City Nomads Radio: Strange Weather’s DJ YetPet Uniquely Blends Artistic Finesse With Music
PUBLISHED October 31st, 2023 06:00 am | UPDATED August 19th, 2024 02:37 am
When it comes to the world of music and creative expression, few personalities are as intriguing as DJ YetPet. With an extraordinary blend of artistic finesse and a passion for music, Gen, also known as YetPet, has been blazing through Singapore’s thriving underground music scene with her unique blend of music. City Nomads speaks with Gen and dives into the world of her onstage persona, learning all about her musical journey, the fusion of music and design, and her role in the local art and music collective, Strange Weather.
Give YetPet’s mix a listen while you read along!
The Fusion of Design and Music
As both a designer and DJ, Gen experiences the contrast between these two creative roles. The role of a designer comes with clear goals and guidelines, while DJ-ing requires a leap of faith and trust in one’s instincts. Yet, it’s precisely this dichotomy that keeps her creatively engaged in both pursuits. Gen’s first foray into the world of music was at Home Club, where she landed her first job fresh out of school. Although her official role was in design and marketing, working at this alternative club laid the foundation for her enduring love for music. Immersed in the vibrant music community, Gen had the opportunity to explore various music genres, which led to where she is, even though she didn’t think she’d be “playing for real.” Her unconventional artist name, YetPet, is a delightful enigma (for us) but an inside joke that became her music persona today.
Music’s really helped open me up as a person. It’s helped me connect with and talk to people which is something i sometimes struggle with.
Music and Strange Weather
For Gen, music is a universal language transcending communication barriers, helping her connect and talk with people. Music is much more than just sounds and beats; it also conveys messages of rebellion, history, and influence. Not only does it help her connect with others, but it also has the ability to make her cry and dance! As a reflection of her music tastes, she chooses to play what she is drawn to, darker and more bass-centric music, rather than keeping to the confines of specific genres.
Her passion for music has led her to be part of the local music collective Strange Weather, a group known for its collaborative spirit. Roles are fluid within the group; everyone just chips in with what they are good at. As YetPet, she is part of the resident selector crew that includes veterans like A’alely, Kindergarchy, RTJ and Yadin Moha. As Gen, she focuses on the artistic aspects, including set design and visuals. It’s her creative touch that gives Strange Weather events their distinctive look and style.
When it comes to parties, she loves and hates them for various reasons. But Gen recalled one as her favourite – It was Strange Weather’s first collaboration with Mama Magnet in the ‘Mysteries in Meatspace,’ held at Gillman Barracks. She found it intriguing that they could transform a non-club space into a vibrant club experience.
What Lies Ahead
Gen recognises the transformative potential of electronic music to foster cultural exchange and unity, particularly in Asia’s diverse landscape. She highlights the exciting fusion of traditional and cultural themes in electronic music emerging from countries like China and Indonesia, which can pique the curiosity of those not typically exposed to such sounds.
When asked about upcoming plans, Gen hints at cross-pollinations with other collectives, so keep a lookout for what she has in store. In the meantime, enjoy the exclusive mix by DJ YetPet for City Nomads, featuring a compilation of new and older favourites that starts bright and get a little darker; something deeper with more downtempo.
Keep up with DJ YetPet here.
Top Image: @ordinary_rice
