“The music I tend to play is usually techno and acid house,” says DJ Kaz_Kandy (AKA Kelly Zwicker). “Sometimes I like playing EDM and minimal-wave, but techno is a really transcendent type of music for me. I love how repetitive and hard-hitting it can be, while still having so much depth. Plus, it’s just super-fun to dance to.”
The former Halifax DJ moved to Montreal last fall and discovered “an amazing feminist and queer-centric DJ scene.” She instantly felt welcomed and supported by other DJs: “It’s incredible to be surrounded by women and non-binary folks who share the same passion for techno and good parties, where people can feel free to express themselves,” she says. “It gives me life.”
While performing, Zwicker uses CDJs, which are specialized digital mixers that allow mobility. She’s excited to return to OBEY for her Saturday night set at the Marquee. “I end up discovering so much amazing music that I never heard of,” which just might end up on her playlists. “OBEY is really special.”
DJ Kaz_Kandy will open for Mykki Blanco, whom she saw perform in Paris. “The show floored me. It had an underlying punk vibe to it,” Zwicker says. “I think my sound is a good fit for the show. I’m all about unleashing the freak through music, and I’m pretty sure Mykki is all about that too. I’m honoured to share the stage with them.”
