City Nomads Radio: Mr. Assin

If you’ve been to Tropical Temple parties in Singapore, chances are you’ve probably seen Mr Assin (who also goes by his real moniker, Marc Violo) around. Originally from France, Mr. Assin has spent the rest of his time in Belgium, the U.S, Germany, India, China and more recently, Singapore.

Throughout his life, he’s been avidly searching, collecting, exchanging, and creating a music sanctuary largely influenced by Hip-Hop and louder Electronica beats such as World Music, Funk, and Nu-Disco. Inspired by the likes of Mr.Scruff and Four Tet, Mr. Assin is always trying to combine the best of old school classics with more modern electronic rhythms. Apart from Tropical Temple parties and Headquarters by The Council, he has also played in Shanghai, Hong Kong and New York city, through Beats From Beneath, an event bringing obscure music to unconventional places.

While he has left Singapore, we managed to catch up with him about life and his music in this edition of City Nomads Radio.

Hi Mr Assin! Describe your surroundings right now.

It’s winter time in London, and I’m cat sitting for a friend in vibrant and eclectic Brixton. Missing Singapore’s tropical vibe.

What’s the first record you ever bought?

Booty Brown – Dorothy, fascinated by the psychedelic turquoise color of the 180g vinyl.

Describe your sound in ten words or less.

Odd selection of tracks travelling through genres and time.

Apart from DJing, what do you dabble in?

Social enterprises recently, trying to push for businesses to be more impactful and profit balanced.
[mixcloud https://www.mixcloud.com/citynomadsradio/city-nomads-radio-26-mr-assin/ width=100% height=120 hide_cover=1 light=1]

Tell us about your curated mixtape for City Nomads.

It was recorded under the sun on a tropical afternoon at Kult Kafé. Starts off with notes of electro jazz and bossa-nova, then takes a sharp turn into soul and gospel before going strong with some afro-disco to end on a deep middle-eastern electronic gem. Best enjoyed with a very refreshing long drink, custom made by Zac Mirza.

Any shouts?

Shout out to Tom ans Zac from Kult Café, the Tropical Temple crew, Abhay and Julien especially, Clement and Cats on Crack from Headquarters and all the other funky people making the music scene in Singapore a increasingly inspiring.

To stay updated of Mr Assin’s music, follow him here:
Mixcloud


Managing Director

Sharmaine has a discerning ear for the latest tunes, an appreciation for the visual arts, and carries an unwavering passion for culture and holistic wellness. A big lover of nature and a familiar face at music gigs, she’s always eager to explore the scene!