Giulia Fournier-Mercadante aka GiGi FM debuts on Bambounou’s Bambe label with an EP of spiritually-charged techno mantras.
Magnetite EP marks the first signed EP for GiGi FM following the self-released Kiwi Synthesis Diary 21k mini-album from December 2021. These releases build on her strong presence as an adventurous DJ imbuing the art of techno selection with a hypnotic, ancient charm. It’s no surprise to discover common aesthetic ground between Fournier-Mercadante and Bambounou, whose own tendencies towards polyrhythmic incantations are a snug fit within this vaguely defined field of transcendental techno.
In every aspect of her work Fournier-Mercadante presents an alternative vision of electronic dance music steeped in astrology, philosophy, metaphysical science and ritual. As a trained, accomplished dancer, her music is intrinsically linked to physical movement, made explicit in the visual accompaniments to her pieces, and in the creative process of this release.
Amongst the four tracks on this record is ‘Senstronaut (MYO)’, the first Fournier-Mercadante has made entirely using an MYO motion sensor. All parts were created as progressive layers using arm gestures, affording her an immediate connection between her dance performance and music production.
Kinesiology – the study of human movement – forms one of the underlying themes of the EP. By extension, Fournier-Mercandata draws inspiration from dancing as an ancient custom responding to the atomic vibrations of the universe, and considers the material which allows us and all living things to sense the kinetic force of Earth’s electromagnetic field, the mineral magnetite.
“By connecting with the electromagnetic field of the Earth, we can tap into a hidden and forgotten power,” she explains. “We can connect to the lost wisdom that is buried in each rock, flower or tree, and sonic frequencies that surround us.”
Considered as ritual aids or as advanced techno exercises, this concerted expression from GiGi FM builds on Bambe’s hard to predict but consistently fascinating arc of exploration within music and design, unbound by formula and driven only by sincere creativity and Bambounou’s impeccable ear.
