“Kaleidoscopic” is how Melbourne’s Kia Sydney describes her sound — a fitting term for the unpredictable, genre-defying energy she brings to every set. As a figurehead of Australia’s underground scene and the creative force behind experimental label Animalia, her music is as much a reflection of her global journey as it is of her unique style. Her sets blend memories; moments from her travels through Europe, Australia and Asia swirl together, creating a rotating mosaic of rhythm and energy that’s both intensely personal and universally resonant.

Each performance feels like a glimpse into her ever-evolving world, where the boundaries between places, sounds and experiences dissolve. It’s about the beauty in the chaos, the ephemeral late nights on tour, and evoking a sense of movement and introspection across hypnotic house, atmospheric and melodic textures. “I don’t like being pinned down to a certain sound, but it’s definitely colourful,” she says.

Back in 2018/2019, Sydney was simply making mixes for fun when she got a message from Nous’klaer Audio boss Sjoerd Oberman asking her to record a mix for his label. That pivotal moment led to an invitation to play at De School in Amsterdam, a “surreal” experience and a game-changing gig. She played loads of unreleased music from her friends back home, and was encouraged to start her own label.

‘Animalia One’ was released in June 2020, comprising psychedelic, bass-driven, bush-techno-style productions. The label has since expanded, but always stays true to its roots. “At its core, Animalia has always been a family affair, a pool of my friends,” says Sydney. “I give the artists a lot of agency — letting them decide on things like artwork and mastering. It’s always been a relaxed, creative process.”

Last year, she launched un:send, her own intimate festival in the Australian bush, with a vision to keep it small, local and deeply rooted in the spirit of the land. In 2025, Sydney will be a resident at New York’s Nowadays, and focus on growing her label, curating workshops, and continuing un:send back home. “Being in Australia is important to me — it’s where my community is.” ANISHA KHEMLANI

Listen to Kia’s mix for DJ Mag’s BBC Radio 1 Dance Presents residency here.