Eora based DJ Ari Kiko is an emerging artist with a distinct sense of self — a progression that feels quick, yet still natural. As a DJ, Ari Kiko has found connection and inspiration within a community that she’s spent years nourishing as a dancer, DJ and organiser. A love that her audience is now paying back. 

Mixing with a careful lightness, Ari Kiko blends house, breaks and warm vocals; sounds that speak to her crowd - encouraging expression, fun and a place to disconnect from the challenges that exist outside the walls of the club. 

We chatted with Ari ahead of her return to Club 77 alongside Jhassic, catching us up on the sounds, settings (and trinkets) inspiring her upcoming performance and dance floor philosophy. 

I loved your Club 77 mix! The tech house + early 2000’s breaks and vocals feel really warm and inviting. With this in mind, would you say that creating a positive atmosphere for your community to enjoy is a priority in your mixing?

My first love will always be dancing and ever since I started going out, the freedom I feel in the heave of a pulsing dance floor has remained unparalleled. As a baby club rat, my experiences connecting to and being held up by the music and people around me came in stark contrast to nights where I had to be hyper - vigilant in an unfriendly crowd.

I really don’t think you can dance unless you have space to breathe. At my first Club Mince parties I went to over Mardi Gras, I remember thinking how gentle people were as they moved around me. I wasn’t shoved or pushed, I wasn’t fighting for my space, It's such a privilege. 

So yeah, that's a very roundabout way of saying that the atmosphere is everything. I want people to feel elated - I want them to truly feel like they can let go of all that is outside the club, and to do that they have to feel safe, and seen. 

Can you share how you came to find your own personal sound? Any advice for other emerging DJ’s looking to find theirs?

I wish I had some powerful insight, but really all I’ve ever known for sure is what I do and don’t like. As soon as I hear something I like, my ears perk up and I let my instincts guide me. Start listening to everything and anything. 

You’ve been dancing at Club 77 for over a decade. What’s made you stick around? 

I love this place, and I love this city. I feel so inspired by Sydney’s resilience and by the people and places that remain dedicated in the face of the bureaucratic erosion of Sydneys nightlife, economic recession and a litany of global disasters. 

It feels like a true privilege to be invited to contribute to a space, and a scene that means so much to me. I have found myself, and my friends on this dance floor, and my only hope is that I can soundtrack those experiences for other people. 

What are you wearing / bringing to the club?

Well, at club 77 I'm wearing very little, because wow that aircon is so far away from the decks. But sweaty is how it should be after all. Anyone will tell you that I always have candy on hand, and a bag big enough to fit anything else I might need for wherever the night takes me. 

Any tracks you’re excited to play? 

You’ll have to come see me on the 23rd for this intel xx ok you can have one (its super weird I cant fricken WAIT)