PARFAIT | NL 2024 #06

I recently had the opportunity to interview Parfait, an artist who describes herself with a unique blend of passion, purpose, and creativity. Parfait’s journey began in the alternative basements of Paris, where she immersed herself in the most underground LGBT+ and techno scenes.

Her dedication to these spaces laid the foundation for a career that took a major leap in 2019, when she made her first Boiler Room appearance through the Possession collective, where she is a resident. This performance marked the beginning of her international recognition, and today, Parfait stands as a pivotal figure in the new wave of DJs committed to preserving the spirit of free, open, and safe parties.

Beyond her work as a DJ, Parfait is a multi-faceted artist whose creativity knows no bounds. She not only spins records but also directs and writes films, constantly exploring new ways to express her vision. Her precision in sound and her desire to push boundaries make her a standout in an evolving musical landscape.

Currently, she is preparing to launch her label, “Comme dans les films,” which will reflect her commitment to making people dance while simultaneously challenging the rigid norms of the heteropatriarchy. Parfait’s approach is about more than just music; it’s about creating spaces for freedom, inclusion, and self-expression.

When I asked her how her journey into electronic music began, Parfait recalled her early years in Paris.

“From a young age, I always had an interest in music, but it wasn’t until my teenage years that I really got into electronic music,” she explained.

She shared that her love for techno was a natural evolution after discovering house and then techno, genres that resonated with her desire for something raw and authentic.

“I fell in love with the energy and darkness that techno could convey,” she said.

“It’s a style that can be aggressive, but at the same time very emotional, which aligns closely with my personality.”

This duality of emotions continues to mark her sets and productions, where she constantly seeks that balance between the power of rhythm and emotional depth.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Parfait is her ability to combine different genres and sonic elements without losing her essence. During our conversation, she explained how she has developed her style over the years.

“I’ve always been very curious, and I think it’s that curiosity that has allowed me to find my own voice within the scene,” she shared.

Her approach is not just technical but also emotional:

“For me, music is a reflection of who I am at that moment. I don’t try to please a particular audience, but rather to be authentic and convey what I feel.”

This authenticity has led her to be one of the most recognized DJs in the underground scene, particularly in Paris, where she has played a key role in the evolution of local techno.

We spoke extensively about the electronic scene in Paris, an environment that has been crucial to her career development. Parfait described how the city has experienced a renaissance in electronic music in recent years,with clubs embracing more diverse programming and local artists gaining international recognition.

“Paris has always had a strong scene, but I think now we are seeing a very special moment, where there is a true community of techno artists and followers.”

In this context, Parfait has been a key figure, not only as a DJ and producer but also as a curator of events.

“I’ve always wanted to be an active part of the scene, not just as an artist, but also as someone who pushes new ideas and sounds forward.”

For her, Paris remains one of the most vibrant capitals of techno, though she also acknowledges the importance of cities like Berlin and London on the global scene.

One of the most important topics we touched on during the interview was her experience as a woman in the electronic music industry. Parfait has been a vocal advocate for gender equality within the world of DJs, a historically male-dominated industry.

“I think we’ve made a lot of progress in recent years, but there’s still a long way to go,” she reflected.

She explained that early in her career, she often encountered a sense of being underestimated or not taken seriously, but these challenges only motivated her to work harder.

“My focus has always been to prove that talent has no gender and that what matters is the music you create and the connection you build with your audience.”

Despite these obstacles, Parfait sees positive change in the industry, with more women in the booth and behind the scenes, and an audience that is more aware of the importance of diversity.

“It’s a slow process, but it’s encouraging to see so many women emerging and taking up important spaces in festivals and clubs.”

Parfait also shared with me how she finds inspiration for her sets. For her, each performance is unique, and she tries to adapt to the vibe and energy of the crowd.

“I’m always looking for new sounds, whether in old records or the latest productions, but the most important thing is to feel the room’s energy and react to it in real-time.”

She explained that one of the most magical moments as a DJ is when she creates a deep connection with the audience, something she describes as a “shared dance.”

“When you reach that level of connection, it’s almost like you’re speaking a secret language with the dance floor. It’s a constant exchange of energy.”

Although she is best known for her DJ sets, Parfait has also built a solid career as a producer. When I asked her about the process of creating music in the studio, Parfait admitted that it’s a completely different experience from performing live.

“In the studio, everything is more introspective. You have time to experiment and really dive deep into the sounds you’re creating.”

However, she noted that this process can also be challenging: “Sometimes it’s hard to find the balance between what you want to express and what actually works on the dance floor. But I think the most important thing is to stay true to yourself and not make artistic compromises just to please others.”

Before wrapping up our conversation, I asked her about her plans for the future, both in terms of performances and production. With a smile, Parfait revealed that she is working on a new EP, which will be released later this year.

“It’s a very personal project, something I’ve been developing for a long time. I’m excited to share it with the world.”

Additionally, Parfait plans to continue performing at some of the most important clubsin Europe and hopes to expand into new territories.

“Music is my life, and I’m always looking for new ways to evolve and bring my sound to new audiences.”

Parfait represents much more than just a name in the techno world; she embodies a profound connection between sound, emotion, and identity. Her journey, from the underground Parisian scene to the global stage, is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself.

In a world that constantly shifts and changes, Parfait remains anchored in authenticity, using music as her medium to communicate deeply with her audience.

Her sets are not just about technical prowess but about weaving an emotional narrative that resonates on a human level, making each performance a shared experience of vulnerability and release.

Her advocacy for inclusivity and diversity in the electronic music world is a reflection of a broader desire for harmony—not just within the music industry but within society. Parfait understands that the power of music extends beyond the dance floor. It can break barriers, unite communities, and offer a voice to those who have been marginalized.

Her efforts to empower women and create space for underrepresented voices are not only courageous but also transformative, challenging the very fabric of a traditionally male-dominated industry. She believes ina future where talent and passion outweigh prejudice, where equality is the rhythm that drives the music.

At the heart of Parfait’s artistry is her philosophy of connection. Whether in front of a live audience or alone in the studio, she approaches her craft with an introspective curiosity, seeking out the places where personal experience and universal emotion intersect.

For Parfait, music is not just a product but a process—a way to reflect on life’s complexities, to distill emotions into sound, and to create something that resonates beyond the physical. Her sets are spiritual in nature, not only moving bodies but stirring the soul, inviting listeners to experience their own emotions through her carefully curated soundscapes.

As she looks ahead, Parfait’s vision remains rooted in her deep love for the techno community and her desire to push the genre’s boundaries. But more than that, she is on a quest to understand the human condition through music. Her art is a journey of self-discovery, not just for her, but for everyone who joins her on the dance floor. Through her continued evolution, she offers us a glimpse of a world where music is more than entertainment—it’s a means of connection, transformation, and ultimately, liberation.