midnightcity mix 004: Gissala
photo: Timothy Nguyen
midnightcity is proud to present the Artist Mix Series—a curated space for forward-thinking sounds and emerging artists. For our fourth instalment, we linked up with our dear friend and Vancouver DJ/producer Gissala. This exclusive mix is a vibrant trip through uncharted sounds - blooming just in time for your spring rotation.
Q&A with Gissala
Q: What inspired the vibe and ID selection for your midnightcity mix?
I wanted to showcase a flavour of music that I don’t usually get to express to the world however it holds so much of my emotions. It’s a selection of music that is best enjoyed in headphones or in the car.
Q: Are there any specific memories and emotions you were channeling in this mix?
The mix took me on a journey of emotions and that’s what I love about this genre of music. It speaks to my heart and invites a lot of emotions out of me then giving back euphoric energy. Almost feels like a cleanse.
Q: Can you share a bit about your creative process - how do you usually start a track?
Usually I like to decide based on how intensely emotional a track is. I like to start mellow then build with anticipation to the climax then ease off on the emotions with a song or two that isnt very emotional to reset - It’s kind of like the “bridge” section of a song.
Q: What’s something you’re currently experimenting with in your sound or production style?
There is a lot I'm constantly experimenting with in my sounds and productions. It’s a constant puzzle with moving pieces. A lot is trial and error because you just don’t know until you hear it. But one thing I’m currently obsessed with is the groove in drums. I feel like the groove can make or break a song. It could be the problem or the solution to how boring or catchy a song can be.
Q: What are you most excited about in the music world right now - either in your own work or the scene in general?
I’m most excited to be curating an amazing set for my Fvded in the Park debut. Weaving my own productions and other songs into a journey is so fun for me. I can get lost in it for days. I will forget to sleep.
Q: If you could soundtrack any film, TV show or video game, what would it be and why?
This might be a super left field answer but it would be for reality TV shows haha. Otherwise for a super sad film. I feel both kinds of entertainment are on the extreme ends of emotions. One is super suspenseful and the other is super emotional. I would find it more satisfying to soundtrack vs a non chalant movie or show.
Q: What’s one non-musical thing that’s been inspiring you lately - books, food, places, anything?
Lately, I’ve been super into health. I just started my journey to quit vaping and it feels so good. I feel like I’ve found more clarity with focus and direction. Just this alone has inspired me to do so much more with my cognitive capacity. I suddenly have energy.
Q: Let us know what else you have coming up in the future and if there’s anything else you’d like to note!
You can find me at my debut festival coming up ‘Fvded in the Park” in Vancouver on July 3, and a headline show in Edmonton on April 11th or on my socials just ‘gissala’. Thanks for having me on this cool spread!
Follow Gissala on Instagram, Soundcloud + Spotify.
