Mixmag Asia Radio: Gender Funk and The Observatory resident Kin gets aurally sensual

This week's episode of Mixmag Asia Radio lands us in Vietnam to dive into an aurally sensual display by Kin.

Kin is one of the resident DJs at Ho Chi Minh City's The Observatory, and is also a core member and DJ of one of Asia's established party platforms that promote inclusivity, alternative and queer culture, Gender Funk.

Meandering through a refined selection of deep, levitating grooves, Kin delivers a crafty selection of house and techno with a dash of obscurity. There's plenty to take in, so why wait? Hit play and read his interview below.

Where are you based and how did you get there?

I’m based in Phan Thiet and Saigon. Born and raised in Phan Thiet, studied in Saigon and I’ve worked here since.

What’s your favourite thing about the music scene there?

I love swagless partygoers, folks who value getting down exclusively for themselves. They help keep my music sincere.

In five words, what do your DJ sets sound like?

languorous, flirtatious, emo, dynamic, borderline

And in three words, how would you describe yourself?

Cute As Hell

What recent trends in music have you been paying attention to? Have you caught onto them?

I don’t know if it’s a trend but I feel like ambitious queer artists are getting a little more recognition with trans-ness being prominent, creating fresh fundamental works. It’s exciting, euphoric yet challenging and sometimes heartbreaking to follow.

Are there any producers and DJs in Asia that have recently caught your attention?

There are just so many that I love and admire. Recently, there’s Jo e Soundz aka Joe Tyler who got my legs I mean hands in the air.

From pre to post-pandemic, what has changed & what hasn’t changed about your life in the music world?

I’m still that socially anxious queer DJ in Saigon but also a lot better at navigating it. Less likely to be rude to people I like just because I’m nervous.

Tell us about the inspiration behind this mix - what drove your thoughts and emotions, and how did you curate your selection?

I was listening to Eris Drew’s new album Quivering In Time at the time. I’m lucky to have met her, this set is somewhat about the conversation we had. There’s immense emotional labour to express queer humanity to the world. To me, sometimes it feels like the turbulence of heartbreaks.

What equipment did you record this mix on?

2x CDJ Pioneer 2000Nexus, Allen & Heath Xone:92

Where can we hear you playing next?

Liên Hoan: Van Son, The Observatory residency, Gender Funk residency and more later.

Follow Kin on Instagram.