SHONKY IN BEIRUT INTERVIEW
Shonky @shonky__
Math and statistics graduate who was supposed to go into finance. Dedicated clubber since his teens. The lure of deep house proved too strong. A signature sound built on Parisian after-parties, Batofar nights, Panorama Bar marathons, and the Freak n' Chic crew.
Influential Lebanese DJs and producers — recognised ambassadors for Beirut's house music scene. Known for their groovy-charged sets and residencies, they have shaped the regional nightlife scene and earned spots at international venues including Creamfields Abu Dhabi and FACT Barcelona off-Sónar.
A staple at The Basement in Beirut and beyond. Nesta also runs the label and party series Fantôme de Nuit, combining music with culinary arts. They established their reputation through a popular radio show and party brand including slots on Mix FM.
Greatest inspirations or influences?
When I started going out raving around '98, one of the first after-parties I went to was Dan Ghenacia's Batofar party in Paris. It was there I first discovered the West Coast sound Dan was playing — inviting DJs from the scene every week. That psychedelic deep house has been one of my greatest influences.
"We weren't even tired after — we could have kept going for 12 hours more."
— Shonky on the Panorama Bar b2b with Dan Ghenacia
Most memorable set so far?
It's hard to choose just one — but it would have to be my 12-hour back2back with Dan Ghenacia at Panorama Bar last April. A magical night at one of my favourite places to play. We weren't even tired after — in fact we were so energised by the experience we could have kept going for 12 more hours.
As I'm writing this I'm already excited for tomorrow — another back2back with Dan at Panorama.
Bar
12 hours. Back to back with Dan Ghenacia. One of the most celebrated clubs in the world, Berghain's upper room — and one of the few places on earth where this kind of night is even possible.
Highlight of summer 2012?
For sure our Apollonia party at DC10 in August. All our friends were there in one of the best clubs in the world. It means so much to play DC10 because I started partying there back in 2000 — so it feels like home. We played for more than 8 hours back2back all night long with Dyed Soundroom and Dan Ghenacia.
Shonky + Dyed Soundroom + Dan Ghenacia. All night long. Back2back2back. DC10 — the club he's been partying in since 2000. The one that feels like home.
What are you most looking forward to about Beirut?
I went there a few years ago and stayed almost a week — went from the north to the south and really enjoyed the people and the country. I'm staying for a few days this time because I already know it's going to be a blast.
Get ready for a big one — see you soon!
Antakly Projects / Ninu Nina
Ronin & Nesta