Friday Q&A with a Bali resident
This week …Maria Sarabi
You may have seen or heard her spinning her classy tunes in the top venues around town over the last couple of years. She always impresses wherever she goes and now we have the chance to discover more about DJ Sarabi.
The basics.
Where are you from and how old are you?
I was born in the coldest place in Russia—Siberia. I’m 28 years old.
How long you been in Bali?
My journey took a significant turn when I visited Bali for the first time in February 2023. Initially planning to stay for just one to two months, the island captivated me, leading to a four-month stay.
After leaving Bali for four months to embark on a Russian tour and attend Burning Man in the USA, I realized I wanted to make Bali my home. Since November 2023, I’ve been mostly based in Bali, though I travel frequently and often find myself missing the island, even when I’m there. It’s quite amusing!
Single or hooked up?
I’m currently single—still searching for a life partner with whom I can create new worlds and build something extraordinary, hand in hand.
How did you first get into electronic music? Like, was there a certain moment it all made sense?
My love for electronic music began in 2015 at the legendary Krysha Mira club in Moscow, which changed my life forever..
What do you think makes electronic music so good?
Electronic music has always felt like a journey into the depths of the self, igniting my passion. I came to music through yoga; I’ve practiced yoga and meditation for eight years, both of which emphasize introspection and self-discovery
Do you produce music?
Yes, I produce music and have releases, with more on the way—stay tuned!
How long have you been a DJ and how would you describe your music you make or play?
I’ve been performing as a DJ since 2019, and while it’s hard to describe my sound, I invite you to experience it live at my shows. I suppose I’m playing house music. That’s all I can say for now.
What’s your favourite area in Bali to hang out (day-time)?
My favorite daytime spot in Bali is Morabito Art Villa; it feels like my second home!
What’s your favourite place in Bali at night (where you don’t work)?
At night, even when I’m not working, I gravitate towards venues where I perform, like Miss Fish, Desa Kitsune, and Savaya. I only play at places I genuinely enjoy—where the sound, service, and vibe are all top-notch.
What do you do in your spare time? Any other interests?
Aside from music, I’m passionate about yoga, stretching, banya, and massage.
Where are you a resident, or regular DJ?
It’s a bit complicated for me to sign a contract with any venue, because I often spend a month in Bali, then leave for two months on tour, or vice versa. My presence in Bali is quite unstable, making it incompatible with being a resident here. But I have a lot of good relationships with a lot of projects and venues here. You can see it in my Instagram.
You are away now, right? When are you back?
I will be back November 20-21 ’cause I’m on tour now through India (Goa-Bangalore-Delhi), Oman (Muscat), Netherlands (Amsterdam), Spain (Barcelona-Ibiza), Egypt and Miami.
Do you have any gigs lined up now back in Bali?
This Friday I will be playing at Tabu and then Savaya with Mantrapeople on Nov 30. See you there!
