Zozo: The Ransom Note Mix

Music

"Life is hard, but music is good."

This is the statement which will greet you as you discover the musical workings of Zozo. Based in Istanbul, Nigar Zeynep, is a stalwart of the Turkish Electronic music community and has been since the late 90's. Her tastes are informed, intricate and eclectic, they remain devolved from much of the big room club sound which is often associated with dance music in Turkey. She is at the forefront of those leading a new wave of artists and DJ's into experimentation and discovery and this has been supported by others who have observed her potential: the likes of Tolouse Low Trax, Krossfingers, Renate and more. Listen to her mix and read the interview below:

Please introduce yourself…Who are you? Where are you? What are you?

Hello world! I’m a friend from Istanbul. They call me Zozo, Nigar Zeynep is the name on my id.. I'm a music enthusiast..

Describe your early musical influences?

Anything that blows my mind and soul..

How does traditional Turkish music fit alongside the world of modern electronics?

It fits perfect actually. Especially nowadays.. Regardless of cultures and time, I like tunes from the past getting recognition. I try to fit them into my sets just to let these gems be heard and remembered. It feels like meeting a close friend while drifting in outer space.

Where was the mix recorded?

At home with my cats while the bombs are exploring outside.

What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?

In Peace. In Peace, no matter where it is..

What should we be wearing?

Anything comfortable..

What would be your dream setting to record a mix: Location, system, format?

Actually, I don’t have an ideal setting. A good soundsystem would be great. I feel more comfortable with digital formats but wouldn’t say no to turntables. Of course a heavenly scenery and a nice, open minded crowd would be the icing on the cake.

Which track in the mix is your current favourite?

Well, it’s very difficult to choose.. But here it is; The Pilot Wings – Une Nuit Au Boxboys (MMLP303) on Macadam Mambo.

And a nice rework from my friend Kozmonotosman.

What’s your favourite recorded mix of all time?

Desert from Space mix. I was imagining playing on a desert with the loved ones, Jim Morrison was be there as well….. HERE.

If you could go back to back with any DJ from throughout history, who would it be and why?

Of course Andrew Weatherall! Sean Jonston is really lucky! He’s a very very nice person and I like his taste! He’s been always inspirational to me. I should be his daughter! Second one can be Gerd Janson but I better leave him alone! He is doing just fine by himself.

What was your first DJ set up at home and what is it now?

Yumatu Stereo (It sounds Japanese but in fact it is a Turkish stereo brand form the 90’s. Yumatu comes from the names of 3 partners’s; Yusuf, Mahmut, Turgay I guess) and single turntable. Now I have everything I need; softwares, controllers, 2 turntable and a mixer. And some toys for production.