🎶 Get ready for another exciting Q&A session with a DJ who’s been shaping the electronic music scene in Albania for years!
This time, we’re bringing you Minimim, a true pioneer in developing the underground sound and culture in the region. 🚀
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| Photo by: Jutta Benzenberg |
From discovering electronic music through The Prodigy to organizing some of Albania’s most unforgettable parties, Minimim shares his journey, inspirations, and thoughts on the clubbing scene in Albania and Kosovo. You’ll hear about his favorite moments behind the decks, the magic of House music, and what it takes to keep the dance floor moving all night long. 🕺💃 ✨
But wait—it gets even better! While you read his answers, you can listen to his exclusive podcast set prepared just for you. Let his deep, groovy vibes take you straight to those perfect summer parties. 🌅🎶
And to top it off, our graphic designer created a stunning art cover for the set, capturing the essence of Minimim’s music.
Here’s what he had to say:
"I wanted to make something that matched his music and style. He plays deep house, minimal—the music you hear at those summer parties! 🌅🎶😍 UNUM Pine Stage vibes! 🎶💚 The best way to match his sound was a sunset artwork, so I combined vinyls & sunsets. 📀🌅😍🤩" Now, hit play, relax, and enjoy the ride! 🚀 - Andy Meka.
👉 Let’s dive into the Q&A! 🎤
Hello, Minimim! You’ve been part of Albania’s electronic music scene for a long time. How did you get into DJing and electronic music?
Minimim: Bad company (laughs). From the moment I first heard the famous intro to Music for the Jilted Generation by The Prodigy at a childhood friend’s house, my curiosity about the so-called world of electronic music began. Even today, nearly 30 years later, it still amazes me.
As for my interest in DJing, it came as a result of inspiration from friends and acquaintances who were DJs in my early youth—some of whom remain good friends to this day.
You’ve organized so many parties and cultural projects in Albania! What’s the most beautiful part of bringing people together through music?
Minimim: Exactly that—the unity of people has been the most beautiful part. The coexistence, even for just a few hours, of individuals who may seem completely unrelated—coming from different backgrounds and walks of life—has been a significant achievement of these gatherings. Electronic music has instinctively and successfully done this for over half a century, in every corner of the world.
What do you think about the electronic music scene in Albania? How does it compare to other countries?
Minimim: I believe that with technological advancements, the global electronic music scene has begun to unify. In Albania, as in many other places, you can easily stumble upon a free techno party with 180 BPM music in a remote location, just as you can attend massive events with internationally renowned artists in the main squares of the city.
Can you tell us about your DJ setup? What gear do you prefer to use when performing?
Minimim: I don’t have many requirements. As long as there’s good monitoring, the standard 2 x CDJ + mixer setup is perfect for me.
You perform at many festivals and nightclubs—do you have a particularly unforgettable performance or moment you’ll always remember? Minimim: They say the best moments are the ones you forget! But still, my first time in Pristina for the 9th anniversary of Episode, the warm-up set for Steve Bug at Discobox in Tirana, and my set with All Shadows at UNUM 2022 are memories that always bring me joy.
House music has so much energy and groove! How do you choose tracks to keep people dancing all night?
Minimim: I stay up to date with releases from my favorite artists and labels—and why not? I have no shame in "stealing" a track or two from the sets of DJs whose style I admire. I also revisit old music, which often sounds fresher than some of the new stuff!
What do you think about the nightclub scene in Albania and Kosovo? Do you think it’s growing in the right direction?
Minimim: Like everywhere, the clubbing scene has its ups and downs for various reasons. At the moment, I believe that both in Albania and, as has been the case in Kosovo for some time, the number of collectives and promoters organizing events has increased, which has led to the mass expansion of electronic music. This brings both pros and cons, but diversity is always a good thing. I believe the future is bright on both sides of the tunnel.
Safety in nightclubs is crucial for a good nightlife scene. In your opinion, what can be done to make nightclubs in Albania and Kosovo safer for everyone?
Minimim: I think more work needs to be done outside the clubs, perhaps through awareness campaigns that promote tolerance and respect for others. Of course, this isn’t just the responsibility of clubs but also of various organizations and institutions that are supposed to address these issues.
You’re part of Discobox, PepperOn, and All Shadows—how do these projects influence your style, and what do they bring to the scene?
Minimim: Being a resident DJ at Discobox and PepperOn—clubs that, unfortunately, no longer exist—taught me how to manage my emotions and structure my set according to the night’s flow. As a warm-up DJ, I had to start playing music in an empty club that slowly filled up with people who weren’t necessarily there to hear me specifically. The experience in these two clubs taught me how to read the night’s mood while always respecting the DJ playing after me.
As for All Shadows, the trio I formed with Tatu and Erti Lutaj, it started randomly as a way to take our long-standing friendship to another level. We all share the same love for music, but our varied tastes make this collaboration even more interesting—and, from what people tell us, very danceable! We always have a blast playing together.
What advice would you give to young DJs and party organizers who want to start their own events in Albania?
Minimim: There’s no secret formula—just love the music and respect the people.
by Kosovo Clubbing team
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