Toronto Pride starlet DJ Chiclet tells Mary Agnew about nice New Yorkers and what it takes to make a great New Year’s Eve Party

What’s your relationship with Hong Kong?
Although I was born and raised in Toronto, I have close family in Hong Kong and visit every few years.

How do the audiences in Montreal, Toronto, New York and Hong Kong compare?
Montreal and Toronto have some similar crowds. Toronto, I find more accepting and open, while Montreal has more of an ear to the ground in terms of electronic music. I played a rave type event in New York City and found the crowd to be incredibly friendly and enthusiastic. I find New Yorkers in general to be much friendlier and welcoming than many would have you believe. Hong Kong? Well I’ve played there once before, but I think I need to play there more often to build a proper impression. 
 
How do you find being a female in a male-dominated profession?
I think it’s really changing now. It’s no longer as male-dominated as before. Also, I think a lot of the previous stereotypes are fading. Being a female DJ is becoming less and less of a novelty and people are focusing more on skill – at least that’s what I sense.

Your website says you have a “unique mixing style”. What separates you from everyone else?
I like to use the faders extensively – both the cross fader and the volume faders. If there is an effects unit on the mixer, you can be sure I’ll use
it. I also play percussion as a hobby, so it influences the way I work
the mixer. 

How do you create a cohesive sound when you draw from so many genres, such as trance, house, electro, breaks?
While they are different genres, their qualities can overlap, so it’s quite easy to mix them together, yet you are still able to build an interesting and dynamic mix.
 
What is the biggest gig you have ever played?
I have played the Toronto Pride centre stage every year for the past seven years.
 
Have you ever had any on stage disasters?
No. Knock on wood.
 
What do you think a great New Year’s Eve party needs to be a success?
In the words of every old raver: good music and PLUR! [Peace Love Unity and Respect]

Sum a Chiclet gig up in three words?
Hyper, silly and fun.

What is your personal motto?
Too cool for too cool. 

DJ Chiclet plays at Volume on Dec 31.