Friday Q&A with a Bali resident
This week …Malek Mhedhbi
Malek Mhedhbi’s name has been popping up all over town lately at shows in Savaya, Kabana and Les Toilettes to name a few. With ethnic sounds taking over swathes of the town’s clubs and music sensibities lately it only makes sence that Malek makes an impact. We chatted with Malek just yesterday…
The basics.
Where are you from?
I am from Tunisia.
How long you been in Bali?
I am in Bali since almost three months, but as i’m a very social person I got integrated in Bali life very quick.
How did you first get into electronic music? Like, was there a certain moment it all made sense?
I’m originally an oud player, I also play Ney and percussions, during high school, in front of the school there was a vinyl record shop, so I went everyday there and became friends with the owner. He taught me how to play vinyl, which became my passion. So at the age of 16 I was already playing in clubs. And going to music conservatory helped me a lot in being a good DJ and producer.
What do you think makes electronic music so good?
What makes electronic music so good is first the infinity of genres and style of places, it can be in a bar, a club, a lounge, at home, there will always be a different vibe, where people get into a trance (in their own way). That’s what fascinates me, watching people vibing on music, any style of music.
Do you produce music?
Yes, I produce music. I signed my music on Moblack, Get Physical Music, Kosa Music a, Solarsystem records and some others.
How long have you been a DJ and how would you describe your music you make or play?
I am DJing since the age of 16, and I can describe my music as very entertaining with an oriental touch. I like to make people travel around different styles.
What’s your favourite area in Bali to hang out (day-time)?
I have a particular attraction to Ubud. I love the energy there, the water temples, the cofee shops and the wild nature all around it.
What’s your favourite place in Bali at night (where you don’t work)?
At night I like Canggu because it’s so busy that you can do and go anywhere you want and meet amazing people. But i’m not a person that likes to go out a lot in clubs.
What do you do in your spare time? Any other interests?
My other passion is cuisine, I am a chef and have à restaurant in Tunisia and a guest house, I feel cuisine and music are very complementary, two kinds of art.
Where are you a resident, or regular DJ?
I dont like being resident DJ, I prefer playing less, but in big clubs, so my value as a DJ stays high.
You are now playing in Hong Kong right? Do you have any gigs lined up when back in Bali?
You can catch next Friday at Desa Kitsune.
