The relentless pace of the international electronic music circuit has become a defining characteristic for artists like Surusinghe, who finds herself in a perpetual state of transit between continents, time zones, and pulsating dancefloors. The London-via-Melbourne producer, celebrated for her bass-forward sound and incisive perspectives on contemporary club culture, recently articulated her current existence with a wry laugh: "it’s just like plane, club, plane, club, another plane… that’s really where we’re at." This demanding schedule, which recently saw her return from a weekend in Berlin only to pack for San Francisco, provides not only the backdrop for her artistic output but also the contemplative space for her nuanced observations on the modern club experience, particularly the phenomenon she terms "party guilt."
The Relentless Rhythm of a Global DJ
The life of a touring DJ in the 21st century is a demanding tapestry woven from grueling travel, late-night performances, and constant adaptation to new environments. Surusinghe’s summer itinerary is a prime example, a blur of festival appearances and intimate club slots that underscore the globalized nature of electronic music. Artists are increasingly expected to maintain a ubiquitous presence, jetting from European capitals to North American hubs, often within days. This intense schedule, while offering unparalleled opportunities for creative exchange and audience connection, also presents significant challenges to physical and mental well-being. The global electronic music market, valued at approximately $7.3 billion in 2023 according to industry reports, thrives on this interconnectedness, but the human cost for its frontline performers is a growing point of discussion within the industry. Surusinghe’s candid remarks about her travel regimen highlight a shared reality for many successful artists navigating this high-octane landscape, a testament to both their dedication and the inherent pressures of their profession.
Deconstructing "Party Guilt": A Philosophical Stance
It is amidst these long-haul flights and brief interludes that Surusinghe has developed a profound introspection on the psychology of club-going, specifically challenging the prevailing sentiment of "party guilt." This term describes the societal or self-imposed pressure to justify the act of going out, viewing it as a frivolous indulgence rather than a legitimate pursuit of connection or release. Surusinghe vehemently rejects this judgment, stating, "I just hate any judgment around going out or not going out. It’s about going out because you want to feel connected to something." This perspective is a potent commentary on a cultural shift, particularly in a post-pandemic world where the value of collective experiences and spontaneous joy has been re-evaluated.
Her stance resonates deeply within a generation that has experienced lockdowns and social fragmentation. For many, club spaces offer more than just entertainment; they are vital communal hubs, arenas for self-expression, and sites for forging authentic connections. By debunking "party guilt," Surusinghe advocates for a more conscious and unburdened engagement with nightlife, urging individuals to embrace these experiences as essential for emotional and social well-being, rather than as activities requiring moral accounting. This philosophical underpinning not only informs her personal approach to performing and attending events but also permeates the emotional core of her latest artistic endeavors.
From Ballet to Bass: The Genesis of Surusinghe’s Sound
The genesis of Surusinghe’s profound connection to rhythm and music can be traced back not to darkened club interiors, but to the bright, disciplined studios of her childhood ballet training. Long before she ever commanded a DJ booth or felt the thrum of a club floor, the structured yet expressive world of classical dance laid the foundational elements of her musical understanding. "I wasn’t a perfect ballerina," she admits with a chuckle, recalling herself as "a bit awkward and clunky." Yet, it was in ballet that she discovered "a way to express my connection to music." This early immersion in rhythmic discipline, body movement, and the interpretation of musicality instilled in her an innate sense of timing and an intuitive grasp of how sound can evoke emotion and physical response.
This unconventional origin story highlights a fascinating crossover often seen in electronic music, where artists draw inspiration from diverse artistic disciplines. The precision, fluidity, and emotional storytelling inherent in ballet find an unexpected echo in the intricate layering and dynamic shifts characteristic of Surusinghe’s bass-forward productions. Her ability to construct narratives within her tracks, to build tension and release, and to manipulate sonic textures with a dancer’s understanding of space and movement, can all be subtly linked to these formative experiences. This background provides a unique lens through which she approaches her craft, distinguishing her sound in an often homogenous landscape.
‘Cutting Thread’: An Exploration of Dancefloor Dynamics
These deeply held feelings and her unique artistic journey converge powerfully in her latest EP, Cutting Thread. Released to critical acclaim, this four-track project serves as a comprehensive sonic manifesto, deeply rooted in the dancefloor experience. It is a "bass-forward" endeavor that sees Surusinghe "swing big with a dancefloor-led exploration of club pressure and release." The EP is not merely a collection of tracks; it is an immersive journey designed to mirror the ebb and flow of a night out, from the initial anticipation to the euphoric peak and the eventual, satisfying comedown.
Tracks like "Rubbing" and "FRIED" exemplify her signature register, pushing through "amped-up, high-energy production." "Rubbing" is characterized by its propulsive rhythms and intricate percussive elements, building a relentless energy that is both physical and cerebral. "FRIED," on the other hand, delves into more intense, almost industrial soundscapes, showcasing her adeptness at crafting sonic tension that demands a physical response. Across the EP, Surusinghe masterfully manipulates basslines, synthesizers, and drum patterns to create a sense of urgency and exhilaration, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the rhythm without reservation or judgment. Cutting Thread thus stands as both a testament to her technical prowess as a producer and a sonic embodiment of her philosophy on liberating the club experience from unwarranted guilt.
A "Dream Night Out" Unfolds: The Nowadays Experience
Freed from the shackles of "party guilt," Surusinghe recently recounted to Dazed magazine her "dream night out"—an experience that, unlike many idealized scenarios, had already materialized. This particular event, a meticulously planned yet ultimately spontaneous odyssey, took place in New York City, culminating in a transcendent morning set at one of the world’s most revered electronic music venues: Nowadays.
Setting the Scene: Nowadays, New York
The venue itself, Nowadays, is a cornerstone of New York’s vibrant electronic music scene, celebrated for its commitment to sound quality, inclusive atmosphere, and unique indoor-outdoor setup. Located in Ridgewood, Queens, it has garnered international acclaim for its carefully curated lineups and a philosophy that prioritizes community and connection over commercial flash. Surusinghe articulates its appeal succinctly: "It’s one of my favourite clubs in the world. It’s really simple in a way that I like — one main dancefloor, a bar, an outdoor space. You don’t feel like you’re constantly moving around; you can just settle into it." This emphasis on simplicity and the ability to "settle in" speaks volumes about the venue’s ethos, fostering an environment where attendees can truly immerse themselves in the music and the moment, aligning perfectly with Surusinghe’s anti-"party guilt" manifesto. Its singular dancefloor ensures a collective focus, encouraging shared experience rather than fragmented wandering.
Preparation and Essentials: A Pragmatic Approach
For Surusinghe, a successful night out, particularly one involving performance, begins with meticulous preparation. Her list of essential party supplies reflects a pragmatic approach to both personal well-being and professional readiness on the road: "Always my water bottle. I need that. Earplugs too, hand sanitiser, tissues, beta blockers, paracetamol… all the essentials basically. And cigarettes." This comprehensive kit underscores the realities of a touring artist – safeguarding hearing, maintaining hygiene in crowded spaces, managing potential anxieties (beta blockers), and addressing physical discomfort (paracetamol), all while navigating the social rituals of the scene. It’s a testament to the fact that even dream nights require a foundation of self-care.
Pre-Party Ritual: A Fresh Start
The "dream night out" technically commenced on a Saturday, but Surusinghe and her companions opted for an early night, ensuring they were "fresh" for the main event on Sunday morning. This strategic rest allowed for a unique pre-party ritual: "We went for bagels in the morning, and got salmon, cream cheese, and orange juice." This wholesome breakfast marked a departure from the typical late-night, high-energy warm-ups, establishing a tone of intentional well-being before diving into the intensity of a club environment. This fresh start reinforces her philosophy of conscious engagement with nightlife.
The Sonic Journey: Surusinghe’s Morning Set at Nowadays
Timely Arrival and Unique Slot
Surusinghe pulled up to Nowadays around 8:30 AM, preparing for a set that ran from 9 AM to midday. This early morning slot, while unusual for many Western club cultures, is a cherished tradition in certain electronic music hubs, particularly in Berlin, where parties often extend well into the following day. It signifies a dedicated crowd and an atmosphere that transcends the typical Friday or Saturday night frenzy, offering a different kind of energy and intimacy. Arriving well-rested and fuelled by bagels, she was poised to "start the day right" on the decks.
The Illustrious Lineup
The lineup for this particular event was, as Surusinghe described it, "crazy," featuring a roster of highly respected artists within the electronic music community. Sharing the bill were talents such as James K, Dr. Jeep, Shannon SP, Identified Patient, Aurora Halal, and DJ Fart in the Club closing. This curation speaks to Nowadays’ reputation for showcasing diverse and influential artists, creating an environment rich in sonic exploration. Playing alongside such esteemed peers not only elevates the event but also provides a platform for artistic dialogue and mutual appreciation, further cementing the club’s status as a cultural beacon.
On the Decks: A Curated Selection
During her three-hour set, Surusinghe crafted a journey through diverse electronic soundscapes, meticulously selected to suit the unique morning atmosphere. She opened with Orbital’s iconic "Belfast," a seminal track known for its ethereal beauty and progressive build-up, instantly setting a contemplative yet uplifting tone. "Belfast," released in 1991, remains a cornerstone of intelligent dance music (IDM) and ambient techno, celebrated for its ability to evoke a sense of yearning and euphoria. Midway through her set, she wove in "This Is My Life (Bontan remix)," injecting a surge of contemporary house energy. She closed her performance with Two Lone Swordsmen’s "The Bunker," a track from the influential duo (Andrew Weatherall and Keith Tenniswood) known for their experimental, often gritty, electro and techno sound. "The Bunker" offers a darker, more intricate sonic landscape, providing a thoughtful and atmospheric conclusion to her set. Her choices demonstrated a deep appreciation for electronic music history while seamlessly integrating modern interpretations, guiding the crowd through a rich tapestry of sound.
Sustenance and Social Connection
Even amidst the intensity of performance, Surusinghe made sure to stay refreshed. Her drink choices reflected a blend of tradition and celebration: "Guinness on tap at Nowadays is amazing, so that was the first thing. Then margaritas later on." This combination speaks to a balanced approach, enjoying the club’s offerings while maintaining energy.
The Unscripted Afters: A Testament to Connection
Following her set and the continuation of the party at Nowadays, the post-club experience unfolded in a characteristically spontaneous manner, embodying the very essence of genuine connection that Surusinghe champions. Initially, the group headed to a bar called Mansions. However, as is often the case in the vibrant and unpredictable world of nightlife, the most memorable moments are frequently unscripted. "My favourite kind of afters are always the random ones," she remarked. This proved true when, during a chance encounter in a toilet queue, conversations led to an impromptu invitation to a house party in Brooklyn.
"No one really knew each other; we just all assumed we did," she recalled, highlighting the unique social dynamics of such gatherings. It was "one of those funny ones where you’re in the Uber afterwards like, ‘Wait… who were they?’ but it felt really wholesome and relaxed at the time." This anecdote perfectly encapsulates her core message: the pursuit of connection, even if fleeting or anonymous, is a valid and enriching aspect of the club experience. The "wholesome and relaxed" feeling, free from judgment or the need for formal introductions, stands as a powerful counterpoint to "party guilt," underscoring the intrinsic human desire for shared moments and belonging. This unpretentious, spontaneous gathering perfectly illustrated the kind of authentic, unburdened social interaction that Surusinghe believes is at the heart of club culture.
Broader Implications and The Future
Surusinghe’s journey, from the structured movements of ballet to the free-form expression of the DJ booth, and her insightful commentary on "party guilt," position her as a significant voice in contemporary electronic music. Her latest EP, Cutting Thread, is not just a collection of tracks; it is a sonic argument for the liberation of the dancefloor, urging listeners and participants to embrace shared experiences without the burden of societal judgment.
In an industry often characterized by its frenetic pace and commercial pressures, Surusinghe offers a refreshing perspective rooted in authenticity and human connection. Her advocacy for mental well-being, evidenced by her practical approach to touring and her critique of "party guilt," contributes to a broader, ongoing dialogue within the music community about sustainability and the artist’s holistic health. As the electronic music landscape continues to evolve, artists like Surusinghe, who blend artistic innovation with thoughtful social commentary, will undoubtedly shape its future, fostering environments where music and genuine connection can thrive, unburdened and unapologetic. Cutting Thread is out now, inviting listeners to join her in this uninhibited exploration of rhythm and community.
