The Iranian born & London based powerhouse Kasra V steps up next for the Phonica mix series.
With a heap of solid releases out in the last while from labels like Byron Yeates’ Radiant Love imprint and Sepehr’s Shaytoon Records – Kasra V’s production styles reaching the realms of breaks and techy club numbers have been forward thinking and truly head turning. As a DJ he has earned the respect of some of the biggest names in the industry, played in some of the biggest clubs in Europe like Panorama Bar and Fabric as well as recently marked his 10 year residency on NTS radio. With a new label “V-SION” and its first release focusing on his tenure at the long running radio institution in London things are only moving further in the upwards trajectory for the artist.
Hey Kasra, thanks for joining us! Can you tell us about your mix and what the idea behind it was?
First of all, thank you for having me. I’m excited to contribute to one of the most iconic record stores. I wanted this mix to have a gradual flow while reflecting my current tastes and musical journey over the years.. For instance, the first track by Francois Kevorkian and the final track by Hard Corps have been long-time favorites of mine. I aimed to create a mix that can be enjoyed both before going out or at the afters.
Can you tell us a bit about how you usually approach recording a mix or a set?
For mixtapes it depends on the mix and the mood I’m in at the time. I consider them snapshots of where I am musically at that moment.
For club sets I freestyle on the spot and try to live in the moment.
What are your preferred methods for finding new music—do you still enjoy digging around in dusty crates, or do you prefer to buy online?
I have to say that lately I’ve been much more active online. I tend to get over excited in record stores and end up buying songs I’m unsure about later. However, online, I’m extremely confident in my purchases. I explore random YouTube channels with admins whose tastes I admire, discover new artists, and then delve into their back catalog or the label. I also go through phases where I focus on a specific sound or era to see what I can find for myself.
You’ve worked on a recent compilation with NTS Radio. How did this project come about? Would you say the tracks are a reflection of some selections you would make on your own NTS show?
I did a show with Angel D’lite, and we talked about what I have in mind for the 10th anniversary of my show. I mentioned the idea for a compilation, and she was the first person to send me her song. Encouraged by this, I reached out to others, and to my surprise, everyone was up for it. Of course, their contributions reflect my taste; I wouldn’t have asked otherwise.Each song has its own story. Some were created specifically for the compilation, while others, like 500 SEC “Qadak” and Sepehr’s “Archangel Waltz,” were tracks I had heard before and specifically requested to be included.
What has been one of your most memorable sets over your career?
Adonis NYD 23 & 24 – you know it if you were there, and Hamam nights at Panorama Bar. Everything made so much sense on all three of these nights.
What do you have up your sleeve for 2024?
Releasing VSION02 – I made this release a while ago, before I even planned to start a label, but I’m really excited to finally put it out.Also V-Sion merch, I’m going all in on this one! Followed by a special Flower Storm dubplate and the third EP from Flower Storm, Seh.
Aside from these, I’m making music, traveling the world, going out, spending time with friends and family, and turning my phone off whenever I can.
