Mixmag Asia Radio: Indra7 is "a sucker for low frequencies, glitchy-acid sounds and textures"

Despite his entrenched history in Jakarta's electronic scene, Indra Asikin Isa aka Indra7 has been heavily on our 2023 radar. And more than likely because his evolution as an artist as been both steady and wildly intriguing. An analogue buff by nature, Indra's sound is uniquely diverse across the house and techno spectrum.

Featured in his groovy, acid-laden set for Mixmag Asia Radio is his most recent 'Rubber Duck' EP release on homegrown imprint SALA Records, alongside a healthy 70-minute dose of four-to-the-floor goodness.

Tune in below to Indra7 from Jakarta.

Where are you based and how did you get there?

I was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia. I've spent most of my life in this wild city!

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

Jakarta has a lot of music collectives from different genres. The thing that I love about the scene here is there is no negativity or competition among stakeholders. And there are no boundaries as well between the seniors and juniors.

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

Trippy, dark, energetic, adventurous, mystical.

And in three words, how would you describe yourself?

Perfectionist, disciplined, OCD

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

As a DJ and producer, trends which catch my attention are mostly from the similar music that I play. And as a big fan of hardware synthesizers and samplers, I'm mostly on top of what's new and what's coming next!

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

Vacation Records (Indonesia) - these young and talented DJs & producers are the next rising star in the Jakarta dance scene. Their set brings house music to another level that hasn’t been heard in the past decades

Alinep (Philippines) - I’ve known him for almost a decade and his dedication to techno music and its culture never recedes. I have a lot of respect for him as a DJ and producer.

Iqbal Djoha (Indonesia) - he is one of Indonesia's selectors who is still using 100% vinyl in his sets, with a range of music from disco, boogie, dub, and sometimes Indonesian classic tunes.

Describe one prediction you have about dance music in a post-pandemic world that’s being driven by new technologies.

There will be lots of DJs and producers for sure. The pandemic forced people to stay at home during that time and therefore there is lots of time to explore music and technology.

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

I am a sucker for low frequencies, glitchy-acid sounds and textures. Been a fan of techno music and its culture since early 2000. But when it comes to playing, I never put myself in just one genre like 100% techno or pure melodic techno. I love to combine different styles of electronic music in my sets –– from deep house, progressive house, acid and tech house to techno. I like telling my own “story” as a sonic journey.

What equipment did you record this mix on?

Pioneer CDJ 2000NXS and DJM 900NXS

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever seen happening from the DJ booth?

Seeing a guy sitting on a chair and wearing a motorbike helmet while listening to my set.

Where can we hear you playing next?

You can catch me regularly around Jakarta in places like Nebula, Duck Down Bar, BOF. and more.