Pulse Radio is heading out to the Republic of Kazantip this summer! We're very excited to join in with countless paradiZers, old and new, in the event that marks the freedom of love and expression in the town of Popivka in Ukraine. As we prepare to go, we are chatting with a few of the DJs who are playing this grand gathering with over 300 acts, to find out how they pack for such a trip, hear their KaZantip stories, and see what they have been up to. Read on to uncover more about not just the artists, but the history of the KaZantip Republic as well.
There may not be much out there about the man known as Leroy Peppers other than his official Dirtybird biography, which simply states “Leroy Peppers is a bad bad man.” Leroy Peppers, a side project of Christian Martin, has had an integral role in the development of the label along with Claude VonStroke and his brother, Justin Martin. His many releases such as his track “Northern Nookie” and his remix of Justin Martin’s “Don’t Go” combined with his well known drum ‘n’ bass sets have undoubtedly established Leroy Peppers as a key player in the Dirtybird crew. We caught up with Leroy amidst his busy schedule including his tour with Dirtybird, which has landed him everywhere from Detroit to Ibiza, to see what he’s been up to and why he’s looking forward to playing at KaZantip for the first time.
Which parties will you be playing in The Republic of Kazantip this season? I'll be at the dirtybird showcase at the Croissant stage on August 11th!
Have you been before? If yes, everyone seems to have a few memories to share about the experience. What do you think of when kaZantip comes to mind? I've heard so much about Kazantip but have never been - really looking foward to playing and checking it out for the first time.
Kazantip draws paradiZers (as attendees are called) from around the world, but a lot come from Russia. Have you had experience playing in Russia before? How would you describe the crowd? I played at Krysha Mira a few years ago for a dirtybird night - the crowd always knows their music, and they don't ever hold back.
Kazantip is hosted in the town of Popivka, Ukraine. Have you played elsewhere in Ukraine? I've never even been to the Ukraine, so to play there on my first trip is very exciting.
Kazantip requires a viZa which concert-goers purchase as you would a ticket. Is there a time when a visa problem has prevent you from playing a gig or delayed you significantly? Thankfully, I've always had my visas in order. It would be so disappointing to travel all the way to a country only to be rejected at customs.
Kazantip's symbol is its yellow suitcases called chamadans, which when decorated allow paradiZers to attend for free when they apply to the republic. As a traveling artist what’s a good packing tip you can share with our readers? If you’re bringing equipment with you, how do you make sure to fit it all in? I travel light - headphones and 64 GB USB sticks are all I need. As for advice - bring an inflatable neck pillow with you! It takes up almost no space and helps turn any travel situation into naptime.
Kazantip marks the second half of the summer season, what have been some of your standout experiences this season? There have been so many!! Dirtybird at Sankeys in Ibiza has been incredible. The Secret Garden Party in the UK was another highlight, I got to play a pouring rain night set and a clear sunrise set. In the US, I played for the Do Lab at Coachella and again for them at Lightning in a Bottle Festival. I also was invited to play at the 20 year anniversary of the Moontribe desert party in California - I got my introduction to electronic music through their parties about 18 years ago, so it was a great honor to return behind the decks.
Kazantip loves music all day and night. Do you have any releases or albums that you are currently working on? I have about five new tracks that are in heavy rotation in my sets, I'm not sure where they will end up yet.
Kazantip first started as a gathering of windsurfers who came together to dance to techno and trance after a windsurfing competition on the Black Sea. Since then it has grown into the republic it is today. Have you tried windsurfing or surfing in general? Do you enjoy it? I've never tried windsurfing, and my one experience with surfing I got worked by some waves & tossed around like a rag doll. I'd like to learn how to ride a longboard someday!
Kazantip's political system is called "Dictatorship of Happiness." Who would you appoint if you were building your own Dictatorship of Happiness”? I would start by creating a Ministry of Subwoofers. I'd appoint Gary Stewart or Tony Andrews. Next there would need to be a Department of BBQ - I'd appoint our excellent grillmaster, Chris 'Grillson' Wilson, the guy who's been with us since our first dirtybird parties in Golden Gate Park. Finally, I'd make sure that all my dirtybird compatriots were on the Cabinet of Bass Delivery, to ensure that all the citizens received their recommended daily bass allowance.
Kazantip has over 300 DJs playing this event. How long will your stay in the Kazantip Republic be and who are you looking forward to seeing play in your downtime? I'll only be there for one day, but I noticed there is an amazing drum n bass stage taking place - I hope I can check out Ed Rush, Dillinja, London Elektricity and DJ SS.
Kazantip's official color is orange. in order to add color to life. Does your wardrobe incorporate a lot of orange? What’s your favorite piece? I have a couple of loud orange shirts from San Francisco's baseball team, the Giants. My favorite has to be the one with a huge panda (the 3rd baseman Pablo Sandoval's nickname is 'Panda') sitting next to the ballpark. Go Giants!!