Alice Caroline belongs to the rising Dj-producers to keep an eye on. As a vinyl passionate and insatiable crate digger, she was active in the Ukrainian scene by running her own OUTFORM events at DSK PORT in Odessa. Now based in Barcelona, she keeps going on and has joined the SEQUALOG team.

You started with the piano…

I come from Ukraine, specifically from a small town called Pervomayskiy near Kharkiv. My family doesn't have a musical background, but my mother's dream was always to play the piano. Unfortunately, she never had the opportunity, so she encouraged me to pursue it instead. At the age of five, she enrolled me in a music school to learn the piano. I studied there for seven years and received several medals in competitions dedicated to Beethoven, Mozart and Tchaïkovsky.

Then you moved into electronic music…

After finishing music school, I found myself with more free time. At 13, I started going to parties and fell for electronic music. I would tell my mom I was at a friend's house watching Harry Potter, but I was actually dancing to minimal techno and electro all night. Local Djs noticed me and invited me to their headquarters to learn on their Pioneer 800 CDJs, which were top-notch in 2008. My natural sense of rhythm allowed me to pick up mixing quickly. They envisioned me as a young Dj with a school backpack and a case of compact CDs. It was a successful concept and I haven't stopped playing since. This marked the start of my journey into electronic music, which continues to thrill me today.

Your influences?

My first major influence was the community at CLOSER, which I believe is the best club in Kiev. The moment I walked in, I was so captivated that I knew I wanted to be a professional Dj and be a part of that world. Following this realization, I enrolled in a vinyl Dj course at Prodj School and quickly mastered the skills. As I continued to grow, my taste was shaped by many talented artists such as Vasil (Reset), Borys (Closer), Jane Fitz, Unai Trotti, and Module Werk. I discovered these artists during my many nights at DSK PORT, where I also organized parties under the OUTFORM banner. These experiences and influencers have played a significant role in my journey as a Dj.

Your first experience with Djing?

My first experience with Djing was when I was 13 at a Halloween party in the club Imperia in my hometown. The atmosphere was incredible, with everyone dressed in beautiful costumes. I played minimal techno, and the night was dope. I'm especially grateful to my mom for trusting me at such a young age and allowing me to pursue my passion.

The first record you bought?

The first vinyl I ever bought was the inaugural release from Wicked Bass Records, owned by Noizar, a resident of CLOSER. The record was "In The Pines' Crowns" by Wulffius, featuring an eclectic mix of Electro, Deep House and Techno.

I know that you produce…

I produce trippy techno, house and down tempo music. Although I'm still learning and have yet to release any tracks, I feel that the right moment is approaching. My gear includes a variety of brands, with Roland being my go-to for drum parts. I also use equipment from Arturia, Elektron samplers, and the Roland XP-30. While I enjoy experimenting with new gear, these are my mainstays.

Which track best describes you today?

Every day, my answer might change, but today the track that represents me the most is "What's Going On in the World" by Interlect 3000. It perfectly resonates with my current mood.

Your ritual before a gig?

My pre-gig ritual involves tuning myself mentally and physically, as how I spend the day before a performance is crucial. Preparing my records and resting at home are essential steps, but equally important is a proper warm-up. I like to spend time with the promoters and friends before the gig, enjoying good hospitality, maybe going for a walk, and having a nice meal. If the promoters don't have this tradition, I create this experience with my friends instead.

Any tips for digging in Barcelona?

My favorite record stores in Barcelona, where I do most of my buying, are Small Black Dots, Mad Record Store, Discos Paradiso, Libertine and Nut. Each of these places consistently offers exceptional finds and unique selections.

What about the “OFF The Record”?

Off the Record is a movement celebrating exceptional electronic music culture. For one week, you can enjoy various parties across Barcelona, featuring carefully selected artists and Djs. What I love about it is its commitment to values: it attracts an educated crowd and takes place in high-quality venues with top-notch sound systems. My first experience with Off the Record was this summer at a Small Black Dots party featuring Jane Fitz. It was incredible - beautiful people, stunning natural surroundings and fantastic music. I had an amazing time.

The vinyl for you?

When I think of vinyl, I envision something authentic and gorgeous. It's precious and invaluable to me, representing a deep connection to music and artistry. However, it’s also worth noting that vinyl has become quite expensive nowadays.

Your favorite labels?

While I have many favorite labels, today I’d highlight three that stand out: An Alien Recordings, Wicked Bass, and FFRR (Full Frequency Range Recordings). Each of these labels has a unique influence on my music and taste.

Mountain or sea?

If I had to choose between the two, I'd go with the mountains, as I feel more aligned with the earth than with the sea. However, the ideal scenario for me is to have both, just as I do now in Barcelona.

If you could live in another period…

I believe we are currently living in the best era, with freedom, opportunities, technology, and comfort. However, if I had to choose another period, I’d select the 1970s. It was an era of creative experimentation with artists and musicians pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds including electronic music. This time was marked as a cultural revolution where people were delving into new experiences such as the exploration of psychedelics like LSD, which influenced both music and art. Additionally, it was before the rise of social media, which has had its own set of challenges.

Top 5 new releases:

-Troy VS “Aspect”

-Rozquit “Coda”

-Lamalice “Earth Attack”

-O ́FortyFour “Hoodlum On Acid”

-Δ Deyayu Δ “Infinite Rise”

Top 5 oldies:

-Atomix feat. Rebel Yell “ The future” (Rams Horn Records) 1991

-Bass Bumpers “The M.E.L.L.O.”

-Cold Colors “Vie nocturne”

-Actual Guy “Acid Motion” (European Acid Mix)

-Talismantra “Warmth Reheated”

Your projects?

First of all, I’m a Dj and this is something I deeply cherish, as it brings me a lot of pleasure. Apart from this I advance myself in another field - FinTech, as a Recruiter, where I develop my interpreter skills during the week. In addition, recently I joined Cabina agency, surrounded by friends and I’m grateful and happy very much about it.

Interview by Sabrina Bouzidi