A Nottingham DJ with a unique stage presence and a track record of performing around the world is excited about the return of live events after securing a residency at a city nightclub.
DJ Vizual, also a producer, recorded two house tracks on the BBC Music Introducing radio show and played them in Brazil, China and India.
Now, after the pandemic, he wanted to secure some live shows near his home in Clifton and will be performing at Pryzm Nottingham.
Vizual, whose real name is Virren Simpson, is known for his eccentric stage presence with sunglasses that project shapes and LED lights, and seems to be bringing something new to the city’s venue.
DJ Vizual in China
Nottinghamshire Live spoke to the DJ about his upcoming residency, where he will perform weekly on Saturdays.
The 36-year-old said: “My music is like house music and I also produce it. It’s a unique sound that is similar to progressive house.
“I’ve been to BBC Music Introducing twice now. I sent a track called Like This last year and one called Energy a few months ago, both of which were being played on the radio.
“Both tracks are with a singer, Jasmine Knight, who I work with a lot.
“It was also around May when I started thinking about opening the events and I saw a poster for the Pryzm DJ residence. I sent them some samples of my things and was invited to show them what I can do.
“They really liked me. I haven’t played much in the UK but I’m looking forward to starting there.”
“I hope it could lead to my performing in other places run by the same people.
“Before the pandemic, I hung up in places like India, Brazil around the world, and even made two trips to China. I’ve been doing this for a little over a decade now.”
Born and raised in Nottingham, Virren currently resides in Clifton and spoke about his noisy stage presence.
He added: “The umbrellas are part of my stage presence. They shine and make different shapes.
“My nickname is Viz, so I try to incorporate that into my image. When I play internationally there is a big screen behind me that is a visual representation of my show.
“I will definitely wear them at Pryzm too, even if they are really hard to DJ.
“This will be my first time at the Nottingham circuit so I’m looking forward to it.
“It feels great to know we can go out again and I’m happy to be able to hang up for people again.”
DJ Vizual at the Holi Music Festival in Brazil
Virren added that he also recently started his own Notts-based record label – IROX Records – focusing on electronic dance music.
The label has already attracted artists from all over the world, including one from the Netherlands.
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