A DJ’s love letter – to Helsinki by ISAbella
For Colombian-born, Barcelona-based DJ and producer ISAbella, Helsinki is more than just another stop on her global touring schedule. Known for her eclectic style and boundary-pushing performances, ISAbella found a special connection with the city through its music scene—particularly at the iconic Post Bar, where she now holds a residency.
When Isabella first stepped into Post Bar, a music club in Helsinki, it was love at first sight. Invited to perform as part of her queer party collective, MARICXS, the club instantly became one of her favourite venues in the world.
“Post Bar is incredible. The sound system, the booth, it’s just perfect. But the people make it truly special. The crowd here is so open to everything you bring to the night. Every set feels like an exchange of energy that’s unforgettable”, she describes.
After her first show in 2022, Isabella became a resident DJ for Post Bar. She not only curates her performances but also introduces fresh talent to Helsinki’s enthusiastic audience.
“It’s so meaningful to me to showcase different sounds and bring new DJs here,” she says. “This residency feels like a way to give back to a community that’s shown me so much love and appreciation.”
Love letter
Helsinki
A romance that led to a rave
Long before her first set at Post Bar, Isabella’s connection to Finland began in 2016 through a more personal avenue, a relationship. Her ex-girlfriend who then lived in Turku, introduced Isabella to the country during a visit to her hometown.
“It was such a different world from what I knew,” Isabella recalls. “I even ended up playing at a rave there, something very underground and random, but it left me feeling connected to Finland and its people.”
While the relationship didn’t last, Isabella’s fondness for Finland only grew. Years later, when she finally performed in Helsinki, the city’s charm and energy pushed the bond even further.
The complete opposite of chaotic
Helsinki stands out to Isabella for its distinct blend of order and warmth.
“Coming from Barcelona, which is chaotic but beautiful, Helsinki feels like the opposite. Everything here is so clean, and yet there’s this rawness and coziness about it,” she explains.
Though her visits are often short and sweet, Isabella finds time to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
“I haven’t done much outside of playing at Post Bar and eating at amazing restaurants like Tanner, Maukku, and Harju 8, but even just walking through the streets here is inspiring. The people, the light, it’s all vibrant and alive,” she says.
One of her favourite memories of Finland is surprisingly tied to its famous weather.
“I actually love the cold! It’s so fresh, and it adds to the whole Nordic charm of the place. It’s something I look forward to whenever I come.”
