Page 33 - Poze Magazine Volume 86

Malfunktion

Review: Ben Zander

Photo Cred: Maddie McCracken

On Sunday, August 31, the final day of 2025’s North Coast Music Festival, I was blessed to chat with
Chicago based DJ and producer, Malfunktion. He performed the Mega Vega stage on Friday,
August 29, followed by an official North Coast afterparty providing direct support for dubstep
legend, Ray Volpe. Riding high on this success, he eagerly agreed to speak with me as the sun
began its decline in the distance, the golden hour setting in. Among the topics we discussed were
his feelings about playing North Coast, upcoming projects, his creative process, and giving thanks
to those who support him.

Starting off our conversation, I asked him how it felt performing North Coast as a local talent. He
answered, “It feels surreal to be honest. I grew up here. For those that don’t know, I grew up four
blocks away from North Coast [SeatGeek Stadium]. To be able to play in my hometown, on the
biggest stage I’ve ever played on, is really cool. It’s a very personal, emotional thing for me. I really
can’t be any more thankful and grateful for everybody who has supported me along this journey.”

Malfunktion is an energetic personality. Emotionally, he’s balanced and in control of himself, but I
wanted to know if he experienced any nervousness before his Friday afternoon set on the Mega
Vega stage.

“I’m not a very nervous person by any means. I thought I was a little nervous walking up there
because I’ve never played in front of a crowd that large or been on a stage that size. As soon as I
plugged [in] my USB, it was game over from there. I just had fun with it. At the end of the day, it all
comes from the heart, and that’s where my heart is. It’s in the music.”
I really enjoyed NCMF’s layout this year. I felt they packed a ton of action into the grounds and
ensured ample amenities and attractions were made available and accessible for attendees. I asked
Malfunktion how he felt about North Coast’s layout, and he summarily agreed with my viewpoint,
while also expanding into celebrating the success of a friend.