It's late, we're in a dimly lit room glowing with blue from the moon and our devices.

We're surrounded by our friends and a few randoms from different ends, the air is rich with Kiki energy – layers of banter and conversations sit up high while the deep bass hits us down low.

This mix by Karim Olen Ash represents a deep sense of Blackness and Queerness that will always underscore his approach to sound.

By bouncing seamlessly from light to dark, old to new, Karim has an innate ability to unite audiences on and off the dance floor

Without a doubt, Karim’s sound is an ode to Blackness - past, present, nuanced, and explicit. Karim leans towards the origins of electronic music, while also incorporating more discernible components of Black sound by weaving in essential elements of soul. According to Karim, “ I inherently gravitate towards sounds that remain soulful, even in its dark qualities. In bleak times, I think the soulful energies are what get me through. Music is my refuge”

Regardless of background and experience, this mix tells the story of one’s unique expression while creating something simultaneously uniquely new and familiar for all audiences. Tuck in and get familiar with Karim Olen Ash.

5AM OPULENCE
Mix by Karim Olen Ash
Illustrations by Gyimah Gariba
Clothing Spencer Badu