MUST WATCH: Aotearoa's FILTH decimates Boiler Room for country's debut

15 April 2021 | 3:05 pm | Emma Jones

Featuring Half Queen, JessB, Lady Shaka, ZEKI, Rubi Du and BBYFACEKILLA, the @boilerroomtv debut from FILTH is a MUST WATCH!

When it comes to first impressions, it certainly does not get any better than Aotearoa/New Zealand's debut to the global platform of Boiler Room. Filmed at QTBIPOC party FILTH, these sets are absolute must-watches. A masterclass not only in diverse and exciting selections and technical skills, but also how to form a strong, vibrant and eclectic community, FILTH's Boiler Room is not just a fine return to form for the channel, but also a serious, history-making moment.

Given the global pandemic, it's been a tough run for many all over the world, including the global music scene. But, as Aotearoa/New Zealand has essentially defeated COVID-19, their clubs, dancefloors and spaces have been open for some time. It's fitting then that the country would play host to Boiler Room's return to regular programming, having spent the last year dormant in terms of recording and broadcasting new sets. And, tapping FILTH to be one of the first cabs off the rank proves that the channel has listened to the shifting in priorities of the global music industry as it reckoned with its own systemic prejudices throughout 2020.

Founded by JessB and Half Queen back in 2018, FILTH is one of a few spaces in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland which prioritises "the experience of Queer and Trans, Black, Indigenous People of Colour" as JessB says in the below video. Born from a lack of spaces in which the two felt they could safely and truly express themselves on a dancefloor, and inspired by international parties including London's Pussy Palace, FILTH has quickly grown to become a must-attend date in the club scene for many. Selling out on their very first night and not looking back, and coupled with the rising profiles of both its founders at home and abroad, FILTH is now home to a thriving community of diverse people who come together on the dancefloor.

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Featuring both founders in JessB and Half Queen as well as Lady ShakaZEKIRubi Du and BBYFACEKILLAFILTH tore the god damn house down with their Boiler Room. From blistering rap performances by JessB and Rubi Du to mind-blowing sets from Half Queen, ZEKI and BBYFACEKILLA to an impromptu ballroom showdown and Poi performances in Lady Shaka's set, each and every clip is above and beyond. Combining almost impossibly eclectic song selections, as well as a sweaty and dancing crowd full of diverse bodies, it's radical excellence. Check out all the sets below (BBYFACEKILLA's set is on Twitter).

 

Words by Emma Jones

Image via Boiler Room

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