Speaking at IMS Dubai 2024, Adriatique reflected on their career, their evolving creative process, and the unique energy of performing in the MENA region. The Swiss DJ duo of Adrian Shala and Adrian Schweizer, has spent over a decade pushing the boundaries of melodic techno.
A Deep Connection with the MENA Region
Adriatique’s journey in the MENA region began nearly a decade ago. “Our first show here was for 300 people”, they share. “Now, we’re playing much larger venues—it’s incredible to see the growth of the electronic music scene in this region.” They credit the region’s energy and landscapes for inspiring their music, particularly in places like Egypt. “Playing at sunrise in Egypt, with the sky changing colors, offers a level of inspiration you can’t find elsewhere.”
One of their most memorable performances was in Egypt. “Despite technical issues—like the music cutting out three times—the energy of that setting was unmatched,” they said. “It was rare and magical.”
The X Series: A Conceptual Evolution
Adriatique shares in a keynote talk during IMS Dubai that their X series represents a bold step in their artistry, blending music, visuals, and stage design to create immersive experiences. “X isn’t just a show—it’s a world,” they explain. The series features their music paired with time-coded visuals and lighting, offering a cohesive, cinematic journey.
While inspired by peers like Afterlife, Adriatique emphasized the originality of X. “We’ve been developing X for years, and every detail is crafted to connect deeply with our audience,” they share. “It’s uniquely ours.”
An Ibiza Residency on the Horizon
After years of discussions, Adriatique is preparing for their first Ibiza residency. “We’ve been playing with the idea for a long time,” they shared. “It always depended on the right club and the right timing, but now everything seems to be coming together.”
The residency marks a significant milestone for the duo. “Ibiza has always been a special place for electronic music, and having a more permanent presence there feels like the next step for us,” they explained. While details remain under wraps, Adriatique hinted that the residency will reflect their signature approach—blending their music with a carefully curated atmosphere. “It’s time for us to have a standing appearance that resonates with what we stand for as artists.”
Building a Community with Siamese
The duo’s label, Siamese, founded in 2016, is a reflection of their commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration. “Siamese is more than a label—it’s a community,” Adriatique echoes during IMS Dubai. The label embraces diverse sounds, focusing on music that resonates deeply rather than adhering to strict genre rules.
A recent collaboration with Revo, a rising artist from the MENA region, exemplifies this ethos. “Revo brought a fresh, unfiltered perspective,” they said. “Working with him reminded us of the excitement we felt starting out. That energy is priceless.”
Finding Balance Amidst Global Demand
The demands of touring globally have pushed Adriatique to prioritize balance. “The fear of missing out is real in this industry,” they admit. “But we’ve learned to say no and focus on our health and creativity.”
The duo also addressed the prevalence of camera culture at club events. “We design our sets with balance—there are moments to capture and moments to lose yourself,” they said. “It’s about creating a space where people feel free to connect in their own way.”
Crafting Music That Stands the Test of Time
A defining element of Adriatique’s music is its storytelling and innovation. From their debut album, Nude, to remixes for artists like Rufus Du Sol and The Weeknd, their work reflects a meticulous artistic process. “Remixing is about evolving the original track while staying true to its essence,” they explained. “We love adding our touch to create something entirely new.”
Adriatique’s approach to DJing emphasizes spontaneity and connection. They revealed that their performances are never bound by a strict plan. “We never really do a setlist. We might decide how we start, especially on the actuals. It’s a little bit more prepared. But even there, there is never a setlist,” they explained. “We’re just going in, we have to see the room or the venue, and then we go.”
This adaptability allows them to respond to the unique energy of each crowd and venue, ensuring every performance feels authentic and dynamic. For Adriatique, it’s about creating a journey that evolves organically, rather than adhering to a predetermined path they echoed during IMS Dubai.
Looking ahead, Adriatique hinted during IMS Dubai on more collaborations and a possible second album. “Our first album was conceptual, and we’re proud of it. But right now, we’re focused on new singles and remixes,” they shared. “An album requires time and space, which we’ll revisit when the time feels right.”
The Philosophy Behind Their Success
Adriatique’s philosophy centers on creating music and experiences that connect with people on a deeper level. “Whether it’s through a live set, a remix, or a conversation, we aim to create moments of transcendence,” they said. Their bond with the MENA region exemplifies this mission. “This isn’t just about bringing electronic music to new places—it’s about celebrating the unique voices within each community.”
Looking Ahead: A Future Full of Possibilities
With new projects, collaborations, and live experiences on the horizon, Adriatique’s journey is far from over. “We’ve achieved so much, but there’s always more to explore,” they said. “Our story is still being written, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.”
As they continue to innovate and inspire, Adriatique remains a beacon of authenticity and creativity in the global electronic music scene, ensuring their music resonates for years to come.
Adriatique is performing at Ushuaīa Dubai Harbour Experience as part of the IMS Dubai series on November 16.
