MP3 Monday is a weekly SmartShanghai column, serving up mp3s from bands living and making music in China (or coming to China, or thinking about coming to China, or whatever). Copyright holders: if you would like your song removed, please email us here, and we'll honor your request promptly.

No introduction necessary for Mr. DJ Vadim, one of the worlds most famous and respected DJs. These MP3s are to get you ready for his second appearance in Shanghai, playing at The Shelter this Friday. He returns to the basement club with his wife/vocalist Yarah Bravo, and if their show last year serves as an indication, expect it to be a packed one.

To get you into his newer stuff if you haven't had the chance to do so before, these songs are off Vadim's ninth release, "U CAN'T LURN IMAGINASHUN" (2009, bbe), which saw the Russian DJ release a roots-heavy, eclectic ode to organic positivism after going through some really rough personal stuff in 2008: family financial troubles, numerous family health troubles, and he himself was forced to undergo serious surgery after being diagnosed with ocular cancer. Heavy stuff.

So this album comes on the heels of all that and his struggle with cancer, and is a sort of representation on his new-found perspective on life, art, music, and love. Here's Vadim talking about the ideas behind this album:

"Cheap computers and powerful software can't make music for you. That comes from the imagination, from the will to fight for your life, to love and to struggle.

These things can't be learned in universities, but they can be discovered within ourselves. So many people live their lives without asking 'why?'... We just accept the rules, play the cards we're dealt with.

Being diagnosed with cancer gave me a reason to fight for my life. I wasn't going to let the cancer overcome me -- my body nor my passion, music. Even with tragedy knocking at the door I looked within myself to create something new. I felt kindness, love and appreciation from so many people around the world praying and sending positive energy. I didn't accept the cards dealt to me and since recovering I feel healthier for it. I now know who my real friends are. I would never wish what I went through on anyone else, but I wouldn't change it for the world because it made me... is making me... into a better me..."

(source: bbe press write up)

So here’s two tracks off "U CAN'T LURN IMAGINASHUN":




There two ways to catch DJ Vadim in Shanghai. He's doing a Q&A workshop this Thursday at The Source from 7pm until 9pm. He'll be doing a little performance and fielding questions on the craft. Free Vedett. (!)

And he’s at The Shelter this Friday, performing with Yarah Bravo. Event details here.

Here's his main page, and here's his MySpace. Don't miss out.

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