Who: Moscow-born, Denmark-raised DJ and producer Anastasia Kristensen is already a well-respected talent on the international electronic music scene. Having taken over venues from niche queer clubs to huge festival stages over the years, Kristensen is known for her impeccable ability to craft contemporary dancefloor alchemy. It’s this sense of magic that partly inspired her new EP Volshebno (Russian for magical), released on 10 September with label Houndstooth.
What to expect: Volshebno is a sleek blend of different genres and influences that plays to Kristensen’s strengths as an experienced record selector behind the decks. You might hear the echo of the producer’s love for jungle, breaks, and UK techno, carried forward with gentle melodic synths. Volshebno is a vibrant, full-bodied yet intricate record which keeps you on the brink of euphoria — in that blissful state of dancefloor happiness that spans well beyond the club.
What they say:
“The EP turned out to have a playful and melodic narrative, and it’s about those very first and initial feelings, like — when you have a brilliant new idea or realising you’re developing a new crush on someone,” Kristensen says. “Volshebno is a playful and sassy track on the EP, with light melodies, and a old school techno flavour in it. Voice Within is an eerie and slowly developing tune, with an uplifting vocal lead. It has a mysterious and hypnotic mood.”
Why you need to listen: Not all the records born in the club are capable of existing away from the grimy floors of your favourite music venue. Volshebno, however, sounds great on headphones, on a road trip, in your bedroom, or at an outdoor party — wherever you need a reason to dance, let go and get lost in music.