Ethel - Sorcery In The Breaks
Kim Gordon, Twin Peaks and witch mythology are just some interests that make up RA+RE selector Ethel Swan. Ethel's bond with music started as a child listening to her parent's vinyl collection, in particular rock music from her dad. Growing up in Toulouse she moved to Canada in 2008 to finish her studies and returned to France, this time venturing to the capital. It was there that she picked up Djing and playing often with fellow witch in crime Melody, it was a matter of time before they joined the RA+RE crew as resident DJs. Her curiosity and creative flair naturally lured her into the studio where she produced music as E.N.E, an outfit with Elliot Sindall from Jäfar. Nowadays Ethel's mainly going for solo work from her base in Berlin. Being part of Moses Mawila and RA+RE agencies, in the last year she’s played at Creatures, Goa Club, Club der Visionaere, Hoppetosse, The Basement records, Unfamiliar in Cairo, Rex Club and of course Breakfast Club, all the while working on the side as a video producer…
Hi Ethel! How are you? What have you been up to and what are you spending your time on mostly these days?
My job, my friends and of course music! I also love nature and discovering new restaurants.
You live in Berlin now- in which neighbourhood? How are you finding it?
I live in Neukölln and I wouldn’t change my neighbourhood - I love it. Far from the city centre, quiet but very attractive, this area is cosmopolitan and full of creative people.
Not long ago you celebrated RA+RE’s epic 4th birthday bash in Paris. Are all RA+RE parties like this?
This one was indeed really special and we couldn’t have expected a better way to celebrate the 4 years of the label! In general, I think that when we play as a RA+RE showcase or we do a RA+RE party, it’s all about music and fun. We love to play music and I think the public can feel it, this is our secret to putting on a great party.
What makes Paris special?
I think Paris has a lot of new collectives and a new generation passionate about music. There seems to be parties every weekend which was not the case few years back. Paris is a place where I can spend a few days to play and see my friends.
A party, label, clothes brand - RA+RE’s a full outfit. Do you have a specific role? How does the group work (who does what)?
Jessie (in NYC), Claire and Clara are the founders of the label. Melody and I started as Residents Dj’s 3 years ago but since we believe in this project and became really close friends with the girls, we are definitely more involved today. Charlotte just joined the crew and everyone can suggest ideas - it’s really a collective process - everyone does a bit of everything but the founders have the final word.
What do you like about collaborating with ladies and why does a girl gang work in this scene?
I like to collaborate with girls that have the same way of thinking as me. This year, Ra+Re collaborated with She Made in Rome and Unfamiliar in Cairo. The girls behind these projects share the same values as us and we had a lovely time in both cities. A girl gang is not necessarily the easiest in a predominantly male scene - there are still plenty of line-ups with only male Djs. I would like to see more mixed line-ups in general and this is the concept behind Ra+Re: giving more visibility and support to rising female talents.
If you had to pick three girl groups and why you like them (doesn’t have to be only music related)?
The band ESG because of there music and the beautiful story behind the group (their parents offered them instruments to keep them away from the gangs in The Bronx - they did music in their garage).The Twin Peaks heroines because they are mysterious and fascinating & Kim Gordon :)
So how did you get hooked on electronic music?
I discovered electronic music in local clubs and especially in Barcelona during the Sonar Off Parties. Toulouse was only few hours from Barcelona so we were going there at least few times per year!
Your podcast is upbeat and ranges in styles, making it interesting to listen to as well as giving a good booty shake! Is there a particular style or sound that you find irresistible? What do you look to achieve in a DJ set?
The sound I find irresistible is breakbeat, but I love to play all different kinds of electronic music in my sets. It’s all about connections and surprises...playing with variations and rhythms to create reliefs.
According to you what are three DJs that are absolute masters in their craft?
Among all the obvious incredible Dj’s that are playing nowadays, I was particularly impressed over the last year by Laurine, The Ghost and my friend Oswaldo.
What are some newer labels that you like to support?
I really like the latest releases of Twig, El Milagro and I support also the releases of TFR (Tolga Fidan) and Discours.
When you were growing up in Toulouse you were (or still are!) into rock music – is that correct?
That’s right! My parents are really into music and my dad into Rock music and they keep collecting music and attending concerts! I still listen to rock music. I really like The Sleaford Mods and the 80’s new wave.
You are able to predict the future of our electronic music scene - what do you see?
I would prefer to travel in the past ;)
If you had to identify with a witch (character) who would it be and why?
A witch in the Greek Mythology, I am fascinated about legends from this period.
Your star sign or ruling planet is Aries which explains why you are independent and creative.