Ep. #008: Featuring AshNey

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Hey there! Welcome to Guildie, where you get actionable advice from first-rate DJs fueling the GTA’s flourishing electronic dance music scene. (This newsletter is sent out every Wednesday).

An emerging powerhouse in Toronto’s underground Techno scene, AshNey joins us with a detailed Q&A full of best practices, words of encouragement, and a killer set of DJing stories to reflect upon. Oh, and if you were looking for some banging track IDs, you won’t want to miss this week’s recommendations!

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What to Expect 

• Connecting With Others Through Music

• Resonating With a Crowd

• Using Unfamiliar Equipment

• Tailoring Your Sound

• Building Confidence Behind the Decks

Note: Guildie is still in its early stages of development. If any changes or additions could be implemented to improve your reading experience, please message me at [email protected]. I’ll be working to refine the newsletter each week! :)

–Merchant (@ohmymerchant)

Introducing AshNey

Name: AshNey (he/him)
Place of Origin: New Delhi, India
Genres: Industrial, Acid, and Hypnotic Techno
Affiliations: Independent
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Socials: Instagram // SoundCloud
Bookings: [email protected]

Overview

“DJ AshNey embarked on his musical journey in 2020, a time when the world was paused and creativity flourished. Starting from the comfort of his home during the lockdown, he began mixing House music on his computer, laying the foundation for what would become a passionate career in electronic music.

By 2022, AshNey took a pivotal step by immersing himself in the underground Techno scene. Influenced by renowned artists such as Dax J, Nicole Moudaber, D-Dan, Richie Hawtin, and Ben Klock, he honed his craft and developed a distinct sound that resonates with the pulsating energy of the genre.

Techno has profoundly shaped AshNey’s identity as an artist, allowing him to express himself through immersive, high-energy sets that captivate audiences. His performances are marked by hypnotic rhythms and infectious beats, creating an unforgettable experience on the dance floor. Despite being relatively new to the scene, he has had the privilege of playing at various events, sharing his evolving sound, and leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.

As a DJ, AshNey continues to grow and push the boundaries of his artistry, he remains committed to delivering exhilarating experiences, solidifying his place in the techno community and beyond.”

Q&A

Q: When did you begin your journey as a DJ? Why did you decide to start?

A: “I began my journey as a DJ in 2020 during the lockdown. Like many, I found myself with extra time and a desire to express my creativity. I started mixing House music on my computer, which quickly ignited my passion for electronic music.

The freedom of creating and sharing music was incredibly fulfilling, and it motivated me to explore deeper into the techno scene, ultimately leading me to invest in my first DJ controller in 2022.

I wanted to connect with others through the powerful, immersive experiences that music can create, and that’s what drove me to pursue this path.”

Q: How do you go about building a set that keeps the crowd engaged? Does this differ depending on the type of gig?

A: “Building a set that keeps the crowd engaged is all about intuition, preparation, and adaptability. I start by selecting tracks that resonate with the vibe I want to create, focusing on energy levels and flow. I typically structure my sets with a build-up, peak moments, and smooth transitions to maintain momentum.

Since I’ve primarily played in club and warehouse raves, I tailor my approach to the intimate, underground atmosphere of those venues.

I often explore deeper, more experimental sounds that resonate with the crowd, allowing for a more immersive experience. It’s essential to read the audience—if I sense they’re connecting with a particular vibe, I lean into that and evolve the set from there. Engaging with the crowd is key, and I thrive on their energy and reactions to shape the performance."

Q: How do you manage to stay current with music trends and discover new tracks?

A: “Staying current with music trends and discovering new tracks is a vital part of my process as a DJ. I regularly follow key artists, labels, and platforms that are influential in the techno scene. Social media and music streaming services are great tools for this, as they allow me to explore new releases and mixes.

I also attend other DJs' sets whenever I can, which gives me a chance to experience different styles and discover tracks that resonate with me. Additionally, I engage with online communities and forums where fellow DJs and fans share their favorite finds. Keeping an open ear and being curious about emerging sounds helps me continually evolve my own sets and stay connected to the ever-changing landscape of music.”

Q: What were the most significant challenges you faced early in your career? How did you overcome them?

A: “One of the most significant challenges I faced early in my career was mastering the technical aspects of DJing. Learning to mix smoothly and develop a cohesive sound took time and practice. I overcame this by dedicating countless hours to experimenting with different tracks and techniques, watching tutorials, and seeking feedback from more experienced DJs.

Another challenge was building my confidence to perform in front of an audience. The first few gigs were nerve-wracking, but I gradually learned to channel that energy into my performances. Each set became a learning experience, helping me understand how to read the crowd and adapt my approach. Connecting with fellow DJs and the community also provided invaluable support, making me feel more comfortable and motivated to keep pushing forward.”

Q: What strategies have you found effective for building a personal brand as a DJ and establishing a fan base?

A: “Building a personal brand as a DJ and establishing a fan base involves a mix of authenticity, consistency, and engagement.”

Q: Can you share a memorable gig experience where something unexpected happened? How did you handle it?

A: “One of my most memorable moments was during the "Take Over 6" show, organized by one of Toronto's top event promoters. They flashed my name on the visuals while I was playing, and that feeling was indescribable—it was a powerful moment that truly affirmed my place in the scene.

Another unforgettable experience occurred at an industry event hosted by another major organizer in Toronto. I was set to perform on an Xone mixer, which I had never used before. Just minutes before my set, I stepped outside the venue to watch a quick tutorial on YouTube. With only about 5-7 minutes to spare, I absorbed as much as I could, and when I returned to the booth, I managed to ace my performance. It was a testament to staying calm under pressure and being adaptable, and it made for an exhilarating day that I’ll always remember!”

Q: What do you love most about the current scene? Is there anything you hope to see improve over the next few years?

A: “What I love most about the current scene is the growing sense of community within the Techno genre. The camaraderie and support among artists and fans create a vibrant atmosphere that makes every event feel special. It’s inspiring to see everyone come together to celebrate the music and the culture.

Looking ahead, I hope to see more talent hunters and promoters actively seeking out and supporting local artists. Equal treatment for all musicians, regardless of their level of experience, is essential for fostering a diverse and thriving scene. By giving more opportunities to emerging talent, we can continue to elevate the community and create a richer musical landscape for everyone involved.”

Q: What role has mentorship played in your journey as a DJ? How can new DJs find mentors or guidance in the industry?

A: “Mentorship has been crucial in my journey as a DJ. Experienced DJs have shared valuable insights, helping me navigate technical skills and live performances, which boosted my confidence.

For new DJs seeking mentorship, I recommend being proactive. Attend local events, engage with artists on social media, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice. Many seasoned DJs appreciate the opportunity to help. Joining DJ collectives or online forums can also foster connections and support, making it easier to find guidance in the community.”

Insights

Each Set is a New Learning Experience. Not every set of yours will go perfectly — that’s just the reality. Nobody’s perfect, so when an inevitable mistake is made, don’t get frustrated. Instead, use the moment as a learning experience and prevent the same mistakes moving forward. ➡️

Trust Your Intuition and Stay Adaptable. DJing can be a lot of guesswork and experimentation. If the room isn’t responding the way you wanted, or the floor isn’t as packed as it should be, it can get discouraging. That being said, trusting your gut and playing tunes that you see fit for the scenario will often bring you more enjoyment, satisfaction, and a great turnout.

Get Familiar With Different Equipment. Everybody loves to talk about Pioneer which, realistically, has become the industry standard in most places today. However, brands like Denon, Allen & Heath, and Hercules all have sizeable influence on the market, too. Learning and working with these different brands and their equipment will make you much more prepared when a DJing setup doesn’t match your expectations.

“Equal Treatment for All Musicians.” It’s super important for platforms to exist where big and small artists can share their music equally. Most people would agree that showcasing big names can be grand and exciting, but for newer household names to exist, smaller artists need to be given a chance to grow.

Most DJs Enjoy Helping Out! Seriously, just ask one. They’ll probably give you some great advice and be happy to do it, too! At the end of the day, DJs are music lovers are their core. Connecting on that basis can be extremely natural and enjoyable once you meet the right people. So, don’t be afraid to reach out! You might just get a reply. 👀

Mixes & Productions

Supermarket Series | Ashney // “A mesmerizing set that captures the essence of real Berlin techno. With hypnotic warehouse vibes and hard acid grooves, this set is designed to transport you to the heart of the underground scene.”

The Warehouse Grooves // “…AshNey delves into the raw and hypnotic sounds that define the warehouse scene, bringing forth a sonic experience that resonates with the very soul of the underground. From the moment the beat drops, listeners are plunged into a realm where rhythm reigns supreme, and the dance floor becomes a sacred space of liberation and expression.”

Stay Groovy_ashney.wav // “‘Stay Groovy’ is a captivating techno set that beautifully melds the nostalgia of 80s and 90s warehouse techno with a contemporary twist, all while drawing inspiration from the dark and gritty roots of Berlin's techno scene. This set promises an electrifying journey through time and space, encapsulating the essence of both the past and present of electronic music.”

Recommendations

Recently Played

Arjun Vagale - Orbital // Released January 5th, 2024.
Arjun Vagale - Deltra Drive // Released December 1st, 2023.
Dax J - Offending Public Morality // Released April 6th, 2018.
Zadig - Panic // Released March 10th, 2014.
Schrzø - Ecuaci​ó​n del Movimiento // Released March 1st, 2024.
Blame The Mono - Headbanging Accident // Released February 24th, 2020.

Favourite Artists

Arjun Vagale // For deep, hypnotic thumpers.
Dax J // For heavy, driving Techno productions.
Mark Broom // For a more traditional Techno sound.
Nastia // For darker groove-based selections.

Top Organizations

NECHTO // For “authentic dance music since 2019.”
Monnom Black // For cutting-edge Techno from London to Berlin.

Learning Materials

Building Confidence as a DJ // Video by The DJ Disclosure.
Phrase Mixing For Smoother Transitions // Video by Zeeshan Khamis.
Xone 96 Mixer Overview // Video by DJ Bop.
Going to Events for Networking // Discussion on r/DJs (Reddit).
How to Tailor a DJ Set // Blog by DJ Studio.

AshNey continues to dominate Toronto’s underground Techno scene, regularly called upon by the city’s top promoters and organizers to perform. He’s been on fire lately, and his momentum shows no indication of slowing down anytime soon. 🔥

If any improvements could be made to the newsletter, let me know about them at [email protected]. I greatly value your time and readership.