Built on Rave DNA: A For Alpha Is Digging Up the 90s

UK-based DJ and producer A for Alpha is making her Panorama Bar debut this weekend, armed with a crate full of 90s euphoria and fresh releases. We caught up with her ahead of the gig to talk about vinyl digging, ADHD-driven creativity, and growing up with a raver mum.

A For Alpha. Photo: Griff Townsend

You’re about to play Panorama Bar for the first time—how are you feeling about it?I "I honestly can’t believe it. It’s also my first time ever in Berlin, so I’m kind of taking it all in. I’ve always wanted to go to Panorama Bar—it feels like its own little world, with people from all over. I talked to a few friends about it, so I kind of know what to expect, but it still feels surreal. I was just in Amsterdam last weekend—met loads of people, barely recovered. But I like playing when I’m a bit hungover, just go with the flow. Overthinking never works."

Your sound carries a lot of 90s energy. What is it about that era that draws you in? "When I started DJing, like 11 or 12 years ago, I was just playing what I liked—and so much of that happened to be from the 90s. I got deep into vinyl. Most of the stuff I loved wasn’t digital, so I had to dig for it, and I loved that process.

Also… my mum had me when she was 21 and she was going to raves. I got obsessed with her CD collection—Ministry of Sound, Gatecrasher, Ibiza anthems. That was my early education: trance, garage, house. I had my “modern” era too, but eventually I circled back. The music from then had this rawness—it was created with more limitations, which made it feel more alive. Also, that whole pre-Y2K UK rave thing—it was about people being free and connecting. I feel like we’re going through that again."

Your new EP on Hardline is getting a lot of attention. How did it come together?

"That was actually my uni project—I studied electronic music production and the EP was my final piece. I knew I wouldn’t do it otherwise, so I was like, okay, I’m doing this. I had to plan it properly—think about the sound, references, everything. I used a mix of hardware and 90s-inspired plugins—like old Roland stuff and Korg gear. I also sampled a bunch of records from my collection.

The result is quite varied, but it flows. Each track is different, but there’s a journey. I showed it to my friend who runs Hardline and it got released. Funny thing is, I’ve realised I make quite “musical” music—not intentionally, it just comes out that way."

You’ve played Fabric, Glastonbury, Boiler Room… How does one prepare for Panorama Bar in comparison? "I’ve been prepping for a while. As soon as I found out, I started building a playlist. Ordered loads of new records. And the last two weeks, I’ve been going through my whole collection, choosing what to bring. My friend Gallegos gave me great advice—bring some curveballs, something unexpected."

Any records you're particularly hyped to play? "Yes! I just found this Lisa Marie Experience record—there’s a Hannie’s NYC edit, super acidy and progressive, from ‘93. It's gonna go off. Also a Rama track called C’est La Vie—my friend ZAC gave it to me. It’s on Cleveland City, super classic UK house. I’ve got some weird garage records I think will surprise people too."

A For Alpha. Photo: Griff Townsend.

Tell us about Alpha’s Trip—your new label. What’s the vision? "I’ve always had loads of side interests—ADHD brain—but this one feels like it brings it all together. I had a previous label that was very house and garage focused, but Alpha’s Trip is meant to reflect the full range of what I love: house, techno, trance, all with that 90s edge. We’re starting parties too. I get sent so much good music—it’s time to share it properly."

You’ve played alongside names like D. Tiffany and Chaos in the CBD.Who else are you excited to work with soon?

"I have to shout out Papa Nugs. We’ve known each other for five years—we both came up through garage and now play more euphoric, housey stuff. He’s my absolute favourite to play with. We’re even thinking of starting an alias together. When we play, I never feel nervous—it’s like a safe space.

Last weekend in Amsterdam was magic. The whole city was pulsing with house music—it felt like a carnival. That energy really inspired me. I also have a residency in Bristol where Angel Delight came to play—she’s been a big influence. We’ve been trying to do a proper back-to-back for ages."

Where do you usually find your records? Online or physical shops? "Both. But any time I’m in a new city, I make it a point to visit at least one record shop. Each place has its own little sound—especially in the second-hand section. You find these regional oddities that you’d never find online."

What’s next after this Berlin debut? Me and my friends are staying until Thursday. Gonna hit up some kebab spots, try currywurst, have a few beers. Maybe some museums too—do a bit of cultural stuff. We came here to party, but also to actually experience the city.