Decks: DJ Addy Ranh

By Jennifer Finjan

Lucky for us, a young Addy along with his family left Iran to embark on a new life in Toronto, Canada in 1989. Who would have imagined that today Addy would be one of Canada’s top DJ/Producers on both a national and international level.

If I had to name one DJ who consistently delivers memorable, innovative, and positive-club experiences, I would have to say DJ Addy Ranh. When Addy is at the decks, he pleases the crowd’s senses. Not only is his sound amazing, watching him spin is something that should witnessed, not to mention the spell he places on the crowd. He often hides under a beanie or flat cap when he spins, but there’s no way he can hide that infectious smile and joy for the music he produces. I guess you could call it a little Persian Persuasion.

Addy’s sound has been described as experimental, progressive, uplifting melodic and instrumental elements from classic and rare beats with dark undertones over techy bass lines and rolling drums on his signature triple-turntable. When asked how he would best describe his sound, “basslines and drums”, was the answer.

Addy’s musical journey started with the late 1980’s hip hop and reggae scene. Soon, like many of us electronic lovers, he leaped into the thriving Toronto rave/electronic music scene in the early-mid 1990’s. He studied the work of DJs like Mark Oliver and Kenny Glasgow to become one of Canada’s most successful and respected House Music DJs today.

Over the years, he has played and has held residencies in Toronto clubs such as Guvernment, Circa, Film Lounge, Comfort Zone (just to name a few), Circus and Sensation in Montreal. Internationally, Addy played in Mexico at the BPM festival, Santanera , Dubie, Kool beach, and in Serbia at Bostion, Exit Festival, and Bassment.

What music did you listen to when you were younger? What music back then had an influence on your sound today?

When I was in Iran, I used to listen to what ever my older brother was into back in the late 70s and 80’s – bands like BONEY M, A-HA. In Canada, I got into the early 90s hip-hop and reggae if you can believe it. I love baselines so I think the hip-hop phase has a great influence in my sound.

Tell me about your first gig.

My first gig was at the CZ. A good friend of mine, Silk, was a resident there at the time and he offered me his spot for my birthday. They literally had to drag me into Zone because I was so nervous; I even thought about backing out a few times. Long story short, I ended up rocking the place and it was all downhill from there.

How has it evolved over the years?

I’ve tried to stay true to my sound over the years yet at the same time I try to incorporate the today’s sounds into my sets as well. I believe it’s a mistake when DJs only chase the sound of now because most end up doing just that: chasing.

What kind of electronica would you say is your favorite?

Believe it or not, DEEP HOUSE. I have a pretty big collection of Deep House that I’ve been accumulating over the years, but unfortunately the venues I play do not attract a deep house crowd.

Do you prefer large epic venues or small more personal clubs?

I like Both. Each one has its own appeal that requires it own technique of playing.

Where would you like to spin in the future?

Ministry of Sound in the UK

What are you listening to right now?

First Day – Kollektiv Turmstrasse (Original MIX)

Any memorable night? Set?

Quite a few, but the most recent one has to be Cobra with Saeed Younan…Thurday DEC 3rd

Here’s a link, have a look

Who would you like to collaborate with in the future?

DJ Behrouz – One of my very good friends and a true mentor.

Which artists influence you most?

There are quite a few, but one that stands out is FunckAgenda /ADAM K

How has the house music scene changed since you first got involved?

The market itself has been taking a downturn over that past years, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. (HINT) David Guetta producing Black Eye Peas and Akon.

What do you like to do in your down time?

GO KARTS. Anyone wants to take me on message me on Facebook and we’ll set up a Race day.

Any new projects on the horizon?

Tons of original productions and CANADA’S FINEST HOUSE CD COMPLATION IN 2010.

www.djaddy.com