Traxi: the story of a DJ set born in the backseat

A conversation with Matthieu, the founder of Traxi

It all started with a simple desire: to mix without disturbing the neighbors. From that idea came Traxi, a concept that has now become a true musical adventure on wheels. Its creator tells us how an ordinary evening turned into a unique project.

How did the idea of  TRAXI come about?

I was downloading some tracks for a party, because I also DJ. It was late, I was on my couch, and I felt like playing the music I had just found.
Of course, at that time of night, mixing at home wasn’t possible. Naturally, I thought of my car: the sound was great and I wouldn’t bother my neighbors.
I immediately searched online for a way to power my decks, and two days later I received the equipment. Ten minutes after setting up in the backseat, I thought: “What if other DJs came to mix while driving?”
The name came right away: TRACK + TAXI = TRAXI. Then I just had to convince some friends to join the first episodes.

How does this approach change the listening and creative experience?

I don’t think I reinvented the way people listen to music — DJ sets in unusual places were already starting to pop up.
But I definitely inspired a lot of similar projects — I often get messages from people sharing concepts close to TRAXI. And I think that’s great.

How do you select the artists you invite?

At first, it was simply friends who agreed to be the crash tests of the project (thanks to them).
Then, requests started coming on their own.
As for the selection, it mainly depends on availability. Musically, I’m very open, though it’s true that 90% of artists and labels who reach out are around electronic music. Nowadays, I host both established artists and emerging DJs with projects that really attract me.

How do you handle the logistics of shooting (sound, lights, setup in the car…)?

Honestly, it takes 15 minutes.
Most sets are filmed in Geneva around 8pm. I finish work at 7, set up the decks and camera, adjust the light, and the sound comes directly from the car.
The sound is actually great because a Geneva audio specialist, Prestige Car Audio, generously helped equip my car.

What technical or safety constraints have you faced?

The main issue at first was the power supply, but that was solved quickly.
On the safety side: seatbelt always on, and the sound kept at a reasonable level, we need to protect our ears.

Have you ever been stopped by the police? Any funny or memorable stories?

Yes, twice. Each time it led to a nice exchange — they were just curious to see what was happening in this moving club.
Over 108 episodes, of course there have been little mishaps: forgetting to hit record, decks unplugging… But nothing serious. We just laugh about it and start again.

What makes these sets different from those in a club or a regular stream?

I haven’t reinvented the wheel — it’s still a DJ set.
But for the artists, it’s a unique experience: sitting in the backseat and playing is exciting for them.
The only real difference: the set is split into 2 “sides” (A and B), each 29 minutes long. This lets artists create two completely different vibes if they want.

What do you hope listeners take away from a Traxi set?

That they remember the artists’ names and go support them. They are the real heart of this project.

What artistic direction do you see for the future?

I’m focused on the core of the project: having artists play in the backseat of my car.
But I loved the recent collaboration with Hercules: showcasing an accessible product in a professional context was exactly the kind of crossover I enjoy.

Have you thought about expanding the concept to other cities?

Yes! I’ve already filmed in Marseille and Lyon.
And I’m still waiting for Busy P to reply so I can head to Paris (laughs).

What are your dreams for Traxi in the medium term?

I never imagined I’d get to 108 episodes.
That means 108 encounters, 108 incredible stories.
I already feel extremely grateful. My only ambition is to keep going and keep sharing — because that’s really my vision of music.

 From the Lab to the Cab : https://www.instagram.com/its_traxi/