Durden + SLMVX + Noreah + Milmask

dojo records is an independent label based in Vaulx-en-Velin that supports emerging talent from the local rap, R&B and beatmaking scenes, and organises Dojo Parties celebrating hip-hop, rap, R&B and spoken word. (Its founder, Engal, took part in the Ateliers Lobster artist development programme run by Le Périscope.)

On the line-up for Dojo Party #3:

Durden

Originally from Vénissieux, Durden grew up between France and Morocco, developing a dual identity that he describes as his “social and cultural schizophrenia”. This double culture and class shock helped shape his personality and remains a major source of inspiration. His lyrics take an uncompromising look at the world around him, driven by sharp punchlines and infectious beats. Durden is the voice and pen of the neighbourhoods.

SLMVX

A dedicated digger, SLMVX first stepped behind the decks in Dublin in 2022, initially drawn to techno. Back in France, she refined her sonic identity, drawing on UK bass, garage, breakbeat and jungle, while freely venturing into baile funk, footwork and far beyond.

A rap enthusiast with a passion for blending genres, she crafts hybrid, unpredictable sets where underground sounds meet undeniable bangers. President of the Two Rivers association and active in three other collectives, she sets herself no boundaries, embracing a free, curious and committed approach to DJing.

Noreah

At the crossroads of rap, R&B, alternative pop and jazz-inflected sounds, Noreah transforms intimate experiences into music. Her delicate yet deeply expressive voice explores intense attachments, unspoken doubts, emotional dependency, inner heartbreak and the strength we discover when we decide to pick ourselves back up.

Milmask

Milmask delivers raw rap and uncompromising rhymes that challenge the attitudes and masks people adopt in society. Along the way, he learns to confront his own contradictions, vulnerabilities and masks, exposing himself with unflinching honesty.

Inspired by the groovy, saturated sounds of American artists such as J. Cole, Joey Bada$$ and Vince Staples, he shares the same love of lyricism as French-speaking artists Lefa, Isha and Népal. By blending these influences, he creates deeply personal music that is cynical and disillusioned, yet always leaves room for hope to break through and bring a touch of beauty to his disenchantment.