad and happy!
I would love to know how you got into creating music. Did you always know you wanted to be a DJ? What were some of the greatest challenges you had to overcome in order to get to the place you are today?
I guess it started as a fun thing to do with friends. I knew I wanted to do this after my first record on Overbalance in 2021. The responses we got from people were amazing. Also, for me, nothing compares to when I play my own music and I see the crowd responding well to it. My approach to music has always been focused mainly on music production, as I studied music for four years and really had the time to reflect on it and think about where I want to be in 10 years!
It is challenging nowadays both to get quality gigs and to release music on decent labels. Nothing is easy, but sometimes people are lucky while others have to really prove their talent, which can feel a bit unfair and take too long. I am very happy I have the chance to work with people like Amotik, Rødhåd, Setaoc Mass, and more!
It is challenging nowadays both to get quality gigs and to release music on decent labels. Nothing is easy, but sometimes people are lucky while others have to really prove their talent, which can feel a bit unfair and take too long. I am very happy I have the chance to work with people like Amotik, Rødhåd, Setaoc Mass, and more!
When you perform live, do you tend to mix songs you have already recorded and released, or do you play songs that are not out on streaming platforms?
I am always playing my new unreleased music, and normally I can’t wait to test it out! I also play my released music. As a producer, it's very important for me to know what works in my tracks and what does not!
Do you have a favourite song that you like to cover and mix?
I love the track from Burial, U hurt me. It's truly an amazing track, and I love his style. My newest unreleased tracks are mainly inspired by this tune!
Your most recent release was an EP in February titled Arcanus. Can you describe what the recording process is like for you?
It was a big dream to release on SK_eleven! I did this EP with a lot of love in my old apartment in Kristiansand, Norway, where I studied music. ‘Arcanus’ means secret in Latin. The tracks were made within a few months, and I am very happy about this release!
What is your favourite aspect of being a DJ?
Meeting people with the same musical preferences and interests as me and connecting with them!
Can you talk a bit about the Berlin club scene? What elements of this community are unique to the city? Have you met a lot of other artists through this experience?
My first gig in Berlin was in 2022, I think! Since then, I have been in Berlin pretty often, especially since last year. I am not based in Berlin, so for me, it always feels like something new every time I play here. To be honest, I love to play here, and I love the people! I love how much musical variety they have! Yes, I met some amazing people, friends, and artists here.
How often do you perform live, and what are your most frequented venues?
I would say between three and four times a month. It is pretty much different venues, but Else and Tresor Berlin.
After the Stone Techno Festival, what are your plans for performing?
After Stone, I am going to Marseille, France, Oslo, Norway, and back to Berlin in August to play for Berlin Atonal at Tresor and NYC at the end of August. Also, I have two upcoming records in September and October.
