Channeling Ancestral Beats with DJ Vahshi
It’s no lie that Armenians love a good party. The reality is, we've been hosting ragers since before the Gregorian calendar. The first Armenian party formally recorded in history took place in King Tigran the Great’s court (95–55 BCE). A festival by today’s definition, these opulent multi-day feasts featured the hottest musicians from all over the globe. Greek philosophers even made their way to the party. Plutarch, known for chronicling the lives of royalty wrote, “There was nothing but music and dancing, banqueting and revels, all along the shore...”
While today’s parties allow us the modern conveniences of espresso martinis and disco balls, the sounds that define our culture are still making people sweat on the dance floor, and DJ Vahshi knows exactly how to channel them.
A Brooklyn-based DJ and multidisciplinary artist, DJ Vahshi (Audrey Peshkam) is part of a new wave of diasporic creators remixing ancestry and club culture in real time. Originally from Southern California, her mixes explore a variety of different soundscapes from bouncy energetic house to eerie, sultry techno. Of course, she is always showcasing an array of Armenian artists, infusing traditional rhythms with modern electronica.
She’s also the co-founder of Hye Frequencies, a NYC-based collective and event series dedicated to showcasing Armenian talent. The series is a celebration of sound and community, creating a space for local Armenians to feel at home while opening the door for others to learn about our rich culture. New York locals (and visitors) can find DJ Vahshi and friends in Brooklyn, throwing parties the descendants of Tigran the Great would be honored to attend.
Their next party will be hosted on August 1st at Cassette in Ridgewood from 10:30pm-2am. Vahshi will be spinning b2b alongside fellow DJ and Hye Frequencies co-founder Elina Arbo (@elinaarbo). The lineup also includes a high-energy set by other co-founders Babagamoush as well as vinyl selections Purely Circumstantial, which will highlight some regional rarities from Armenian Record Archive.
Check out DJ Vahshi’s playlist for Kooyrigs on Spotifty, and follow DJ Vahshi on Insta to catch the next event!
