Ronya is part of the next generation of DJs setting Oslo’s dance floors alight. A regular fixture amongst the Det Gode Selskab collective and beyond, these past few years, she’s staked a claim in the minimal landscape of the city’s House and Techno universe.
She arrives at the Jaeger Mix pursuing the sound we have come to recognise from the DJ. With sonic aesthetics that err on the side of the stark, and styles that reach far beyond the archetypal, there’s no one distinction that sets this mix apart, but the sound remains consistent.
Whether breaking up the conformity of a beat or importing elements from divergent genres, Ronya‘s musical trajectory follows like a dialogue with the dance floor. It keeps everything grounded in the rhythm – possibly indicative of Ronya’s drumming roots – but it allows for expression beyond the functional.
After her two hour stint for the Jaeger Mix we caught up with Ronya, to talk more about her music origins, community and her “sound” as a DJ.
Thank you for joining us on the Jaeger Mix. Give us an Introduction to this mix.
First of all thank you for asking me to join Jaeger Mix. A big honor. I want to take you on a journey that combines tantalizing beats, electrifying rhythms and a deep, bassy sound. This mix is my way to let you get to know me and a way to express myself with music and get you moving, whether you’re at a party, working out, or just want some good music that will take you away for some hours.
With a carefully curated selection of tracks that blend genres from break beat, minimal, house, uk garage, techno ++, I want to create an atmosphere that’s vibrant, energetic and unique.
There’s a consistency throughout that even when you move into other territories like a break-beat or acid, the sound is very much anchored in a minimal and techy soundscape. Was there anything as concrete like that informed your track selections?
Absolutely! That minimal and techy soundscape plays a foundational role in shaping the overall vibe of the mix, even when we explore different sub-genres. The track selection was influenced by several key elements, which I believe are crucial for maintaining that consistency. I’ve been playing drums since I was six years old, so I think that’s why I love to mix different rhythms and explore genres the way I do.
Each track was carefully chosen to ensure a solid, driving beat. This rhythmic backbone allows for transitions between genres.
I focused on tracks that possess rich sound textures, utilizing various synths and effects that complement the minimalistic approach. This adds depth to the mix and enhances the ‘techy’ feel without overwhelming.
I also aimed for tracks that evoke a specific feeling—something introspective yet danceable. This emotional connection is vital, especially when transitioning to different territories.
I paid attention to the labels and artists that fit within this minimal tech ethos, ensuring a consistent aesthetic in the sound selection.
Is it something that you would define as your “sound” as a DJ and what do you generally look for in records that you like to play out?
When it comes to my sound as a DJ, I believe it’s all about capturing the emotions of the moment and creating an unforgettable experience on the dance floor.
I search for tracks that tell a story and get you dancing. For me it’s all about rhythms that catch you and of course the filthy basslines. Can’t lie! For those who know me well, know I get a lot of inspiration from the UK and different sub-genres from “over there”.
I love tracks that can transition well between genres, allowing me to create unique blends that surprise and excite.
Sound quality matters! I prioritize well-produced records that sound incredible whether on a club sound system or a small gathering. I treasure tracks that have a personal connection – perhaps they remind me of a memorable moment or a feeling.
You’ve been a fixture around Oslo for the past few years, often playing within that extended Det Gode Selskab universe. How did you arrive at the scene? Had you been DJing before that and how did that bug first bite?
Oh, that’s a very good question. I’m grateful to have found my groove within the vibrant Det Gode Selskab right here in Oslo. I moved from my hometown Tønsberg to Oslo 8 years ago, and my passion for electronic music led me to discover small underground venues and clubs when moving here.
Oslo has such a supportive music community. I was fortunate enough to meet artists and DJs who shared the same love for eclectic beats, which ultimately opened doors to play at various events. It was first under the covid pandemic, I finally started really learning the skill of djing and had my first club gig after that. This is a life-long journey I think, hehe. Enjoying every moment of it.
What was your first encounter with electronic music and what was the immediate attraction?
It started in my teens when I was dancing hip hop and house I think. Always digging for music and was travelling to London for some workshops and masterclasses with the crew at my dance school. The house music was real over there and really got me. And always listening to “Røyksopp” on the radio and Prodigy’s productions caught me when I was younger.
What have been some of the challenges for making your mark, especially in Oslo and what do you think is essential in the development of any DJ just starting out today?
In a city with abundant talent, it took time to find and define my unique sound that sets me apart. And still working on it, hehe. Building community is key I think and supporting each other. Attend events, connect with other DJs/friends. We’re on the same journey.
Maybe one of my best tips in the beginning is to collaborate to expand your reach and gain support in the community. Every gig is a learning experience.
Remember why you fell in love with music in the first place. Passion is contagious—share that energy with your audience, and they’ll remember you!
How do you feel your musical tastes and DJing have evolved since you started?
Like I’ve mentioned before, it’s a never ending journey and I finally think I’ve found more of the tracks I think representing me and my sound. Like how I want to express myself. Been digging deep for years, finding labels, tracks and artists making the unique sound I’m looking for.
I think maybe my sound has been the same since I started, but I’ve been a little bit afraid to express all types or genres and for the response trying “something else” with so much talent around me in the scene. Now I feel more confident around what to play and not. Maybe I don’t care so much more about satisfying everyone. More confidence now to do what I want.
Are there any goals in taking it beyond DJing eventually?
In future I hope to play vinyl like I play digital now, and producing music is a goal for me. I want to have music as a bigger part in my life, that’s why I started djing after years without playing instruments and having that part in my everyday. It’s always been with me in a way from I was born, either playing drums, saxophone or being in a corps or band. I want to share the passion and love for music and making something unique in a way. Let’s see how it roll!
I see you’re all heading to Zanzibar soon for a DGS event. Tell us a bit more about that and how that came about and what you hope from the event?
Yes, and I’m so excited! It’s a dream coming true in a way. We have a collaboration with PLGRN from Italy and Distrikt Paris from France and are making this one week festival together in the sun of Zanzibar. We also have booked one of my biggest inspirations these days, Tristan Da Cunha from Dungeon Meat. He also plays alot with SlapFunk. Such a talented guy in all ways! Going to be magical and such a special week playing alongside so many talented artists, labels and connect with old and new friends. I’m very grateful!
What else is in the near future for Ronya that you’re excited to share?
Going to be more international collaborations in future. Excited!