Resident Interview – Adam Ghoneim

We checked in with Underground Kollektiv Resident Adam Ghoneim for a little chat on his musical inspiration, surprising crowds and not quitting what you love.

Any artists or labels you’re digging at the moment?
I don’t actively search for specific artists or labels. I let my ear and my intuition lead. I’m drawn to sounds that surprise me and create a feeling: minimal, deep, hypnotic, dark, euphoric, and very electronic. When I looked back at my playlists from the past year, I noticed certain artists naturally kept resurfacing without me realising it at the time, such as Yanamaste, Zimmer, Raw Decks, Pres, Linear System, Kurir, HUJUS, Habgud, and Dary Steytler, alongside many others. It’s never about exclusivity, just the sounds that consistently resonate.
What inspires you about the style of music you chose for the mix?
The inspiration comes from the balance between minimalism, depth, hypnosis, darkness, and euphoria. It really depends on my mood. I can move from very deep and minimal all the way to high-energy, raw techno. What inspires me most about raw techno is its ability to pull you into a deep, almost trance-like state, where the music takes over and you simply fly with it.
How did you first get into DJing, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
I started DJing about five years ago, but music was always there. I was already curating playlists and setting the vibe without calling it DJing. It really began at a friend’s place when he handed me the decks after buying a console. That moment just clicked. I bought my own setup soon after and knew straight away this wasn’t a hobby, it was what I wanted to do, fully.
How would you describe your sound or style to someone who’s never heard you play before?
My sound is a journey through deep, minimal, hypnotic, and raw techno. Sometimes it’s dark and introspective, sometimes euphoric and high-energy. It’s very electronic, emotion-driven, and constantly evolving, guided by feeling rather than formula.
What’s the most memorable gig you’ve ever played, and why did it stand out?
It wasn’t a club or an official event, but a private party during the pandemic. What started as a gathering of around 10 people turned into the entire building coming downstairs, and it was completely packed. I played for about seven hours straight, exhausted but energized. Being able to give people that moment of release during such a heavy time made it unforgettable.
How do you read a crowd and decide what to play in the moment?
I trust my instinct. I watch how people react to get a sense of direction, but I don’t let the crowd fully dictate what I play. I use their energy as guidance while still pushing new sounds and aiming to surprise them.
What advice would you give to aspiring DJs starting out today?
Don’t try to be someone else. Find your own sound. If you truly love it, don’t give up. It’s a tough industry, but you don’t quit on what you love. Celebrate small wins, network, and never stop practicing.

Check out our pick for mix of the week here