DJ Mag

Top 100 DJs / 22. Aly & Fila

2009

22. Aly & Fila

Style: Melodic trance.
Best known for: Future Sound of Egypt radio show and label.
Gig of 2009: Forum in Medellin, Colombia.
Tune of 2009: Neptune Project 'Aztec' (Fsoe Recordings)
Breakthrough DJ/Producer of 2009: Vast Vision
The track that changed your life: Paul van Dyk 'Another Way'

What makes a good DJ great: Keeping at it.
Most underrated DJ: John Askew. He's the best DJ I've ever seen.
Biggest challenge this year: Travelling nearly every weekend to one country or more.
Top tech toy: The Korg Nano. It\'s great for producing on tour.

Steeped in old world antiquity, Egypt isn't the first place you think of in association with trance. But the rapid ascent of Aly & Fila is fast changing that.

"Making our debut in the Top 100 last year had a really big impact for this year. It has huge credibility with promoters and is voted for by clubbers so has helped us to raise our profile and get more gigs," Fila tells us.

An expansive touring schedule followed, with inaugural visits to America, Australia, Russia and South America, as well as new cities in other well-trod territories.

Their ever-expanding internet radio show on DI.FM, Future Sound of Egypt, reached its 100th episode and has been syndicated around the world, while the pair launched a label of the same name, which has seen support from heavyweights such as Armin Van Buuren.

Following a wave of singles and remixes, and a nomination for Best Break-Through DJ at the 2009 International Dance Music Awards at the Winter Music Conference in Miami, work continues on their debut album, due for release next year. And the pair plan to expand their themed residencies.

"We've had decorations of Pharaohs and pyramids with the dancers all wearing Egyptian costumes. It's going to be even bigger next year."

Words: Joe Roberts