Okayplayer: Where do you go in NYC when you want to be outside without being outside? (AKA, what do you do in NYC when you want to have a good time, but also want to be in a quiet environment?)

DJ GabSoul: Aside from a quiet coffee shop by my house where I like to read in the corner, I’d likely go check out a museum or exhibit. Or, Brooklyn Public Library to check out another book before finishing the one I’m already reading. Double points if they have an exhibit on display. If I’m in the mood to splurge, I’ll probably check out some local shops like Amani Market, and if I have ample time, record digging. Anywhere I can read, listen to my own music, and stimulate myself while everyone around me minds their business.

Where do you go in NYC when you want to be around people but not with people?

I like to pop into Aunts et Uncles because there’s a chance I’ll run into someone I know there or in the area. I also like to work from The Corner Store on Nostrand because it feels less coffee-shoppy. I also like to stroll around the neighborhood and go where the wind takes me, like my fave ice cream shops (Mr. P’s or Island Pops). Where I really need to be strolling to is the gym; it’s been some time since I’ve consistently worked out — God help me — but I would also go to a fitness class like pilates or boxing.

What would your perfect day in NYC look like?

The weather has to be just to my liking, not disgustingly hot but warm enough that I can be outside without a jacket, and I don’t have anything pressing on my to-do list, so I can move at a chill pace. I’d grab a matcha for the road from a local coffee shop (ideally Black-owned, like Lovelane) and take a walk down Eastern Parkway to Prospect Park to find a quiet spot by the water to lay out by and read a book, journal, people watch and reflect in nature before heading back to the chaotic concrete jungle beyond the gates.

When I feel the sun starting to set, I’d grab some early dinner on the way home. Then, if I’m not DJing that night, I’d go out to check my DJ friends’ sets — especially if it’s at a lounge or more intimate spot — and/or link up with some friends for some spontaneous grown people fun because I rarely get the chance to. And ideally, I’ll be back in my house before 2 a.m.! As someone who travels a lot for work and performs for a living, I’m usually in an overstimulating atmosphere, so I really enjoy when I can just kick it and be a normal person.