Anz | |
Origin: | Manchester, United Kingdom |
Label: | Ninja Tune |
Website: | https://anzdj.bandcamp.com/ |
Anz is a British DJ and producer.[1] [2] [3] Originally from London and based in Manchester, Anz has released five EPs and two production mixes on labels including Ninja Tune.[1] She also founded the label OTMI.[4]
Anz was born in London, United Kingdom. Growning up, her family listened primarily to Afrobeat and Ghanaian highlife music, influencing her later style.[1] Anz attended university in Liverpool, eventually moving to Manchester.
After gaining some exposure with a series of mixes self-published to SoundCloud, Anz released her first EP, Invitation 2 Dance. Anz's career developed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of her prolific releases during the period.[3]
She quickly became known for her annual production mixes, starting with Spring/Summer Dubs 2019. Partially as a result of the popularity of the mix, in 2020 Anz was awarded "Breakthrough DJ" by DJMag.[5] Her next production mix, Spring/Summer Dubs 2020, received positive reviews, with Resident Advisor acclaiming its breadth, describing it as "fanned out over 30 plus tracks of singular UK funky, 2-step garage, dubstep and jungle."[6]
In 2021, Anz's EP All Hours garnered additional critical attention. Several publications praised the EP, in particular for its instrumentation, intensity, and rave influence.[7] [8] [9] Pitchfork described the EP as a breakout, specifically as "step up to the major leagues for a producer who can find magic in the murkiest nightclub corner."[9]
Anz is known for the volume of her releases, having released several 90-minute production mixes. Her production pays homage to historical and experimental club music. Generally, her productions are cheerful in tone but fast-paced.[8] [9]