Launching this year, Sarab Festival promises an unparalleled celebration of electronic music in the mesmerizing landscape of the Agafay Desert. Scheduled for September 27th and 28th, this festival is set to become a landmark event in the global electronic music scene, offering a unique blend of sonic innovation and cultural immersion.
The Sarab Festival stands out for its eclectic lineup, featuring 42 DJs who span the spectrum of electronic music. This year, the festival boasts performances from internationally acclaimed artists such as Paul Kalkbrenner, Lost Frequencies, James Hype, and Mahmut Orhan. Attendees can also look forward to sets from Martin Solveig, Korolova, and Mëstiza, ensuring a diverse and dynamic musical experience.
One of the artists playing is Anna Tur, a DJ and producer hailing from Ibiza, renowned for her dynamic and melodic techno sets. With over a decade in the electronic music scene, she has played at prestigious clubs and festivals worldwide. Tur is also known for her work behind the scenes as the former CEO of Ibiza Global Radio, where she played a key role in shaping the station’s influential sound. Her productions reflect her deep connection to the island’s vibrant music culture, combining powerful rhythms with emotive melodies.
Ahead of the festival, we caught up with Anna to find out what to expect from her upcoming appearance.
Having spent 16 years as the CEO of Ibiza Global Radio, how has transitioning away from that role impacted your approach to music and your creative process?
The truth is that I like to leave ibiza global radio to another side, it has been four years and it is a closed cycle, but it is also part of my story. Answering the question, I can tell you that everything is different now when it comes to interpreting and creating music. I am relaxed, at peace, without stress, therefore, the creative channels expand. I miss the radio, but I am better off without it. It’s a “complicated” relationship, haha.
You’ve launched Lowlita Records during a challenging time for the music industry. What inspired you to start this label, and what sets it apart from your previous ventures?
This project was born during the pandemic with two friends (and producers/djs) with whom I have a special connection in all aspects of life and we embarked on the project. It is a project intended as a channel to launch our own music and give coverage to other talents, both emerging and established in the industry.
In your career, you’ve worked across various roles in the music industry, from DJing to radio management. How do these different experiences influence the way you approach your music production today?
Everything in life is experience. Actually, I was lucky that in my more executive professional aspect, I always had artists and music around me. This made me acquire not only knowledge, but also awaken my musical ear, get inspired by others, learn. I think I have a special sensitivity to produce and select music and that is thanks to the professional experiences I have had.
You’ve spoken about the emotional connection you have with your audience during live performances. How do you translate that connection into the music you create in the studio?
It’s purely inspirational. The audience and people’s energies help me in this process.
What can people expect from your upcoming appearance at SARAB Festival? Do you have any surprises in store?
I hope you can enjoy my session. I’m going to make a special selection, because the place is special. As you know, my musical style is techno and of course, techno will be the epicenter of my set, but in a more melodic and romantic way. I hope it will be special
Why do you think it’s important that places like Morocco which are perhaps less well known as electronic music destinations have a chance to establish themselves?
I think it’s great that the way is opening up for electronic music in Morocco. I’ve been there and the trend is more commercial house, R&B, hip hop and bringing the more purist side of the tech house and techno sound is wonderful and a great opportunity for promoters, artists and of course the public. That you can open new horizons in your wonderful country is an idea that I love.
You often mention Ibiza as a significant influence in your life and music. How do you think the island’s unique culture continues to shape the global electronic music scene?
Yes. Obviously Ibiza is the quintessential electronica capital of the world, but electronica is part of the history of other places like Berlin, Detroit and Chicago and competes with new trendy destinations like Eastern Europe, Greece, Tulum as far as electronic music is concerned. We are still a reference and proof of this is the recent presentation of UNVRS, which will be the first hyper club in the world.
Balancing creativity with business can be challenging. How do you ensure that running labels like Lowlita Records doesn’t overshadow your artistic endeavors?
I have a good team around me and I am a non-conformist, constant, enterprising and hard-working person. I am not afraid of new professional challenges, I am ready for whatever comes my way and I will receive it with all my love.
You’ve been a strong advocate for maintaining principles and values in the industry. How do you navigate the tension between staying true to your beliefs and adapting to the ever-changing music industry?
Finding the balance between belief and trend. I will never go against my principles and values. I don’t sell out. I have to believe strongly in everything I do in my life in general. Otherwise, what would be the point? I work from my soul and intuition.
For more info and tickets for SARAB, head to: https://sarabfestival.com/
Anna Tur:
https://www.facebook.com/annaturdj
https://www.instagram.com/annaturdj