IN CONVERSATION WITH MATISA
interview by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
With a sound that blends deep grooves, global club influences, and a nod to 90s rave culture, Matisa has carved out a distinct space in the electronic music scene. From her early days at the piano to DJing at legendary venues like Berghain and Circoloco, her journey has been one of constant evolution. As she unveils her highly anticipated debut mini-album, In My Head, on the 31st of January via Slacker 85, we caught up with her to discuss her creative process, the inspirations behind her latest single 1234 Bisous, and how fashion plays a role in their artistic identity.
How did you first discover your passion for music, and what inspired you to pursue a career in DJing and production?
It all started when I was very young and began playing the piano. From the moment I touched the keys, I knew music was a part of me—it felt like something I couldn’t live without. But around 13, I stopped playing and didn’t pick up an instrument again until university. Then, almost by chance, music found its way back into my life. It felt like destiny knocking on my door, and suddenly, I was deeply immersed in DJing and production.
The journey wasn’t always easy, but it was incredibly beautiful. It’s amazing to now be at a point where my passion has transformed into my career. Every step has been a learning process, and I’ve always felt like this was what I was meant to do, even when it wasn’t clear at first. Music wasn’t just a hobby—it became my way of life. The creative freedom, the energy exchange with others, and the joy of sharing something straight from the heart truly inspired me to pursue this path. And now, it’s my job—something that feels both challenging and incredibly fulfilling.
Growing up, who were your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped you sound today?
I was really influenced by a mix of electronic pioneers like Daft Punk, The Chemical Brothers, and the underground rave scene. Their ability to blend emotion with raw energy in such innovative ways definitely shaped my sound. I also drew a lot of inspiration from global club sounds—Lati rhythms, African beats, and house music from Chicago and Detroit. These influences helped me develop a sound that’s all about groove, depth, and connecting with people on a primal level. They taught me that music is a universal language, and I try to carry that forward in my work.
Can you tell us about the story behind your new single, "1234 Bisous"? What inspired the lyrics and vibe of the track?
I was in London for a gig, and after the show, a few friends and I went to a studio in Soho. Jammer from Mas Tiempo, the label behind Skepta, and the crew were there working on a track. They invited me to freestyle over the beat just for fun. What started as a casual session turned into the lyrics for 1234 Bisous. The energy in the room was incredible—we were all feeding off each other’s vibes.
A couple of weeks later, I was in New York and took the track to a studio in Manhattan to record the vocals. The city’s energy felt like the perfect match for the song. Once the vocals were laid down, I brought everything back to Italy to refine the production. The whole process felt natural, and the final track captures a blend of influences from these three incredible cities. It refers to spontaneity, culture, and the global energy that shapes my sound.
1234 Bisous was inspired by the moment—capturing freedom, connection, and intimacy in a way that blends personal emotion with universal vibes.
Your new mini-LP, In My Head, marks a new chapter in your career. What themes or emotions did you aim to capture in this project?
The themes of In My Head revolve around introspection, self-discovery, and emotional turbulence. It explores mental struggles, the search for clarity, and moments of doubt—but also resilience and empowerment. There’s a thread of vulnerability throughout, reflecting on isolation and connection but ultimately, it’s about finding peace in the chaos of thought
How would you describe the evolution of your sound, from your earlier releases to this upcoming album?
I’d describe my sound evolution as a natural journey of exploration and self-expression. My earlier releases leaned more heavily into an ‘80s sound, focusing on raw energy and specific thematic elements. Over time, I’ve experimented with different instruments and production styles, allowing my sound to expand and evolve.
This upcoming album reflects a more refined version of that experimentation. I’ve honed in emotional depth, intricate production, and new textures that represent where I am now—both musically and personally. While my earlier work felt more spontaneous and unfiltered, this album presents a clearer vision of my artistic identity. It’s about balancing my roots with pushing new sonic boundaries, whether through electronic elements, live instrumentation, or conceptual storytelling. Growth and musical clarity are at the heart of it.
Seth Troxler’s Slacker85 label is known for supporting boundary-pushing artists. How did your collaboration with the label come about?
It happened almost by chance—during a dinner where Seth Troxler was present. We had a great conversation, and he asked me to send him some demos. Not long after, he reached out, saying he felt I was the perfect fit to create a mini-album for the label. It all came together spontaneously, and now, here I am, with the album finished and ready to share. It’s been an incredibly exciting and organic journey—something I could never have planned, but I’m so grateful for how it unfolded. Seth’s trust and support have meant so much to me throughout this process.
Your music often nods to ‘90s rave culture and global club sounds. What draws you to these nostalgic elements, and how do you balance them with a fresh, modern edge?
90’s rave culture and global club sounds are such an integral part of my musical DNA because they represent a time of liberation and boundary-pushing in dance music. That raw energy and sense of freedom—whether through the DIY ethos, genre fusion, or multicultural influences—still resonates deeply with me.
But it’s not just about nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake—it’s about honoring the spirit of those sounds while keeping them fresh. I modernize them by sharpening production techniques, blending unexpected genres, and using new technology to add layers and textures.
For example, I might use old-school rave synths or breakbeats but mix them with ambient pads, industrial sounds, or intricate vocal manipulations to create something unique. The challenge is making music that acknowledges the past while feeling completely current.
You’ve played at legendary venues like Berghain and Circoloco. How do these iconic spaces influence your creative energy as both a performer and a producer?
As a performer, the energy in a space like Berghain is unmatched. It’s raw, immersive, and primal. Playing there isn’t just about selecting tracks—it’s about creating a dialogue with the crowd where everyone in the room feels connected. It pushes you to elevate your performance and make each moment count.
As a producer, these spaces make you hyper-aware of sound design—the way bass resonates, how drums reverberate, and how different elements occupy the room. It sharpens your ear and helps you craft tracks that truly translate on the dance floor.
And Circoloco?
That place is pure magic. It reminds me of the importance of groove and rhythm—how tracks need to flow effortlessly while keeping people moving. That balance of energy flow is something I try to bring into my productions and live sets.
As someone known for her radiant fashion style, how does personal style play a role in your artistic identity?
Personal style is an extension of my artistic identity—it’s how I visually communicate my vibe and energy. The way I dress reflects the mood of my music and helps create a full sensory experience for the audience. When I feel true to myself in what I wear, it boosts my confidence and allows me to express myself freely on stage. Fashion and music are intertwined, and together, they tell my story.
Reflecting on your journey so far, what advice would you give to your younger self, and what are your dreams for the future?
I’d tell my younger self to trust the journey and stay authentic. The process matters more than the end goal, and staying true to my sound is key.
For the future, I want to keep evolving—experimenting, collaborating, and pushing creative boundaries. My dream is to make music that resonates worldwide while staying connected to what feels real.
photography CARLOS MARTÍ
styling ZJ CORONA
make up ESFERA PERMANENTE
