We sit down with Ukrainian talent Ki Yera to discuss the situation in her homeland, how it has effected her and her music and her affiliation with the Family Piknik family…
How was your xmas break? where did you spend it?
I’ve spent the holidays with my family in Kyiv. We were forced to spend a New Year’s night in a bomb shelter because of russian missiles attack. It was a horrible experience. Despite all these circumstances I had studio time and recorded an exclusive DJ Mix “All Stars Family Piknik” and released a new tune “Like A Miracle“ that is coming with a music video as well. It was also included as a bonus track in Family Piknik All Stars compilation with the best tracks of 2022 alongside with the tunes of John Digweed, KIKO, Citizen Kain, Tom Pooks, Joy Kitikonti and many other cool tracks.
What impact has the war in Ukraine had on you and your family?
I conveyed a whole range of emotions: horror, pain, tears, fear, frustration, injustice. My heart aches for every Ukrainian. My family and I were forced to leave home at 5 am on the 24th of February as a first russian missile broke out close to my house. We are still in it and I can’t really imagine what impact it will have on me and my family. Almost every Ukrainian family is suffering because of this war.
What impact has it had on the music you make and play?
I think about the war while making the lyrics for my new tracks and music as well, it makes my productions more symbolic and topical. Also I became more selective in the choice of tracks I play. I mainly play my own productions and avoid any stuff of russian producers. At the moment most events that I play in Kyiv are for charity. To my mind, despite all difficulties it is extremely important for Ukrainian artists to represent our country at the essential international music events like Family Piknik Festival where I played in summer.
Is it a good release, a good escape to be able to play music and not think about the war?
It’s hard not to think about the war, because my family and I live in Kyiv now.
Of course I’m trying myself to switch over while playing DJ sets and producing new projects, music really supports me. Meanwhile I participate in many charity events where all funds are sent to support The Military Forces of Ukraine and I don’t think about the war at this time I think only about our victory.
How and when do you see yourself going back home?
Actually I live in Kyiv with my family now, because this is my home. It is my choice to stay here, because I love my motherland. Together we are doing everything to bring victory closer.
How did you first get into electronic music and where and when?
I‘ve been into music since my childhood. I was growing up surrounded by my father’s cassettes collection. But the first significant step in my electronic music experience was my performance in Ibiza in Bora Bora club in 2010.
How did you hook up with the family piknic label and what does it mean to you?
I met a Family Piknik crew in Amsterdam during ADE 2019. We felt that we are on the same vibe. Then my tune Coming Down was released on a Family Piknik label. It meant an important step in my DJ and producer career.
What artists have inspired you and your musical journey?
From the very beginning I was inspired by house heroes, especially the sounds of John Dahlback, The Timewriter, Noel Sanger. Later and till now by techno, electro and acid artists, such as Jeff Mills, Hate Models, Paula Temple, Helena Hauff, Special Request. Besides I always stay on my Ukrainian roots, I’m inspired with authentic music of my country as well as with modern Ukrainian electronic sound. It makes my music very special.
What are your three favorite tracks from 2022?
My track Like A Miracle became my favorite. I was playing it in every DJ set in 2022. Also I enjoyed the groove in collab of my countryman fellows ARTBAT and Dino Lenny – Our Space. Another one Christian Eyer, Joy Kitikonti & Tom Pooks – Falling for you – very nice production, I like the vocals of Christian in this track.
What hopes have you got for 2023?
Many cool gigs, new big tunes, and of course our victory.
What else have you got coming up?Now I’m working on a new EP which connects techno and disco in one. Really love this sound. Follow me for the new music, it comes out soon.
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You can buy Family Piknik’s latest V/A Casa Del Flamingos HERE.