Dubfire has been a key figure in the global dance music scene since the mid-’90s, tirelessly working and evolving his sound from his early deep house sounds through to his contemporary techno strains. New documentary Above Ground Level celebrates his illustrious career while putting DJ culture under the microscope, with a stellar casts of friends and colleagues joining along the way.
The 77-minute film was directed by Berlin designers, Michael Koczynski and Mino Kodama, and was released via video-on-demand on November 21. It follows the man otherwise known as Ali Shirazinia from his happy childhood in Iran to the tumultuous emigration of his family to the United States following the events of the Iranian Revolution in 1979, and then onwards to his musical career. From his early days spinning in the clubs of Washington DC to breaking through as one half of the legendary Deep Dish to branching out into his solo career as Dubfire, no stone is left unturned in exploring his fascinating story.
The twists and turns of his life story are put into further context by way of extensive interviews with some of the world’s biggest DJs, including Armin Van Buuren, David Guetta, Richie Hawtin, Carl Cox, Paul Oakenfold, Pete Tong, Loco Dice, Seth Troxler, Nervo, Hot Since 82 and Chris Liebing. These candid pieces help to build a picture of what it’s like to be a full-time touring DJ, and in doing help to bring Dubfire’s story and career arc to life more vividly. It’s a fascinating account of life behind the decks and the rigours of the intense travelling that goes with it.
Don’t miss this captivating look into the world of DJing and the life and career of one of dance music’s most enduring and innovative talents, out now. Order now via iTunes. You can check out the trailer below!