Felicie talks about her latest release on Cleric’s Clergy imprint, leaving her mark, and her spots to hit in Paris.
Exil Collective member Felicie is quickly gaining recognition within the Parisian techno scene. After her debut release on SLAM’s premier techno imprint Soma Records, her raw, chugging, groovy brand of techno has caught the eye of the genre’s most revered names. Since then, Felicie has taken her time, developing, and reinventing herself through her sound which has led her to play at some of the best clubs in Europe including Sub Club (Glasgow), Rex Club (Paris), and Tresor (Berlin) to name a few.
Art of Detachment is her second release on Cleric’s classic imprint Clergy – the first being a contribution to the 2022 VA Clergy | United For Ukraine. The Manchester based label has a knack for finding the genres best talents, and has released records from many of techno’s biggest names including Dax J & Setaoc Mass. The fact that they have invited her back for her first solo vinyl release is something techno fans should take note of. As the name of her EP suggests, Felice has detached herself from the pressures of releasing music to do things her way.
Let’s talk about your new EP Art of Detachment out soon on Clergy. What was the concept behind this project?
I took some time following my first EP on Soma Records. I didn’t want to rush things and release a first solo vinyl that wouldn’t be reflecting my actual sound and identity in a progressive way. I wanted to detach from the pressure of releasing music and take time to develop new skills and production techniques. “Art of Detachment” is a tribute to trusting your own journey, being grateful for what you have in the present moment, and the importance of doing things at your own pace.
How do you feel you have grown as an artist since your first releases back in 2020?
Since my earlier releases, I feel like I’ve been able to find and reinvent myself as an artist through my sound. Now I am focusing on playing and producing a certain style that I personally enjoy more and want to share with the public through my gigs. I used to play a harder sound and I am now enjoying a groovier yet still intense style. I have also gained more confidence in my way of DJing and communicating with the crowd. I’ve got more used to the sleepless travels too haha!
As someone who is still fresh into the professional techno scene, do you have any advice for aspiring artists looking to reach the same position? Could you share some of the steps you took to get attention and recognition as an artist?
My main advice would be to take your time, not rush things, and most importantly, not to compare yourself to others. Nowadays with everyone only showing their successful side on social media, you don’t always realise that it’s not as easy as it looks. You end up going down the rabbit hole of always comparing your situation to others. It’s important to step back and realise how far you’ve come and achieved. I feel like I received more recognition thanks to my productions. Because I was able to present to the public my type of sound, people started to recognise me more through that.
What mark do you hope to leave on the techno scene?
I hope I will be remembered for my passion for music, and the energy I try to share with the crowd through my sets. I would also like to launch my label in the upcoming years to showcase my style further and make it last throughout the years via my own imprint.
Let’s talk about Paris. What are some cool record stores/venues/parties that true techno aficionados must visit?
Not only because I am a resident of the collective, but I would really recommend the Exil parties if you are visiting Paris! For me they are one of the most qualitative events of the city, line ups are always on point, and the vibe is immaculate. If you are searching for a club, Nexus and Kilometre 25 are great, no matter what the line-up is. Rex Club is also a mythical institution in the heart of Paris itself that you don’t want to miss.
What’s one music production/DJ tip you heard that changed your life?
Something that really changed my way of producing is to pay more attention to the sound design of my kick and bass because they are the main skeleton of your track. You could have the best elements in the world, but if the bass is not solid, it won’t reach your expectation. You have to think of your track like a sonic jigsaw, where everything must fall into place and fit together.
What do you like to do in your spare time when you’re not making music? How do you like to wind down?
I like to spend time in nature for long walks and sometimes completely disconnect from techno for a few days. This helps me start my weekend gigs with a fresh ear. I also like to hang out with my friends and family. When you are travelling a lot on the weekends you are obviously missing out on a lot of important events that happen on the weekend, so I think it’s important to keep a connection with people that are important and close to you.
What are your plans for the rest of 2023?
Besides the release of my first solo vinyl EP with “Art of Detachment”, I am focusing on developing my own sound branding through my “FastgrooveKlub” mantra. I am willing to push it as my recognisable style signature. Also, I am going back to play in Colombia and India soon, I will have my first all-night long b2b, and play in some clubs and countries that I’ve always wished to play in one day 🙂
So, I am really excited and grateful for what’s to come!
Purchase Felicie – Art of Detachment EP from Bandcamp.
Follow Felicie on Instagram.
