IN CONVERSATION WITH TDJ
interview by SAMO ŠAJN
Montreal-based DJ, producer, and audiovisual artist TDJ has emerged as a visionary in the trance and electronic scenes. Known for her genre-blending SPF INFINI series, she combines music with cinematic storytelling, exploring themes of timelessness and human connection. Her latest project, SPF INFINI: GENESIS, a 36-track compilation and surreal music video, wraps up her acclaimed A/V saga. Now, as she embarks on her SPF INFINI TOUR, TDJ is set to bring her unique sound and style to audiences worldwide.
With SPF INFINI: GENESIS, what themes or messages were you hoping to convey in this final installment?
It revolves around the concept of "Renaissance". This edition is like the rebirth of SPF INFINI because the third one was supposed to be the last one. This fourth chapter is kind of a surprise, and I wanted the environment to stand out from the first three ones, that were shot in quite exotic locations around the world. The airplane idea was perfect because it's kind of a non-place where time is kind of distorted, which really goes along the concept of infinity. Also, this edition was created while on tour, so the airplane scenery makes even more sense.
The SPF INFINI: GENESIS music video includes striking scenes. How did you bring these surreal elements to life, and what role do visuals play in expressing your music?
All of this visual world exists because of this collaboration with Baz, the film director of SPF INFINI. We developped a vision of what is the SPF INFINI universe throughout the years and he really pushed it to some extremes since the first edition back in 2020. There's a real trust and mutual inspiration that has been established between us. And never this vision would have come to life if it wasn't of the hundreds of people that joined the SPF journey. Really, all of this is possible because of friendship and hard work.
You’ve curated a diverse group of 36 artists for the SPF INFINI: GENESIS compilation, many of whom are up-and-coming talents. How did you go about choosing these artists, and what do you look for when curating music?
I've always been inspired by discovering new artists. I love to dig and connect with new people that share similar inspirations. SPF INFINI has become quite an important platform for the new trance music generation and it's really special to me to be able to gather artists from around the world that share this passion for trance music. It's become really important for me to build and nurture this big SPF family of talents.
From the early days as a bedroom producer to headlining a world tour, your career has evolved immensely. Are there aspects of those early production days that you miss?
I do miss my home studio. It's like the most peaceful space for me, where I feel the most inspired. I love to be at home and just spend hours in there, water my plants, then go for a run or something, and be back at my chair and get lost in time.
Your SPF INFINI TOUR is just beginning, with shows planned across North America, Europe, and Asia. What are you most looking forward to on this tour, and are there specific cities or venues that you’re especially excited to play?
I really had a magical time in Tokyo last year, like I cried and everything. So I'm looking forward to be back in 2025. But I never Really know what to expect. So I'm excited for everywhere honestly. Some of the best shows I had were in places I had absolutely zero expectations for.
The genre influences in SPF INFINI: GENESIS range from trance and techno to hardcore and emo. How do you approach genre fusion, and what are you hoping listeners feel when they experience this blend of sounds?
The whole thing is carried by trance music, which for me is more than a genre. It's more about a feeling that can apply to all these genres quoted above. For me trance is about being uplifted, getting goosebumps, cry of happiness, lose sense of time and let go.
After such an ambitious release and tour, what are you looking forward to next? Do you have any upcoming projects or ideas you’re excited to explore?
I'm working on my first album and this is what I'm the most excited about right now.
And how about outside of music? What are your favorite things to do at home or on the road to unwind?
I love to run, play golf, eat/make home cook food, spend time with friends and my parents, just simple things really!
