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Interview with Nik Fanciulli

Where are you and how are you feeling today?
At home and feeling gooooooood.
Describe your djing style?
House Music! Anything with a good  groove goes.
How did you get involved in music?
Used to hang around my mates record shop in town when I was a kid, and just got hooked on it.
What else have you got coming up in 2003?
Doing a few bits for Defected and Circo loco, which im really looking forward to, and also carrying on with my club class residency.
What are you favourite labels?
There's a few Maya records, Leaf records, Defected and of course my own label Portent records : )
What would be your dream gig?
Space terrace playing alongside Yousef, Onionz and Morillo, Not asking for much!
Which 4 words would best describe you?
Shy, musical, humorous, chancer
What did you do before your were a dj?
Worked in the accounts department of an insurance company. Nice!
How did you get your big break into DJ'ing?
Being asked to become weekly resident at club class.
How long have you been djing for now?
Nearly 8 years.
What was the name of the first record you ever bought?
I think it was the Michel Jackson thriller album
At a guess, how many records do you own?
About five thousand.
Have you ever been to Cream or a Cream event before?
I used to travel up with my Girlfriend a lot to see oakenfold tear it up in the courtyard.
How has clubland changed over the last few years for you?
I think it's a lot better now, because there aren't a lot of big room clubs left. And with the smaller clubs you get a better intimate atmosphere (and it's more fun to dj)
Can you tell us a bit about your studio production work?
I've been mainly doing mixes for my label over the last year, so im gonna aim to get a couple of my own tracks finished in the next couple of months. 
What are you plans for the summer?  Will you be popping over to Ibiza this year?
Gonna be in Ibiza a few times summer playing for crico loco and defected, which im looking forward to already.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years time?
Don't think I'll be djing then, so maybe something music
Nic Fanciulli will be performing in the Annexe alongside Dirty Vegas (Live), Jon Carter and K-Klass at Cream, Frantic & Nukleuz present Digital Love at Nation, Liverpool on Saturday 8th March.  
For full line-up go to http://www.cream.co.uk/ . Tickets on Sale now £12 NUS + bf / £15 + bf other.  Info: Tel 0207 299 0950/0151 709 1693 
SarahPVC
By SarahPVC in Interviews ·
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Interview with Paul Van Dyk

Where are you and how are you feeling today?
I am in Berlin right now in the studio. I am fine and well - working on my new album right now that we plan to release in autumn this year.
Describe your djing style?
I am playing electronic dance music.
How did you get involved in music?
I grew up in East Germany at a time where it was quite difficult to get the records with the music you like.
So my main source at that time, was from West Berlin radio. I  would listen to special shows like the one by Monika Dietl - this was my introduction to new music.
What are you favourite labels?
Of course the one I am working for : VANDIT. We are working to build up a record label in my hometown Berlin that stands for the music we all love.
What would be your dream gig?
We are working in Berlin on our Vandit night to have a bimonthly dream gig.  It is the crowd, the guest DJ's, the sound system and vibes that create a dream gig.
Which 4 words would best describe you?
I prefer it if other people do that. I am a music freak, I love my wife my hometown Berlin and my rabbit Gromit.
What did you do before your were a dj?
I finished school and started an apprenticeship as a broadcast technican. I got the allowence to leave East Germany to find out that I could finish this apprenticeship in West Germany. So I started a new one as a joiner.
How long have you been djing for now?
I had my first gig in 1991 - so it is 12 years now.
What was the name of the first record you ever bought?
OMD - Organisation
At a guess, how many records do you own?
I have no idea as I never count them. It must be thousands but how many I don't know.
You've dj'd in some of the world's most prolific dance venues - any that truly stands out form the rest?
There were and are many really great venues but a lot of are closed now.
For someone who has never been to a Cream event before, describe it to us.
Cream are great promoter, I enjoy myself at Cream events all the time.  It is the vibe and atmosphere that makes it so special.
How has clubland changed over the last few years for you?
It became global
Do you discuss your set with other DJs to ensure there's no crossover?
No
You were resident at Cream Ibiza residency last year, which turned out to be their most successful summer ever.  What are your plans for summer 2003?
We are thinking about another biweekly season for 2003.
Do you think it's still the greatest party Island in Europe?
Besides Ibiza  and that's a British / Spanish party island as well J
When is your next album released?
We are thinking about September this year.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years time?
Still producing music but maybe not so much Djing anymore as I don't like the travelling
PAUL VAN DYK IS HEADLINING THE CREAM FUTURE TRANCE ARENA AT CREAM, FRANTIC & NUKLEUZ PRESENT DIGITAL LOVE @ NOTTINGHAM ICE ARENA ON MARCH 8th
SarahPVC
By SarahPVC in Interviews ·
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Interview with Nick Sentience

Where are you and how are you feeling today?

At the moment I am in Australia and I am a bit jetlagged

I believe your from Lincoln?  When and Why did you leave?

I was born in Lincoln but left at the age of 10 for germany as my father was in the RAF

Describe your djing style?

I play all sorts of music from funky tech-house, euphoric trance, hard trance and really banging stuff. I play whatever I think is appropriate for the club I'm at as I think the most important thing is that the clubbers have fun.

How did you get involved in music?

I always grew up with music and in my early teens started compiling my own tapes of my favourite tracks. Then I started mixing them on decks and bought a keyboard. I signed with nukleuz at 17 and moved to London.

What are you favourite labels?

Retek, Vicious Circle, Telica, Recover, Nukleuz and Tidy.

What would be your dream gig?

I would love to say but I'm planning it at the moment so can't give away my ideas!

What has been your most surreal clubbing moment?

Probably playing at Frantic in Sydney because of all the Aussies that used to be in London but had returned to home. I forgot I was 14000 miles away.

Which 4 words would best describe you?

Enthusiastic, energetic, spiritual, friendly (I hope!)

What did you do before your were a dj?

I was at school, I have been doing this since I was 16.

How long have you been djing for now?

8 years

What was the name of the first record you ever bought?

Birdhouse in your soul by They Might Be Giants when I was about 7.

At a guess, how many records do you own?

About a 1000 but I have thrown a lot away, so the y are my best ones.

How has clubland changed over the last few years for you?

I think the music has got more varied and less pigeon holed with more open minded clubbers.

Why do you think hard dance and in particular the pioneers of that genre Frantic & Nukleuz are so successful?

Success is always achieved with hard work and enthusiasm.

Do you do any studio work?  If so tell us about it?

I was producing before I was dj'ing I have also done a lot of remixing. I have a lot of stuff on Nukleuz and the remixes can be found on a lot of the major labels.

Where do you see yourself in 20 years time?

Probably still waiting at airport check ins!

Nick Sentience will be performing in the Frantic/Nukleuz present Hardward Arena at Digital Love Nation, Liverpool on March 8th.  For full line up go to http://www.cream.co.uk/.
SarahPVC
By SarahPVC in Interviews ·
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Interview with Judge Jules

Performing at Cream, Frantic & Nukleuz present Digital Love @ Nation, Liverpool on Saturday 8th March
Where are you and how are you feeling today?
London, it's 7.30am - having a 3 year old son results in early rising - I'm feeling fine.

Describe your dj'ing style?
Non genre-specific tunes over 135BPM

How did you get involved in music?
I started promoting my own parties, legal and illegal, when I was sixteen.

What are your favourite record labels?
The great thing about dance is its lack of consistency - there's rarely a label that keeps delivering for more than six months, before someone else takes its place.  It's all about small producers having five minutes of fame.

You're one of the few DJs who has tried his hands at everything, which part of your profession do you prefer the most?
Clubs DH'ing is the biggest buzz of them all.

Which 4 words would best describe you?
Bullshit free zone, hopefully.

What did you do before your were a DJ?
It's the only job I've ever had

How long have you been DJing for now?
Nearly 15 years

What was the name of the first record you ever bought?
Joni Mitchell- Big Yellow Taxi

Trance music gets a lot of stick from the British dance press, why do you think this is?
On the contrary, recently the British dance press have been forced to acknowledge that they got it very wrong regarding trance, and it remains a very potent force in clubland.

Can we expect any future collaborations with your lovely wife Angelic?
Definitely, but no specific date yet.

At a guess, how many records do you own?
Not a clue, maybe 20,000.

For someone who has never been to a Cream event before, describe it to us.
Big and bold, with fantastic atmosphere.

How has clubland changed over the last few years for you?
The people have fought back, and told journalists that they refuse to have their music taste dictated to them, hence the resurgence of trance and all things hard, and the decline of dull progressive house.

What are your plans for Ibiza this year?
The fourth season of our highly successful "Judgement Sunday" weekly night at Eden.

Do you think it's still the greatest party Island in Europe?
There's nowhere else that comes close.
You and Paul Masterson have your own record label Closet, what can we expect from it in 2003?
A combination of our own productions and some interesting tracks that we've signed along the way.

You and Paul have now completed the Hi-Gate album, what can we expect from it and when is it out?
Released April 14th, entitled 'Split personality', it's a double CD.  One side shows a completely different musical side, incorporating chill-out and funky house.  The other showcases our more traditional banging fare.

What's your favourite track at the moment?
Body Shock- Rock this house.

Where do you see yourself in 20 years time?
God knows.... I don't know if anyone could answer this question.  Possibly living in Ibiza full-time.

Will you be checking out any of the other DJs playing at Digital Love Nation on 8th March?
Definitely, I try to check out other DJ's whenever I can.
Judge Jules will be performing at Cream, Frantic & Nukleuz present Digital Love @ Nation on Saturday 8th March.  Full Line up includes:  Judge Jules, JFK , DJ Montana, BK, Lisa Pinup, Rob Tissera, Paul Glazby, Nick Sentience , Paul Maddox, Guffy,  Dirty Vegas (Live) , Jon Carter , K-Klass (Paul & Russ) , Nic Fanciulli
SarahPVC
By SarahPVC in Interviews ·
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Interview with Dan de Sausmarez

Chances are, if you've been clubbing in the London area, and you have a modicum of taste, you will have heard of Serious. Their nights at the Cross are renowned for being the very definition of cool, and are regularly sell out events. At the last Serious, we managed to grab some time with promoter Dan de Saumarez, to pick his brain about a few issues.
Bit of a mouthful of a name isn't it?
Dan for short, as my surname is a bit of a mouthful, even for myself. My DJ name is 2Funky, as that's nice and short.
How did you first get involved with serious?
I got involved with Serious because the other partners in the company were all old school friends. I never really thought we'd end up working together, it just happened really. We were all doing different things. Sam, one of the original partners, the founder in a way, along with his brother Judge Jules. He started the company and I came onboard about three of four months after. We were all doing different things. Sam was looking after Jules' bookings and it went from there. Jules knows a lot of DJ's, so we just started off managing them. The whole promoting clubnights thing came about 6 months after that. We'd always been putting on parties for our birthdays, as the DJ's on our books would play for free so we'd be doing nights on a shoestring budget. We'd get the DJ's in, invite all our friends down and they were such good parties that we thought we should do them a lot more regularly.
When you started putting the club nights on properly so to speak, did you have a set manifesto, with regards to marketing and music policy?
Well, first and foremost we love the Cross. It's where all our parties started, and it's a home from home for us. We started really just to attract our friends to our monthly parties. The main emphasis was really on trying to break new talent, like some of the new DJ's we were managing. Guys like Jules and Norman Jay were already well established, but Sonique was a nobody when we started managing her, and we took her from there to where she has been. It was always really about showcasing our talent roster on the label. It was never really about making money, we just set out to put on a great party.
You mentioned new talent breaking. Who, in your eyes has been the most exciting talent prospect in the last 18 months of so, or indeed the history of Serious?
I'd say Sonique definitely so, if only for the fact that she was unknown when we first started looking after her. She was very raw, very fresh and we always knew she'd do very well as a DJ. She took clubland by storm within 12-18 months of her starting to DJ, which is great for us. I think that now it's very difficult to break new talent so to speak, as it is realistically now more about DJing/producing rather than just DJing. You've got to be multi-talented, and whilst a great producer doesn't make a great DJ, you can still feed off the fact that if you're a well known producer people will book you as a DJ regardless. The most talented DJ we've probably got at the moment is Eddie Halliwell, who's sort of broken into the scene over the last 18months. Even though Eddie's been DJing a while, he's only really broken through recently, so I guess he's kinda the freshest of the fresh.
How would you describe Serious as a brand?
To be quite honest, we've turned away from the direction taken by some of the bigger clubs, such as MOS, GK and GC. We don't consider ourselves a big brand name. We've tried to teeter on the edge somewhat, as the majority of us believe that once you become a brand you become commercial, and once you become commercial it's kind of like you're not setting any longevity as far as your name goes, personally speaking. Ministry of Sound for example, although it's very well known, the cooler end of the market, people who go out don't generally want to go to MOS. As far as we're concerned, we needed to step a fine line with building our name without going commercial. But saying that, the record label part of the company has gone in that direction, but that's slightly to do with market forces. At the end of the day, it's all very well being cool, but you need to sell records to make money.
How do you want to appear to the public then?
At the end of the day, I guess we just want to be known as people who throw a really good party. We're not the new this, or the new that. We just make sure that people have a good time.
Wub Wub
By Wub Wub in Interviews ·
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Interview with Justin Bourne

During the Build up to the Hard House Academy at the Brixton Academy, ClubTheWorld caught up with one of Londons HardHouse DJ's Justin Bourne

Our very own Phil.B asked Justin the following questions ...

Hi Justin, how are things going at the moment? 

Hi, things are great thanks. I'm keeping busy with my DJing, studio work and running Short Circuit Recordings. The new website will be up soon so I've been busy sorting things out for that as well. 

Your label Short Circuit is going from strength to strength, can you tell us a bit about it? What made you set the label up? What can we expect from it in the future? 

I started Short Cicuit Records mainly as an outlet for my own material. I was producing alot of new tracks and having to send around cd-r's and chase up people for money etc all day long so I decided to start my own label and have full control, but it's still the same, I'm sending out cd-r's and chasing up people all day...Ha Ha. After a short period of time I began to sign other artists and things have just progressed from there really. I've been really pleased with the reaction on the past releases and I think the future material is just as strong if not better. The next three releases include these arists as original tracks or remixers - Nick Sentience, OD404, Tara Reynolds, Alex Calver, Casper and Testube Babies. I'll be back for release 16 with a brand new original track. 

When did you start DJing / producing and what got you into the Hard Dance scene? 

I started DJing when I was 15 at School, I used to play the early rave stuff ( at a youth hall ) which progressed into Hardcore ( Not Happy Hardcore) That was thirteen years ago. I then used to have a couple of residencies on the south coast playing House in the middle nineties that progressed into the tougher house sound of the Sharp Boys, Malcolm Duffy etc. I then discovered Pete Wardman and I used to hear him play out all over the country, he was my inspiration to play what is now known as Hard House ( It was Hardbag around that time). Since 1996 I have been playing the Hard House sound. I left my day job nearly five years ago and that's when I had the chance to really persue my career and start work on the production. The rest is history as they say. 

Describe your style and how has it developed over the years? 

Hard and Energetic. I've gone through different styles of music from Early Rave, Hardcore, House and then onto Hard House. 

Which DJs / producers do you admire and who, if any, inspire you in your work? 

Pete Wardman and Steve Thomas for the DJing and Dom Sweeten and Mik Cree for the production 

With many productions of your own and remixes under your belt, what to you is your finest piece of work? 

I still really like Time Is Up on Kaktai. It was made back in 1999. That's my overall favourite and I've produced over 60 tracks now.

Tell us a little about your studio and the equipment you use. 

I do all my work at other studios, although I do have a set up at home but I don't use it. At the studio I use Logic, loads of internal stuff like Pro 53, Vangaurd, Junglist etc, there's some many good programs around it has really changed hings for me. The hardware is kind of gathering dust at the moment. 

Have you any advice to give to aspiring producers ? 

Try and do something a little different to get noticed. This scene can be very disheartening but you have to keep your chin up. I beleive that hard work will pay off in the end. I get sent a lot of cd's each week and there is a lot of amazing talent out there. 

With having DJed here in the UK and internationally, which has been your favourite club / country / promotion to work for and why? 

I couldn't just mention one particular event/promotion as I've enjoyed 99% of my gigs and for all different reasons. We have some wicked clubs over here though Camden Palace (London), The Works ( Birmingham) Turnmills (London), Matrix ( Reading), Brixton Academy ( London) etc. The international work is cool as I'd probably never get to see these countries in my life. I've just recently returned from Australia and that was excellent. I'm looking forward to my return later in the year. I'm also off to New Zealand next week. 

Please tell us your best and worst moments in your career to date 

My best moments include having one of my first tracks played as Big Beat Of The Week on Kiss FM by Pete Wardman around five years ago, I've had loads of awesome gigs over the years that I'd class as my best moments, travelling to the other side of the world. I can't really think of a worst, it'd only be something like a poor sound system that I had to play on or along those lines. I havn't got much to complain about. I consider myself to be very fortunate.

What does a typical week involve for you? 

Loads of e-mails, phone calls, sorting out bookings, running Short Circuit recordings. Quite a few days a month I'll be away working in the studio on tracks. I take and pick up my daughter from school each day so no late mornings after the weekend i'm afraid. 

What can we expect from you over the coming months? 

I have quite a bit of international gigs over the next few months, I'm playing in Australia, New Zealand, U.S.A and I'm in the middle of confirming dates for Japan again. I have some wicked gigs over here to look forward to including Frantic, Goodgreef, Heat, Feeling Of Life, Bedlam, Vicious Circle and Short Circuit parties. Loads of remix work to do and I'll hopefully get to do some more original tracks aswell. 

What is your current top 5 that is rocking the dance floors at the moment?

1. The Captain & Karim - Get On It - ?
2. Testube Babies - Jungle Style (OD404 Remix) Short Circuit
3. Aftermath - Underworld (Justin Bourne & Dynamic Intervention Remix) Toolbox
4. Defective Audio - Execution - Nukleuz
5. Mark Gray - So Powerful ( Tara Reynolds Remix) Short Circuit

ClubTheWorld would like to thank Justin Bourne for his time and would like to wish him the best of luck for the future and for The Hard House Academy at Brixton Academy on 29th May 2004 
Phil B
By Phil B in Interviews ·
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Interview with Lucy Fur

During the Build up to the Hard House Academy at the Brixton Academy, ClubTheWorld caught up with one of Londons Hardest female DJ's.

We asked Lucy Fur the following questions:

CTW - How long have you been mixing for and could you describe to us a brief history of how you got to where you are in your DJ career?

LUCY - I started buy records around july 2000, and my decks shortly followed. I then got addicted to mixing and continued to practise for a year. I played my first gig in a pub in Hertfordshire to about 20 people and loved it!!! I then went on to get my first residency at Exessential in Lydd where funnily enough I experienced my first all-nighter experience at the age of 16!!!! After a year of getting the odd local booking I decided to take on London as I felt ready for the challenge, and a lot of hard graft later here I am!!

CTW - If you could play back 2 back with any DJ who would it be?

LUCY - That's such a hard question! I am quite selective with who I play with, I think you have to be due to music styles. If you would have asked me a few weeks ago it would have been Mark Leish but that's been done now and what fun we had! So on that note, it would be someone like Ben Stevens, A Star or Caroline Banx! I get on so well with all three and that's really important whilst doing b2b because you need to have a giggle about it.

CTW - I saw you play for Lashed at the SEOne club in the "All Girls Room", for me this was the best set of the night. You also played other events that weekend. Would this be a typical example of a weekend in your diary? and are there any big dates you have that we should know about?

LUCY - Thank you!!! I really enjoyed myself and feel my true style was exposed that night. Yeah, that weekend was rather hectic and the winter months have been like that. The summer is always quieter but there are still events I am looking forward to over the next few months. The 29th May is Hard House Academy at Brixton Academy which is a firm favourite. I've been going to this event for a long time and to get to play there now is amazing!!! The line-up for this one is fantastic too!! Also that weekend, I start my new residency at Wired in Brixton the morning of the 30th, so I will keep you posted on that. There is a Frantic event being held at the end of June which is also exciting but you will have to listen out for more details of that one too! And I am very excited to be asked back to Wildchild which is held over the august bank holiday later this year! My next ultimate goal is the Tidy Weekender, so im going to start working on that soon!

CTW - You played the main room at the last ever Frantic event at Camden Palace, what did this mean to you?

LUCY - To play for such an event is something I only used to dream about .I really thought it wasn't going to happen for me main room camden-especially when I heard it was closing. My first london clubbing experience and the ultimate aim, and then Frantic asked me to do it! I felt sick every time I thought about it. I was talking to Tara (Reynolds) the week before and she was really making me hyper about it! Mark actually filmed 25 minutes of my set at Camden for all my friends who couldn't make it-and it has been seen by my mum, dad, brother and sister! When I watched it back the next day I had tears in my eyes-says it all really!

CTW - You are known for playing the some of the hardest music we know in this scene. are there any other genres you play?

LUCY - The nice thing is i've always played this way and haven't changed that for any club or promotion. I do really like vocal funky house, house, techno and funky techno too. I played my first techno set the other week, and must say it felt a bit strange! If my budget would stretch, id love to play more styles for one off exclusive gigs, but, well I love the filth I really do!

CTW - Talking about other genres, your partner plays techno. As you are aware the hard dance scene is heavily influenced by techno at present. Is this a thing so you can swap ideas and borrow his records etc?

LUCY - Ha ha!! I borrow all Marks records!!! My favourite producers are Mark EG, Lars Klein and DAVE the drummer, labels Blackout Audio, Hydraulix and X-series. I am aware of the techno influences in hard dance but I don't really like this cross over stuff. It should be Techno or Hard house for me!! I would never play techno in a hard house set, I feel like that would just be following the trends. Within my style I try to keep an original hard house sound with up to date samples

CTW - The hard dance scene appears to be getting harder and harder over recent months. This must be great for you, but where do you feel the direction of the music will go once it has reached where it appears to be heading? Can you see other genres influencing the scene like techno has at present, which may change the music direction?

LUCY - It's great that clubbers and promotions are wanting it harder now, gives us harder djs a chance to shine! Its difficult to predict where the music is going due to all the influences, music will take its own route. The harder stuff has always been around just that recently its getting exposed more in the main rooms as opposed to just being an underground or backroom sound. The direction the music will take will be down to the producers that are making it. Hopefully they can find a new sound that will appeal to the harder generation.

CTW - I've noticed on a few websites you have quiet a fan base building. To me this seems great, can you describe to us how this makes you feel?

LUCY - I feel overwhelmed when I login to websites and see there are threads about my performance the night before! I think its great that people want to come over and say hi when im out. Im very approachable but still a bit shy-you will never get a good photo of me! I remember what it was like as a young clubber, fully respecting the DJ because of the way they made you feel whilst they were playing. A big part of DJing for me, is making people feel like that, so yeah its fantastic to know its happening.

CTW - With the Hard House Academy just around the corner, what can we expect from you at this event?

LUCY - Well I am very excited about this as I have a lot of new material to play. I have just started cd mixing too and I have many beasts ready to unleash. I like to play upfront unheard material to keep the crowd engaged, nothing worse than hearing the same tune 5 times in a night-no matter how good the track!

CTW - Knowing you personally I can say that you are a very down to earth individual and have a great attitude. You always have time to speak to people, which i feel is a great asset. However there are some DJ's who don't appear to have this attitude. What are your thoughts on this?

LUCY - Mmm well all I can say is that we are all human. There have been many Djs that I have met who haven't even attempted to engage conversation or a friendly 'hi'. We all have to be in this industry together so there is no point in having your head up your own arse. And what many Djs have to realise, its the clubbers that put people where they are- I will always have time for people. If I seem busy, that's cos I am but still come over and say hi!!!

CTW - Which DJ's and producers have given you inspirations?

LUCY - In the beginning it was the original Tidy girls. Lashes, Pin-up I loved them all. Lisa was fantastic in 2000/2001 she definately made me want to start djing. Undoubtably Paul Glazby. He bought my record collection to life, the birth of VC!!! But before VC was even around, I had many of Paul's tracks that he had remixed on old 12 Inch Thumpers and white labels. Followed by Tara Reynolds. The nicest DJ you will ever meet and boy what a talent she has. She's really built herself up to Tidy girl Tara!!! She so deserves it!

CTW - Quick fire round:
Favourite all time tune? There are too many to mention, I really cant answer that sorry! Which mixer? Pioneer or Allen and Heath? Pioneer!! Vinyl or CD? Vinyl baby yeah! Prefer to play small or big venue? Not about the venue mate, all about the crowd!
CTW - Finally we hold great faith that your future is going to be very bright. What plans do you have for your future?

LUCY - Future plans definitely involve production, can you imagine the Fur on vinyl ouch! To play at Tidy as I mentioned before. And to get as many bookings as poss For a demo, please email djlucyfur@hotmail.com

ClubTheWorld would like to thank Lucy Fur for her time and would like to wish her the best of luck for the future and for The Hard House Academy at Brixton Academy on 29th May 2004
Tony P
By Tony P in Interviews ·
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Tara Reynolds

During the Build up to Lashed at the SEOne Club, ClubTheWorld caught up with Tara Reynolds to find out about her views on female DJ's and her plans for the rest of the year.  We asked Tara Reynolds the following questions ...
What do you personally think of the whole "girls vs boys" thing? is it just a bit of banter, or do you think some people are still stuck in the stoneage?
I think it's an out-of-date attitude. Back when female DJs were a novelty (not that long ago I might add) I can understand why people did the whole girls vs. boys thing, but with the wave of female DJs making their mark and new talent coming through, the number of male and female DJs is starting to balance out which takes away the novelty aspect of female DJs. We'll know when female DJs aren't a novelty any more when a promoter does a line-up consisting only of female DJs but doesn't give it a special mention on their flyer. I think its quite harmless though and no doubt will continue on many a flyer...
What are you looking forward to most at the Lashed event coming up at the SEOne club? 
Being a part of such a huge-name event, plus SE1 is a great venue and also the chance to catch up with my London friends and clubbers too.
There is a very strong presence of female DJ's on the hard dance scene, not so much in other genres. Why do you think this is? 
I really don't know why females DJs don't have a strong presence in other genres as I don't know enough about those scenes. If they're anything like the hard dance scene though, its probably only a matter of time.
Following on from that, it seems as though you are all quite close within that group. is that an accurate assumption? 
Yeah I'd say so. All the girls that I know who are breaking through really support each other and the established girls like Anne and Lisa are always really supportive and encouraging too.
If we had to name all of you with spice girl like dj names, what would yours be? 
Hard spice!
What is your biggest fear? 
Being trapped in a burning room. I have nightmares about it.
Can you give us an insight into what the rest of 2004 has instore for you? 
Lots of production. I have done three remixes already this year with another coming up, plus I am in the studio this week to do another track for Tidy as a follow-up to Mercy. On the DJing side, with Tidy behind me and supporting me so much, I have lots of great events/gigs in the diary, such as the Tidy Weekenders, Creamfields, Slinky, etc which is really exciting.
Do you have any musical influences that may suprise us? 
My love of music is firmly rooted in the hard stuff, which is probably no surprise at all is it! I still listen to Led Zeppelin, Guns 'n' Roses, etc and lately I've been listening to all sorts of music to try to get original ideas for the studio. I love The Beatles - that may be a surprise to you!
At the tidy weekender just past you played in the "all girl" room. For me that room was a huge success. How did it feel to be apart of that? 
It was fantastic and a great honour to be a part of it. The girls were all amazing. I really felt like I was a part of something very special.
On a good night out, djing or clubbing, what is you vice? 
Vodka!
Do you consider image to be an important factor of being DJ? If so describe your image?
It is, unfortunately. I say unfortunately because, as a female DJ, our ability as a DJ is often overshadowed by how fit people (boys!) think we are. I never wanted to be judged on the way I look but once you reach a certain level people do that. I know I'm no supermodel but I just do the best I can with what I've got but hope that people remember me for my music and technical ability rather than the way I look.
The other side of image is how you're perceived by the clubbers, i.e. down-to-earth or diva-ish and this is the important part to get right. I'd like to think that people see me as being down-to-earth, approachable and friendly as these qualities are very important to me. I've always been this way and I'm not going to change just because I'm now a DJ.
As for how I'd describe my image, I think I'm seen as a friendly, approachable person and someone who takes great pride in my DJ'ing and my appearance.
Your DJ'ing career is going from strength to strength, but do you have any further goals for the near future? 
As mentioned above, to do as much production as I can fit in. Since Mercy was released I have had a lot of remix offers which is really flattering. The response I've had off the back of one track still amazes me.
A big techno influence has played a key part in the hard dance scene lately. Would you agree with that? 
Absolutely. I think its a really positive thing as there's only so much you can do with hard house basslines and percussion. The fusion of different styles will help to create a whole new sound and I think that's always a good thing. I've always loved techno perscussion - its really interesting and great percussion can drive a whole track.
Lastly, tell us something about yourself not related to DJing that we would find interesting? 
I have just passed my first belt in Kickboxing. I am now an orange belt and am very committed to becoming a black belt, which will be in about three years time.
ClubTheWorld would like to thank Tara Reynolds for her time and would like to wish her the best of luck for the future and for Lashed at SEOne Club on 2nd May
LiamStyles
By LiamStyles in Interviews ·
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Interview with Guffy

During the Build up to the mother of all Hard Dance events, Clubtheworld caught up with Nukleuz/Frantic resident DJ Guffy to ask him about Living in London, the hard dance scene and nerves.

We asked Guffy the following questions:

CTW - You were chosen as one of Mixmags future heroes and they have predicted that you are set to become hard dance's answer to Pete Tong. Quiet a complement (congratulations), how does this make you feel?

GUFFY - Hehe, I had a giggle when I read that. The whole Mixmag Future Hero's thing has been amazing to be honest. Despite what people opinions are about the magazine it's still the biggest there is the scene, so to have their backing is fairytale stuff. For the years previous they have done this for Fergie and Eddie so to be single-out under the same banner means loads. As for the Pete Tong thing, I think this is down to the fact that I have my fingers in many pies.. I talk too much as well!

CTW - What are your plans for this year? Anything we should look out for?

GUFFY - It's going to be a manic year. I've got a really busy diary here in the UK plus international gigs in Finland, Australia and New Zealand coming up too. I've also finally got in the studio after much ear bending as well. First track has just been finished with Ingo and I've been playing it out for a couple of weeks, it sounds huge! Lots more production lined up this year too as well as some other ventures in the pipeline.. fingers in pies all that jazz.

CTW - You've recently moved to London, how are you finding living here and what do you miss about where you have moved from?

GUFFY - I miss the ability to park without getting a ticket. It's a mission trying to get somewhere outside a gig down here! Other than that it's all good. The buzz down here coupled with the fact that everything is open when you want makes it a wicked place to live. I do miss my friends from up North though as I've lived up there all my life. I moved down here on my own so I only had the Nukleuz and Frantic gang to show me the ropes.. enough said, hehehe.

CTW - How would you compare London's hard dance clubbing scene to any other in the UK?

GUFFY - The Hard Dance scene down here seems to be riding the so called dance music lull with relative ease so it's a testament to the quality of events being put on as well as the huge market that London has to choose from punter wise. With many antipodeans in London hard dance events pull in people from all corners. There is nothing like listening to some crazy Italians asking for tracks followed by some Russians going nuts with a load of Aussies and Kiwi's boshing away too. Where else do you get that!

CTW - Are you looking forward to playing in the main room for Lashed at the SEOne Club? And is this the first time you will have played in this room at SEOne Club?

GUFFY - Yeah, really looking forward to this one. Lisa's managed to launch a successful night when many others have failed in the last 6 months. I played for Polysexual vs Lashed the other month, which was crazy, there's no holding back with the BPM at Lisa's gigs. As for playing SEOne, well I played there last month for WildChild vs Frantic but I couldn't tell you if it's the same room as the one I'm in for this. It's like a maze in there when all the rooms are open! Should be a top night though even if it involves getting lost at some point!

CTW - How long have you been mixing for and how did you get into it? Also do you still practice (if so how often) or is it something that just comes naturally to you now?

GUFFY - Been mixing for over 7 years now but didn't get out of the bedroom until about 4 years ago as I wanted to make sure I was totally clued up and knew as much as possible. I originally got the decks with a credit card that I maxed out 1997. I used to listen to early Ministry albums and always thought to myself, Why did they put that shit track there and there - so I bought all the tracks on that album (minus the shit ones) practiced for ages and made my own version! That's how I got started in my bedroom

CTW - Would you consider becoming a resident at Frantic to being one of the major stepping-stones in your DJ'ing career so far? And how did this come about?

GUFFY - Yeah of course. The cornerstone of any DJ getting established is a solid residency that you love. Look at Matt Hardwick, Eddie Halliwell, Fergie etc  they all started off with a good residency. I'm one of the lucky ones that managed to get a massive residency like Frantic. How did it come about? The potted version is..

In August 2002, Salvador from 4clubbers.net called me to ask I fancied playing in the Frantic/Nukleuz tent at Creamfields! He told me that he'd spoken to Will Paterson ( Frantic promoter ) about me playing and Will had agreed after hearing bits and bobs about me up North. So I then found myself doing the first two hours in the Frantic/Nukleuz tent playing 2 - 4pm. There was nobody in the tent for the first 40 minutes due to problems letting people in however, around 2.45pm people came pouring into the tent and I mean pouring in. By 3.15pm it was going off, it was very surreal as I was there as a punter 12 months earlier!

After that I got invited down to London to play at Frantic in the upstairs room and then I was lucky enough to be asked to play in the foyer at Hard House Academy (I think Will was making sure Creamfields wasn't a fluke!). I was then asked to play the main room warm up at the next event which was a risk for Will as I played very differently to everyone else. After warming up for 6 months or so I got offered the residency which was amazing - you have to find your niche and then integrate that with the sound that's already there. I'm just glad that Will took a risk on me and stuck his neck out.

CTW - Are there any events you would love to play at? And are there any you would rather forget about and wouldn't go back to?

GUFFY - I've done loads of shitty gigs, it's all part and parcel of it. I remember playing to three or four people one week then 600 the next when I first started. I've been to gigs where you come and your cars not there. I've done gigs where your records have been nicked. One time I played this awful gig in Sheffield where I couldn't wait to get home as the equipment was wrecked and someone fell on top of the decks. I finished, raced to my car and got on the motorway when there was this hissing. I shat myself as there was a shitty old cat going bonkers in my car. Had no idea how it got in there but I pulled over and spent 5 mins trying to get it out of the car! It scratched my arm to bits so I left it in the hard shoulder! That was nuts - they make funny stories though. As for events I haven't played at I think I'd like to play over at HQ because I've been promised loads of parties by friends over there!

CTW - Do you get nervous before playing?

GUFFY - Yup, every time. I disappear to the loo about 3 times in the 20 mins before I play. Nerves are good though. It's when you stop getting them you should worry.

CTW - Do you have any plans for the production side of the industry?

GUFFY - Yup, as mentioned earlier first track with Ingo is done. It's a massive track and went down well at the Tidy Weekender last week. Loads more in the pipeline too!

CTW - Where do you see yourself and the hard dance scene in 10 years time?

GUFFY - God, I couldn't even tell you where I'll be next week! I'm sure Lisa from Nukleuz will be having words with me for saying that hehehe. As for the Hard Dance scene, who knows. One minute it's techy, the next it's rock hard, that's the beauty of it.

CTW - And finally you know Lisa my girlfriend, she has asked me to ask, "When are you going to grow a bum?" ha ha ;o)

GUFFY - She always says that! I'm built for speed, not comfort!

ClubTheWorld would like to thank Guffy for his time and would like to wish him the best of luck for the future and for Lashed at SEOne Club on 2nd May
Tony P
By Tony P in Interviews ·
  • 38 views

Interview with Shan

With one of the most talked about events of the year just around the corner (Frantic/Wildchild), we at Clubtheworld with help from our friends at Frantic have taken the oppotunity to interview one of the hottest new DJ's on the Hard Dance scene. This Dj is resident at Mixmags club of the year 2002 "Goodgreef" and is set to blow Frantic/Wildchild apart.

We asked DJ Shan the following questions:

CTW - Your a Mixmag Future Hero as well as Resident at GoodGreef (Mixmag Hard Dance Club of the Year). When you started out did you think you would ever imagine this would be the case?

SHAN - Not at all, when I started out I wasn't even old enough to get into clubs, so I was too busy imagining what it'd be like to actually be in a club, never mind play in one or get this far!

CTW - How did your Goodgreef Residency come about?

SHAN - I got involved with Goodgreef when they started their monthlies in Yorkshire back in 2002. I'd made my name playing the smaller nights around Leeds and such, and with reassurance from strong recommendations from the guys at 4clubbers and a good friend of mine, DJ GRH, all of who had been working alongside Goodgreef at the time, they brought me into the setup to keep the local crowds happy. They were really pleased with the response, and saw potential that I could fit really well into the Goodgreef setup as a resident. It's not really commonplace for Goodgreef to take on new residents as they've all progressed together from the start, so as you can imagine I was overjoyed to be working with a club that were massively on the up.

CTW - You've played virtually all the big Hard Dance clubs in the UK. With Frantic & Wildchild coming up this weekend how does playing for them differ from any other UK based event?

SHAN - For me, they're the two biggest hard dance clubs to be playing for in London. In a city the size of London, there's the capacity to put on a club event much bigger than any other city can. From playing for Frantic numerous times before and Wildchild twice last year, I know that neither do anything by halves when it comes to events of this scale. The effort shows in the production, and the line-ups are like football squad teamsheets!

CTW - You use 3 decks and an FX unit when mixing. Did it take you a while to master these and is it still a bit nerve racking using them all live?

SHAN - When I have 3 decks in front of me, I'll always try and get as much out of them as I can whilst not breaking the music up too much. I don't use an FX unit as such, just the effects on the DJM600 if there's one set up, though I wouldn't really call that a unit as such like EFX500 would be. It's actually a Cycloops sampler that I sometimes hook in if it's going to work well with the set I've got in mind. It triggers loops live, which is great if you want to layer tracks up and really make something else with tracks you're playing. It's nerve racking if you're mostly doing things off the hook and in the heat of the moment as you're never 100% if it's going to pull off! But if you've kinda got it worked out in your head beforehand, you kinda know how it's going to go down. I've far from mastered it, I think with things like this you're constantly learning and creating new ideas. I've tested it out a few times, at Frantic, Garlands, Goodgreef and such, and it's worked really well, so I'm more confident to use it out more now.

CTW - What has been your biggest and most memorable event to date and why?

SHAN - The biggest is probably last year's Creamfields, playing to a crowd of that size is just something else. The most memorable is my debut in the main room of the Tidy Weekender last year, partly because you look out and every other person you see in the crowd is someone you know, having all your best mates experience the whole thing with you is just immense. But also I was really ill at the time and had been in bed all day unable to move, suffering the effects of a dodgy chips, chicken and curry sauce from a chippy after Naughty But Nice the night before! Tidy sent me to the medic who said I should take the night off as I was due for a 200 mile dash to do last set at Frantic as well. Obviously I point blank refused. You can't come between a man and his decks.

CTW - And whats been your smallest event to date?

SHAN - Anyone who experienced one of the legendary 'House of Wrong' houseparties in Leeds back in the day will know what I mean! Three days, one student house, three floors, about 100 people crammed in, people hanging out of windows, music blaring out, haha...

CTW - Your style is much more complex than most other Hard Dance DJs with Accapellas and remix's galore. Where did you draw your influences from?

SHAN - When I first got into at 16, I didn't know anyone else who had decks who I could learn off, so got DJ tuition from a hip-hop DJ. Apart from basic mixing, he attempted to teach me scratching, beat-juggling, allsorts, none of which I managed to pick up or came in handy, except for the accapellas which he used to get me to put over instrumental house tracks. I also used to listen to Carl Cox's sets where he'd be layering tracks up, playing an accapella over the top and such, so drew a lot of inspiration from him too. Then when I started playing harder music a few years ago, no-one was really using accapellas so I thought 'everyone in house music uses them, why not try them with the harder stuff?', thankfully people liked them and it helped define a certain style I was playing at the time.

CTW - Why is playing for Frantic & Wildchild this weekend so special for you?

SHAN - As well as it being such a big event, it'll be my first time playing at the SEOne club. I've been there once before for Tidy London a couple of years ago now, and thought the venue was amazing. It'll most definitely be an experience playing in those arches.

CTW - Tell us something that you consider to be interesting?

SHAN - Roswell and whether aliens really exist!

CTW - Tell us something that you consider to be completely pointless?

SHAN - A brand spanking new pencil.

CTW - There is as always alot of talk about where the Hard Dance scene is going at present. Whats your opinion on the current state of affairs?

SHAN - Play it by ear (no pun intended there!), whatever will be, will be! Like Burger King, I'm loving it!

CTW - Your listed amongst an elite group of young up and coming DJs in Mixmag, The Future Heros. Who amongst your esteemed Future Hero colleagues would you go out of your way to see play and why?

SHAN - I won't name any of the hard dance DJs as I see them about quite often, so wouldn't really have to go out of my way to see any of them. I get on well with Sonny Wharton, and really need to get along to see him play sometime, he plays a mixture of house and breaks and has a good buzz about him. Also Hatty, I used to see her all the time when she was involved in the hard house scene, but now she's off playing for Hed Kandi all over the world! I love the type of house music she plays and really need a chance to catch up with her.

CTW - Your not only playing at Frantic & Wildchild but carrying on the madness at Hardware in the morning. Have you played many after parties and what are your feelings on them?

SHAN - I used to play the longstanding Glasshouse afterhours club in Leeds all the time. I'm normally hallucinating by that time of the morning having been awake 48 hours! The crowd's are usually really up for it, as they're there because they really want to be there. It's not just a night out.

ClubTheWorld would like to thank Shan for his time and would like to wish him the best of luck at Frantic/Wildchild this Saturday and at Hardware the Frantic/Wildchild After Party on Sunday morning!
Tony P
By Tony P in Interviews ·
  • 48 views

Interview with JFK

During the build up to Frantic/Wildchild at the SEOne Club on the 20th March, ClubTheWorld with the help of their friends at Frantic thought it would be a good idea to interview one of the headlining DJ's at the event. JFK is a resident and promoter at Passion and rocks some of the country's top clubs on a weekly basis.

We asked JFK the following questions:

CTW - Did you go to the miami music conference? and if so what new tunes did you pick up and who passed them on to you.
JFK - No I hated Miami when I went, full of arrogant industry music people I like to keep it real.

CTW - Do you get recognised in the street or do you see yourself as an underground artist?
JFK - Occasionally I will get recognised, I think its great.. one day no one will know who i am and I will be just boring Jason Kinch again boo.. I once got asked for my autograph in Boots

CTW - Do you use any dance music forums under an alias?
JFK - No always JFK why hide it

CTW - Have you ever played at the SEOne club before? if so how was your experience
JFK - No I will be and SE1 Virgin.. looking forward to it

CTW - Do your parents appreciate the music you play?
JFK - My dad often comes to my gigs.. gets wasted and shouts I MADE HIM

CTW - What is your favourite venue?
JFK - Apart from Passion probably the met in Ireland and of course any WILDCHILD event.

CTW - Which dj's do you look up to or admire?
JFK - Any one who just rocks a crowd, whether it is in a small bar, club or festival. I like people who entertain

CTW - What are your plans for this year?
JFK - Just to be me I have spent too long trying to be this that and the other and then finding out i am better of just being me.

CTW - What can we expect from you at the Frantic/Wildchild event?
JFK - A DAMN GOOD CROWD cant wait

CTW - I've read that you played a 6 hour set on your birthday, Is this the longest set you have played? and how was it
JFK - No I have played 9 hours quite a few times before, but my six hours on my birthday at Passion was something else the best night of my DJing life, 2500 people turned up to see just me wow

CTW - With the Frantic/Wildchild event hosting 50 DJ's are there any you are looking forward to seeing?
JFK - I always like to see BK cause he is me mate!!! Ha ha

CTW - What is your most memorable set and event you have played at?
JFK - The most memorable will be Velfare in Tokyo Japan the best club in the world

ClubTheWorld would like to thank JFK for his time and would like to wish him the best of luck at Frantic/Wildchild this Saturday!
Tony P
By Tony P in Interviews ·
  • 38 views

Interview with new Addiction Residents MDA & Spherical

Having burst onto the scene just under two years ago, MDA & Spherical are now well on their way to becoming modern Hard Dance household names. With their immense productions and remixes featuring on almost every major label including Tidy Trax, Masif, Tranzlation & Oblivion Recordings and having just debuted their exciting new LIVE PA, featuring a live bass guitar, a live vocalist and other on stage shenanigans, Addiction promoter Andy T caught up with his new residents to talk about the past, present, future and all things MDA & Spherical.
AT: Afternoon lads! First of all allow me to take this opportunity to welcome you as the latest addition to the Addiction stables. You've featured at plenty of our events in the past and have rocked Addiction dance floors to their very foundations more often than most. What's your favourite memory from any Addiction event?
Well thanks for giving us the opportunity! Having both been to many of the Thursday night Addictions there have been loads of great memories from most of them. Aside from the Thursdays, one thing that particularly stands out is the first boat party. All the DJs played great sets and the sun was shining making it a fantastic day all round. The green shirt brigade made us chuckle.
AT: You've known each other for over 5 years now, and also live together whilst studying at University. Tell us a bit about each other. Who's the worst to live with? Which one of you wears the trousers in the studio? And what makes you such a good partnership?
Yeah we live together. We're in the lucky position to have a big house with two other guys from our Uni course. This means we're all into music and can all have a laugh. As for worst to live with - Mark has a suspect aversion to washing up; stuff tends to stay dirty for ages. Matt on the other hand, has a horrid habit of munching dry pasta - the crunching drives you mad!
We'd have to say one of the things that make us a good partnership is that neither of us really wears the trousers. We both have different opinions on things a lot of the time, but are good at compromising creating the best outcome.
AT: Do either of you have any secret Addiction's of your own?
No, but one of our housemates is addicted to a real-time computer game. Often having 30 hour playing stints, he only stops to order take-away or power-nap ready for the next 20 hour stint. Quite sad really.
AT: You've gone from remixing tracks in your bedrooms for your own pleasure to being dubbed as one the brightest new production duo's in Hard Dance history, all in less than 2 years!! What do you think has been the main contributing factor to your success? Is it simply just about making good music? Or is there more to it?
Well, thanks for your compliments. We do think the music is the key, and we are in the fortunate position that people like what we do. Although it's also about having fun, not taking anything too seriously - can't stand arrogant DJs.
AT: Where or who do you think your main musical influences and inspiration have come from?
Our influences come from all over, not just hard dance. Obviously there are people we look up to in the scene such as Nick Sentience, The Edison Factor and Greg Brookman but a lot of inspiration for our tracks come from other genres - house, breaks, electro, tech-trance and hardcore alongside dance artists such as Chemical Brothers, Prodigy and Daft Punk - all things that we've been listening to recently between us.
AT: I think it would be fair to say that no modern Hard Dance event would be complete without hearing at least several MDA & Spherical anthems unleashed on the Dance Floor throughout the night. With such an immense back catalogue now behind you, which tracks or remixes of your own are your personal favourites and why?
Matt: I think my favourite of all the tracks that we've produced together is probably one of our new ones, Dutch Courage. It's quite different and innovative and has seen some great reactions on the dance-floor already. It's due out very soon on Tranzlation.
Mark: I'd have to say out of everything we've ever done, it's got to be our remix of Phil York's Drop The Beatz Out on Tranzlation Whites. Funky, chunky and always goes off when played. Simply a feel-good party tune.
AT: Having spent the last year wetting ourselves over tracks like Illusion, and the massive remixes of Back to the Program and Drop The Beatz Out what new awesome productions of yours can we look forward to hearing in the near future?
There's quite a lot of exciting stuff coming up actually. On the remixes front we have a couple of bits in the pipeline with Phil York's various labels. There's Crank it Up by Technikal & JK on Tranzlation Whites, along with a remix of Nick Rowland's huge trancer Communicate on Nukearpuppy. We're also still waiting for the release of our debut remix on Masif records  Weekend by the legends Steve Hill & Technikal. Soon we'll be doing a huge remix of the current anthem U Got 2 Be There by new boys Adrenaline Dept. amongst many other projects.
As for original productions there's the aforementioned Dutch Courage on Tranzlation, Infiltrate Your Mind on Nu Religion and our Collaborations EP on Oblivion Recordings, featuring Tekamine and Phantasm done with Chrysus & Technikal.
AT: As well as the more serious production you've also been known to have a bit of fun, bootlegging house tracks like Call on Me and Out of Touch under your Beastie Snax alias. Have you any other production guises or pseudonyms? And do either of you produce music that falls into other genres?
It's always good fun knocking out the odd bootleg, and doing them under the Beastie Snax guise means it doesn't matter how shamelessly cheesy they are, just plain good fun! That's it for aliases at the moment, although we are both producing tracks in different genres separately. Matt's started to do a few hardcore tracks, with a debut release due on Relentless Vinyl shortly. Mark's delving into the tech-trance/tech-house/electro side of things with a couple of debut remixes on Magnetic records shortly.
AT: More and more artist's such as The Edison Factor and Technikal have been working on their own artist albums featuring both mixed and DJ friendly material. Have you any plans to work on something like this in the future?
Maybe in the distant future you never know, although at the moment we haven't physically got the time. Trying to fit in production along with the PA and DJing around Uni is quite a challenge as it is. It is definitely something we would like to do, and we're currently considering releasing a live album of the PA show at some point.
AT: You've just debuted your new LIVE PA, Welcome 2 The Future for Logic's 7th Birthday @ The Fridge and of course will be showcasing yet again at Addiction's 2nd Birthday in Sept. Featuring a live bass guitar & Jennie Rix on vocals this is no ordinary performance and must have taken a lot of planning and practise. How did things go on the night, and what new tricks will you have up your sleeve for the next instalment?
We're both over the moon with how it went and the reactions we received! Being the first time we've done it we didn't quite know what to expect. Luckily everything worked and Jennie did a fantastic job on vocals to polish it all off - the crowd loved her! It's basically given us a great platform to work from. The PA is all about evolution - we kept the first one quite simple but the possibilities are endless, only being limited by our imagination and our wallets. No two PA's will ever be the same and with more elements added it's just going to get bigger and better each performance.
AT: How does the PA differ to a normal DJ set? i.e. what are the pro's and con's ? And will you now feel restricted by the standard set up of CDJs, turntables and a mixer?
I think to a certain extent we will yes. There's just not as much you can do with them. The main downside to the PA is it takes a lot longer to set up, both at home and arriving at the club. However Logic proved that it's defiantly all worth it once you get up there on stage.
AT: You've been studying music degrees at University for the last two years. Now about to start your 3rd and final years have you given any thought to what the future may bring when you both finish next summer?
Hopefully lots more making music, more DJing and more PA's. Basically lots more of everything! Hopefully we will get the chance to get more involved with the industry and really push things forward.
AT: Apart from your beloved new residency what do you feel your biggest accomplishment to date has been ?
I think the biggest achievement to date (not forgetting the residency of course heh) has been organising and pulling off the PA, it was a lot of hard work so really meant something when it came together. Other than that having a release on Tidy was quite a big achievement for us.
AT: Who are you both tipping for the top? Be it Producers, DJs, Promotions or labels?
On the production front Michael Dow is making some splendid tech-trance, consistently impressed by his material. Edwin Van Cleef is another name that's soon to be on everyone's lips. The Dutch-ninja-pirate's productions have improved ten-fold in the last 12 months.
Labels-wise we'd have to say Oblivion Recordings; even though we may be slightly biased their release schedule is looking rather impressive.
AT: And finally guys what do you have to say to people that think Hard Dance and UK Hard Trance are on their way out?
Everything has its ups 'n' downs and at the end of the day it all goes round in circles (no pun intended). Even if Hard Dance does see a downturn in popularity in a couple of years it will be the new big thing again. It's going through resurgence. Some of the big names will leave or retire, and the artists that stay committed to the scene will end up being at the top.
Take a look at the Hardcore genre for example  5 years ago hardcore was a dirty word and the scene practically died. Now it's huge!
AT: Thanks very much for taking the time to answer these questions guys ! On behalf of the other residents and myself welcome to Addiction and we'll see you on Stage in September for the mother of all birthday parties!
Watch this space for more info on Addiction's 2nd Birthday coming very soon !!

Addiction
By Addiction in Interviews ·
  • 103 views

Pukk Up Interviews Nick 'Bodyrox' Bridges

Half of production duo Bodyrox, Ivor Novello Nominee Nick Bridges has been widely tipped as one of the UK's hottest young DJ/producers.
Having produced the biggest electro record of the Miami WMC 2006 with production partner Jon Pearn, Bodyrox 'Yeah Yeah' went on to become 'the club anthem of 2006' with the help of Luciana, spurring a new genre of house that journalists are calling 'Nu Rave'.
With specialist radio support from Pete Tong, Judge Jules, Fergie, Dave Pearce, Zane Lowe, Jo Whiley, Annie Mac, Edith Bowman, Annie Nightingale, Sarah Cox and Trophy Twins on Radio One alone, 'Yeah Yeah' smashed into the UK national chart in November 2006 at #2 (Radio One Playlist #1, Cool Cuts #1, Shazam Tag Chart #1, Beatport Download Chart #1, The Box Playlist #1).
With a further productions signed to majors (Positiva, Data, Phonetic & Eye Industries/Universal) for release later this year (including 'Sound of Eden' (DMC Buzz Chart #1, Cool Cuts #1)); and residencies at a number of the most famous and influential clubs in the World including MoS and Fabric London, 2007 is shaping up to be quite a year for Nick. We caught up with the jet setter to see what he has been up to.
Hey Nick, Hows it going ?
Im good thanks
How would you describe your music?
Electro and techno.
Your one half of Bodyrox who had a massive single last summer with Yeah Yeah How did that all come about and what can we expect next from you guys?
Yeah Yeah was the 2nd track we wrote together about 4 years ago. We had a number of remixes done to keep it fresh and invited Luciani to feature on it at the end of last summer. Weve been working on an number of things since which we are about to unleash this summer.
Before Bodyrox you already had a successful career and most noticeably a Ministry of Sound residency. What was it like to play there?
Ministry is one of the best clubs in the World. The atmosphere in the Box is pretty special.
Are you looking forward to playing for Pukka Up at Pacha this month? What can we expect ?
Yeah sure, Pacha is always good. You can expect some great electro and some of our latest material.
One look at your diary and we see your playing all over the world, where is your favourite place to play and why?
I do love playing in Mauritius because it is such an amazing island. There are loads of great places / clubs in the World. Macumba in Madrid greatoh, and Singapore is always good.
We see that you will be playing for Pukka Up over in Ibiza this year at Es Paridise, do you have any other big parties you will be playing at?
Im playing 5 parties for cream at amnesia this summer and for MN2S at El Divino which Im looking forward to.
Will we be seeing you at any festivals this year in the UK ?
Sure, you can catch us at Global Gathering, the Wildchild Festival in London and at the Electro, Techno and Breaks festival Human Zoo.
How did you come to dance music and why did you choose to be a DJ?
Not sure? No turning back now!!!
What other artists, and labels are you looking at, at the moment and thinking,  This is good ?
There are a lot of great young producers coming through the ranks now. Toolroom is consistently one of the best labels for breaking new music and new artists.
Your called the man of the moment today, who do you think will be the next big thing, any hot tips ?
Glasshouse Resident Daley Padley is producing some great underground tracks at the moment as is Anton Neumark and Will Bailey
Who are your influences?
Im influenced by different music every day.  Im really into this new generation of live bands at the moment.
Whats the best thing to happen to you this year?
Being nominated for an Ivor Novello award was amazing.
What drink should we be buying you at Pukka Up and will you be attending the boat party on the Thames?
Ive been asked to play on the boat but I will be flying back from Russia that morning so it depends if I make it in time. I think Ill probably be drinking water to flush out the vodka from the night before...
You can catch Nick in London on the Thames and then at Pacha for Pukka Up on 16th June
For more information visit
www.pukkaup.com
www.myspace.com/djnickbridges
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
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Jordy Lishious

Marco V Tipped Jordy Lishious as being the next best producer to come out of Holland for 2007. Marco V should be a Psychic as Jordy Lishious has had his 1st track Raw signed to Ministry of Sound Data Records! So when we heard that his UK debut was at The Honey Club we took the opportunity to interview Jordy to give you a better idea of who he is and what he thinks of the UK house scene.
Hi Jordy, thanks for taking the time to answer some questions.
Steve:   Who is Jordy Lishious?
Jordy: Err, how do I describe myself  Jordy Lishious is a nice guy that lives in the southern part of Holland, likes spending time with his friends and girlfriend, loves good movies, making music with my mate Boy and enjoys playing in front of an auspicious crowd!
Steve: How did you come up with the name Jordy Lishious?
Jordy: Actually, it wasnt my idea! Marcel Woods gets all the credits! I know him for a couple of years now, and we were brainstorming about my name. Eventually he came up with Jordy Lishious (Jordy Sgusting, Jordy Partment and Jordy Pneck werent that good Heheh) 😃
Steve: What have you been up to over the past few months?
Jordy: The last months we have been quite busy in the studio producing new tracks and remixes. Also Im very busy in the weekends, driving through Holland to play my music all over and Ive got my own radio show on XFM ( www.xfm.nl ) every Saturday from 9pm  10pm.
Steve: In your biog you talk about early memories of music. What influenced you to get hooked on house music?
Jordy: I think I discovered my true love for house music when I went to the first big party (Trance Energy in 2000) and when I started clubbing. One of the biggest clubs in my hometown The Talk of The Town had a marvellous resident-dj who really knew what good house-music was. He always played tracks nobody ever heard before (internet wasnt that big back then..) but nobody seemed to matter. The cool vibe and the good house music were the perfect elements for everyone who liked to party in the weekend!
Steve: How would you describe the Dutch Dance scene at the moment?
Jordy: Massive as in HUGE AS HELL!! Every weekend you can see your favourite big heroes throughout the country! House is just everywhere!! Sometimes it seems like theres an overkill of parties and clubs organizing their thing, like everyone wants to make a little money out of it.. I think the Dutch audience is a little bit spoiled because of that, but gladly there are still loads of clubbers where the true love for house music is still visible!!
Steve: Your UK debut is at Honey Club this weekend. What sound can the clubbers expect to hear from you?
Jordy: The music I like to play isnt just one type of house-music in my eyes. I like a good vocal-record, but also a nice rough techy-edged stomper! Its all about the dopeness!! House-music has to be danceable and has to bring a certain atmosphere with it. Im really looking forward to play for the UK crowd!! Please gimme a little feedback over there guys, haha!
Steve: What are your thoughts on the UK Dance scene?
Jordy: I think there a loads of people who really are into house and everything that has to do with it. Because Ive never experienced an UK party or something, I have to go with my feeling and the stories Ive heard of fellow-djs. So I can tell you a bit more after the weekend 😉
Steve: Do you think that the UK Club scene is ready for Jordy Lishious?
Jordy: I certainly hope so! It has been my dream for about all my life to travel the world and spreading (my vision of) good music. The UK is the capital of electronic music so I hope I can fit in!
Steve: I am loving your production especially your 1st track RAW. Where and from whom do you draw your inspiration from?
Jordy: Raw is the first track Boy Lamoen and I made under the Jordy Lishious pseudonym. I wanted to make a cool, dope house-track, but not with the standard electro sounds of this moment. It turned out to be a track with some rough synths, but also with a feel-good melody. Because there are so much tracks out there that just look like every other track, we wanted to do things a little bit different. We didnt want to make an exact copy of a big hit. But my sources of inspiration are people like Ren Amesz, of course Steve Angello and friends and every producer that makes original, quality house-music!
Steve: What was your reaction when you found out that Ministry of Sound Data Records where signing it?
Jordy: I couldnt believe the text-message I received from Dick (label-manager BeYourSelf Music former ID&T Music)!! I was shopping in the Ikea with my girl and was completely blown-away ( a few Pjotrs and Flrks are still in reparation, sorry for that) ! Even before I had the chance of realizing it, Boy called me in an instant. Its so cool to know that other people like the music you make and that they support you! Ministry is one of the worlds biggest house-labels so its a true honour to have a track of mine released over there!
Steve: What production software do you use to produce your tracks?
Jordy: We work with a MacG5 with Logic and a bunch of plug-ins. We only use internal software and softsynths.
Steve: What has been the high light of your career and why?
Jordy: There are so many things I can be thankful about. The fact Raw has been signed in the first place, and now has been licensed to M.O.S., my first time in the Escape in Amsterdam, my first foreign gig in Oslo, being asked to do a remix for Benjamin Bates, the massive gigs I had in the biggest club in Holland; The Matrixx, hearing that some of the biggest names in the industry are supporting your productions (Angello, Erick Morillo, MArtijn ten Velden, Dave Spoon, Marco V) and so on!
Steve: Tea or Coffee?
Jordy: Definitely Coffee! (Sometimes tea, but thats when I ran out of coffee)
Steve: What is the ring tone on your mobile at the moment?
Jordy: The theme from Super Mario 3 from the SNES! Nostalgia to the max !
Steve: If you could be a super hero who would you be and why?
Jordy: Not so much a super hero, but the first thing I can come up with is SpongeBob! In my eyes hes a true hero, haha! Ive got all of the seasons DVDs at home and I love to check a few episodes every once in a while. Really my type of humour.
Steve: What is the next instalment for Jordy Lishious production?
Jordy: The new Jordy Lishious track will have some more accents on the beats. We want to make a track that will rock the floors instantly, with some minimal beats in the break and some hyped-up synths which will start rocking as the break will set trough! Im pretty happy with the first arrangement we made last week. Hopefully we both can find some more time this week to finish the first version. So maybe Ive got something exclusive for this weekends UK gig!
Steve: Finally, If you had one week to live what would the 5 things you would do before you met your maker?
Jordy: Hmm, a tough question.. Actually, Im aware of the fact that every day can be your last, so my goal is to do as much things that I can that I like to do.. But I definitely would like to see some certain places and spots in the USA. Id like to take a parachute-jump once, spend as much time as I can with my girl, closest friends and relatives, play at the ultimate gig and thats about it I think! Im already quite happy now 😃
Excellent, Thank you for your time Jordy and all the best for the future.
You can catch Jordy Lishious on Saturday 09 June - Sin City @ The Honey Club  Brighton.
Also playing will be Mantana and The Drunken Punks.
ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
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Interview with David Piccioni - Space, Ibiza Resident DJ

Both Azuli Records and David Piccioni are two names synonymous with house music. What began as a hobby soon turned into a full time job, a DJ career, London’s leading record store and one of the leading dance labels in the world! On the eve of the release of Dave’s latest mix album ‘Azuli Presents Space Ibiza’ we caught up with the man behind the label to get an insight into the history of one of the greatest labels in house music, their plan for Ibiza 2007 and of course the new album!
First of all - Azuli presents Space Ibiza 07 – features the biggest tunes for Summer 2007. Can you explain how you picked the tracks for the album?
I go away to a hot climate, spend all day on a beach drinking and imagine what it will be like in mid summer Ibiza, and then it all seems to fit into place!  (In my dreams…) Actually it’s a combination of word of mouth and keeping a close ear to the ground. Records that break in Ibiza have usually been bubbling under or even lying dormant since March/ April and sometimes before.
What is your favourite track on the album?
Guy J  - Agent Blue - I’m loving the warm electro sound at the moment
What was your first taste of the DJ lifestyle and why did you decide to make it your full time career?
I don’t think anyone can make such a decision, it just happens, a hobby turns into something better!
Azuli is one of the most prolific labels in dance music, when did you start it and did you ever think it would become such a benchmark for dance music?
I started it in 1990 and always expected it to last ‘just another year’; in fact I probably still think that now!
Do you still actively get involved in the day to day running of Black Market Records and if so, do you find it difficult juggling the shop, label and hectic world-wide DJ schedule?
I just recently sold my share of the shop to my friend and the manager Goldie. It was hard juggling it all and did get too much after 16 years but than all the DJ’ing/ shop/ label stuff is all linked so the info and knowledge you get from one helps the other.
As mentioned, Azuli label has been around for a while - how do you and the business stay successful? Any tips for the next few individuals hoping to open a record label or become a DJ?
I think with music you have to have one eye on the creative, have creative principles and put out what you know and love. On the other hand, you have to have one eye on the commercial realities of the situation and always adapt a bit or bend to what people want. It’s a tough balancing act but can be done. Advice is to do it because you love the music, and treat it as a sideline, if it grows and you can pack in your day job, great!
Do you think it is viable for new labels to start in the current market?
It’s all different now, it’s easier to set up from your home on a computer but I couldn’t imagine setting up a new dance label with offices and all that stuff
What does your mum think about your career choice?
She keeps asking me where all the records are made when my office is so small and has no machines in it. I think she’s still waiting for me to get a proper job.
You have a summer residency at Space in Ibiza this summer; tell us more about what you have planned?
A fairly diverse but cutting edge schedule of DJ’s and lots of light-hearted fun!
Do you ever get DJ fright and if so, what happens to you?
Not any more – with maturity comes the realisation that you do your best, and if some people like it that’s great, but there will always be people that don’t, and that’s fine too.
What made you decide to move to Ibiza?
It’s my spiritual home. (And I have a great motorbike there!)
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Pretty damn cheap
What is the worst DJ experience you have ever had?
In my dreams actually, I have this recurring dream that i'm playing to loads of people and I cant decide what to play and the record finishes, I continue to look through my records furiously but everyone leaves. Can’t say it’s ever happened though!
Where is the most enjoyable place for you to spin?
Familiar places where you know the crowd and they know you – for me Azuli at The Cross/ Echoes in Riccione/ Alter Ego Verona and Cavo in Mykonos
What are the future plans for you and Azuli?
To make it to 20 years for Azuli (4 years left!)
Finally... anything else you would like to plug?
http://www.kiva.org its good to give something back – and there's no better way to do it.
Thanks Dave for your time!
Azuli Presents Space Ibiza is out now on Azuli Records – for more info visiting  http://www.azuli.com
ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
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The Gallery interviews Kuffdam ahead of his debut this Friday

1. Kuffdam you are making your Gallery debut this Friday in the main room alongside Dave Seaman, Tall Paul, Matthew Dekay for those who may not know you, give us the lowdown, who, what and why?
Well I’m one half of the production team Kuffdam & Plant and we are currently signed to Paul Van Dyk’s label Vandit Records. Away from the production work, I have been DJ’ing now for well over 10 years. Normally my sound would be described as a mixture of prog, psy and of course trance.
2. You are one half of production duo Kuffdam and Plant, so what have you guys got coming up in terms of productions
I’ll let you in on a secret, we’re working on our debut album just now. We have a selection of new tracks fully finished and we are just putting the last touches to some others over the next couple of months. I’ve no idea of a release date just yet but its all coming together really well. We’re certainly excited about it.
3. You have already played at Gallery twice before as part of the Kuffdam and Plant Live sets in the Vaccine room, how is your dj set different in terms of music and approach?
Rather than just focusing on all K&P tracks during the live show we do, the DJ set lets me explore the kinds sounds that really get me going. I’m a really big fan of trance but I’m also influenced by electro to psy so I like to blend these kinda sounds into my set. What you can expect from me as a dj is something unique, diverse and roof raising.
4. Tell us about your Club Damage Radio show, you have recently moved into podcasting like us here at The Gallery is it a useful medium?
Club Damage is the brand for my radio show which airs monthly on the massive Digitally Imported network www.di.fm. The show has been running now for over 2 years and I’ve had guests like John O’Callaghan, Marc Van Linden and John OO Flemming on to perform with me during the broadcasts. Pod Damage is just an expansion of the Damage brand onto the Podcast format. I’m now up to Episode 6 and I have just moved web servers to handle the amount of downloads and subscribers the show was getting. The most recent episodes were hitting in the region of 800 to 900 downloads a month so now we can meet that demand and keep everyone that wants to listen happy. Anyone wishing to listen in can visit http://feeds.feedburner.com/KuffdamPresentsPodDamage for more info.
5. You are signed to Vandit records run by the main man himself Mr Paul Van Dyk can you tell us what you have coming up and what he is really like for us mere mortals?
Well the album is our main project right now and Vandit have been great at helping us with the process. Most of the work has been done in our own studio in Cyprus but PVD and the guys at the label are always on hand to have a listen to ideas, give suggestions and generally just help out. We are excited about the project and can’t wait to get it finished and our there for people to hear.
6. Which three records best define you as a person?
Ok I’m gonna be different here…. Its all about music for me…
Binary Finary – 1999 (Gouryella Mix)
Metallica – Seek & Destroy
Stone Roses – I Wanna Be Adored
3 massive tracks that sum up everything I love….
7. Can you tell us a little bit about what you have lined up for the summer months?
Summer = exciting
I’m really buzzing about the summer months, Lets start with this debut in the main room at The Gallery. I’ve been to the club many times as a fan and a performer so playing the main room is gonna be huge to me….
Ibiza is back for K&P, we are playing Eden with Vaccine Ibiza alongside Marc Van Linden, Martin Roth, Haris C, Frase and the Vaccine ressies in Sept.
I’m also just putting the finishing touches on my first dates in Australia which will be a dream come true…
All in all its shaping up very nicely…
8. If you had to take 3 people on a desert island, dead or alive who would they be and why?
I’m going for the brownie points here at home
1. My girlfriend (She’s the best company in the world)
2. Ally McCoist (He’d be a cracking laugh and good for a kick about on the beach)
3. Johnny Cash (Good for a drinking session and a sing song)
9. Summer is holiday season central so whats the strangest place you have ever visited and why?
It has to be Doha in the Middle East. I was booked to play this massive tent in the desert for 1000 people. The guy running the event was from Scotland of all places which seemed funny to me. I arrived in the morning and the pilot said that it was 52 degrees outside as we were leaving the plane…. 52 degrees… I’m Scottish… I’m pale blue in colour, it takes me a week of sun to turn white… I can’t live in 52 degrees of heat…
10. And finally what does it all mean in no less than 10 words?
LETS FUCKING HAVE IT!!!
(Work that out)
More info at www.turnmills.co.uk/gallery
www.kuffdamandplant.net
ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
  • 583 views

Kurd Maverick Interview for Pukka Up

Cihan Oetuen better known as Kurd Maverick is a German based house music producer who first rose to fame with his legendary remake of "Pump Up The Jam" (by the D.O.N.S. Ft Technotronic) released by Ministry UK. This mix was really unique for crossing from club to radio not just in the UK and Europe but also in the USA where it was championed by Erick Morillo. Soon after that it wasnt lonf till Cr2 snapped up The Rub that took Kurd in to even more Djs boxes. Kurd has achieved support from such names as Roger Sanchez, Pete Tong and Deep Dish to name but a few with an ever growing following. He has remixed Robbie Williams "Lovelight", Basement Jaxx "Take Me Back To Your House", Bob Sinclar "Everybody Movin" and countless others including Erick Morillo, Paul Johnson, Steve Mac and Full Intention. 
Kurd DJs all over the world from Columbia to Brazil, London to Paris and in his home town of Dsseldorf. Look out for exciting new productions coming soon on Cr2 Records and Kontor/Opaque from this consistently fresh and unique talent. This summer sees the release of a complilation album on Cr2 and Kurd is over in the UK to help promote the Album. We managed to catch up with him ahead of his Official Album release party for Pukka Up at Pacha..
Tell us whats new in the world of Kurd Maverick.
I am working on my first album ! Watch out in 2008 !
What have you been up to recently in Europe and further a field ?
Your playing at Pukka Up for the Official launch of your new compilation album on Cr2 with Dirty South, tell us a bit about that and how it came about.
I love the stuff coming out on cr2, so Mark Brown asked me if I would like to mix one of the live & direct cds and that was a easy decision for me.
Whats your favourite track the Album ?
K3 - Play To Win - Danny Freakazoid Remix & my remix of Tim Deluxe - Let The Beats Roll
The huge Track "Pump Up The Jam" (by the D.O.N.S. Ft Technotronic) really announced you on to the scene. What was it like to have the biggest Djs in the world playing your track ?
Thats an amazing feeling but you get addicted to it. You want the same with evey track you produce !
What`s your favorite country to play in (and why)?
I love to play in South America, the people are very hungry for some fresh beats, but I love to play in Germany as well because I have the most fun with my friends. but its not easy with a very busy schedule. I am looking forward to my Australia tour in September! I play a lot in Spain where I have really fun every time.
What do you think of the UK scene at the moment?
Im not playing that much in UK to give any comments.
Where is your favorite place to play in the UK?
London is great! But im sure there are more wonderful places which I havent visited yet.
If you could only play one more club ever, what club would it be and what other DJs would be playing?
Space Opening or Closing and Pacha Ibiza with Carl Cox, R. Sanchez, Morillo, Guetta, Sinclar.
Why do you think you`ve been successful as a DJ?
Because i am talented. Mixture between all the house music styles but in a good way. And of course I love the music I play which is real.
And as a producer?
Because of my parents. they gave me a very good ear for music.
What do you prefer (producing or DJing)?
Right now producing, because its really a hard job to fly and play all around the world. Im still trying to find the good way for both
What do you like to do away from dance music?
Vacation :-), producing all music styles that I want. Sports and of course my family!
Tell us something about you that not many people know?
Its not possible to tell. People have to meet me to have an idea what kind of human I am
What have you got coming up in the future?
Lets Work has been released now on Cr2. Next single ist called Strings Of Tortuga. I did remixes for Out Of Office, Tim Deluxe and Bob Sinclar and I am working on my album which is coming out in 2008 and a track together with Roger Sanchez this summer in Ibiza. Live & Direct Compilation on Cr2.
What can we expect from you at your Album launch party for Pukka Up?
Getting Dirty !!! SEE YOU THERE !!
www.pukkaup.com
www.crrecords.co.uk
www.myspace.com/kurdmaverick
Kurd Maverick will be playing at Pukka Up on 21st July at Pacha in London to launch his new album on Cr2
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 330 views

Interview with The Sick! Dj's ahead of their massive launch at SEone this Saturday

We catch up with John Koopa, one of the guys behind the electro night that's taking London by storm Sick! On the Dancefloor   and ask him a few questions ahead of Sick's big SeOne launch party this Saturday.
Please introduce yourself ?
I'm Koop and I run the night with my best mates Dominic Clark & Andy Burby.   Myself and Dom are clubbing randoms I guess, we met monging out on the sofas in Key Club just over two years ago.    We instantly became regulars on the Kings Cross clubbing scene and developed a real passion for the music.     With Andy, we had heard good things about him through a friend.   We invited him down to play for our opening party.   We immediately clicked and as soon as he played for us, we knew we had to bring him on board.  
Andy's from West london, Doms from South London and I hop between   North London & Leeds.   Collectively we are known as the Sick!Djs.
What are your roles and who does what?
Andy's more of your music man, so he controls the technical side of things and our music policy - looking for new talent, headliners etc.     Dom takes care of a lot of our operations and is responsible for creating most of the buzz on the internet.    I'm responsible for visualising our brand,   and design all the promotional artwork.   Generally though, we all tend to do a bit of each others jobs.
Tell us about your Flyers, they're Sick!
Ha ha, Thats the whole idea.   Its meant to shock you.   Too many flyers you see, despite looking pretty, don't really tell you enough about what theyre offering.   The idea was to create something different and eye catching, yet instantly tell people what we're about - in our case, disgusting house music.    
The actual photoshoot itself was hilarious. The sick was made up from mayonnaise, custard, pasta,   minestrone soup and spicy pot noodle! Oh and i left some full sized carrots in for the comedy effect!   I booked out a studio and got 3 glamour models down for the shoot.   The main girl who features in our flyers, is actually an actress and former page 3 model.   It was a bit of a shock when I told her we'd be filthing her up.   By the end she got right into it and was smearing it all over her!  
Where did the idea to put on your own night   come from ?
We'd notice when out dancing, pretty much every Dj, at somepoint would throw in really dull, monotonous tunes, which would take the wind out of your sails', as we called it, and force you off the dancefloor.   As if the set required some sort of filler tune. We were amazed why no Dj had the balls to keep the energy up, and give the crowd what they actually wanted to hear, which was banger after banger.  
Myself and Dom, whilst in a hedonistic state, would talk about putting a night on where every tune would be an absolute beast, and you'd never give anyone a chance to leave the dancefloor.   Then one day I was in a club in Muswell hill and the owner asked if we fancied putting on a party in his club on a Sunday.   The rest is history.
How did the name Sick! On the Dancefloor come about?
When we started off, we were looking for a name that really summed up the dirty electro sound.   We played with the idea of 'filth' which was then developed   into Filthy Beautiful.    By then though, there seemed to be a serious oversaturation of the word Dirty or Filthy, which had been popularised to describe this style of music.    You hear a lot of Djs or Promotions using these words in their names.
Then one weekend, I had been out on a standard 24 hour sesh and bundled on to Soshos, Sunday evening.    I was dancing with some girl about to go in for the kill and suddenly started rushing like I was gonna be sick. I waited for her to turn her head and   was   promptly sick on the dancefloor, by her feet.     She later discovered my mess and offered me her toothbrush, which she said she always kept on her when she goes clubbing!   Classy girl!  
Sick! On the Dancefloor has developed its own musical style hasnt it?
Quite simply, the most disgusting, ferrocious, upfront electro house music anywhere.   In terms of production, think Will Bailey or Blende from Plasmapool.  
There's no filler tunes in our bag, all the boring empty sounding tunes are thrown out,     We don't want to show an appreciation of every single sub genre of Electro house music.   We cut out all the bullshit and just give relentless, hands-in-the-air music all night.  
What has been the most memorable Sick! moment?
We have had some absolute belters in the last 18 months.     But i think the most memorable moment has to be at Canvas.   We were playing the back room, supporting a massive promotion over from Ibiza, which had a seriously big name Dj playing.   We completely emptied out   the mainroom, to the point where they had to close off the room.    There was a bit of a Superstar Dj tantrum and we had to turn off our music for 2 hours to let him play in our room.   Most of the crowd, were so pissed off that they sat on the dancefloor with their backs turned in protest until we were allowed back on!
Tell us a bit about what to expect @ SeOne on 18th August?
Were gonna leave the club stretch marks!    This isn't just any other Sick! party.    This is the launch party of our own venue and we've gone all out for this one, to make it our best party to date.   At SeOne, weve got the most banging arch, and with Filthy Rich, Will Bailey, and Ed Kane, we have the best line-up anywhere in London that night plus a crowd of the friendliest, most up for it clubbers anywhere around.    Picture 500 people all with hands in the air, stomping to absolute filthburger tunes all night.
If you've been to any of our events and enjoyed them, make sure you come to this, as this will be like nothing you've seen from us before.   Expect the most banging night out you've had for a long time. 
How did you feel about landing Will Bailey as resident?
 Were made up.  Will is us to a T.  His production is first class but he's also a superb DJ.  When I first heard a bit patchy in a bar in leeds I ran up to the Dj booth and asked the DJ to give me the CD!  I knew then we had to get him on  board.   We managed to track him down and hopefully now Will is a big part of our future. 
And finally what are your top 5 tunes that sums up Sick !  
Moby: Dream about me (Sebastian Ingrosso remix) Blende (Plasmapool):  I wanna Rock Will Bailey: Freak / A bit patchy Alex Connors:  Trust Switch: This is Sick! "Once you pop your cherry, you'll be a Sick! Whore forever"
10 Advanced Tickets are still available from www.ticketweb.co.uk
Or you can get on our   concession Guestlist:   info@sickdjs.com
www.myspace.com/sickonthedancefloor
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 369 views

Kaz 'Bodyrockers' James Interview for Pukka Up

Kaz James is 24, a fact that probably wont provoke an instant reaction from you right now, except what Kaz has achieved in his life so far is astonishing. Best known for his position as one half of DJ/Production duo Bodyrockers, Kaz was a main catalyst for supplying us with one of the most anthemic tracks to be released so far in the 21st century. I Like The Way You Move is a record that uniquely fuses together house and rock to create a distinctive sounding track that took international dancefloors by storm and catapulted Kaz into superstar DJ status.  
1. How did you get into DJing?
I've always loved music, even from a young age and learnt a lot of instruments but the music we learnt at school was boring shit like happy birthday. I really wanted to play stuff I liked... So that's where it all started.
2. What makes your style of DJing unique?
I tend to mix a lot of genres like rock with electronic hip hop with electronic. I play a lot of records that other DJs wouldn't dream of playing in a club.
3. What do you do when you're not DJing? 
In the studio, sleepin or on a plane nursing a bad hangover.
4. What music do you listen to?
Everything not really dance more crossover stuff I really listen to a lot of rock and hip hop
5. Who's on your DJ dream team?
Francois k, juniour sanchez, danny tenaglia, tony de vit and a lot more don't wanna get anyone up set
6. What was the most expensive night you've ever enjoyed in London? And who was paying? Some how I always end up paying its fuckin mad.. And how much who knows there's been a lot of nights.
7. And the cheapest?
When its free booze. I love to drink!
8. What's your favourite festival?
Not sure they all blur into one but I still love playing summa field dayze in my hometown melbourne
9. What's the most unique venue in London in your opinion?
To too many no idea, oh the toilet in shoreditch is wicked its an old converted public toilet.    They use it for after hours sunday mornings its proper rock n roll but not sure if you consider it a mind blowing venue.
10. Describe your perfect day and night in London, naming venues  restaurants, bars, etc.?
Not sure really just where ever I end up don't like plan stuff but I do love eating at Locatelli's restaurant its pretty special!
Top 5 Tracks
DJ Rolando  Jaguar - A must have in every box. Thick Dick - Welcome To The Jungle - The beats are massive. Mousse T  Love Is What We Need  Dub Mix - This is timeless soulful and has a great vibe. Whirlpool Productions  From Disco To Disco - Proper tune! Underworld  Born Slippy - Need I say more? Tracks to ...
Start the night
Martin Solveig  Se:Sa - I start funky so I prefer stuff like this. Keep the energy levels up
Sanchez, Axwell, Sinclar and Guetta - I think my own tracks are definitely what I need when Im on the dancefloor. But these are my favourite producers. End the night
Paul Harris  Going Deeper - This and more electro  I love the stuff!
  FOR GUESTLIST INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT KIRSTY@PUKKAUP.COM OR VISIT WWW.PUKKAUP.COM

Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 333 views

Delicious DK Land With a Bang in the UK

Danish duo Delicious get interviewed before their imminent bid to conquer the UK’s clubs…
We have to confess they’re new to our world, but when Delicious delivered some hot new production for our listening pleasure, they landed on the UK radar with a hefty thump. The Danish duo of Denise and Karina have been making music together since 2001. They’ve DJed at practically every venue and event in Denmark, hosted a house show on Kiss Fm Nordic, run Get Down, a house night at Rust, one of Denmark’s most established venues, and started up their own label, Lekker Records.
Delicious have also been holding down residencies all over Europe, including daily sessions at Bay Bar in Ibiza for the entire 2005 season, and regular slots at the Parisian clubs Manray, Madam and Redlight.
Their first single, a collaboration with Kid Massive, was released on UK house label Illegal Beats, then French label Paradise picked up Yours, a track which featured vocals from Tiger Lily. Their latest single, 3rd Floor, is a collaboration with Danish producer Jan W, released on UK label Soundslike. Now the girls are on the verge of moving to Britain – we caught up with them to find out why they are coming to the UK...
: Hey Guys, can you introduce yourselves please.
We are Denise and Karina - together the dj and producer team Delicious. We have been playing since 2001 and are originally from Denmark, but are currently living in Paris and are about to move to UK.
: The last year has been pretty amazing you must be pleased with your progress?
Yes we are very pleased. It has been a really amazing year, travelling and playing in so many different countries. When we first started DJ’ing we were only playing in clubs in Denmark. But the club scene in Denmark is not very big, so it was nice to play in new clubs and for people we had never seen before.
: What has been the recipe to your success?
We would like to think that it is our passion to music and our good ears for tracks, but there are a lot of good djs and producers out in the world, so down to all it must also being in the right places on the right times and meeting a lot of great people, who has all believed in us. We are also very lucky to have each other. We are childhood friends, and know everything about each other. It has been a big advantage both when working and travelling together.
When we started DJ’ing in Denmark, there was not many girls playing, and as we were young when we started, people noticed us a lot, which probably helped a lot to start with, but we always knew that was not enough, we had to be good, and be able to deliver just the same as all the other DJ’s. We wanted to be taken seriously. We have always had a big passion for electronic music, from we were 14 years old, we went out together to techno and drum’n’bass parties in Copenhagen. We fell in love with housemusic on a trip to Ibiza, and that’s in a way what started things for us.
: In your short career you’ve played at most of world’s top venues and clubs, is there anywhere you haven’t played that you’d particularly like to?
We would like to play in Brazil and Japan, not any specific club or venue, just somewhere in those countries J we have heard so much about these places. It would also be a great experience to play in some of the big festivals in the UK.
: You hold residencies at some of the top house nights in the Europe, do you feel you have to vary your sound much between them?
No only a bit. Usually when the club books you, they know your sound, but of course we always adjust to each club, because not two nights are the same and there is a slightly difference in which tracks the crowd knows in the different countries. Some places you can take it more dirty than others.
: What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
It must have been our release of “Yours” featuring Tiger Lily in France. The track got on more than 20 compilations, and played in the main radio station Radio FG. It was amazing to know that our track was out to that many people. Having big support from a lot of respected dj’s. Also having regular gigs at Redlight, one of the best clubs in Paris. Playing Privilege, Pacha, Space and Café mambo in Ibiza and joining the Privilege World Tour.
: What releases have you got coming up?
One of our next releases will be on our own recordlabel Lekker Records. It is the track “A New Love” with vocals from Roxanne Wilde who is the sister of Kim Wilde. We will have some cool remixes done.
: You use a lot of your own material in your sets but which other DJs and producers are doing it for you right now?
We really like Axwell’s productions, they have so much energi and always makes the crowd go wild. We also enjoy the stuff from Mark Knight, Dave Spoon, and Swedish Ali Payami.
: Do you play your music mainly off vinyl or CDs?
We only play with cd´s. Until two years ago we also played vinyl, but that changed fast. When most clubs invested in the Pioneer cdj-1000 it became so much better and easier to play with cd´s and today most promos you receive through email. The bonus is that you wont get back aches and lose the records in the airport.
: How did you learn to mix, was it vinyl decks or CDJs?
We learned to mix with vinyl, it was not before 2 years ago we started to play mainly with cd’s. Everything changed a lot in the industry, and buying music online got easier. We love the Pioneer CD-J’s, the effects you can make on them, and how easy they are to work with.
: What advice do you have for aspiring DJs out there looking to get into dance music?
You have to be where things are happening and get to know people, but if you are really into it and have the passion, you cant help going to parties and clubs with dance music and listening to dance music on the radio and maybe go to record shops. Today the internet is definitely also very useful. You can buy all the music online, talk to other djs and producers in chatforums and have a Myspace profile, as an artist it will work as your own website.
: If you weren’t DJing what would you be doing?
Working with music in some other way then. Record label, nightclub, anything with music. Karina used to work for a label in Denmark called “Music For Dreams” and Denise was doing PR/Marketing for a nightclub in Denmark called Rust. We can’t imagine not working with music J
: What is the best thing about this DJing lark?
It is definitely the music and the travelling. To play all the music you like for other people and when listening to a track gives you goose bumps and then there will be a whole crowd getting the same feeling. We love the travelling, to see all the cities in the different countries and meeting some great people.
: And the worst?
It is sitting in an airport waiting for 10 hours with no sleep from the night before, lost luggage and flight delays or cancellation. Luckily we only tried once to call a club from the airport that we couldn’t come because of a flight cancellation. Also it can be very hard for the body and mind with no sleep, not if you are partying in a club, but when you have to be serious and make sure you catch your flight, we have tried lots of those where you have to go directly from the club to the airport.
: What do you think of the UK scene?
You have the most integrated dance scene in the world, we would say.   Most English people know and like dance music and for example when a track hits MTV in the UK it will still be an underground track in some other countries. You are the leading in many things in dance music, magazines, radios, clubs, festivals and even your grandmother would know that you can have a carrier in being a producer and dj.
: Will you be partying over here as well as working?
Yes, we will definitely go out to a lot of parties in UK, enjoy our selfs and get inspired. We know that the English people really know how to party! We can’t wait to go out in UK.
: What is your favourite thing about the UK?
As we answered before, we think that UK has a great club scene, but not only that, we also think that English people has a great sense of humour and is always very polite J We hope that’s the case.

: What’s next for Delicious?
First of all we are moving to UK. We are very excited about that and are looking forward to play in some of your great clubs. We will be part of a club night called Audio Damage touring various clubs. We have some releases coming up and we are starting up our own record label called Lekker Records. And on top of our European gigs, we will play in China and on the Mauritius Island next to Africa.   
To find out more information on Delicious please visit
www.delicious.dk and www.myspace.com/deliciousdjs
Management www.whosyamama.com
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 320 views

An interview with D-Joust Champion 2007 - Dr Fish

It was way back in April that the buzz started to pick up around The D-Joust 2007 but Danny and Jim had been working hard behind the scenes since October 2006 to get everything prepared and sponsorships secured.
With a DJ mag article coming out in May the mixes started to flood in with over 400 entrants from places as far a France and Belgium and even one from Africa! Things were certainly looking good…
Slowly over the months, every CD was listened to and finally the team managed to whittle it down to 24 DJs. These DJs battled it out to win many prizes from the sponsors including 500 Downloads and an Opportunity to mix a digital album to be released for sale from DJDownload, a residency at Origami at the White House, a production course from 16 Steps, a Main stage set @ The BPM Exhibition and many more!
It’s all over now for 2007 and what a close call it was. Respected DJs and promoters scored the entrants at every event from July until the final on Nov 9th and Ben Matthews was crowned D-Joust Champion 2007 following in the footsteps of the very successful Janette Slack who won in 2006.
There is certainly more to come from this very respectable competition, so much so I hear they are already in the planning stages for 2008!
I caught up with Ben to find out abit more about him and also see what his hopes are for the future.
Hi Ben. First of all, congratulations on winning the D-Joust 2007. So what is it to be... Ben Matthews or Dr Fish?
My name's Ben Matthews but my DJ name is Dr Fish and there's an interesting story behind it. Basically I was living in Australia with some mates in a pikey caravan, surfing and bumming about. One day, when we went surfing, my mate ended up getting drilled onto the rocks and split his head open. We took him to the hospital and got him stitched him up and then they asked us for 200 dollars for the treatment. At the time we were absolutely broke so couldn't pay. The hospital agreed to let us go on the condition we paid when he came back, to have the stitches out. By the time they were ready to be removed we still had no money, so I ended up getting roped into taking the stitches out of his scalp for him. Not a nice job. As I was doing it another of my mates randomly came out with the name 'Dr Fish' as I have a degree in marine biology, and we all pissed ourselves laughing and the name just kind of stuck from that point on.
Did you have faith in yourself and think that you’d ever make it to the final?
 I had faith in my ability and my music but didn’t really expect to get through the first round being up against some great DJs that are pretty well known and regulars at some of the big clubs. When I won that, I knew I had a good chance of making it to the final.
You seem to have a pretty loyal following in Bournemouth so much so they you had quite a crowd that made the trek to support you in the heats and Semis – Is this simply because you paid them or do you play a fair bit down there?!
Admittedly they weren’t really my friends at all but a group of actors I hired at www.hiresomematesyouloner.com, it cost me a fair bob but I think everyone agrees they did a sterling job? But no, I had an amazing group of people that came along to support me so a massive thanks to all of them. The Dorset crew have been supporting and spurring me on for years since hearing my mix tapes years back. I’ve spent the last three years in France so they haven’t seen me play out much back in the Shire until this summer, so they were all well up for it. I also had a lot of people I met through my travels that live in London come along as well which was ace. The only condition the Dorset crew gave me for their support was that I had to win so thankfully I didn’t let them down. They can get a bit nasty those Dorset folk if you upset them.
And how long have you been playing for? Has it always been breaks you have favored and if so do you have any breakbeat heros?
I’ve been playing for about 7 years now. I’ve played loads of styles from funk, hip hop, and breaks, to electro, trance, and techno, but my main passion is most definitely with the breaks these days. I love the way breaks take elements from so many different types of music, before churning them back out with phat beats and bass.
A Skillz has to be my favorite DJ/Producer, that boy rocks it every time! I’m digging Hexadecimal as well at the moment, great producer and bloody good DJ, he smashed it at Glade! Other personal favorites are The Rogue Element, Drummatic Twins, Ctrl Z and Vandal .
You’ve won some pretty cool prizes. Did any particular one spur you on to enter the competition or were you just out for the fun of it all?
The prizes were wicked this year so I’m really stoked, although I didn’t . I mainly entered as I wanted to see how I’d compare to other DJs, and to get the chance to meet some promoters and gain some exposure.
One of the Prizes was a set at the BPM DJ Exhibition.. How did that go, you must have been pretty exhausted as that was after a heavy night of celebrating?
BPM was great, I got to play the main stage alongside some great DJs such as the DMC boys, and got to wander about looking at lots of DJ stuff! We got free beer in the VIP bar as well which was quite cool. But yea was a tiring weekend, needless to say we celebrated the win until about 9am saturday morning, drove back to Dorset in the afternoon, celebrated some more and then drove all the way up to Derby and back on the Sunday.
Do you see yourself going far with the production side of things?
 I’m looking forward to learning more about production. I really enjoy making music so I can definitely see myself spending a lot of time on it in the future. As well as wanting to produce my own original tracks and remixes, I want to get into making my own cheeky bootleg/mash up stuff specifically to use in my DJ sets like artists such as A Skillz and Nick Thayer.
What have you got coming up any gigs in the pipeline off the back of all of this?
I’ve had a fair bit of interest since winning and have got some good gigs in the pipeline for the new year. One of my favorite breaks nights ‘Break Da House’ in Bournemouth have said they’ll get me in for a set which is great as they put on some massive nights with DJs such as Krafty, Plump’s, Stanton’s, Evil 9, and Meat Katie on a regular basis. I’m also playing alongside the Loose Cannons at the Whitehouse on NYE which is going to be wicked.
Tell me about your most ego boosting, self-satisfying, proudest moment.
Successfully boardsliding a 25ft C Rail in the Alpe D’Huez snowpark a couple years ago. I think only a couple of people made it all season. It boosted my confidence in my own ability as I never thought I would ever be able to do something like that, and one day gave it a go for a laugh and made it after a few tries. Definitely helped me realize that we can sometimes do things we never imagined we could.
What unfulfilled ambitions do you have?
To play the Glade Festival and Fabriclive. To do a cage dive with a great white. To do a solo skydive. To do a surf trip through Indonessia, Western Australia, and New Zealand. And to have a threesome with Scarlett Johansen and Natalie Portman.
Quick fire Round:
What three words describe you as a person?
Enthusiastic, Fun, Handsome!
What do you like to do with your spare time?
I don’t really seem to get a lot of spare time these days, but when I do I like to eat, drink cider, cook, surf, snowboard, dig for records, go out clubbing, visit friends, watch paint dry.
What the strangest thing you have seen in a club?
One time I was a bit worse for wear at the Fridge in Brixton. I was on the dance floor and thought I could see a table and chair amongst the smoke. I thought it might be nice to rest for a bit so sat down to find it wasn’t a chair at all and was some poor lad picking up some money he’d dropped on the floor. He wasn’t best pleased with me.
Tell us your best Joke.
I’m really crap at remembering jokes, Um, what does doing a bungee jump and sleeping with a hooker have in common? If the rubber snaps your fucked!
 Thanks a lot Ben. Look forward to hearing more from you in the future.
Head to the DJ-oust site to download all the mixes form the DJoust 2007:
http://www.djoust.com/web/djoust/downloads.aspx
All Pics by Peds:
http://www.dontstayin.com/members/peds

Interview by Bugbitten Promotions:

ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
  • 313 views

Interview with Seb Fontaine ahead of Type @The Island, Saturday 1st December 2007)

For the last seven years it’s been the undisputed jewel in London’s clubbing crown, Now Type announces the next chapter in its history with a massive new residency at the capital’s hottest underground club, The Island.
Saturday December 1st sees Seb Fontaine, Cicada, Luke Dzierzik, Damian Wilson, Jay P, Zak Radak and Stimpy take on the full force of The Island’s phenomenal FunkTion 1 sound system and clubbers are already beating down the doors in anticipation.
To get you in the mood for what promises to be a sensational night of some seriously hot house music and deliciously dirty groove, we managed to catch up with international legend and all-round nice guy Seb…
You’re moving your residency to new club The Island. We saw you down there for Danny Rampling and Nicky Holloway’s 20 Years of House album launch party. What is it about the club that you like?
There's something about it that feels right. I do love a nice venue with an intimate vibe. I have been very lucky to have been involved with The Cross so heavily over the last 15 years, again a venue with an intimate vibe despite its size. We have been looking for a new home to replace The Cross for the past year and I hope we have found it in The Island.
It’s obviously a lot smaller than The Cross. Are you hoping for a more intimate feel this time round?
It's smaller but the vibe is similar as The Cross was heavily divided so that there were no big rooms.
Who’ve you got on your line-up and why did you choose to put this particular combination together?
We have been very lucky to have booked some of the biggest names in DJing for Type (Morillo, Fat Boy Slim, Sander Klienenberg etc) but we want to do something slightly different for our Island Parties. We need the new up and coming people to give people a great Saturday night and both Cicada and Luke Dzierek are on fire right now. We want the nights to leave people grinning at the end of the night
You’ve been a major force in dance music for years. Would you turn the clock back and start again or do you like how it’s all turned out?
I love how it has turned out. I could not be happier but I would definitely do some clock turning just to do it all again
Is there one thing that with hindsight you’d do differently? What difference do you think it would have made?
The only regret I think is staying in a Saturday night slot on a radio station for soo long.I loved doing the show soo much that I let it ground me in the UK for too long when I could have been travelling the world. Having said that, if I hadn't stayed I would probably regretted that to. DJs are never happy hahaha
What’s the ethos behind Type?
A party atmosphere with good music. When we started years ago there were serious music clubs and party nights with trashy music but we wanted the best of both worlds.
What’s happening with you production wise at the moment?
Full steam ahead! A new Reflekt single ready to go, remixes for Toolroom and Mono-Type and a new project for some weirder stuff (Seblanco) in full swing.
Speaking of production, red hot producer Luke Dzerziek steps up to the 1s and 2s for you this time round – what do you think of his work?
He is “on the money” right now. There are too many noisy nasty electro records but his sound is exciting and adult at the same time.
He just got the remix of Echo signed to the Citroen robotic car advert which has to be something to impress the girls If you could have a track signed to a product, what would it be and why?
Not sure but my love of football (especially Chelsea ) would be a matter of letting your heart rule your head.
What’s burning up your box at the moment?
So many good tunes about right now, a couple of Mark Knight mixes spring to mind and a dub mix of the new Reflekt track is also raising the temperature.
Any plans to return to radio?
I loved radio but I couldn't do the same thing again which is why I didn't defect to another station after Radio 1. I'd love to do something completely different – maybe talk or sport.
You’re a massive Chelsea fan. How did you feel when Jose ‘The Special One’ Mourinho left? Do you think he delivered and lived up to the hype?
He delivered alright but maybe he thought he was untouchable, we certainly weren't playing as well. Only time will tell if it was the right decision
If you could bring one footballer in to the team, who would it be and what would they add to the squad?
We are overly reliant on Drogba so definitely another striker. Rooney will do thank you. I believe the England team would benefit from more young English strikers coming from the lower leagues and getting a chance, unfortunately their high prices push teams to shop a broad which is bad news for the National team.
What would you give for the chance to play in a Chelsea game?
At 36 those dreams have faded hahaha
Your dad was a French restaurateur – are you any good in the kitchen? What can you whip up that would have our mouths watering and our tongues on the floor?
He cooks fantastic meat. I hate it overdone, it becomes tasteless.
I love cooking and my wife doesn't so it's a happy house. We all like different things so most nights I am cooking 4 different meals. My dad cooks fantastic meat so I hate it when it’s overdone, it becomes tasteless.
Finally, apart from Type, where can we catch you over the next few months?
Brazil , Canada , Argentina , Budapest , Italy and Birmingham NYE, see you there.   

mostwantedkat
By mostwantedkat in Interviews ·
  • 358 views

Interview with golden boy Luke Dzierzek ahead of Type @The Island

I’m going to make you sick with envy now. Seriously, if you’re a producer, turn away right now. You know the Citroen advert. The one with the car. You know, the one with the car that takes a tip from Transformers and blends it with some severe freestyling dance action. Yep, that one. The one that’s so cool it’s practically the answer to global warming. Well up next is a young man who’s the latest addition to the list of those deemed worthy enough to provide the soundtrack to said advert.
Joining The Egg and Les Rhythmes Digitales is the one and only Luke Dzierzek. “Luke Who?” You won’t be saying that for very much longer party people, beLIEVE me. This is a young man who is on the way up so fast one might suspect he’s had rocket jets implanted up his backside. He’s behind hot new label Fling, which with releases like the Identity EP has been receiving HUGE top level support; he’s played on practically every single continent – only the penguins have missed out; his own label night at The Tunnel was a roaring success and EVERY Tom, Dick and dance floor Harry wants a piece of him.
It really is enough to make you sick. Or want to catch him behind the decks. Your choice then but would you rather have your head in a bucket or your ass on the dance floor? I though so. This Saturday Luke Dzierzek, in all his glory, headlines at Type @ The Island alongside Seb Fontaine and the phenomenal Cicada this Saturday (December 1st). We hitched a ride onto those rockets and had a breakneck speed one to one…
Hi Luke, how are you?
Hi, I’m good cheers.
Fabulous J What have you been up to today?
Had an early start in the studio, working on my next EP which will be under the name “DZ” coming out on Fling early next year and few other bits and bobs.
How’s your Fling label going? What have you got coming up for the New Year?
Fling is going very well, on our 3rd release now, it’s been gaining support from everyone from Sasha, Zabiela, Digweed, Claude Von Stroke and the list goes on. This week will see the Identity EP Part 2 released which includes remixes from King Unique, Deadset (Cass&Magan) and up and coming producer TG. I’m holding a Fling NYE Party @ this amazing venue. The Tunnel! We held the first ever event of its kind there a couple of months ago and it was crazy. www.fling-music.com.
Who are your hot production tips for 2008?
TG & Miniminds.
Lol, nice and concise 2007 has been a pretty phenomenal year for you. As well as setting up your own label and night, releasing some seriously fat tunes, you also saw the remix of Echo picked for the Citroen robotic car advert. How did that feel?
Thanks, it has gone really well. The label and nights have been going from strength to strength. The Citroen Advert was a massive stroke of luck, always wanted to have a piece of my music on an advert, so it felt really great! It was the original that was picked up, it’s over 2 years since I made that so it’s pretty crazy how it’s just broken into the mainstream now.
How did it come about?
I got a MySpace message out of the blue from someone who worked for an advertising agency and they told me that Echo was the leading track for the new Citroen Advert summer campaign. That weekend I was drafting/editing Echo to sync to the new advert. Then a week or so later it was licensed for the UK.
Did you get any perks for it – like a free car?
I haven’t actually, but I haven’t asked yet. Maybe I should!
What did having such a massive blast of mainstream exposure do for you? Has it opened up doors for you?
I guess it got me and my music more recognised, more so by the mainstream. It’s cool because people into my old sound will hopefully be checking out what I am up to nowadays and can get into that. It has generated interest from major record labels and publishing companies. Also it’s easier for people to recognise my name from that rather than people saying “Luke who?”
It’s fair to say that you’ve shifted your focus from production and studio work to DJing over the last two years. What have been your live highlights so far?
Yes, the past two years have been great for me to go travelling, see different places and cultures and just enjoy getting out there and expressing myself through my DJing. Highlights have been touring Brazil, China, Mexico, playing all over Europe, but standout gigs have been Ambassada Gavoili in Slovenia, Global Club in Lithuania, Gazgolder in Russia, Ultra+ Custard Factory in Birmingham, and also the first Fling @ The Tunnel in Kent.
Have you got any plans to merge the two aspects and do Luke Dzerziak LIVE?
Possibly in the near future, there are not any immediate plans but I do sometimes play around in my studio with all kinds of bits and bobs on the go…
You’re headlining the new Type residency @ The Island alongside Cicada and Seb Fontaine on Saturday December 1st – are you looking forward to smashing it?
I am really looking forward to playing and have heard really good things. I’m going to be playing earlier than I normally do but will have fun getting everything into the groove.
What can we expect from your set?
Some Techy, Groovy, Minimal, Forward Thinking Music!
Nice one Luke, see you on the dance floor!

TYPE @ THE ISLAND
SATURDAY DECEMBER 1ST 10PM – 6AM
HUNGERFORD LANE off CRAVEN PASSAGE, LONDON WC2N 5NG
NUS Tickets - £12 (+bf) – www.ticketweb.co.uk / 08700 600 100 / www.theisland-london.com
£15 On The Door
THE ISLAND
Cicada Seb Fontaine Luke Dzierzek Zak Radak THE LOST ISLAND
Damian Wilson (CR2) Jay P Stimpy For more information visit www.theisland-london.com

mostwantedkat
By mostwantedkat in Interviews ·
  • 333 views

Interview with techno legend Dave Angel

Dave Angel is nothing less than legendary in the history of Acid House and later Techno.   Since his 1989 'ardcore debut (a remix of Eurythmics' 'Sweet Dreams' which charted) and tracks like 'Brother From Jazz', '3rd Symphony' and 'Airborne' he's wrought elegantly patterned and tightly programmed abstract techno: deep, jazzy motor city homages which align him more with John Beltran, Dan Curtin and Eddie Flashin' Fowlkes than any of his British contemporaries. Behind the decks, he's become one of a legion of British DJs - Colin Favor, Luke Slater and Colin Dale - to play hard, fast and vicious sets every weekend in Europe's most 'lost it' clubs, yet get fewer dates and less recognition on home territory.
We caught up with him before his big London date at Mass, Brixton on 8th December
What have you been up to recently DJ wise?
A; same old thing djing across the globe
What have you got coming up?
A: I am currently working on my new label Niah, getting together as much catalogue to hit the streets in 2008.
What can we expect at Smile in Brixton on 8th December?
A; A whole lot of energy, and just Dave Angel doing his thing
Favourite club to play in and why?
A; My favourite club to play in is the end as they have a great sound system
What do you think of the UK scene right now?
A; Well Its getting a little better, but still a lot of confusion, too many pockets of music genres
Best gig ever?
A; best gig ever? Has to be, Technodrome in Scotland,   as it was my first ever festival, playing to 30,000 people and I closed the night,
What`s the strangest or most unusual place you`ve ever played a gig in?
A; In Tresor in Berlin, as it was the Nazis bank vault before it was a club, you could almost visulise the sas men on the dancefloor
Favourite country to play in? Have you found that Dance music is really universal, or are the some countries it hasn’t gone down well in?
A; Absolutely, everybody parties the same wherever you go the only difference there maybe if fashion.
What do you use in your sets nowadays?
A; mainly tech house and anything funky
How do you think DJing will evolve technically over the next few years?
A; It already has, massively. Before we used vinyl now there are so many different formats to play on, final scratch, cd, ableton the list goes on.
Do you tailor your sets to particular venues or play it by ear?
A; Always play by ear and always come prepared for whatever.
What are your top 5 tunes right now?
1: Attention – Ryoh mitomi – Rotation
2: dream theatre – DJ Rebekah – (label unknown
3: face the music – Tim deluxe – Skint
4: Taurus – Dave Angel – Niah rec
5: Medusa – dave Angel – yet to be released
What have you been up to recently in the studio recently?
A; getting together a batch of great tunes to hit the street in 2008
What do you prefer – DJing or Producing?
A: Both
What makes a good or bad producer?
A; If they have real talent or not!!
What’s you favourite bit of kit?
A; My imac
What time of day or night are you most creative?
A; Definitely when night falls
Who would you most like to collaborate with in the studio?
A; My dad
Do you feel DJs have to produce nowadays to really make their mark?
A; Yes, it has been like that for a long time now
What`s the dodgiest situation you`ve been in playing out?
A; Last Saturday doing the fantasyland festival, I was booked to do a ‘old skool’ set, so I did. But I was not informed by the agent that the festival was a happy hardcore one?? Ive never played happy hard core.
DJs are renowned as having a glamorous life, if I was you for a day, what would be the most disappointing thing I’d discover about the reality of a DJs life?
A; That we are normal people, doing school runs etc….
First record you bought?
A; KC and the sunshine band – That’s the way I like it
Was music a part of your childhood?
A: A massive part, That was my childhood. I never played outside with the other kids, I played the drums, and had to practise with my dad’s band, and if I missed a beat I would get the sticks slapped on my legs until I got it right. But now I look back and thank my dad so much (God rest his soul)
What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen in a club? What do you like to do away from the dance scene?
A; The strangest thing I saw in a club was when I was djing and the dj that was coming on after me had a strap on dick, and he dj’d with it on. It was about 30in long (no I am not going to name him) but it scared the life out of me.
What`s your most prized possession and why?
A; My Family
Which four words best describe you?
A; Dad, DJ, Producer, Humanitarian (all round nice guy)
Last thing you regretted? DJing and producing comes naturally to you – what are you not good at?
A; Cooking, I tried to cook a nice meal for my wife and I have never tried again.
What does the future hold for you?
A; Who knows?   Hopefully I will grow old with my family and still produce funky arse tracks and watch technology go crazy!!
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 337 views

Interview with NOIR for FILTH this Saturday in Leeds

Being in the music industry for more than 10 years, Noir has not only made his name more than well known on a worldwide scale for his productions, but he has also established himself as a highly skilled and much requested international Dj.

After releasing a huge amount of his tracks and remixes under different aliasses such as Noir, Decaff, Soul Flava, RNK, Premier, Black Magik and on numerous respected international labels. Noir decided to start his own label (Noir Music) early in 2007. The philosophy being to release both his own tracks and support music from new and promising producers.
Besides spending most of his time producing and travelling the world Dj’ing, Noir still finds the time to have his residency at Club V4 in his hometown of Aalborg in Denmark, which has been running for more than 6 years already. The club also hosts the successful night: “Noir Music presents…” which has already had great international guests Djs such as Chris Lake, Funkagenda, Richard Dinsdale and Sebastien Léger.

Looking back at the journey so far, including major releases such as “My Mtv” and the House Anthem “All About House Music”, collaborations with some of the key artists on the scene, experiencing amazing clubs and crowds all over the world, Noir is determined to maintain himself as a significant player and innovator on this scene we love for years to come… 
Your making your Filth debut in Leeds on the 8th December, what should we expect?
Lots of energy + sexy tech house and some nasty techno, minimal for the late hours.

SO who is Noir then and how old were you when you started playing?
Noir is a down to earth dj and producer from Denmark. 
Started djing in 1996 and producing in 2000.

What or who is behind your musical inspiration?
I get inspired by a lot of things, styles and artists.
But……. I have a big weakness for Depeche Mode.

How would you describe your sound?
Sexy tech house – quite hard at times but with a funky edge.

You own successful label Noir Music what are the benefits of that and the reason behind starting it up?
I want to be KING OF THE WORLD – nah… seriously……
Benefits are that I get to release great music by other artists and that I’m in control of my own releases.
The reason why I started the label was to have a platform for all the great music I get send every week – that either doesn’t get a proper release or none at all.

What have been up to recently and what can we expect from you over the next couple of months?
I’ve been busy with all the practical stuff behind the label and touring.
I’m gonna get down with my new studio gear and concentrate some more on “Noir material” as 2007 seems to have been all about remixing for my own and other labels.
Or maybe I should release a porn dvd to get some attention ????????

What is your favourite track you have produced and why
Times Of My Life is my fave sung (full vocal) track.
Super Skunk is my fave club track.
All About House Music is my fave spoken word track.
Lately you have been working with a whole host of people, who is the best best person you have produced it?
They’re all great and big inspirations. The biggest surprise and inspiration for me was back in 2005 when Katherine Ellis delievered a smashing vocal for my “Soul Flava” track called “We Got Love”.
I never imagined my little disco piece would become a full vocal bomb – again – those tracks are the hardest to do.

You one of the leader of fresh up and coming producers but who is you top tip for 2008?
Infinitize, Rick Nicholls & Asher Jones, Patric la Funk, Lush7, Ash Turner, Kolombo, Popof, Itamar Sagi & Piemont are def worth to watch out for in 2008.
These are all behind a lot of unique material imo.

Have you any mad plans for this xmas?
Family – that’s mad enough for me….

What ingredients make a good party?
A good dj setup – about 500 happy people – Redbull and vodka.

What’s your favourite tune?
Today its Jim Rivers – Dallas…….. tomorrow it’s a new one….. differ every day.

Who would be part of your fantasy crowd?
Madonna…….. she knows how to get down.
To be honest I don’t bother who is in the crowd. Just as long as everybody is having a GREAT time.

You have been travelling all over the world but where’s your top Country to play ?
I don’t have a favourite country – I like the sun – so anywhere with lots of sun gets an extra vote.
What is the scene like in Denmark compared to the UK ?
Small!
We don’t really have a big scene in Denmark – but the one we have is very loyal, curious, open minded and rockin’.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Believe in yourself

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done?
Bungy Jumping – I’m afraid of heights – but apparently not enough.
 

Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 313 views

Interview with Phil Drummond ahead of Twisted Disco @The Island (22nd December 2007)

Twisted Disco might have sounded off from The Cross with its best party to date last month but that doesn't mean London’s No1 underground party is over. In fact, we have just moved to The Island, the capitals hottest new little club and kick things off with a scorching line up on 22nd December.
Step forward Phil Drummond and Graeme Lloyd, both who are renowned for their outstanding DJing displays. Phil has been rocking dancefloor all over the capital over the past few years and has several outstanding residencies including Retox and Breakfast at The Egg. Expect nothing but the best moving, grooving, rock your ass off house music all night long.
Hard to belive Phil has seen 17 years as a pro DJ. Playing all over the world at many of the biggest venues. Now days, Phil turns his hand to programming parties and has been involved in bringing some of the biggest names in dance music to various clubs including Crobar in Swansea, Jaded@Egg, Formula@Cross, Retox@Sosho, Breakfast@Egg, Formulate@Key, UCL events London. He can currently be found DJing most weekends with Paul Jackson in the cooler end of London clubs & has residencies with Retox@Sosho & Breakfast@Egg. They are just launching a brand new party under the name "LUNA" that will see the boys hosting parties alongside established brands in London's most cutting edge clubs for 2008.
We caught up with Phil to see what he as been up to recently and what we can expect on Saturday...
Tell us what’s new in the world of Phil Drummond?
Lego Star Wars on my PS3…..cant get off the bloody thing!
What have you been up to recently in London and abroad ?
Oooooo been a very busy boy this last couple of months.
Myself, JC & Nikki Wildchild have some great events coming up for 2008.
Some wicked new parties in some great and un-usuall new spaces.
I started my own night with my partner Paul Jackson called “Luna”
On the internation front, its all go too.
Sedition Djs are going from strengh to strengh and have really looked after us.
Had some great gigs in China and Eastern Europe and we’re gonna be on the Great Stuff Records events roster for 2008 too so its looking really good.
Your playing for Twisted Disco at The Island. Have you played there before and what do you think of it ?
Yes I played there recently with Paul Jackson & Gregor Tresher.
It’s a wicked venue, I think it’ll do well and its just what London needs.
Good sound system too.
What``s your favourite country to play in (and why)?
That’s easy……Russia………..The Girls!!!
What do you think of the UK scene at the moment?
I’m sorry to say but the Muppets are winning at the min.
They are far more bad night’s then good. Don’t get me wrong, we have some great clubs and some wicked nights but you gotta hunt em out.
Where is your favorite place to play in the UK?
I’d have to say most of the gig’s I do with Paul are the most fun. We always have a laugh together and one gig that always rocks is Retox@Sosho.
We can play as hard as we like and they keep coming back for more.
Its one of those gigs that all the dj’s want to play at.
Not for the faint hearted though!!!
If you could only play one more club ever, what club would it be and what other DJs would be playing?
My last ever gig would have to be at The Playboy Mansion and it’d have to be with Jacko. He’d play whilst I just run riot!!
Why do you think you``ve been successful as a DJ?
Cos im good!! Nah, seriously I just got very lucky, I started a long time ago, now every fucker seems to be a dj & some real talent gets overlooked.
And as a producer?
Again, we all need that lucky break, mine was having 2 top 5 records in the same year. We did Top Of The Pops and toured the world off the back of it.
I stopped recording a while back because the scene changed so much. It was getting too hard to make a good living out of it although im recording again now because you have too to help get your name abroad, its more of a bussiness card then a money making exercise.
What do you prefer (producing or DJ``ing)?
Djing, I just love the reaction when you drop that killer track to a up for it crowd
What do you like to do away from dance music?
I cant stand these Djs that just live and breath music…..Im into everything, fast cars, faster motorcycles and general bad behaviour. Its what we’re ment to do, that’s why I don’t have a real job!!
Tell us something about you that not many people know?
Im single and looking for a wife (had to get that in somewhere!)
Oh, I have a Blue Peter badge, how many other Djs have erned one of them beauties!!
What have you got coming up in the future?
Loads, I’ve got this far by just messing about really & I intend on taking 2008 very seriously. Im getting to old to change my carer now. This is gonna be my best year to date……….
oh and Twisted Disco@Island of course!!
What can we expect on 22nd December at Twisted Disco?
A right old racket & a cheeky smile!
CHECK OUT PHIL DRUMMOND ON MYSPACE
WWW.MYSPACE.COM/DJPHILDRUMMOND
Twisted Disco
@ The Island
Saturday 22nd December 2007
10pm - 6am
Extended Hours!
£12 concessions exclusively at
guestlist@wearebeautiful.co.uk
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 344 views

Interview with electro superstar Miles Dyson ahead of Filth's Nightmare before xmas @Mint, Leeds (21st Dec 2007)

Miles Dyson is one of the fastest rising stars in the world. With his brand of dirty grooves, grinding electro and sexy house beats he’s infecting clubland all over the world. In the early Nineties, he started his career in one of the oldest electronic music clubs in Germany, Futureclub Abby. He was a child prodigy at just 13 years old. Not even old enough to legally to drink he took on his first club residency at 15. By 16 he was performing on his own float playing in front of 400,000 screaming fans at the famous Zurich Street Parade. In 1999 he won the European DJ-championships and that was just the beginning…
With fame slowly catching up to him, Miles started his first label “Plasmapool Productions" in 2002. In 2003 he occupied the number 1 position of the Swiss DJ charts for 30 weeks with multiple releases. It was therefore fitting that later in the year, Miles was honoured with the award "Producer of the Year 2003" in Switzerland.
Since this time he has built a small Empire with his own publishing and production company (Plasmapool media entertainment), digital distribution company (plasmapool.digital), more than 50 exclusive international artists signed and 12 labels (12"boot, 12.inch.recordings, Aelaektropopp, Boyztownrec, Houserecordings, International Porn Recordings, Plasmapool Productions, PlasmaUS, PlasmaWhite, plasma.digital, Raise33 and Suicide Robot)! Miles Dyson and Plasmapool are becoming one of the most successful institutions in the music scene. Plasmapool is now one of Europe's leading vinyl and mp3 selling companies. All this success has led to him being labelled the “CEO of House Music”!
Miles Dyson’s work is now hitting worldwide mainstream with “Electric Soul One” featuring on the cover of Mix Mag and 30Hz “Daddio (Miles Dyson Remix) and “Miles Ahead” selected on the latest Ministry of Sounds Sessions: Summer. Toolroom Record’s super producer Dave Spoon has labelled him one of the most exciting new electro-house producers to emerge over the last couple of years, the music industry calls him “The Boy Wonder” and even the press names him “Electro-God”. He’s also currently producing and remixing for the international music industry elite. His latest remix work “Daddio” (Lot49) and “Rubber Man” (erase records) both hit download charts all over the planet on position 1.
Nocturnal Magazine
“a sick ass techno-house producer whose eclectic bootleg/remix/hammers keep filling my record bag with goodness. Miles' richness exudes through the quality of his arrangements & the texture of his sound. Your ready-for-anything dancefloor will thank you later.”
Well Miles, the last 18 months has been pretty amazing you must be pleased with your progress?
Yeah, everything is working fine My remix and production schedule is filled, I'm completely booked out with tours till early May 2008 and each new record I release is hitting sales charts. So no need to complain. But also no need to rest - specially NOW I have to work like hell for keeping all that running... But it wasn’t only the last 18 months. The whole thing is constantly growing since I released my first record in 2002 which hit the sales charts in Germany on position 1 instantly!
What has been the recipe to your success?
Well I guess unlike most producers I’m not focussed on any special genre. But apart from that there are a lot of producers out there you can easily recognize by their sound as they always use the same synths or even the same production lines
I started Djing in 1991 and there was only Trance and Techno. Later House became popular, Breakbeat, 2step, Breaks, Minimal (which exists from the mid 80ies guys – so no new invention!!!!), Speedgarage, Electro aso. So during the years (damn shit - I’m getting old) I extracted all the best skills out of these genre which is now used in my productions. I suppose that’s why people are not getting bored listening my tunes as I’m always able to serve new sounds, new skills, just completely new structures and themes.
In your career you’ve played at most of Europes top venues and clubs, is there anywhere you haven’t played that you’d particularly like to?
...yep, I've been in many countries during the last years and the last white spots on the map like Tasmania, Korea, Venezuela, South Africa and New Zealand will be toured in early 2k8. But the most desired places I haven't been so far are China and Japan. And as soon as someone will engage me I'm gonna stay there for a month or 2. I'm really eager to see all the landscapes and the culture..
ANYONE OUT THERE FROM CHINA/JAPAN READING THIS??????
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
...to see 7 of my records in the Top10 of European Vinyl Sales Charts the same time and recently placing 2 productions on position 1 AND 2 of Djdownload and the Ministry of Sound download store...
What releases have you got coming up?
There's a lot of stuff in the line - remixes, own releases, co-productions. It would just be too much to name all that...
You own 12 record labels too – how is that going? Are they just a platform for your own productions? How do you manage all them at once?
Don't ask!!! It's hell lot of work and it wouldn't be possible without my buddies and employees. I have only 1 label for my own releases "Plasmapool Productions". All the rest is separated into genres or was created for special artists like the "Suicide Robot" label for German live-act “Electrixx” or “aelaektropopp” for Aaren San.
You use a lot of your own material in your sets but which other DJs and producers are doing it for you right now?
I love the new electro sounds from the UK from artists like Calvertron, Will Bailey, Hervé, Twocker, Micky Slim and Digital Filth. It really ROX!!!!!!
Do you play your music mainly off vinyl or CDs?
Depends on WHERE I'm spinning; in Europe I mostly have only vinyl with me but due to weight limitations on international flights outside Europe I simply cannot take many records with me. So I'm additionally forced to play CDs there. But to avoid this in the future I started creating sets with a MAC and Ableton Live where I can remix tracks in real-time which is much more fun even than spinning records. But I'm feeling more old-school - so vinyl will attend me all my life.... : How did you learn to mix, was it vinyl decks or CDJs? Come on, I don't know if there were any pitchable CD players on the market when I started Djing So Vinyl on real turntables was the only option that time and I spent like 10 hours each day behind the decks...
What advice do you have for aspiring DJs out there looking to get into dance music?

It’s not only Djing. Apart from a hand full of artists worldwide I don’t know anyone that just became (I hate that word) “famous” because of spinning records only. So you have to face all that market specific additions like “producing”, “marketing”, “promotion” aso. You need a lot of talents, but as long as you believe in your own capabilities and keep working - though it might be hard from time to time – success will come!!!
If you weren’t DJing what would you be doing?
To be honest Djing bacame the least part of my activities. Most of the time I produce tracks, do remix work, have to manage my labels, my loads of artists, international relationships with other music companies, I also do mastering work for a few big names aso.
But this ain’t really a question as DJing is the most essential thing in my life and I don’t know if it would be LIFE without spinning records
What is the best thing about this DJing lark?
- seeing thousands and thousands of people screaming in front of you!! I love it!!!
- visiting all the countries
- and meeting all these nice people all over the planet
And the worst?
- jetlags
- having the fattest man on earth right on the next seat in the plane for 12 hours and you just can’t even move or go to the toilet ?
- Ukrainian airplanes (the last one I took from Simferopol to Kiev crashed on the runway – a turbine exploded!!!!!!!!).
: Are you looking forward to playing in the UK at Filth on 21st December? Absolutely!!! The UK is a very special place for music and I think there’s no other place on earth where people LIVE music that extensively. You have an amazing musical culture and I really love spinning there!
Will you be partying after your set?
Hello, I’m here for PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What is your favourite thing about playing in the UK?
The explosive atmosphere!! The UK is a place where you can play records you would never ever spin somewhere else on the planet. People here just UNDERSTAND music more intuitive.
Not to mention meeting all my UK friends...
What’s next for Miles Dyson?
I’m facing a new mix compilation which will be out in January, a lot of new productions and remixes will be coming in the next weeks and I recently started on a track with Hardy Hard (f.k.a Hardsequencer, a big name in the breaks scene and co-founder of MAYDAY). There are also negotiations of remix swapping and co-productions with Filthy Rich, DJ Dan and some other guys...
As I said – no need to rest
www.myspace.com/milesdyson
Come and Jion our Facebook group
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5590013417

SEE YOU ON THE DANCEFLOOR - DONT FORGET YOUR FANCY DRESS FOR CHEAPER ENTRY

Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 306 views

Interview with French Superstar David Vendetta

After a fantastic start to 2007, most notably with his debut Album ‘Rendezvous’ enjoying heavy airplay and subsequent chart success all over Europe. David Vendetta returns in 2007 with a track featuring heavily on the planet’s dancefloors this winter with ‘Bleeding heart’.

Named as one of the hottest house tracks to hit promo this winter, David’s track ‘Bleeding Heart’ with the sassy vocals of Rachel Starr is exploding on the dancefloors of the world’s DJ elite. With major support from Roger Sanchez, to the big guns of Pete Tong, Eric Morillo, Deep Dish, Tom Novy to Martijn Ten Velden and Bush II Bush and more ’Bleeding Heart’ now enjoys a full release.
Please introduce yourself
I have been a professional DJ for 10 years now and producer during 5 years. I always loved the avant-garde music, till my childhood. But first I had a classic education, I became a pharmaceutical representative. But the passion has overcame me and I stopped everything to try my chance in DJing.
So how would you describe your sets?
It’s often difficult to make me leave the dj booth…I don’t prepare my sets, I’m playing gradually in sharing feelings with clubbers.
How do you feel that you fit into the musical mix in France? with people like Bob Sinclar, David Guetta, Martin Solveig and Justice? Do you feel that your style is representative of the sound of France?
I respect them but I don’t consider that they are my rivals because we all have a different style that people like and this makes the real strength of the French touch.
Most decent DJ's move into production from the DJ booth, Was it a smooth progression ?
I’ve felt the need to produce after few years of experience as a resident in Parisian’s clubs like “les Bains”, “Follies Pigalle”, “L’Amnesia”. It’s important to build a carreer, but for my part both aspects are interesting for me, I couldn’t go on without one of them.
How would you best describe your production sound ?
My sound is a sensual, tuneful house and electro.
Roger Sanchez is a big big fan of yours and has lead to lots of remixs on his label stealth, tell me a bit about that?
I’ve been liking Roger Sanchez even before starting to work with him. I respect him for his mix technology and his human qualities. When I started to collaborate with him in 2004, I was honoured to be only French DJ who worked for his label Stealth. He put me up to the international dimension.
This year you released your first artist album ‘Rendez-vous’. What did you want to achieve with this cd?
After the success of “Love to Love you baby” and “Unidos Para la Musica” in France and over the world I felt it was the right moment to make an album so as everybody could go through my musical universe, which is bigger than they knew about me so far.
The opening tracks on your album are quite special. What was so special about those tracks that you chose them for the openers?
These are the tracks already released in singles with videoclips and so well known by the audience. They are like the beginning of the trip which is ending with with the last track : the flamenco version of “Unidos Para la musica”.
Did you manage to get all the tracks that you wanted on the cd?
Yes, I wanted to include only the tracks that I was fully satisfied . That’s why I didn’t hesitate to put of a couple of them before having the final tracklist. I really done what I wanted to do, I ‘d been lucky to work with renowned singers that trusted me like: Barbara Tucker (the diva of House music), or Keith Thompson, David Goncalves (Chocolate Puma’s vocalist), Rachael Starr…
Your just about to release you new single ‘Bleeding Heart’ with the amazing vocals of Rachel Starr.
Are you expecting it to be a dancefloor destroyer?
I had just finished the instrumental version of “Bleeding Heart” for the Miami Winter Music Conference in last march. At this occasion with my violinist Micah we made an improvised set and someone put the a video online on “youtube”, today its’ the most visited video of WMC…
“Bleeding Heart” is my favourite track of the whole album.
What Artists do you admire ?
Roger Sanchez, Queen, Mike Oldfield, Kate Bush, Pete Tong, Kaftwerk, Serge Gainsbourg…
You have got a really successful radio show Tell us a bit about that ?
My radio show is called Cosa Nostra, it’s also the name of my residency in Paris at Mix Club. Through my radio show I want to make discover different house sounds, not only making my own promotion. Every week, I include brand new tracks for my audience.
You can find my show through the podcast on my website www.davidvendetta.com
My Cosa Nostra radioshow is broadcasted in different countries all around the world.
You've been in the business a few years now. Do you still get nervous before you DJ?
I still have some apprehension before mixing, because I meet some new audience and my purpose is to enter in symbiosis with them and to make them feeling my passion.
Do you have any advice for budding David Vendetta’s out there?
They often ask me about the keys of success . I would say that this is the mixture of maturity, perseverance, talent, boldness, and also chance.
What are you up to the next couple of months?
The single with the videoclip “Bleeding Heart” are coming out the 16th December.
I have also a lot of remixes to do , a lot of gigs ( a Turkish tour, another tour in the Eastern Europe etc…). I’m lauching my own brand of tee-shirts, available on my website before the end of the year.
CHECK OUT ALL DAVID LATEST RELEASES ON
www.myspace.com/djdavidvendetta
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 305 views

Clive Morley takes Off Down under

So Clive, why Australia?
I’ve been a few times and LOVED it. It’s summer at the moment and forecast to be 38 degrees on Christmas day. The weather, the surfing (I can’t surf), the beach (girls in bikinis) and the fact that everyone in the shops can speak English.
Is it not true that it’s actually because you really want to be Australian and that’s why you’ve been adopting that fake Australian accent all these years?
I do want to be an Australian, or at least I need a passport if I’m going to stay for as long as I want to. That’s where Kate comes in. Plus, my accent is noted as being trans-Pacific neutral.
You’re best known in London for running the hugely popular club night Platform 12. Do you think your tough management style is what led you to be so unpopular, or was it just your personality?
Unpopular, moi? I just perceive that to be jealously.
Do you think it’s possible to run a major club night and not become a “source of general public amusement”? (Source Undisclosed)

That’s actually quite funny… I do get a lot of shit my way, and most of it is just your typical banter, but there has been some pretty off-key stuff too which I’m not happy about (see previous comment). I’ve seen dozens of REALLY funny photoshopped Clive Morley’s on the web though. People obviously have way too much time on their hands!
Fine.  One of your proudest moments must have been being made resident at nightclub Fabric and being nominated for Breakspoll.  How would you describe yourself as a DJ?
There are 2 types of DJs in this world; ones that do the “head bopping” while mixing, and the ones that “thrust the decks” while mixing. I’m a deck thruster. Musically, I play what I call “solid music that makes people dance their fucking arses off”. House, breaks, electro, vocals, crunchy, prodigy, Killers remix, whatever.  If it’s solid sounding, with drums and a hook, then chances are I’ll be in to it. Style-wise, when I’m not shagging the decks, I’m doing my best to put records together in the right order and keep everything in key. I guess I’m like a credible party DJ.
So not “one of the worst DJs I know” then?
I bloody hope not.
You definitely never said that ? To me? Last Friday? Hmm...
So, tell me, how would you describe the various members of the current Platform 12 team?
Platform 12 has a fabulous team which consists of designers, DJs, production staff and promotions. I’m just going to mention a few of the key people below as my dinner’s nearly ready.
Do you know Star Trek? Kit’s my number 1. Plus he’s the biggest geek in the world. He pretty much does everything while I kick back and relax. In fact, while I’m talking to you, Kit’s probably off somewhere making a new illuminated sign that is sync’d to the bass drums or something.  
Zoe, who looks after about 75% of the web marketing and is utterly fabulous, is the quietest member of the team but one of the most respected. She’s great at what she does, very hardworking and we couldn’t do without her.
Joana has been with us about a year and has been awesome just helping out on stuff. She probably takes the most flack from me & Kit but secretly we know she likes the attention J . She also, absolutely always, without fail, says “ok, thank you, goodbye” when hanging up the phone. She did once try to deviate, but then there was just a stutter and awkward silence so she has reverted back to her trusty method – give her a call and see.
Sam Banks looks after our press and while being really elusive, is probably the loveliest person on the team… when we see her!!!
Leo’s moved on from P12 these days but has become one of my closest friends ever since he joined us. Leo’s been there since the beginning (almost) and P12 wouldn’t be anywhere without him. He looks exactly like Bruce Lee, awesome DJ, very funny bloke and could happily waste 3 years inventing a faster way to lick a stamp.
Julie Pepper is our promotions assistant and while having an annoying habit of speaking her mind, is very sweet and very hard working.  
And what makes the team so special, why has it been such as success?
Because we’re a team. We all work hard for each other and everyone does their bit. There’s a huge amount of talent at P12 and I’m happy to take full credit for picking them out.
And how exactly have you managed to convince them to do all the real work and let you take all the credit?  What’s the secret?
Well... if I told you that, then it wouldn’t be a secret!
Now, on to you as a person, how would you describe yourself in 3 words (try to avoid using shameless, pervert and deviant).
Unemployed, immigrated, jetlagged.
If your friends had to describe you in only 3 words, which do you think they would use?
Does the avoiding shameless, pervert and deviant still apply? I’m almost certain they would go for ambitious, fair and really-annoying-when-hammered-at-platform-12.

Well, excitingly, we can find out.  Here’s what they really think:
Leo: He drives like he's driving Miss Daisy!!
Kit: He’s got that special mincy mincy dance he does when girls are around.
Sam: He hogs all the drink tokens.
Zoelee: I used to fancy that guy from Spooks until I saw he was the spitting image of Clive
Fascinating.  Do you think you might want to change your description of them now, bearing those in mind?
Ha ha – spot on guys!!
Great. Well I feel I know a lot more about Clive Morley as a person and as a promoter, however, there is one thing that still interests me…
Clive, so many DJs take on a new name when they start DJing, were you never tempted to do this?
I think people that change their names have insecurity issues.
So you never fancied changing your name to something totally different?
Well, my only regret is that after changing my name to Clive Morley, I forgot to give myself a middle name!
Hmm, interesting…
Clive Morley was being interviewed by Simon McEvoy
Zoelee
By Zoelee in Interviews ·
  • 310 views

Interview with Danny Freakazoid ahead of Filth's 1st Birthday in Leeds next Saturday 2nd Feb

After bursting on the scene early last year with an amazing Album release with Cr2 records, Danny Freakazoid has gone from strength to strength producing more electro bangers then you can throw a stick at. With gigs all over Europe and the UK, expect big things from this 21 year old in 2008. This month he is over in the UK playing for Filth in Leeds.
We caught up with the hotshot producer to find out what he has been up to…………….
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am a Dj and Producer from Switzerland, 21 years old and I am working with a lots Labels from the UK like Ministry of Sound, CR2, Toolroom & Big Love…. Also I just did 2 Remixes for big German Labels such as Kontor and Superstar and some new stuff from me and my brother coming out on Joia Records Swede
How would you describe your music style?
My Music Style quiet Hard but with some elements of deep and Groovy ElectroHouse
You’re playing in Leeds for Filth’s 1st Birthday. Are you excited? Have you played in Leeds before ?
I am really excited about, because I always had good time in the UK! Well yes I have played once in Leeds for a CR2 event…can’t remember the name of the club.
What have you got coming up after February?
I will be more in studio to create some fresh tracks for Miami WMC!! Tours in Brazil and Australia ….and i will be play in JAPAN soon!!
Have you got any productions coming out?
Freaks Brothers “Soia” & Black or Blonde EP coming soon on Joia Records
Veerus & Maxie Devine “French Bass” (Danny Freakazoid Mix) soon on Refune Records
Jay Frog – Master & Servant (Danny Freakazoid Mix) soon on Kontor Records
Billingual Freaks “Twisted Society” (Danny Freakazoid Mix) soon on Superstar Records
You broke on the scene about a year ago with an amazing Album on Cr2. Tell us a little about that?
This was really special for me! I done the album in two Years, so I created like a personal indication
for myself as an artist and of course my Dj Name is getting mutch bigger with this...its not normal that a 19 year old boy from Switzerland is getting signed to an english record label ! or ?
What’s it like getting you music signed to a big label like Cr2 ?
Its just great to be with CR 2, it helps a lot when you have a good english label behind your name as Dj and Producer.
Who are your favourite producers at the moment?
John Dahlback and Tony Gomez !
Have you got any favourite DJs? Or anyone tipped for the top?
Nic Fanciulli is the one and basta !!
How did you get in the Dance music industry in the first place?
Everytime I get asked this Question…..Well my Brother gave me a Erick Morrilo Mix Compilation and than it was clear what i am gonna do ! I was infected from the first minute !
Where would you like to play that you haven’t played club wise?
Warung in Brazil, Space Miami and Pacha Buenos Aires ! or Festivals like Creamfields or any other Big Festival….
What do you do away from dance music?
I play a lot Tennis and like to hang out with my friends….
Tell us something about yourself that not many people know?
i have secrets i don't want to tell ! you not ?
What do you think is the best thing in dance music at the moment?
The way of Beatport, it never was so easy to find good music haleluja !!
Check out Danny at Filth’s 1st Birthday on Saturday 2nd Feb
www.filthuk.com
www.myspace.com/dannyfreakazoid

CHECK OUT THE FILTH FACEBOOK GROUP FOR MORE DETAILS ON EVENTS

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5590013417

DJ MAG / NOTION / MIXMAG AND PETE TONG ALL SAY FILTH IS THE MUST VISIT EVENT IN FEBRUARY

Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 311 views

One Man & His Dog - Interview With House-Trained Label Boss Phil Loraine

Is it my imagination or is there a dog on the dance floor?? No, your eyes do not deceive you, there is indeed a new dog in town and to be fair he’s about to drop some severe shit – of the musical variety party people >;)
New label House-Trained launches with a stunning party at London’s hottest little club, The Island on Saturday Fe bruary 16th. This summer will see them drop the mother of all remixes of DJ Disciple’s 2007 Miami WMC and Ibiza smash hit ‘Work It Out’. With Disciple flying in from NYC to spin at the party, plus Manchester duo and production whizzkids Audiowhores, Raymundo Rodriguez, Shoom’s Steve Proctor, the Layabouts and Phil Loraine & Stu Hall, it’s categorically going to go off the wall.
We caught up with the brains and the obvious beauty behind the whole shebang, Phil Loraine. A veteran of the music industry, Phil’s worked for the likes of Mercury Records, Manifesto and Serious Records before taking on the challenge of building his own imprint under the House-Trained moniker. Not only is he getting together with the likes of DJ Disciple but he’s also on the look-out for hot new talent, both DJs and producers, to work with, nurture and break out onto the market.
To find out more about the man, his label, whether you could be a part of it (including how Hillary Clinton helps Phil get his groove on – mmmhmm!) read on my friend…

So Phil you’re the brains behind House-Trained. Tell us more about the label and what you intend to do with it.
To be honest, that question is a potential banana skin for a label that has yet to release a record! I certainly have some ideas about what I would like to happen but I’m experienced enough to know that things will probably end up looking very different to how I had intended in a year’s time. Actions speak louder than words, so I just want to get a few records out and let things develop organically.
What’s your label philosophy?
Well the accompanying slogan for the House-Trained club night has always been ‘No shit on the dancefloor’ so we’re going to do our best to carry that philosophy over into the activities of the label. I can’t start banging on about only releasing quality records though, because I will only set myself up for a mauling from the purists! There will always be someone out there who is critical of what you are doing, so the strapline is a bit tongue in cheek really, but it’s a nice ideal for us to strive towards.
What kind of sounds can we expect to come from the label? What influences do you look to or are you going to do something completely fresh and new?
It very much depends what kind of tracks become available to us. It would be futile to pigeon-hole the label by saying we’re only going to be loyal to one particular brand of house music because the scene re-invents itself so frequently now that we would almost certainly be left with egg on our faces. We just want to take each release on its own merits and see what develops. That said, it would be nice to have the opportunity to find the next big dance act like Orbital or The Chems and conquer the global festival circuit, but those kind of quality dance artists are few and far between these days.
The label comes off the back of your earlier parties which started up in 2004. You had some seriously hot DJs playing there – Mylo, Terry Farley, Bill Brewster, Steve Proctor. How do you think your new night at the Island will compare with the original?
Like most underground club nights, the original parties were only ever intended as an excuse to get all our mates together under one roof and have a spectacular blow out. Not much has changed since then, except that the majority of my mates are now married with children and we need a new set of punters! Joking aside, the Island is a far more polished club than the venues we previously chose, so with the Function One sound system to support the cali bre of the DJs we select, hopefully the nights will smack of quality whilst continuing to be supported by friendly, like-minded people who we can get to know and love.
You’ve got some seriously big backing for the label from Universal Music. What freedom and flexibility has that given you, or has it?
I have plenty of flexibility now which is good but it hasn’t always been that way. I started working at Universal seven years ago, initially for Giles Peterson’s label Talkin’ Loud and Def Jam in the early days. There were some management changes around the time that Talkin’ Loud went down and the company I was at (Mercury Records) started to move away from underground music and become more bands focused. Manifesto and Serious Records were also put to the sword during this era. Back then I was gutted about this switch of direction and I have had to wait patiently for a few years for this opportunity to get my ideas heard. Now I am in a different place all together and I am extremely grateful to the people I am working with for granting me the creative freedom to develop House-Trained into something bigger. So far, it has been a fantastic experience and hopefully this is just the beginning.
Will we be seeing any Girls Aloud vocals on forthcoming House-Trained releases seeing as they’re also with Universal?
Oh dear… believe it or not, my brother heads up their label so I should be careful how I answer this. The girls were actually in the canteen a few weeks ago so I seized the opportunity to give them all pink ‘House-Trained’ t-shirts. Celebrity endorsement is all good by me but in terms of musical direction, I can only say the words chalk and cheese spring to mind!

You’re playing at the label launch night on Feb 16th but you eased yourself back into it all at the last ever Friday at The Cross. How was it for you?
Yeah, I took a much needed break from the party scene and from DJ’ing last year and stopped accepting some of the tiring, soul-destroying gigs I was being offered. After fifteen years of relentless attachment to the club scene I was basically burnt out, so I took a step back and made the time to evaluate where I was trying to get to. So it’s nice to be back behind the decks again after a period of relentless grafting and the excitement and buzz of it all is slowly returning. I was probably sadder to see The Cross go than I was excited about getting to play there, but I am extremely pleased to have had that opportunity to do so. I spent many a lost night in there in my twenties and the fact that I left it so late to get a booking made the experience all the more memorable. It was nice to get my DJ partner Stu on board for that one too, I think he enjoyed it more than I did!
Times they are definitely a-changing in the world of house, and dance music in general. How are you going to ensure that House-Trained manages to stick out in an increasingly turbulent market?
I think the secret lies in not trying to make it stick out really. Attraction rather than promotion is the core philosophy to building a successful club brand these days, the younger punters are far more marketing savvy than we give them credit for, particularly in London where there is so much noise to compete against. Hopefully our events will continue to attract more of the down-to-earth, fun-loving people that the early parties did and word of mouth will do the rest.
What is your personal experience in the music industry?
I have had mixed feelings about the industry as a whole over the years and the broad spectrum of strong-minded characters I have come across along the way, but looking back I wouldn’t change a thing about the path I have taken. My experience is that you need to develop a thick skin, which took a while for me, but only then do you become more accepting of the trickier people you encounter. In the end everyone has their foibles, me included and you learn to take something new from every experience. It’s going to sound very clichéd but passion and perseverance are essential requirements too. At eighteen, I was working in a meat factory in Liverpool and pumping my disposable income into buying records. I’m 32 now but I still feel that I have a hell of a long way to go to get to where I want to go. One year I had interviews at Azuli, Defected, Hed Kandi and EMI and got rejected from them all. Sometimes it felt like all the doors had closed on me but on reflection I am definitely happy that it happened that way, despite my obvious disappointment at the time.
Being the boss of your own record label, you must have to keep up to speed with all the changing formats of distribution and just generally getting your message out there to the buying public. What new areas have emerged in the last year or so that you want to tap into at the moment?
As much as I hate to say it, the whole Facebook phenomenon is a God send and seems to have moved club promotion into a whole new stratosphere - it’s an incredibly user-friendly tool for getting your message out to the right people.   I lived in Stoke-on-Trent for a few years and when I look back at the times I stood out on the street talking up my nights and handing out tapes and flyers in the pissing rain… it makes me sick to think how much easier it all is now! As for music distribution, I sometimes focus on the negative effects of the digital revolution a little too much, but there’s no denying the positive aspects are there for all to see, so we just have to embrace the change.

Do you think the whole digital era has been good or bad for music on the whole?
As I said, there are two sides to this argument and both have some very valid points. So far, many smaller companies have been unable to adapt to the new model to make it work for them and the period of change has caused so much turbulence for these people. It’s sad to see that side of things but there’s no denying the obvious advantages of being able to send and receive tracks in literally minutes and shop for tunes on-line etc. I still marvel at this side of things on a daily basis, though it has taken a while for me to adapt. I still like to use vinyl when I DJ but every time I play a broad, I have the ridiculousness of this stubborn resistance hammered home to me when humping my box through customs and around a foreign country!
In the last few months, three of the major distribution networks including Amato have gone under. How do you go about distributing your sound now?
It’s extremely sad to see how the distributors have been affected and the knock-on effect this is having on the shops and the labels that rely on them. There are still plenty of alternative ways to get your music distributed though, obviously digital being one of them, there are just fewer options now which can only be bad for everyone involved with making new music.
Speaking of your sound, it’s a pretty damn fierce release that you’re launching with the 2008 mixes of DJ Disciple’s massive stormer ‘Work It Out’. How did your relationship with him come about?
I’ve actually had very little interaction with Disciple so far, though that’s all about to change in the run up to the launch of the single and the club night. We signed the track from Alex Gold of Xtravaganza fame so the whole connection was initiated through him primarily.
What are the new mixes like and how do they differ from the original?
The original was actually a soulful house style mix by Gilbert Le Funk that blew up in Miami first time round. UK radio supported this version too at the time but it was really the Ruff & Tort mix which did the damage in Ibiza and in the UK clubs. I had heard it on pirate radio a few times, but when I saw the incredible reaction to it on Space Terrace one Saturday afternoon last summer, I knew it would be perfect for House-Trained and I had to try and locate it and sign it. The new Mischa Daniels mix is a huge electro-style re-work and there a number of other mixes in the pipeline that also do the damage whilst staying true to the original. It’s a fantastic record still and it deserves to go all the way.
Any plans to work with him further?
We are working on a track by track basis but ‘Changes’ was another huge anthem of last year and no doubt there will be more tracks in the pipeline from the Catch 22 stable in 2008. Disciple and Ruff and Tort are incredibly talented producers and I’m excited about their productions. For the moment, we’re just looking forward to having Disciple over for the launch party and witnessing him play for us in such an intimate environment. Usually I get nervous before any event I promote but with so many other great DJs on the night, I’m looking forward to this one enormously already!
Who else have you got in the studio at the moment?
We have about five releases lined up for the months ahead but no artists signed to the label exclusively or for album projects as yet. The main thing at the moment is for us to increase awareness and create a positive image, so hopefully we attract the right artists and the producers of the future to the label.
You’re on the look-out for new talent, artists and producers. What are you looking for and how can we get in touch with you?
We are actively on the look-out for new DJs, artists, tracks and talent. You can send us demo CDs via the address on our website ( www.house-trained.com ) but we are only a small outfit at present so we cannot guarantee everyone a response, though we do promise to listen to everything we are sent. Please only send material you think will befit the ‘House-Trained’ label though – we are not acting as A&R for any other labels within the Universal Group so please think before just sending us anything!!!

What resources and commitment can you offer them? What makes you different from the rest and why should they put their work and talent in your hands?
Ha ha... we are not making any promises to anyone other than the one I made in the last question to make an honest commitment to listen to everything we are sent. If you’ve ever seen the size of an A&R man’s mail bag, you will appreciate that is a tall order in itself!
In a perfect world, where would House-Trained be in five years time?
Obviously an Ibiza residency would be a dream come true for me, or alternatively a return to my beloved northern roots to become the next superclub brand to conquer Liverpool… move over James Barton! Ha ha… Failing that, I’d be grateful if I still have my health, my happiness and my hand in a scene that has so far had a detrimental effect on the former but an immeasurably heartening effect on the latter.
Describe yourself:
Humble, hostile, loving, respectful, honest, hard-working and unstable. A well-mannered acid casualty for short.
Perfect DJ and why?
All back to ours for a 24 hour after party and find out for yourself!
What do you think will be in heaven and hell?
Me and my dream partner in heaven; hell for the vast majority of my exes.
What are your thoughts on Hillary Clinton?
Hillary Clinton is someone I only ever think about when I’m in the throes of passion and want to enhance the experience. I’m not going to describe those thoughts for you I’m afraid.
Gym freak or couch potato?
Both. One month on, one month off each the whole year round usually to ensure I never get particularly fond of either.

Best party you’ve ever been to and why?
I think it would have to be my first taste of Ibiza. We hired this enormous villa for dirt cheap and invited a boat load of randoms back one night for a totally unplanned party. There were people I didn’t know in every room but nothing got taken or broken, everyone just respected the situation for what it was. I just remember standing on this gigantic roof terrace at lunchtime the next day in the blazing sun, party still on-going and seeing all these strangers dotted around the pool and just laughing inwardly. I didn’t have a care in the world and naturally I fell in love with the island after that. The tunes that year were phenomenal too; it was the perfect Ibiza experience.
If you could do one thing to yourself, what would it be and why?
Halt the ageing process permanently. Not because I’m vain but because I’m bald enough already!
Good looking girls or funny girls?
Good looking, funny, intelligent girls who aren’t mental. Introduce me to one, let me sleep with her and then I’ll show you you were wrong.
Finally, tell us about your Dad on Bora Bora beach J
It was my Dad’s 71st birthday on Friday and I’ve just spent the weekend with him; the guy’s a living legend and I idolise him. It just so happened he was in Ibiza with his mates last year when I went over, so I met up with him at Bora Bora and made him get amongst it. He’s got a metal knee these days but he’s still active and he’s completely young at heart. I got some great footage and pictures of him dancing and being talked into oblivion by all kinds of nutters, but I felt terrible when I played them back to him on UK soil. He said he had actually been ill with food poisoning that day but tolerated the whole thing almost entirely for my benefit. Fair play to him though, he was spinning stories to my mates all afternoon and he put that twat who dresses like Spiderman to shame! It was priceless looking back on it, though probably not something I will ever do again…

mostwantedkat
By mostwantedkat in Interviews ·
  • 345 views

Are you a believer? Interview with DJ Disciple ahead of House-Trained Official Label Launch Party @The Island (Saturday 16th February 2008)

LISTEN TO AN EXCLUSIVE DJ DISCIPLE MIX STREAMING RIGHT NOW ON WWW.HOUSE-TRAINED.COM!

Prolific producer, label boss and world-class DJ – it’s no wonder that DJ Disciple is in major demand throughout the four corners of the world. From London to Milan, from Barcelona to New York, from Asia to the Middle East, Africa, South America and beyond, he is one hot to trot mixmaster on a mission to spread his phenomenal love of music.
Born David Banks, DJ Disciple was around music from an incredibly early age, and we’re not just talking his mother putting on records every Sunday afternoon. With his father playing piano for none other than Miles Davis and his brother bass for George Benson, it goes without saying that a talent for sound was already in his blood. Growing up in Brooklyn, influences fell in from all over the place – latin, hip hop, soul, reggae plus the new dance floor sounds from clubs springing up all around him. His first gig came at an NYC underground party called the Choice and Wild Pitch. He was soon filling in for Tony Humphries at Zanzibar, mixing live to the biggest city in the world on his own radio show New York 91.5 and laying the ground work for his now infamous record label, Catch 22 Recordings. 
Since those early years he hasn’t looked back. One of the most popular US artists in the UK, he’s always had a passion for our scene and the music we produce. Last year he himself added to our dance floors with two immense smash hits, Changes and Work It Out, which were produced in conjunction with David Tort and DJ Ruff, two artists he is always incredibly keen to push. 2008 will see him team up with new house label House-Trained, news of which will be released this spring. On Saturday February 16th, he lands once again in the capital for the official House-Trained label launch party, this time to demolish The Island with his eclectic, heady mix of house music, mixing beyond boundaries and genres to take clubbers to a place very few others can reach. Believe us, you will be in the presence of a true maestro from the minute he takes to the decks. 
We caught up with him in his NYC studio to find out what makes the man tick, what we can expect from him on the night and his thoughts on the state of the global dance scene. An incredibly interesting and intelligent man, this makes for one hell of a damn good read…
How’s 2008 been going for you so far? What have you got in the pipeline?
2008 has been a great year so far. I am working with some new artists and developing artists that made an impact last year.
It’s safe to say that you had two of the biggest hits in the UK with Changes and Work It Out, which saw you collaborate on production with David Tort. How did that partnership come together and what’s it like working with him in the studio?
David Tort is one of the House heroes of the future. It’s his time. His vision of what today’s sound is, is impeccable. His DJ skills are top notch and he is the resident of L’atlantida in Spain. I met him in LA with DJ Ruff, while spinning at Avalon. He was doing a lot of progressive house on various labels. When I added my lyrics to “Work It Out” both David and Ruff wanted to be involved as remixers in the project to get their name out there. I agreed to do a swap remix with them as long as David engineered both records. I really wanted to push Ruff & Tort so I collaborated and produced “Changes” with them but made sure people recognized their name first. When we did the collaboration “Deep Underground”, people just gave me credit and neglected them. With “Changes” I wanted their names first so people would see them embolded.
Your imprint Catch 22 Recordings is of course legendary with practically all of your releases being picked up by other major international labels – what have you got in store for us for 2008?
Another David Tort and DJ Ruff collaboration, another collaboration with Angel Defrutos, another project with Dawn Tallman and one or two further artists.
You’ve got some major artists on the label – Jeremy Sylvester, the Brooklyn Soul Boz and Kubana Cool to mention a few. What do you look for when you sign an artist and what do you want them to bring to Catch 22?
Catch 22 really revolves around the evolution of where House is going and how it’s expanded. I always challenged myself not to have one sound or style. It reflects in the way I have played over the twenty years in the business. I have always made trendy and traditional styles of music and always put out and played the same way
You place a lot of emphasis on playing in the UK and our dance market over here. Why do you think the London and British sound and what’s developing in our scenes is so important to overseas markets?
The music in the UK at the time was driving the house scene around the world. If you were booked in the UK clubs, all the other clubs around the world wanted you.   In the last two years it hasn’t had the same impact. The club scene and the music have lost some of its edge. Producers in the UK are not making as many hits as they used too. Holland and Europe   is now the place where you hear future stars – Fedde Le Grand, Erick E, Axwell, DJ Roog and other producers –putting House music on its back. I remember when UK producers had dance music in the charts all the time. The same cannot be said for right now.
Is there a big difference between US and UK clubs and their crowds?
The UK crowds are more cultured in today’s music than in the US. Videos promote dance music in the UK, whereas the dance market in America has completely failed to reach a new and younger generation of music lovers.
Radio 1 and Pete Tong in particular have always been massive supporters of your work but just a few months ago they shifted their focus slightly off dance music, moving some of their biggest dance shows from the weekend to less prime time Thursday nights. Why do you think this is and do you think it reflects a ‘quietening down’ period for our industry as rock and indie seem to take over?
I think that’s two fold. One, because not enough older DJs bought any newer ones under their wings. I got into House music in college, learned from an older experienced DJ to help me. A lot of kids want to still be DJs but the dance music industry in the UK and in America became label and brand whores instead of utilizing new DJs to inspire them. There have been less of the newer DJs and artists making an impact in the UK. Fewer producers in the UK making groundbreaking music, and it reflects in where London is now. Pete Tong is still breaking the music, which people like myself look too, but there should be newer jocks carrying just as much as the weight.
You run the hugely successful Next Level Parties in the US and you’re a bi-weekly resident at Le Souk in NYC which is a massive electro house night. How have the recent changes in the law regarding nightlife entertainment in New York affected the clubbing scene over there?
Mayor Guliani did most of the damage in his terms as mayor. Under Bloomberg things are a little better but not much. Pacha is the only megaclub we have in New York that most people know of. Lesouk is 4-500 capacity and so is my Next Level Party, which is a soulful and deep house night. There are now more bottle service venues than regular clubs pushing house music in the city. Sullivan Rooms, Cielo, and Apt are some of the clubs people flock to for night life action but there are tons of monthlies like Danny Krivit’s 718 sessions and Ain’t Nothin But A House Party, or parties like Breakfast that push the envelope musically. Not enough but slowly things are changing for the better.
We hear all the sensational stories about it in the press, like glow sticks are regarded as illegal rave material and no-one can dance in New York – what’s the actual real situation like? Is it as bad as the press sometimes make out?
Because America is security crazy in the first place we do get some bad press. You can dance at most lounges in the city now under Bloomberg, the Guliani restriction age is done. People finally are realizing that a lot of income is generated based on what happens in the clubs. The city loses money when it doesn’t have much of a night life. Expect a comeback from the New York clubbing culture real soon.
Speaking of dancing, House-Trained are having their official label launch party at The Island on Saturday February 16th and of course you’re headlining. What can we expect from your set on the night?
A great mixture of music. I love playing in the UK so I will feel right at home,
Right, let’s have some random fun
If you were the last man on earth, who would be your last woman and why?
Any of my ex- girlfriends can be on that planet and trust me I’d get in trouble if I just picked one.
Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton and why?
I’m voting for Barack but Hillary will win. I want to be a part of history and would love to see a black man as president, but not just because he’s black. His ideology is that going to war in Iraq was wrong in the first place. I also think that it doesn’t matter who gets elected, no one will be able to clean up the mess George Bush made.
You’ve died and gone to Heaven and God asks you, what was your reason for being and did you fulfil it?   What would you say?
I would say: Doing your will is my reason for being and I haven’t fulfilled everything you wanted me to do. Please forgive me.
What one thing can’t you live without and why is it so important to you?
I can’t live without music. It’s important because when you hear it, you know someone made it and he speaks to you through it.
If you could pick a tune to be your theme tune as you went through the day, something that totally picked you up and got you going, what would it be?
Peven Everett- “Celebration”
Tell us three fabulous things about yourself…
I only want other people in my life to be successful I still take care of my dad, the hero in my life I’m still single and available for a serious relationship with a woman. Well we’re really looking forward to you coming down to play at The Island so we will see you on the dance floor and we’re thoroughly expecting you to kick it!
HOUSE-TRAINED RECORD LABEL LAUNCH PARTY 
DJ DISCIPLE ( CATCH 22 RECORDINGS, NYC) AUDIOWHORES ( MN2S) RAYMUNDO RODRIGUEZ ( JADED) STEVE PROCTOR ( SHOOM / BETTER DAYS) THE LAYABOUTS ( ILL FRICTION) PHIL LORAINE & STU HALL ( HOUSE-TRAINED) The Island, Hungerford Lane off Craven Passage, London WC2 5NJ
Saturday February 16th, 11pm – 6am
Concessions & advance tickets £12, £15 on the door
http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user/?query=search&INTERFACE=ticketweb&category=misc&region=xxx&search=house+trained&beginmonth=01&beginday=24&beginyear=2008

mostwantedkat
By mostwantedkat in Interviews ·
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The Audiowhores - Interview Ahead of House-Trained @ The Island, Sat February 16th

The Audiowhores have been riding the waves of DJ and production success since they formed back in 2000. With tracks released on a plethora of labels, including Soulfuric, MN2S, Peppermint Jam and their own Tempogroove imprint, they have their feet planted firmly in the forefront of the UK house scene. Similarly their versatile and technically brilliant DJ sets which incorporate everything from deep and soulful sounds to tougher and chunkier beats, have won the pair thousands of fans worldwide.
Next Saturday (Fe bruary 16th) they perform live at The Island for the huge launch party for the major new house label, House-Trained. Spinning alongside NYC’s very own DJ Disciple, London firestarter Raymundo Rodriguez, acid house maestro and all-round legend Steve Proctor, the Layabouts and Phil Loraine & Stu Hall, they’ll be a welcome addition to the capital’s party scene that weekend for what promises to be the mother of all house parties.
We caught up with them to get the lowdown on Manchester’s finest…
Where would you rather live - Manchester or London? Why?
Adam - Well we've both lived in Manchester all our life, so I don't think we need to answer that one really!!!

Sell Manchester's music scene to us - why do you think it's been so influential down the years for dance music and the industry as a whole?
Adam - Not sure really but I guess the Hacienda played a major part in the introduction of house music to the UK.  I was there a lot during the nineties - I didn't appreciate what I was part of at the time.  I just remember thinking.....fuck me, this is good fun!!
Three people you'd kill to work with in your lifetime - who, why and what would you dream of doing with them?
Adam - Sienna Miller, Heidi Klum and Gisele Bundchen.....I'll leave the rest to your imagination!

What gets you going in the studio?

Graham - Well certainly a good cup of tea to start with, then comes along some beats, always gotta be the beats for us - they always bring inspiration to the rest of the track.

What one track would you most love to remix or work on that we wouldn't ever suspect you of being remotely interested in?

Graham - Hmmm well you'd be surprised really, we both like all sorts of things. There's certainly some wicked producers out there making great pop songs. A lot of the Beyonce kinda stuff we're liking, producers like Neptunes, Dr Dre etc. I could imagine us doing a nice quirky remix on some of the nu rave stuff that's out at the moment too, CSS, LCD Soundsystem etc. I would also love to remix the likes of Jack Johnson and my current favorite Tom Baxter

You've been together 8 years now - did you ever think you'd last that long? Have you had your ups and downs, trials and tribulations or has it been gloriously smooth sailing?

Graham - Pretty smooth sailing really. You always get the odd bit of politics in house music, that's something that's pretty hard to keep away from, but its not in either of our characters to blow things out of proportion so we've done pretty well in that respect.

What were your initial thoughts on meeting each other?

Adam - Don't remember really.....we were both completely bollocksed at the time!!!

What are your feelings on the digital revolution that's going on around us at the moment? Have you em braced it or are you desperately trying to bat it off with some 12" vinyl?

Adam - If you'd have asked us that 5 years ago, we'd probably have given you a really serious answer about being vinyl to the core, but it's old news now - I can't remember the last time we played a 'real' record!!  We're completely down with all things digital - it just makes things so much easier.  The important thing is that people keep buying legal files......and they're so cheap there's no excuse really.
Where do you normally shop for your tunes?
Graham - We try to mix things up really, just like in our DJ sets....we shop digitally for mp3s at Traxsource for house and soulful house, Beatport for the proggy bits and Dancetracks Digital for the more diverse and quirky bits.

How big are your record collections and what are your most prized possessions in them?

Adam - I've probably got somewhere in the region of about 10,000 12", although I've never sat down and counted!  Difficult to put a finger on the favourite, but the original double pack promo of Soulsearcher - I Can't Get Enough is very precious to me.  It's one of the biggest tracks of all time for us.  That, or my first ever record......Ace Of Spades by Motorhead!!!

Is there one tune in particular that you've wanted to get your hands on for ages but can't find anywhere?

Adam - It used to be like that in the days of vinyl, but these days it's pretty easy to track down things digitally.  

Has there ever been a sample that you wanted to use in a track that kicked ass but you had problems with the licensing thus depriving us of a stunning new Audiowhores tune?

Adam - Not that we can recall - we haven't sampled anything for a long while, but if we did we'd try and steer clear of the majors.  We did replay an old 80s track recently hoping it was the next Eric Prydz, but by the time we'd finished it, we'd gone off the idea!!!  We may bang it out later this year because it seems to have been pretty well received.
Graham I know production is a bit more of a passion for you than DJing - what would your dream set-up be?
Graham - I'm quite pleased with our current setup really, I prefer to have a working enviroment that im confident in, rather than have shit loads of equipment that I know little about. Saying that though I have got my eyes on a Moog Little Phatty and possibily some other analog synths!

Do you like to work with live instruments when you produce or do you prefer electronic recordings and samplings?

Graham - Back in the day we used a lot of live instruments, Rhodes, guitar, bass, strings etc. These days we tend to find that we're playing most the stuff in our self, the kind of music we are making is a lot more dance floor orientated but still keeping the soul.

You're playing at House-Trained at The Island on Fe bruary 16th, alongside DJ Disciple and acid house legend Steve Proctor. It's the label launch for House-Trained, which has big backing from Universal Music. How important do you think it is that we have another house label with significant financial support to invest in artists?

Adam - It certainly can't be a bad thing!  Most house producers try to be cool and keep things underground.....us included.  But there is nothing more healthy for a producer than a big crossover track and it's rare that happens without the backing of a major.  I'm sure our turn is just around the corner!

They're looking for new young producers to join their ranks. Have you got any hot tips that the label should follow up? Is there anyone out there that's particularly caught your eyes (or ears) over 2007?

Adam - There seems to be an awful lot of good stuff coming from Holland these days.....oh, there and Manchester - have you heard of the Audiowhores?!!!

Talking of production, what have you been up to in the studio recently? Have you got anything juicy that you can tell us or are you saving it up for Miami?

Graham - We've really found our groove again in the studio of late and we're really pleased with our current sound.  It's a lot edgier than our previous stuff and it should be really playable.  We're just putting the finishing touches on 4 original productions with various artists featured on vocals.  We have also just finished a remix for Danism on MN2S with Kathy Brown on vocals, that should be ready for Miami. We're also half way through a project for Z Records too which is sounding quite hot too.
Do you think Miami is that crucial to the dance music industry anymore? I know a lot of people that came back last year thought it had lost its business/networking vibe due to the vast hordes of marauding American kids on spring break. What are your thoughts?
Adam - Whenever we've been to Miami, it's been more about partying than networking but I think it is important to meet your peers and idols and it's great to see everyone in the same place at the same time.  So I hope the whole Miami thing runs and runs forever.......but Ibiza and the ADE never fail to impress so it's got competition!

Any plans to do Ibiza this year? If yes, where can we catch you?

Adam - We've both got trips to Ibiza planed this year although we've haven't confirmed any dates as yet.  We're working on it!!

Finally what kind of set can we expect from you on the 16th? Will you be bringing out some old school flavours? And will you be getting some dance floor action in either side of your set?

Adam - Oh yeah, you can't count on us to party has hard as anyone.....nothing better than a good old knees up!  As for our set....we try to mix it up as much as possible, but overall we'd describe our sound as 'proper house', be it afro, electro, soulful or progressive....and we don't go anywhere without the odd classic tucked away in the wallet.

www.house-trained.com
Advance tickets for just £12 are available now from http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user/?query=search&INTERFACE=ticketweb&category=misc&region=xxx&search=house+trained&beginmonth=01&beginday=24&beginyear=2008, tickets can be bought on the door for £15.
There is a huge guestlist for this one – see if you can get on it by mailing theisland@wearebeautiful.co.uk.

mostwantedkat
By mostwantedkat in Interviews ·
  • 362 views

Interview with Summertime Global headliner Luciano Esse

Summertime Global is proud to invite you to its 1st B’day!! We’ll be celebrating in style on BANK HOLIDAY Thursday 20th March at the New BAR 54 in MILE END – EAST LONDON, the newest and most shining pearl in the London underground clubbing scene.

We launched 12 months ago a new way of partying in London, Ibiza style, with events made by people who work, play and party in the White Island, and here we are, celebrating Summertime Global 1st B’day with the best underground London-based DJs of the moment and very special guests.
LUCIANO ESSE – ITALY
One of the resident DJs last summer for Vitalik at We Love… in Ibiza, he’s also resident at Amnesia in Milan, playing alongside DJs such as Sven Vath and Villalobos to name the latest. Luciano is also renowned for his productions, especially for Safari Electronique, which receive wide support from the most talented names in today’s Techno scene. Luciano is also a friend, we partied together several times in Ibiza, and we’re really excited for him to join us in the celebrations. Enjoy!!!

Where and when did you get your first taste of house music and who were your early musical heroes?
I HAVE ALWAYS LISTENED TO EVERY KIND OF MUSIC, FROM SKA TO ROCK, FROM REGGAE TO JAZZ, FROM HOUSE TO TECHNO, FROM JUNGLE TO DRUM'N'BASS... EVERYTHING THAT GIVES ME A NICE VIBE...
What was your first ever professional gig and what was the last night you played at?
THE FIRST GIG I PLAYED WAS IN 2001 IN MY HOMETOWN, IN A CRAZY PLACE CALLED "NAUTILUS", IN SOUTH OF ITALY WITH A 1200 PEOPLE CROWD... THE LAST ONE WAS LAST FRIDAY IN MILAN AT AMNESIA, WITH TOBI NEUMANN FROM COCOON.
What gave you the impetus to finally turn your back on ordinary employment and turn your hand at being a full time DJ and producer?
I HAVE NEVER BEEN AN ORDINARY EMPLOYEE, I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN IN THE CLUB SCENE...
I am a die-hard vinyl addict, though I appreciate times must change and life will go on with CD's, Ableton etc. What's your take on all of this; will vinyl ever finally die out or do you think there'll always be a place for it in clubland?
I WILL ALWAYS BUY AND PLAY VYNIL... I REALLY DON'T CARE IF THE REST OF THE WORLD WILL GO FOR OTHER WAYS... AS LONG AS I CAN BUY VYNIL I'LL BE SUPERHAPPY... I PLAY CDS TOO, BUT VYINL COMES FIRST!
You've got your home-base in London. What do you think of the London scene and the Uk dance scene at the moment?
THE LONDON CLUB SCENE IS THE REASON WHY I MOVED TO THIS AMAZING CITY FROM ITALY 7 YEARS AGO... I JUST LOVE IT!!!
You played a lot at Space in Ibiza last year. What was that like and how did that come about?
SPACE IBIZA HAS BEEN A FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE... I WAS PLAYING FOR THE "VITALIK CREW" ALMOST EVERY SUNDAY MORNING... SPACE IS ONE OF THE BEST CLUB IN THE WORLD, IT'S SO AMAZING PLAYING FOR THAT CROWD!!!
What other remixes and tracks have you planned to destroy Beatport again?
NEXT RELEASE WILL BE ME AND MY PARTNER IN PRODUCTIONS TONI D, ON KAILASH RECORDS (SUBLABEL OF SAFARI ELECTRONIQUE). THE EP NAME IS "HAZARD" WITH REMIXES FROM MARC BROOM AND ARNAUD LE TEXIER.
ALSO IN MAY WE WILL HAVE ONE TRACK OUT ON SPANISH LABEL "ATYPICAL FARM". STAY TUNED!!!
How do you describe the music you come up with in the studio, does it fit into a particular genre?
I GUESS WE COULD CALL IT "TECHNOMINIMNALGROOVY"...
Which has been your favourite remix out of the tracks you've done so far?
MY FAVOURITE ONE IS WITHOUT DOUBTS "PHONE BROS" OUT ON ATYPICAL FARM IN MAY...
Do you have any UK residencies that people can catch you at?
YES... OUR MONTHLY PARTY "MINIMAL HOSPITAL MEETS ZUM" @ UNIT 7, LONDON... NEXT PARTY WILL BE ON THE 12TH OF APRIL, WITH ALEXI DELANO, ALESSIO MEREU AND MORE GUESTS... SO FAR WE HAVE HAD DJS SUCH AS: PACO OSUNA, MARC BROOM, RYAN CROSSON, INXEC, SKOOZBOT, ANDRE CROM, ARNAUD LE TEXIER...
TO CATCH LUCIANO ESSE GET YOURSELF DOWN TO 54::MILE END ON EASTER THURSDAY 20TH MARCH
• SHANE WATCHA – SOUTH AFRICA
Infamously known for his Zombies Ate My Brain parties and after hours. He also plays regularly for Circo Loco, when the crazy circus arrives in London. One of the kings of underground London.
• SERGE SANTIAGO
Here he comes once again, the mighty Hackney Warrior, in a Summertime Global event. It was a very successful year for Serge, having been resident for We Love… and mixed their first We Love Ibiza album last summer. Welcome back, neighbour…
• FILTHY GORGEOUS
Every Ibiza worker has enjoyed at least once one of our friend Scott Martin’s infamous parties. We are proud to have Filthy Gorgeous host Room 2 with Scott, Enzo Siragusa and Lee Rands; they really incarnate the spirit of Ibiza we want to represent here in London. Well Done!
• A very warm welcome to our guests UNION DJs, performing with us for the first time.
• Last but not least our travel companions, friends and loyal residents HOUSEAHOLICS, PROJECT AND MIKE KHOURY

ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
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Guilty Heaven, dance floor temptations and Fierce Angel @The Island (Saturday April 12th 2008)

You might associate Margate with windy weather, dodgy B&Bs and little old ladies in macs and plastic raincaps sitting on the promenade pecking at 99s. But house music? To be fair, not so much. Well you’re in for a bit of a surprise party people because over the last two years something’s been going on down on the south-east coast and it’s beginning to spread out to the rest of clubland.
Guilty Heaven is the brand behind the rise of house music in Margate, building up a fanatically loyal following of passionate clubbers and dedicated resident DJs. Saturday April 12th sees them travel to London to take over the back room at The Island for the huge Fierce Angel party. Promising a blend of filthy, sexy and banging house music they’re on a mission to blow the capital’s scene away and if reactions to their previous parties are true, then they’re more than fully on course.
We caught up with Mark Websper and Mandy Kobylanski, the duo behind Guilty Heaven, to find out a bit more about them and their seaside party…
What’s Guilty Heaven all about?
Basically… it’s about the music and the people, whether it’s to one person or thousands, no matter how many people we play for, we pride ourselves on leaving clubbers not wanting it all to end and looking forward to the next one.   Bringing into play our ear and love for a truly great night! Guilty Heaven is about the love of house.
Where did the name Guilty Heaven come from?
The name Guilty Heaven was born in Ibiza, it was actually meant for another DJ that was considering rebranding. He had asked us to come up with a new name and art work, something different and sexy.   We had spent a month working with him on the art work with a few names thrown around but not getting the right sound of it. We went out to Ibiza in June 2006 to do some promo photographs for HowCleanIsYourHouse as well as an interview with Judge Jules and pictures for Judgment Sunday.
Sitting in front of Savannah’s sorting out the following day’s interview the name came out of the air. We wrote it down with the list of other ones we needed to check when we got back to the UK. To be fair, it was a development on the unceremonious side but it was the last name written down on the list and we felt it had hit the nail on the head so to speak.
While we were away Matt had decided to keep his own pseudonym – Matt Logic. And has happily played for Guilty Heaven in the past and we look forward to welcoming him back in the future.

How did it start up?
We (Mark Websper & Mandy Kobylanski) are photographers by trade with a very big love of all things house.   We take pictures for clubs/parties/DJ’s for promotional material websites etc as well as the usual photography in our studio in Margate.  
A bit tongue in cheek but doing the photographs put us in some of the best parties around doing what we both love, meeting loads of new people and making a living out of it!
Returning back to Margate, with a real lack of venues playing house music in the area and a wealth of DJ talent we used talk about the ‘what if’s’.
After we returned from Ibiza with the name GH tucked in our pocket, HowCleanIsYourHouse had been offered to play a set at Pacha with LoveTec & MyFairytail on the Friday, and a local venue, Sugar Lounge, were putting on Miss MoneyPennys on the Sunday. We were asked to help promote both. We decided we couldn’t let the name Guilty Heaven go to waste so that was GH’s first promo outing - The Guilty Heaven Long Weekend.
It gave us such a buzz to see it all come together that we decided to give it a proper go. We used Sugar Lounge as our base to showcase the local talent and bring bigger names to the area. Having Judge Jules on our bill just two months into our short life helped put us on the map here in the south.   We approached Smartie Partie for our first set at Turnmills and we definitely have to send a big thanks out to them for helping us get our foot into the doors of the London clubs.
Basically we fell into promoting but now we are here it’s a lot of hard work, loads of stress and some incredibly amazing nights but we plan to stick around!
The rest as they say is History
You say that your sound is defined by your residents. Can you give us a quick run through each of them and what makes them so special?
Guilty Heaven has two main residents who you’ll find at all of our gigs
Ian Garner : Fantastically loyal to GH and the first to join us as a resident. Likes his remixes of old tracks, normally plumps for the B side of his vinyl as it is normally a bit grimier and less mainstream than the A side. A real party animal who lives life to excess.
Frenchie : The man who truly loves those phat bass lines. He can sniff out the dirtiest, most rocking tracks you can imagine and with so many years in the profession he has much respect. He played the circuits with Pete Tong in the early days and if he’d decided to go full time, who knows where he would be now!
Both of them truly enjoy being behind the decks where ever we play. We would say they are just as passionate about Guilty Heaven as we are!
We are also extremely lucky to have the support of a wide range of DJ’s:
DJ Ferdinand : Fantastically talented, a long time serving Dutch DJ who loves his Techno. Widely respected in the industry by the likes of Eddie Fowlkes and K Alexi, one of his biggest assets is his ability to be diverse.
Kev Harris and Mark Dickson of HD Promotions: Both these lads have been playing the clubs in the south east for quite sometime. They know what makes a great night from a DJ and a promoter’s point of view, which is always a good thing. Both DJ’s play the mainstream and commercial but live the dark and dirty 😉
Rob Hatton : Generally an all round nice guy with a real talent who has not had the pleasure of playing in our neck of the woods… yet! He has played internationally and in some of London’s main clubs. Watch this fella because he could well go a long way.

Mr Biff : Our ever faithful Percussionist. Mr Biff (Simon Wallis), has played at nigh on all of our gigs and is very much in demand by other promotions, and so he should be. You can get some pretty ‘interesting’ players on the circuit and when you land one that is good that lives on your doorstep, make sure you keep them. They always add another dimension to your promotion.
And although they won’t be playing on the night a special mention to Robbie Styles – Audio Boutique, Phil Good & Matt Fontaine – FMG, Dom Yong – Stimulation,   Scott Tunes & Dan-ce DJ, Jeff Barker – FLH, Dave Doughty & Tom Keys – HCIYH and Matt Logic, all with their own unique style and their much appreciated loyalty and support to GH.
You’ve only been throwing parties for two years – why do you think you’ve had such quick success establishing yourself with more major players in the industry?
Why are we successful in what we do? Because we are unpretentious, friendly, honest and are truly ‘what you see is what you get’. Mandy’s Canadian/welsh accent helps a lot as well.
We both are passionate about photography and music and the two aspects work in harmony.
To be honest we have been very lucky to be in the right place at the right time. The industry as a whole we have felt has been very welcoming. We are willing and eager to put the work in to make the night successful.   Guilty Heaven has become a very deep rooted passion for the both of us and we think this shines through.
Out of everyone you’ve worked with, who have you had the most fun with (and don’t feel any pressure to say Fierce Angel >;D)?
Ouch we would like to say everyone. It’s always fun when GH is involved 😄
Ok we have to name someone and we’d say it was a very even split with Mark Doyle & Andy Galea. Every time we have worked with both DJ’s it’s been a real giggle because both guys have a fantastic sense of humour and very much enjoy being behind the decks. It’s not ‘just another gig’.
What made you decide to get involved in promoting, a notoriously unstable profession?
As we said it was a lack of house music down in sunny old Margate as most promoters will tell you it can be a lot of hard work, but if you are in this game for the night it’s always worth it. Now we are here we want to be in it for the long haul, evolving to what the clubbers want and what we love!
What’s your formula to a rocking party? How do you approach promoting?
Mandy: Fantastic music, amazing DJ’s and clubbers that are there for the music. First and foremost LOVE what you are doing. You create an atmosphere that people find contagious. We live by the motto you’ll never know till you ask, that’s always a good starting point
Mark: Promotion of a night is hugely difficult. Of course we do the usual stuff like flyers, posters etc but with local authorities getting tough with fly posting and putting flyers on cars it is becoming increasingly non profitable.
But it is always important to ensure that you try and get a database going and thus keep you crowd informed. We use DSI, as all good promotions do. We have found of late that Facebook has proven to be one of our biggest tools for advertising our nights to introduce new clubbers to the scene.
We are not afraid to try something different, we try very hard not to be run of the mill.
What would be your advice to anyone else trying to set up a fledgling night in today’s industry? 
Mandy: If you want to jump on board because you want to make a quick buck this is NOT the place for you. Nor if you think one big party makes you a super star. If you are in it for fame and fortune you would have more chance of applying for Blue Peter and working your way through the TV Ranks. Too many times have we heard people saying promoters have an easy life?? Firstly in our eyes it’s a love of the music you are promoting… spreading the house word so to speak. It’s about giving the clubbers a night to remember. Be prepared to work hard, there is a lot of behind the scenes leg work, research the areas you would like to put your brand, talking to venues, other promoters,   flyers, tickets, pulling it all together on the night. Knowing your audience... Have we got a few more hours to go into it?
Believe in what you are doing but always be willing to take advice from others even if you have to save it for a latter day.

Mark - Watch your back. Clubland is a fantastic place to be, but you will come across at some point promotions and club owners that want to shaft you at every opportunity. We were given this bit of advice early on and it helped us to be a bit more aware. You have to have your wits about you all the time. As a promoter you need to understand the relationship between your promotion and the club owner and/or any co-promotions. You may put on a night that is well attended, your DJ's played like true pro's, the crowd were dancing and enjoying the night and you see it as a success, however if your crowd didn't drink very much the club owner will see it as a flop. Be aware to target you audience properly. A night in a small club with 150 good spenders enjoying the night will do you better than trying to attract 300 that sip one drink all night.
Just because you had a packed room doesn't mean the club will ask you back.  Make sure you are aware of what the club expects from you before your party.
Always ensure that your DJ’s can read a crowd. Make sure that if your crowd isn’t moving then do something about it.
Consistency is the other key, make sure you are seen regularly, this doesn’t necessarily mean play every venue unless they are suitable to your night. Make sure your logo is memorable… It's all about getting your brand recognized.
What’s the best party you’ve ever thrown and why was it so special?
Mark - On a small scale I have to say when we promoted Jules at our night at Sugar Lounge Margate. This was the first time we booked Jules. We befriended him in Ibiza during the summer of 2006 and have stayed in contact with him ever since. We had only 17 days from the time his management said we could have him to the night itself. Stress like you wouldn't believe. All was pretty mediocre until 3 days before and then all hell broke loose. On the night the venue was rammed solid with best part of 600 and Jules was on top form. Being below ground and low ceilings it was like an oven in there and sweat was dripping from the walls but bloody hell it was cool.
Mandy : That’s a really tough one.   For the enjoyment factor they are all special in their own right, each night bringing it’s uniqueness to the myriad of memories that are making up the colourful Guilty Heaven past. I agree with Mark though, October 7th 2006 Guilty Heaven features Judge Jules. It was completely nerve wracking partly for the fact that we were worried that Thanet was not ready for this kind of event yet. It was a truly amazing night at the Sugar Complex, it was a sell out and the walls were alive that night, the atmosphere was electric and it put us in good stead for all of our future parties. The night was the best work out my arms had ever received – the fan had gone walk abouts so I had used a clipboard to keep the DJ box circulating with a fraction of air!

What’s the best party you’ve ever been to and why?
Mandy: All GH parties… do I need to say more lol
Mark: I have to say that I ALWAYS enjoy Fiesta Del Agua at Es Paradis. I've done all the other super clubs but I always get drawn back to this one. 5am in a packed EsPara, boiling to death and then the water comes on. Good music and manic… I just love it. Good memories and fucking good fun (oops can I say that lol) 😉
Mandy: Lol I forgot about that, that was one of my first experiences of Ibiza, roll on this summer I can’t wait 😛
What party would you absolutely kill to go to? 
Kill? Mandy has a problem when there are pigeons in the road and Mark is most definitely too nice to think about maiming (well most of the time 🙂
Mark - Roger Sanchez playing the North Pole during the winter midnight sun lol ;-), oh and of course with GH setting the stage… How cool would that be
Mandy – lol can we do it a second time under the Northern lights? How cool, a natural laser show!!
If money was no object, what kind of party would you throw, where would it be and who would you have on the line-up?
Mark: We would love to have Es Paradis for one night, that’s all, no need to be a regular thing although that would be nice. I think we would probably ask Mark Doyle to play with us and probably Danny Rampling and Roger Sanchez, then showcase our own talented DJ's… could you imagine the atmosphere. It's all about being proud about your brand, not about making piles of cash.
Mandy: I completely agree, but for me the ultimate club to play at would be The Guvernment in Toronto, Canada. To have Guilty Heaven play in my old back yard would be bliss… watch this space people 🙂 

If you could have a dinner party with five famous people, alive or dead, who would you invite? 
Mark: OK I'm getting rather repetitive here but No 1 on the guest list would have to be Roger "The God" Sanchez, I would even polish his shoes on the way in, I might even polish the loo before he sat down. lol
No2: I would resurrect JFK just so I could find out who shot the bugger.
No3: JRR Tolkien because he can tell a story better than I can.
No4: Gonna cheat here, Groove Armada. I know it's 2 ( Andy Cato and Tom Findlay) but they make great music and I would get them to DJ a Late Night Tales set when everyone was ready to chill at the end of the night.
No5: Ayrton Senna. Without a doubt THE greatest F1 driver from an era when F1 was death defying and exciting. I saw him at Monza the season before he died. I think I went in to mourning for a month after his death, tragic loss to the sport.
Mandy: does this mean we get 10 people to diner? Will have to think about getting a bigger table!
Ok my first invite would go to Mark Oliver, a British born DJ but shakes the music world of Canada. He helped revolutionized the party scene over there.
No 2: Kaskade because I love all of his music.
No 3: Vivian Westwood, I’ve been known to wear some unusual outfits to our parties
No 4: Frankie Knuckles, that would be a constant brain picking session.
No 5: Boy George. He is so incredibly grounded. I’m always interested in other people’s views and thoughts that make you think about your own ideals, sometimes for a change or just to strengthen your own
I’m going to have one extra woman’s prerogative lol, No 6: My Grandmother. OK she wasn’t quite famous, she passed away in ’97 but the woman was always dancing, she loved all music. I remember playing NWA, she was in her late 80’s at the time but she was unfazed and still had a bop around with me – I owe a lot of my drive to her.
Wow can you imagine the after dinner party if we could get them on the decks I’m sure JFK would show some hidden talents 😛
Finally, what can we expect from you at the Fierce Angel party on Saturday April 12th at Heaven?
A damn good fun night. The thing is the crowd we have really do know how to have a good time. You always know our crowd whether there are 30 or 300 of them. All involved will give 100%, they all work well together and are truly passionate about what they do. There is never a gig that passes where we don’t manage to impress. Expect the back room to be dirty, undeniably sexy and truly banging. The Island will be THE place to be on that night so we urge everyone to get their tickets now!!!
FIERCE ANGEL @THE ISLAND
SATURDAY 12TH APRIL 23:00 – 06:00
THE ISLAND, HUNGERFORD LANE OFF CRAVEN PASSAGE, LONDON WC2N 5NJ
FIERCE DISCO by FIERCE ANGEL
MARK DOYLE MARTIN WRIGHT JUSTIN WILKES (KISS FM) MATT COLLINS SEXY DIRTY HOUSE MUSIC by GUILTY HEAVEN:
IAN GARNER FRENCHIE KEV HARRIS MARK DICKSON ROB HATTON DJ FERDINAND MR BIFF on PERCUSSION £12 advance tickets are on sale now at www.ticketweb.co.uk or by calling the venue on 020 7930 2020. £15 tickets available on the door on the night.
mostwantedkat
By mostwantedkat in Interviews ·
  • 364 views

Interview with Deepgroove Azuli vs Filth Easter Sunday special at AREA51

Joined at the hip through a love of extreme partying and bad fashion, Deepgroove’s Lee Pattison and Grayson Shipley have been setting the world alight with their incendiary 4 Decks:Efx DJ Show and red hot productions.

Their sound has travelled the globe with props from everyone from Annie Mac, Pete Tong, Deep Dish, Steve Lawler, Medicine8, Tom Stephan, Jon Carter, Fatboy Slim, to Annie Nightingale, Seb Fontaine, James Zabiela and Nic Fancuilli.
Deepgroove’s ‘Jus Luv Bass’ was awarded Radio One’s Pete Tong’s Essential New Tune in March 2006. A month later the duo appeared on the show for his ‘DJ on the Phone’ section, playing their remix of Ricky Stone’s ‘Shanghai Taxi’. Deepgroove’s ‘Fascinated’ also reached no. 1 in the UK Dance Industry’s Music Week Chart, rode high in the DJ Magazine HYPE Chart for over a month and peaked at no.5 in the CLUB CHART.
Deepgroove have recently been given the honour of mixing the launch CD for a new compilation on Darren Emerson’s Underwater Records called the SOLO Series. Their SOLO World Tour has already taken in Shanghai, Australia, Singapore, Latvia, Lithuania, Dubai and will be touring Europe extensively in the coming months.
“Book these guys and the only way you’ll get rid of them is to find them another party”
DJ Magazine
'No messing, they do exactly what it say's on the tin...they know how to drop it!'
Pete Tong (BBC Radio 1)
We caught up with the duo before their trip to Manchester to play for Azuli vs Filth at AREA51.......
Hi Guys, thanks for taking the time do this interview. Let’s start at the beginning, how did you get into music and then into dj’ing?
It’s all we have ever done. Being full time delinquents makes the concept of a day job pretty unappealing and our twenty four hour party lifestyle brought us together after 10 years of Dj’ing separately
Who did you take inspiration and influence from when you started out and who inspires you today?
The original spark is from the distant days of the birth of rave – dancing in fields, free parties and scummy warehouse’s; and thankfully that’s all come full circle and were sampling the vinyl we bought all those years ago. Constant inspiration comes from The Chemical Brothers, Erol Alkan and the spirit of acid house.
It’s been quite a year for you with DJ Mag naming you best British breakthrough. What has been your highlight of the last 12 months?
Our best was closing the Isle of White festival for Strongbow, everything else shut at the festival after the Stones had played and about thirty thousand people tried to get into our tent – consequently the atmosphere was intense
You signed to Underwater records, how did that come about and what have you got coming out on the label?
Underwater came about through sending music to Darren and generally bothering him – he’s got a great ear for new talent thankfully. Next up is our next instalment of the Weekend Weapons series – with a particularly filthy tune called “Bad Acid”
Other than the Underwater stuff what else have you been up to production wise?
We’ve just had an EP out for Jesse Roses’ Madetoplay in collaboration with Jamie Anderson and another one with him on Alter Ego’s Klang Elektronik which lead to them asking us to remix their new single. We also finished up a mix of Armand Van Helden’s new single last week.
What software/hardware do you use for your productions and remixes and how would you describe your sound in 2008 (both as DJs and a producers)?
We’re Mac based using Logic & Ableton – currently we’re mining the ground between minimal, wonky techno and rave crafting big club bombs with an equal mix of funk and fury!
Moving away from your own production which artists feature in your DJ sets the most at the moment?
Guido Schneider, Luetzenkirchin, Woolford, Radioslave, Switch, Dubfire, Dusty Kid, Thomas Schumacher and loads of obscure records made by people we never hear from again!
You run your own night Play in Bristol. What’s the crowd like down there and what DJ’s have you had down?
It’s absolutely mental – 500 nutters, fancy dress, mutilated soft toys and soaring rave energy. Recently we’ve had Radioslave, Konrad Black, Cagedbaby, Fergie and next up it’s our first live gig with Deadset performing.
With it being your own night do you get away with playing stuff you wouldn’t normally play in other clubs?
Not really, we always want to play the most exciting records wherever we are, but I guess that with Play you can create the same levels of excitement with odder records!
Finally, let’s ask you about the gig for Azuli vs Filth at AREA51 in Manchester on Easter Sunday, what can we expect?
Hopefully a big old moshpit!
Check out Deepgroove's new mix at deepgroove.co.uk
For tickets please visit www.skiddle.com

 
Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 333 views

"3 Hours Of massive Energy" From Ferry Corsten at Gatecrasher's 15th Birthday

Gatecrasher catch up with Ferry Corsten, ahead of his 3 hour set at the Gatecrasher's 15th Birthday event, at their spiritual home in Sheffield.
GC: Described as the "architect, pioneer and instigator" of trance, what are your thoughts on the scene as a whole?
Ferry: Trance has come a long way since it’s heyday in the late nineties. It has gone through a phase of progressive, harder , electro and it looks like it’s slowly going back to it roots. In my opinion, if done right, trance is the most innovative music genre out there.
GC: With numerous Dutch Gold awards and UK Top 40 hits for your productions, which are you more, a DJ or a Producer?
Ferry: -In the beginning, I used to say that I was more of a producer than a DJ. I was lucky to break into the scene through the success of my own music productions in the late nineties. However, due to that success, I was able to release a number of compilations called Trance Nation with Ministry of Sound which kicked off my career as a DJ. After all these years, I would say that I am definitely both… a producer and a DJ. I spend just as much time (sometimes even more due to travelling ) DJing as I have sitting in the studio late at night to finish a track. The difference nowadays, is that I work on my productions a lot on the road as I do not have the luxury to wait to get home to start on a track.
GC: With such a hectic schedule, how does Ferry Corsten unwind and relax?
Ferry: When you´re really busy, you really get to enjoy the simple things in life. I am so happy when I get to come home, hang in my own couch, sleep in my own bed, and eat a great home cooked meal.
GC: What is your current top 5?
Ferry: 
1. Masters & Nickson ft. Justine Suissa - 5Th Dimension (Daniel Kandi Bangin' Mix)
2. Off Key - Showdown (Ali Wilson & Scott Attrill Remix)
3. Re:Locate & Menno de Jong – Spirit (Paul Miller 2008 Rework)
4. Embrace – Embrace (Ferry Fix)
5. Solarstone - 4Ever
GC: What piece of advice would you give to any DJ aspiring to be the next Ferry Corsten?
Ferry: I always tell people to trust themselves and to follow their own path. You can be successful in copying other people but you can have success and earn a lot more respect if you do things in your own unique way.
GC: Which DJs do you predict to be hot for 2008/09?
Ferry: I’ve been pretty impressed with the last productions and DJ sets of Bart Claessen. He’s been putting out some real powerful productions and remixes. Casey Keyworth "Breakfast" has been travelling with me on a couple of tours now and I’m very impressed with his DJ skills and of course his productions.
GC: You have played for Gatecrasher on numerous occasions, most recently at the Gatecrasher Resurrection at Magna in March. You will be back to headline their 15th Birthday Event back in their spiritual home of Sheffield. Why do you think Gatecrasher have continued to be successful after so many years?
Ferry: Gatecrasher has continued to be successful after so many years because they have managed to work with the times. Whereas a lot of brands have fallen off the map or are struggling to keep up with the way big shows are produced nowadays, Gatecrasher has persevered.
GC: You have always had a special relationship with the crowd at Gatecrasher. What makes it so special?
Ferry: I guess because Gatecrasher was one of those clubs that helped make trance music the success . it is today. I was looking at a Gatecrasher Classic CD a few months back and saw how many of my production contributed to that classic CD.
GC: What can the Gatecrasher crowd expect from you at the 15th Birthday event?
Ferry: 3 hours of massive energy.
GC: What is Ferry Corsten up to for the rest of 2008 and moving into the New Year?
Ferry: I am working very hard to finish my latest artist album taking a bit of time off after that to enjoy some important things in life
ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
  • 434 views

Invasion Ibiza! - Interview with K90!

On July the 8th this year @ Eden in Ibiza Invasion Ibiza began its Ibiza journey with a bang! on the night Randy Katana, Jon O.Bir and K90 topped the bill along with Invasion residents Russ Edwards, Dene No Rythem and Cheadle & Hubby. In the second room was the Uk's number 1 breaks night "Planet Breaks!"
The night itself was awsome as K90 said in an interview soon after with Harder Faster:  What was the most mental place you played?
Id have to say this years Invasion: Ibiza at Eden was huge for me, in more ways than one! I think most people whove been to Ibiza to party would agree that its still a place where anything goes and anything is possible. Believe me, this trip was no exception! Another big highlight for me in 2006 was playing to 10,000 in a single arena at a World Cup 06 kick off party in Malaysia.
So as K90's coming back for Invasions next event @ Eden, Ibiza September 9th along with Marcel Woods, Jon O.Bir, Planet Breaks and the Invasion residents we thought we'd fire a few questions at him Invasion style!  
1. (Question from Snakes, Invasion resident) Do you prefer laces or Velcro?
If youre referring to footwear Id say that trainers with Velcro are a lot easier to put on and take off! I have footwear featuring both styles of fastening so it would be unfair of me to side with one particular technique!
2 Now music is so readily available via download, file sharing sites etc how has this changed things for you as a producer and DJ? Do you prefer it the way it is now being able to share youre newly produced work so easily? Or does this bring allot of problems?
From someone who runs a record label, digital downloading has without question taken its toll on the vinyl market and that concerns me. I still sell and promote the K90 catalogue on most of the big download sites but if I was 100% honest seeing a track that Ive been working on for four weeks on sale for 1.49 doesnt exactly fill me with enthusiasm to write the next Red Snapper! Luckily, my love for the music will always keep me writing because thats what I do. From a DJ-ing perspective, downloads are a fast, inexpensive way of getting your latest releases to the people you want. Id say 75% of the stuff I get sent is via email these days.
3. (Question from Kevmixin, Invasion resident) Youve been in this game a long time now and youve seen allot of change, How does the dance scene compare now to when you first started?
Umm, thats a question Ive been asked a lot recently. Although there seems to be more choice these days, Ive not really noticed much difference in the way people go out and party, not since Ive been falling out of clubs anyway! For me as a producer, the processes I go through when I write are still pretty much the same as when I started its just the kit has got smaller!!! I would say is that with the onset of the digital age its a whole lot easier for new and upcoming producers get themselves heard but with fewer labels and clubs i think its harder to break through into what I would call the big time.
4. (Question from Naylor, Techno DJ and Producer) When you play your live sets what Kit do you use?
I use Sony Vaio laptop running Emagic Logic, a couple of synths plus a mini controller keyboard. I run everything through a Peavey 12 channel mixer and have a DAT machine running simultaneously for back up just in case everything goes quiet! That lot all sits on three two tier keyboard stands, then I wrap my big ole K90 banner across the front and there you have it. Oh and I mustnt forget my trusty roll of gaffa tape!!!
5. (Question from the_minister, Tidy forum) When you play live do you use all the keyboards as controllers for a live sequencing programme like ableton?
Itd be interesting to know this cos I dont know how the hell you play it all live when youre having so much fun dancing about!!
Basically, the majority of the sound coming out of the speakers is generated by the laptop, I can then overlay string patterns, effects and operate filters using the controller or sampling keyboard. Not all the equipment on the stage is used in every track all the time but when youre on stage you have to have a certain amount of stage presence. It wouldnt be very good if I was on stage at say Global Gathering for instance with my PC and my little ole controller keyboard cause it would look crap! I personally think its more important to give the audience something to look at, give um a show! I mean, at the end of the day, who really cares if youre using Ableton, PC or a Fischer Price Activity Centre for that matter?
6. Question from Taylor J, DJ & Promoter) Have you ever thought of changing your music style?
Im always looking at ways I can improve on what Ive done in the past and if you listen to the music I produced when I first started out its miles away from what Im doing now. Ive produced Hardcore (first time round) Acid Trance, Trance, and Hard House and the stuff Im producing now for my next artist album is I think certainly different again. If you mean will I start to write as a breaks or drum n bass producer I cant see that happening. I may dabble in those styles for an experimental album track or something but in the main I like to keep it four to the floor!
7. What age did you start producing music? Was it always hard Trance form the start? Have you got a lot of unfinished tracks from years ago?
I think I was about 21 when I first started playing around with sounds and as I said in the previous answer Ive produced everything Hardcore, Hard House and everything in between! I dont tend to keep anything unfinished; it just gets scrapped so I can move onto the next idea!
8. (Question from your wife Jane) Whats the story behind the lucozade fountain?
Shes a wrong-un that Jane! Ok, the story behind the Lucozade fountain goes something like this. We were travelling up to Leeds for a festival a couple of years ago. I was knackered from playing the night before so Jane was driving. I was concerned by my lack of energy knowing that I was gonna have to do it all again that evening so we pulled into a service station for some refreshments! I picked up this family sized bottle of Lucozdade thinking that should do the trick and got back in the car. We pulled out of the services and I proceeded to open my lovely bottle of orange energy, then whoosh, the entire contents of the bottle emptied itself over my jeans just like a fountain! The strange thing was I completely froze and in my weary state I just sat there and watched the sticky orange liquid gush from the bottle!!! It was only when I heard a distant voice similar to that of Obi Wan Kenobi communicating to Luke Skywalker from the netherworld saying are you gonna put the lid back on that then? that I snapped out of it and proceeded to stem the flow! By that time it was too late, I was an ants best friend! Needless to say we had to stop the next services so could clean myself up and luckily I had another clean pair of jeans in the car! The embarrassing this was though, I had to walk across the forecourt looking like Cliff Richard with an overflowing colostomy bag and worse, I had the indignity of attempting to clean my packet with a combination of wet wipes and a hand dryer!!! What a day!
9. (Another question from Jane) Whats the funniest thing to happen to you in a restaurant?
Well, this may not be funny to everyone but I know my lovely wife found it rather amusing! We were basically sitting in a well known pizza restaurant and we were ravenous! As our order came to our table I, as usual got straight in there! My pizza had these giant round bits of pepperoni on and as I went in for the kill with a giant mouthful I didnt manage to bite through one of the oversize bits of meat, no, half the bloody topping decided to come off and proceeded to sit there hanging from my teeth onto my chin, melting cheese and all! By jingo that was hot!
10. What was the highlight of your trip to Ibiza with Invasion?
There were so many highlights from that trip but most importantly the event itself was fantastic! The atmosphere at Eden that night was electric! My good lady wife as well as a few of my close friends came out with us which made it even more special. I know everyone felt the same as I do; it was one of the parties of the year! Aside from the event another memory thatll haunt my dreams forever was seeing one of my mates walking round Savannah wearing nothing but his underpants and a pair of ladies mustard coloured shoes. Hed been well and truly captured!!!   
11. Whens your next album due for release?
I cant see it being ready much before the middle of 2007. The track writing process is well underway but as Im looking to release a DVD with the album it may take a bit longer. As long as Im happy with the final product I dont really mind if takes another two years.
12. What gigs are you looking forward to the most later this year?
Obviously Invasion: Ibiza in September then two days later I fly out to one of my favourite countries of the world New Zealand for a five date tour.
13. (Question from Matt, DJ, Two Kilos of funk) Why do dogs have cold noses?
Sorry, Im more of a cat man so I couldnt tell you
14. What do you think was the most likely reason Invasion booked you to play at their Ibiza parties?
A = Your music style fitted in perfectly with the time and flow of the night and helped them achieve an adrenalin rush of electro, techno, trance and hard dance!
B = Your claw action is not that bad
C = They needed someone to get wrecked with and were just thinking of the aftermath really and not the event..
All of the above but mainly the last one!!!
15. (Question from Filthy Harris, DJ & Strings, Harder Faster) What does K90 stand for?
Rather boringly it doesnt actually stand for anything. K90 was originally KA90 back in the day when I was part of a two piece production team. One day, we wrote a tune but couldnt think of a name for the track so my mate randomly typed two letters KA and two numbers 90 We were doing hardcore back then and were signed to Kickin Records. They decided that it would be better to drop the A and K90 was born.  
16. (Question from Sunnyside, Harder Faster) Does your name have anything to do with Dr Who's sidekick K9?
Strangely enough, no!
17. (Question from webbo, Harder Faster) Why did you stop making acid trance?
Its like anything, you have too much of something, you tend to get bored and want to move onto something else on the end. Im kinda glad my tastes tend to evolve with the music because if they didnt It would rather limit the events I could play at.
18. (Question from Filthy Harris, DJ & Little Miss Moo, Harder Faster) What was it like playing Dance Valley? And whats the best crowd youve ever played for and why?
Dance Valley was brilliant this year, responsive crowd and great atmosphere, those crazy Dutch sure known how to put on a party! Ive been privileged enough to play to lots of great audiences over the years so to pick just one would be nearly impossible for me. This is also due to the fact that I dont tend to dwell on past events but try to refocus and move onto the next. As far as this year goes, my top three would have to be Global Gathering, a 10,000 people arena show in Malaysia and of course, Invasion: Ibiza in July!
19. (Question from Little Miss Moo, Harder Faster) What inspired you to write Breathe?
Good question! Well, what I can tell you is that I got the lyrics first which then inspired me to write the music. For me inspiration can be a tiny spark, a drum kick, a bass line then it all just takes on a life of its own, its hard to explain but some tracks just seem to write themselves and Breathe was like that.
20. (Question from Lozer, Wreck head) Why do all shoe repairers also cut keys?
Ummm, not really a question Ive posed myself on to many occasions but it is strange they do that though isnt itmaybe Ill nip down my local shops and ask!
21. (Question from Lenni your sister in law) Can you play the Ukulele?
You know what, funnily enough I can!!! Well, I can play one song anyway - When Im cleaning windows by George Formby!!! I used to play a guitar when I was a kid and that has six strings, so when a mate of mine came round mine one day armed with this Ukulele (I know, thats weird in itself!!!) with only four strings it wasnt that difficult really! He taught me to play said Formby track in one afternoon!
22. (Question form sexyjojo, Harder Faster) Have you learnt to swim yet? Ref: http://www.harderfaster.net/?section=forums&action=showthread&threadid=1&threadid=165444&forumid=1
Stay away from this woman, she is evilask her husband, hes permanently scared!!!!
In answer to your question, yes I can and have been able to swim for some time thanks very much Jo!!! It just didnt look like it on the time in question due to vast amounts of free booze weighing me down!!!
23. During you carer as a producer if you can answer this without getting your self in the shit, have you ever been ripped off especially when you first started out? The reason I ask is I know a few people that have been shafted due to there inexperience and being over keenness to get a track released.
Umm, I cant really say that Ive ever been badly ripped off before but I have had occasions where Ive been owed money that Ive never received. My advice would be to try and get something in writing and get it signed, then at least youve got a reference point to go back to if there is some kind of grievance. Also, get your tracks registered with MCPS/PRS so when your track is released you can check back with them to see how many pressings have been made. Any label worth its salt should confirm the amount of pressings when they apply for their AP2 licence (a permission to press records/CDs).    
24. Should Dene get his hair cut?
On one hand I think, hell yeah and on the other hand I think he should keep growing it till he looks like Cousin It out of the Adams Family!!!
25. What do you think of the Invasion brand as a whole, i.e. its team, its mentality and its objectives, and what do you think makes it different from everyone else?
From what Ive seen, the Invasion brand seems to be successful because the people behind it seem to get the best results by working with a smile on their faces! I mean, thats what were all in this for right, to have a good time? This is not say that their not thorough or professional because in my experience they very much are! Unfortunately, there are far too many people in this industry, especially DJs and promoters that take themselves far too seriously! It makes a welcome and refreshing change to work with a promotion that has the right attitude! 
26. (Question from Vinylvibes, Harder Faster) Are you sick of Red Snapper yet?
YES!!!
27. (Question from lilgingerkittee, Tidy forum) Are you always that happy in real life?? Would we see you in Tesco for example bouncing around the frozen food section with that HUGE grin on getting excited by the special offers???
I do actually shop at Tesco and can be quite often found larking about amongst all the isles, not just the frozen food section, just ask my wife!!! In general I am a pretty cheerful chap and I dont really need special offers to make me happy!
28. What did you think of Invasion Ibiza back in July? Was it what you were expecting? Did it look and feel as you imagined it would? Are you looking forward to Invasion Ibiza in September?
Ive experienced beefa a few times so kinda know what to expect, but I have to say Invasion back in July was just fantastic! For a first event, on a Saturday which is strangely considered not to be a good day to have a party on in Ibiza, I was blown away! The number of people that packed into Eden coupled with an atmosphere that I cant remember being part of for a long time made it one of the highlights of my calendar so far this year! Bring on round two in SeptemberI cant wait!!!!!   
The Next Invasion event is on Saturday September the 9th
@ Eden, Ibiza
K90, Jon O.Bir, Marcel Woods, Planet Breaks & The Invasion Residents!
www.invasion-online.com for all details!
hubby
By hubby in Interviews ·
  • 325 views

Cally Gage & Olly Perris interview each other ahead of their B2B set @ Addiction's 2nd BDay !!

Cally on Olly
CG: So youre a bit of a young-gun at 22. How long have you been DJing and producing? Describe your sound to us.
OP: Ive been DJing now since I was 15 years old. I got into it from listening to Judge Jules classic Clubbers Guide CDs in 1998/1999, and wanted to know exactly how he was mixing the tunes together. I got into mixing MP3s, which was of course impossible back then, but I got my decks when I was 16 years old and picked up the trade properly from there. I started producing when I was 16, as I had a few creative ideas which I wanted to try to get down to play in my sets. I guess the sound Im best known for is no-nonsense, uplifting hard trance with a distinct UK edge to it.

CG: Have you always played/produced hard dance ?
OP: Hehehe, heres my first embarrassing revelation. Ive always produced hard house (with the exclusion of several dismal attempts at techno!) but as for DJing well, at university I actually worked as an R&B DJ for 3 years, and I did weekly cheese nights at our student union nightclub, hosting stage games and playing Britney Spears records to pissed-up students! I actually love cheese music / cheese clubbing so it was a great thing for me to do. As far as serious DJing goes though, its always been hard dance.
CG: What was the first tune that you ever made ? What was it like ?
OP: Good Lord, this takes me back. The first ever tune I did was called Hausmuzik and was, I thought at the time anyway, a 150bpm rip-roaring, innovative, incredible slice of futuristic hard house. That was until I went to sleep that night and awoke the next morning to listen to it again, where I realised it was utter, complete, horrible noise!

CG: What have been the highlights of your career so far ?
OP: DJing, I toured Australia in 2005 which was incredible! I played three awesome gigs in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney and met some of the nicest clubbers on earth! I was also out there for my 21st birthday, which was wicked. Producing, in 2003 mine & Ashley Sinclairs remix of VG & The Red Hed Move Your Body featured on the CD single of Nukleuz DJ Nation EP 2 which hit the UK Top 40 chart at number 36, which was wicked. Later in 2003, our original track Atmosphere did 10,000 copies in its first week of release and charted at number 48, which was also wicked.
CG: So are you looking forward to our b2b then? Have you got anything up your sleeve that youre going to pull out for the evening ?
OP: Oh Cally, I cant wait to play with you In all seriousness, it is going to be rather good isnt it? I think we have really similar styles of playing so we should work well together. As for tracks up my sleeve, I do have several of my own re-edits with me including a very special one of one of my favourite rock songs of all time... I wont say much, but lets just say I hope it doesnt kill the crowd with its brightness (Dear me, thats a lame clue!)
CG: What have been the most embarrassing/cringe worth moments ?
OP: Plenty in real life but DJing wise, I think Ive been fairly cringe-free up until now, apart from the usual taking-the-wrong-record-off saga. I hope that continues, as I really dont like embarrassment at all!
CG: What are your plans for the future ? Where do you see yourself in 5 years time ?
OP: Im really not too sure to be honest. If youd have asked me 5 years ago whether I would have gone to University in Southampton to study History, I would have laughed at you, but now that seems like such a real and natural thing. Id love to see myself on a beach somewhere surrounded by supple young virgins, but in all reality, probably still in London. Unfortunately.
CG: There have been a lot of changes in the hard house scene over the last few years, what do you think of this scene at the moment and where do you think it will go ?
OP: I love the way that psy-trance has worked itself into the scene as its so innovative and fresh. At the huge risk of being called a dirty name dropper, I was actually talking about this with Nick Sentience the other day, and we both agree that the awesome production quality of psy-trance should and needs to rub off onto the production quality of UK hard trance. Its a tough time for innovation at the moment but there are plenty of influences and styles still out there waiting to be untapped, it just needs someone to take the plunge and go for it.
CG: So what do you get up to in your spare time ? A typical day in the life of Olly Perris !

OP: I do the whole boring 9-5 thing unfortunately, but Im lucky that my 9-5 is also an industry job! I work as Label Manager for mp3 store Trackitdown.net. I get into work, and am instantly ordered to make the tea by my partner in crime Ed Real, with whom I share a sweaty, concrete block in Bermondsey with no windows or air conditioning! After Ive made the tea, I get to work. I have to look after over 3,000 labels and need to be constantly hunting down the hottest tunes to get onto the site, which is a lot of work but also a lot of fun! At the weekends, you can either find me DJing at great events such as Addiction or slumped in a drunken stupor in some desolate cheese club.
CG: So what other exciting things have you got coming up ? Any studio time booked ? What have we got to look forward to from you ?
OP: Lots of cool stuff to come! Im doing some solo work for the Addiction Digital label, which I manage, and also some collaborations with some well-known producers  more on that to come soon! Generally though Im just looking forward to whatever tests life throws at me  bring it on baby!
Olly on Cally
OP: Lets not beat about the bush here with the first question. Youre just a little bit stunning. Naturally, with me there too, there could be some fiery chemistry between us. How do you think you will cope with such a strapping lad in the DJ booth with you ?

CG: Oh no, now youve got me all embarrassed before we even start! Thanks for the compliment though babe, thats dead nice of you to say so. Although, it might be a good idea to warn the clubbers of the potential chemistry they may experience watching us - just so theyre all prepared, lol !

OP: On a serious note (!), it has always been difficult for female DJs to waive off the pretty but cant mix tag, however youve proven yourself time and time again as a scene-leading female DJ with skills comparable to the best of the best. Does it anger or empower you when people stupidly label pretty female DJs as talentless ?
CG: I think nowadays you have to have the whole package really - a bit like you and me, lol! So many people can mix now, as pretty much everyone has a set of decks at home. Because of this you have to make yourself a little bit different and stand out to make it in this industry. As a clubber, I would always love to watch a DJ that could mix really well, but they also had to have a bit of personality behind the decks, as watching them have a good time makes you enjoy it that little bit more on the dance floor. I love jumping around behind the decks going crazy while Im playing, as I love what I do and the tunes that I play - I dont think I could stay still anyway, even if you paid me to!CG: Wow, you really are being nice to me today, haha! Seriously though, I think female DJs will always have that tag, as its such a male dominated industry and its still a bit of a novelty to see a female behind the decks. Im not sure that it angers me as such, but it is a bit annoying that when some people talk about female DJs, their technical ability is the last thing they mention! Since the beginning of my career, I have always tried to push myself on what and how I play - not the fact that Im female. After reading your question, I presume that this is working and people do talk about my skills before they mention anything else. Female DJs are just as good as the boys anyway - Im sure well give them all a run for their money !

OP: Youve come a long way so quickly in the hard dance scene, and have headlined pretty much every major event and played every major arena. What has been the standout moment from your career so far ?

CG: Looking back on what Ive achieved still really shocks me, as its only been 2 years since my first ever gig! I just get on with what I do and love every single minute of it. When I do get chance to look back on everything that Ive done, I still cant quite believe that Im here! Im not sure that there has been one single moment that has stood out for me, but a couple that Id like to mention would be winning the Tidy Summer Camp Competition in 2004 - this really kick started it all for me and I was totally oblivious as to what could come from this! Secondly, it would have to be getting signed to the mighty Frantic agency, which is now known as UDJs. Will Patterson is such a highly respected person within our scene and definitely someone I now look up to, so to have him take me on right from the beginning was such an honour and something that I hope will continue long into the future.

OP: What do you think makes a good DJ? Track selection, crowd interaction or technical ability ? Or all three ?
CG: I think nowadays you have to have the whole package really - a bit like you and me, lol! So many people can mix now, as pretty much everyone has a set of decks at home. Because of this you have to make yourself a little bit different and stand out to make it in this industry. As a clubber, I would always love to watch a DJ that could mix really well, but they also had to have a bit of personality behind the decks, as watching them have a good time makes you enjoy it that little bit more on the dance floor. I love jumping around behind the decks going crazy while I'm playing, as I love what I do and the tunes that I play - I don't think I could stay still anyway, even if you paid me to!

OP: Youve been on a few trips to the studio lately. What kind of tracks should the record buying public expect from you ? What kind of style have you gone for on your productions ?

CG: I have only been in the studio once and that was sometime last summer, with a certain DJ called Ben Bennett. As this was my first time, it was a really new experience for me, but I loved every minute of it. Since then I havent ventured back down this route as I was concentrating more on my DJ career, but now I feel the time is right for me to look into production again. I have booked some studio time in with Greg Brookman and have a few ideas of what were going to come up with - but youll just have to wait and see on this Im afraid. Other producers that Id love to work with are yourself (of course), Technikal, Lee Pasch and MDA & Spherical - but youll just have to watch this space, as good things come to those who wait (apparently)!

OP: You're known for your no-nonsense, straight up hard dance style which has won you fans across the country and beyond. What do you make of the current electro/psy influences to the traditional hard dance sound ? Does it spoil it ?

CG: Well, I recently went to Ibiza and was told that I would come back loving electro and house music. Well I proved everyone wrong, as I probably hate these genres of music more than before I even went ! I dont really know what to make of psy-trance music either, as I havent really listened to it enough to form an opinion. I dont think any other particular style of music can spoil hard house - everything needs to evolve, so to have new influences can only be a good thing, right? I just love hard house to be honest - so Ill play anything that has a nice, heavy, rolling bassline and euphoric breakdown, as this is sure to get me and a dance floor going!

OP: What has been your favourite back to back set to date and why ?

CG: I have played quite a few back to backs in the past and most of them have worked out pretty well. One that does stand out though, is my back to back set with Mr Whitby last October - this was for Timeless and held of the legendary KoKo Club. Firstly, the whole night was classics only - so this means that youre definately in for a good night anyway. Secondly, I think me and Andy work really well together and it was a back to back set that people had been waiting a while to see. The KoKo Club is my favourite ever venue to play at and I remember the view from that stage when we were on - you just had to be there, but it was an incredible sight and something that Ill never forget.

OP: You've mixed the upcoming Frantic Residents album for Nukleuz Records alongside your other half Andy Whitby. Be honest, were there squabbles over who played what track and who did the better mixes ?
CG: I am really looking forward to Addiction, its going to be such a good night and one gig that Ive been looking forward to for absolutely ages. I think that we are going to work really well together - as long as you have underwear on, lol! Ive got quite a lot coming up over the remainder of the year with at least 1 gig a weekend, which is great. Just to mention a few things for you though, the Frantic Residents 06 Album will be in all good record stores from 25th September (not sure if Id already mentioned this)!, I will be looking to get into production more so youll hopefully be seeing some tracks from myself sand my website should be up and running sometime soon as well - so please keep looking at www.callygage.co.uk for this.CG: I know - how exciting is that?! I was soooo excited to be asked to mix this compilation and cant wait to see it in the shops - I mean, my face is going to be in HMV! There werent many squabbles though to be honest, as we do play quite different tracks in our sets and we dont swap anything either (nobody comes near my cds)! We mixed half each and I really feel that it shows each of us as a DJ and the sound that we play. It is out in the shops on Monday 25th September, so make sure you all go and buy a copy - it will definitely be worth it, I promise!

OP: What do you make of Addiction as a party/record label ?

CG: Unfortunately I havent had the pleasure of attending an Addiction party yet, but have heard loads of great things about it. Im really chuffed to have been asked to play as well, especially as its the 2nd birthday and Im playing b2b with you Olly - that just tops it all off for me really! Moving on to the label, I have been fortunate enough to have received most of the releases and have liked pretty much everyone. I feel that the label is very strong and has produced some high quality tracks, right from the beginning. Addiction was one of the first labels to make the bold move and only produce mp3s - so you could say that it set the standard for all other labels to follow, it definately sets it apart from everyone else in that fact anyway.

OP: Finally, apart from Addiction of course, what are you most looking forward to throughout 2006 ?
CG: I am really looking forward to Addiction, it's going to be such a good night and one gig that I've been looking forward to for absolutely ages. I think that we are going to work really well together - as long as you have underwear on, lol! I've got quite a lot coming up over the remainder of the year with at least 1 gig a weekend, which is great. Just to mention a few things for you though, the Frantic Residents 06 Album will be in all good record stores from 25th September (not sure if I'd already mentioned this)!, I will be looking to get into production more so you'll hopefully be seeing some tracks from myself sand my website should be up and running sometime soon as well - so please keep looking at www.callygage.co.uk for this.

Random/Quick Fire

If you were to throw a dinner party, which 5 people (dead or alive) would you invite along and why ?

OP: Kurt Cobain - The worlds most prominent musical genius of all time. Karl Marx - Because I had to study him for my History degree and I want revenge. Ricky Gervais  The funniest comedian of all time bar none. Karl Pilkington  If youve heard Ricky Gervais podcasts, youll know why. Imogen from Big Brother  obvious reasons!

CG: To be honest, I dont think there is anyone that Id really like to invite along to a dinner party, apart from 5 of my closest friends! That would be much more fun I think.

What 3 things can you not leave home without ?

OP: My iPod  Im such a music whore My phone  Everyone feels lost without theirs, but I actually begin to panic The latest Ricky Gervais podcast!

CG: My bag, as this has everything in it that I need - its a bit like a Mary Poppins bag! As I have everything in there, I wouldnt really need anything else, apart from my clothes and shoes!

Where would your dream holiday destination be and who would you take with you ?

OP: Id love to visit Mexico again. I went there when I was 15, and it was the most amazing place Ive ever been to. It was so serene, but full of life too. As for who Id take hmm, I honestly couldnt say!! I know my parents loved it there, so probably them. How boring is that!?

CG: Im not sure about this really, as there are quite a few places that Id like to go in the world. If I had to pick one though, it would probably be a really expensive trip to Thailand with my gorgeous boyfriend Andy. Id like to do the trip 5* style - not that I could afford to, but thats why its a dream right?

Whats your favourite venue and why ?

OP: Jesters in Southampton. Its infamous as it is officially the UKs number one worst nightclub, but on Monday nights all pints/shots are 50p. It is, quite simply, the best place ever.

CG: My favourite venue has to be The KoKo Club. The place is just amazing and I havent found anywhere else yet that quite has the view this venue does from the main stage. Looking up at all the tiers full of crazy clubbers dancing away to what you play, like theres no tomorrow - well, theres just nothing that compares to it really.

Whats your favourite tune of all time ?

OP: Nirvana  Smells Like Teen Spirit. On a dance tip, Chicane  Offshore 97.

CG: It has to be Tony De Vit - I Dont Care. This tune still gives me tingles every time I hear it - I can tell the tune coming in from a mile off and always used to leg it to the dance floor like a loon when it was played !

Whats your favourite colour ?

OP: Red baby! Its too sexy for words.

CG: It has to be pink - I have so many pink things its untrue. Although I am starting to like yellow and green quite a lot, but would never betray the colour pink, I dont think !

Whats your favourite food ?

OP: Knorrs Honey & Mustard Chicken Tonight sauce. Many a sexual meal has been made with this beast.

CG: Im not really sure what my favourite food is really, as I pretty much eat anything. If I did say one thing though - I think it would be a massive salad with loads of dressing! Weird I know, but Ask restaurant do the best Chefs Salad in the world - you should go try it, its beautiful, honest !

Whats your dream car ?

OP: That Koenigsegg one that The Stig crashed on Top Gear the other week. HOW cool was it!?

CG: Well my dream car has to be a shiny black, top of the range, Nissan 350Z Roadstar! These cars are just beautiful and I really think that I would suit one down to the ground !

Can you tell us a secret please ?

OP: I dont wear any underwear when I'm DJing

CG: Well I could, but it wouldnt be a secret then would it ? !!!!

To see exactly what the huge fuss about these fine two DJs is, then you really have to be at Addictions 2nd Birthday @ The Fridge on the 30th September, 2006. With Greg Brookman (A.L.I.V.E. PA), MDA & Spherical (LIVE), Adam White b2b Anthony Dean ft. STACE (LIVE), Technikal, Ali Wilson b2b Matt Smallwood and John Bentley also on the line-up, this is going to be one of the biggest birthday celebrations in the capital this autumn.

Check out the E Flyer ! for full line up, ticket info, the massive Addiction VIP all the way limousine competition, samples of the immense remix EPs and more !!

Addiction
By Addiction in Interviews ·
  • 331 views

Andy Farley - King of Camden Palace

HeatUK is back at Koko, London for its 5th Birthday party this weekend - with 2 original Camden kings at the helm. They are Phil Reynolds and Andy Farley!
Take us back to the first time you ever set foot in Camden Palace. What was the event and what mischief did you get up to inside the labyrinth-like venue?
Its seems like such a long time ago now, but it must have been 2000, after Id taken on my Frantic residency. I think I stayed by the DJ box most of the night cause I was worried I might get lost and not be able to find my way back!
Do you miss the days when you used to rock the main room at the Palace on a regular basis? Or do you prefer that its a special occasion when hard dance events do take place there?
I used to love playing my residency, monthly, last set, but sadly this ended when the venue closed, so its always a great treat to come back and play here again. Its funny even though its called Koko now, everyone still calls it Camden Palace! This will be my second gig there this year, the first being Spencers slogathon of course, so am really looking forward to it
Do you ever get lost in the venue these days or do you know it like the back of your hands?
I know my way around now, usually know where to find my various drivers in a state in the back room ha ha!
Is there one defining moment for you that you will always look back on in years to come when Camden Palace is mentioned?
Theres so many for different reasons, was kind of like a home for a few years, but I guess Farleytime and Return Of The King stand out for me as they gave me opportunity to play for longer and mix it up a lot more. 
Whats the most inspiring set youve ever seen another DJ play at Camden Palace / Koko?
Unfortunately I didnt get a lot of opportunity to catch many other peoples sets as I was nearly always arriving shortly before my set starts due to other gig commitments. However, I nearly always played after Phil and he always had the place rocking
You will be returning to the venue for Heats 5th Birthday on October 14th  sure to be an emotional experience for all concerned! What are your fondest memories from playing at their parties over the years? 
Ive always enjoyed the Heat parties, both the ones at Camden Palace & Brixton Academy, so its great to be coming back again. Theres always so many people to catch up with that I havent seen for ages, and I know theres going to be loads there for this one to. I cant believe its your 5th birthday already as well!
Do you still feel you have a strong a passion for hard dance as you used to?
Absolutely. Introducing different sounds into my sets has really livened things up and theres a lot of varied great music out there so yep, still loving it!
Meanwhile, what are you both up to at the moment? What are you working on and whats exciting you?
Ive had a busy year. Got loads of new production done, with tracks out on Tidy, Tekelec, Traffic and remixes on Elasticman Platinum and Vicious Circle. I did 5 dates over at Tidy vs Extreme at Es Paradis in Ibiza which was absolutely rocking, played at WEMF in Canada in July and also San Diego. Things looking great for the rest of the year too. Ive also been doing radio, covering for Anne Savage on her Ministry Of Sound Thursday night show which Im enjoying immensely, and gives me a chance to play a variety of music from house & Electro through techno to hard dance. 
Tickets
See http://www.viewtickets.co.uk/club-tickets-5302.html for tickets to HeatUK's 5th Birthday at Koko in London, featuring Nick Sentience LIVE, Andy Farley, Phil Reynolds, Marc French b2b Technikal b2b Spencer Freeland, Summit vs Puzzle Project arena + much more...
Frantic Benz
By Frantic Benz in Interviews ·
  • 449 views

Interview with New AREA51 Resident Jo Mills

As the summer fast approaches AREA51’s line ups get hotter and hotter. Big news for this month is former Space and Dc10 resident Jo Mills will become our new Saturday Sessions resident. The talented DJ and producer is in high demand worldwide, about to jet off on her sixth annual tour of Asia, Australia and Indonesia before returning to her beloved home base of Ibiza to unveil her eagerly anticipated new weekly residency for summer 2008. Add to that the exciting news that Jo has announced a monthly residency at Manchester’s Area 51 and the fact she’s heading back into the studio to produce new tracks in time for summer and you’ve got one very busy DJ. Check www.myspace.com/djjomills for more details. Catch Jo tearing up the AREA51 dancefloor this Saturday with hot Toolroom record producer Kim Fai.
We caught up with Jo to find out more about her new residency and Ibiza..........
This month you make your second appearance at AREA51 as their new resident, what can we expect?
i am going to be playing some underground after hour sounds for the crowd to get on down too!
What do you think of the club?
i love it thats why i jumped at the chance to be a resident, its fresh and how a club should be, wicked sound system, nice and dark with low ceilings giving it that edge and a perfect size for the direction we are taking the night musically.
What other residencies do you have?
i play regularly for Club Azuli all over the uk and gbar in liverpool .....i also have a hot new residency here in ibiza this summer!!
How old were you when you started playing?
i learnt when i was 21, so 4 years ago!! haha sorry could not resist that......
What or who is behind your musical inspiration?
i absolutely love soul music..i was brought up on it, i love barry white, marvin gaye, stevie wonder.....black music has been a huge inspiration for me really. When i first started it was dj pierre that got me hooked, his wild pitch sound transends all styles of house music.
How would you describe your sound?
house music with techy vibes, intoxicating grooves and melodies ! music to dance too
What one track never fails?
one of my faviourate all time tracks is silicone soul - right on right on ....its timeless
What have you been up to recently?
i have been busy working on my lines up for the room i am hosting here in ibiza in the summernas well as playing in italy, dublin and the uk and of course working in the studio. i have been based in ibiza all of this year so it been ace being home its amazing here in winter
You a bit of a legend out in Ibiza Will you be out their again in 2008?
well yes! this is hot off the press as i have just confirmed the details.... pete tong is moving from pacha this summer and will be presenting his successful brand WONDERLAND at eden every friday , pete will be in the main room with GROOVE ARMANDA in the second room and myself and husband charlie (chester) will be hosting the white room upstairs! i will be playing every week along side ibiza residence djs and special guests, it is really exciting as the club is under going a complete transformation.
Who is you top tip for 2008?
tomas edberg, my resident for the white room this summer , hes an excellent produce and a really skillful dj he knows how to build a set as well as rock a dance floor
What's your favourite tune?
delete - flight departure
How about your own production, what have you been up to ?
well i am really excited as along side my 4 tune 500 partner Matti Schwartz we have just finished a remix of dancing in the dark bringing it right up to date for 2008! the track will be promo'ed at the miami winter conferance next week......
Where's your top Country to play?
ibiza of course!! its an amazing experience to play here in summer or winter
Finally, what 3 things make a good club?
the sound system
the vibe
the people
www.myspace.com/djjomills
COME AND CATCH JO MILLS BEGIN HER MONTHLY RESIDENT AT AREA51 THIS SATURDAY

Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
  • 354 views

Interview with Martin Doorly ahead of his Radio 1 Essential Mix

Always considered a bench mark for quality DJ/Producers, an invite to guest on a Radio One Essential Mix is something that always brings out the best in a DJ.
On Friday April 11th Afterparty celebrate their 2nd Birthday by welcoming the Radio 1 DJ’s Pete Tong and Dave Spoon who along with resident Martin Doorly will record a special Essential Mix LIVE from the Afterparty Warehouse Experience. Their sets will be broadcast live to the world between 3-5AM.
From small Afterparty to big Warehouse party, Galaxy FM’s Best Club in 2008 and Top Ten Club 2007 (Mixmag) ‘AFTERPARTY’ has successfully sown it’s seed in clubland and has now cultivated what is set to be one of the hottest party’s of 2008.
Tell us a bit about Afterparty and how it all began?
Basically four of us (3 DJ’s & a Bongo player) were all playing all over the UK and never got to all play together and basically hang out with all our local friends and people in the industry who worked till late. So we set up a little after-hours party in a tiny bar that we could all gather in after our gigs to catch up and have a jam. It began as an invite only affair, but Huddersfield , at the time had absolutely no clubbing scene so it grew very quickly and we had to upscale our venue immediately!
Afterparty have been asked to play a very special Radio 1 Essential mix. How did that come about and whats going on?
So one day i got a call from Pete Tong’s Management, saying that they would like to do a special essential mix show representing new up and coming DJ talent & club nights and that they thought Afterparty and I were ideal Candidates! That was a fun day!! So basically We’ve scheduled a special Afterparty Warehouse event on Friday 11th April which will be broadcast between 3-5AM live to the world from the mighty Huddersfield. Tongy will play the first hour then i’ve got the second one. We’ve also got Afterparty Favourite Dave Spoon coming over as well.
I believe you will be doing an hour of the Essential Mix. Are you prepared and what sort of sound/tunes should we look out for?
Funnily enough, I’m not at all nervous, just really excited, I’m not going to plan a set because it never works for me when I do that but I’m definitely going to try and include loads of my own material, and re-edits. Also, being a live set as opposed to a pre-mixed one I have to think about the crowd reaction as well, so I reckon you can expect a bit of a party set which suits me fine. Expect Crunchy Techno / Guitars and rave hooks!!!
What makes Afterparty stand out from the rest?
This sounds gay, but it’s definitely our crowd. We’re privileged in that Huddersfield, by clubbing standards is a relatively innocent town and, unlike the major cities, hasn’t see it all before. For most of our crowd it may be their first experience of this type of event (and lifestyle) and we can all remember that feeling!! We have never NEEDED to bring big acts in order to fill our venues, and we still don’t really, but we just do it because it’s fun to give our loyal crowd something they wouldn’t ever get to see on their own doorstep.
What have you and Afterparty been up to recently?
Afterparty is currently on its next step of regeneration. We have just moved to our new custom warehouse venue (Exclusive to us). We launched last month, and with a bigger space and budget we just wanted to put on a silly break even festival style line up so we booked Groove Armada, Annie Mac, The Scratch Perverts, Sinden & Herve. It was AMAZING!!! We will now be hosting our warehouse parties monthly and I’m currently sorting out some crazy genre bending line ups! For the bank holiday Sunday 25th May I’ve just confirmed Armand Van Helden, Sebastian Ingrosso, Krafty Kuts & the Streetlife DJs. I have equally good line ups for the rest of the year!
Personally, My DJ calendar has never been so busy, as we speak I’ve just got back from a mini tour or Poland playing some awesome dates there. I’m pretty much out playing every night of the week at the moment and trying to cram in as much studio time as possible.
What have you got coming up?
Again, Busy times ahead. I’ve got loads more eastern European dates to complete in the next 2 months and a week’s tour of Egypt playing for Ministry over there and a wicked full moon party on the beach. I’m launching a new club night in Sheffield and the ridiculously good carling academy in may and I’m most excited to be supporting Soulwax and 2manyDJ’s again at the end of April in Leeds.
Favourite club to play in and why?
Being emotionally attached I’m obviously going to say our new warehouse venue in Huddersfield because its set up exactly how we want it and Its MY crowd!! But other than that you can beat the box at Ministry in London. You feel like a superstar just being stood in there!!
What do you think of the UK scene?
Well in my experience its sooooooooo much more fun in the north! The crowd just seem to lose it that little bit more. One thing I’m not liking is the way Ketamine & GHB are taking over right now, They’re not the kind of drugs you want your dance floor to be on if you’re trying to Create some energy!
Best gig ever?
Without doubt last year when I played at the southern fried mobile disco party in Brighton, sandwiched between Fatboy Slim and Armand Van Helden and being asked to go back on at the end for an encore glory hour at the end!!!
What's the strangest or most unusual place you`ve ever played a gig in?
I once did a Tutoring Scheme teaching kids how to mix in a school. As part of the course I had to perform a DJ set in an assembly with loads of kids just sitting down and a teacher stood next to me clapping!! I still cringe now as I write!!
What DJ tunes feature in your sets?
Anything distorted and guitar based so obviously loving Soulwax / Justice and the Ed banger crew, anything by Daft Punk, Boys Noize, Digitalism, SMD. I also tend to play loads of electronic band stuff like The Presets, Late of the Pier and the Whip.
Do you have plans to produce your own records?
Yes I’m absolutely caning the studio at the moment trying to get loads of stuff finished for my essential mix. I’m on with remixing some awesome bands right now which is exactly the kind of stuff i want to stick to. Some of my completed stuff is on my new myspace site @
www.myspace.com/doorlyuk
To make it in this industry do you think DJ’s have to produce nowadays?
I’d like to think not, especially in my case as I wasn’t chosen by radio 1 for my productions but it is certainly a shortcut to the top and it’s hard to name many A-list DJ’s that have gone global purely based on their technical DJ ability. I believe that all DJs should at least have a foundation in production because being able to even make simple re-edits can liven up your set massively.
Do you tailor your sets to particular venues or play it by ear?
Unfortunately I’m not organised enough to tailor anything!! I just tend to take far too many records and just pay the excess at airports so I have everything with me, then I just freestyle to whatever crowd i have in front of me. I actually prefer it that way because its more challenging and my sets can be so varied Its easy to find something said crowd will be interested in.
What are your top 5 tunes right now?
In no particular order:
Midfield General – Disco Sirens (Them Jeans Edit) Justice – DVNO (Justice Remix) Trip – Who’s That (Jack Beats Remix) Does It offend You Yeah? – Rockstars DJ Medhi – Signatune (Doorly & Only Ten Left Remix) What`s the dodgiest situation you`ve been in playing out?
I once played a gig in Poland at a mafia run club, they kept giving me these huge shot glasses full of ridiculously strong Vodka and making me drink them. I was nearing the end of my set when I uncontrollably projectile vomited into the screaming crowd. The owner was very upset and I thought I was going to have my legs sawn off!!! Needless to say we made a sharp exit from the club!!
DJs are renowned as having a glamorous life, if I was you for a day, what would be the most disappointing thing I’d discover about the reality of a DJs life?
Probably on a Tuesday night when all your mates and girlfriend are settling down for the night and you’ve got to set off down the motorway to a town you’ve never heard of.... and its dead..... but you have to stay and play anyway because they’ve already paid for you. All night you have a chavvy girl telling you that you’re shit because you don’t have anything by the pussycat dolls. Then on the way home you are day dreaming and you run out of petrol...... again......and spend 2 hours trying to hitch a lift to the petrol station and back. By the time you get home everyone’s getting up for work and you have a meeting in 2 hours! Rock & Roll!!!
First record u bought?
Ha HA! I got my first set of decks and went to HMV as it was closing, I was really into the French filtered sound at the time but the closest I could find was a Phats & Small tune called ‘Tonite’ which i proudly cained for my first year!!
What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen in a club?
I once bumped into my old maths teacher Mr Crump dressed as a Lady on the pull that was strange.
What do you like to do away from the dance scene?
Its non-stop late night partying in what we do so when i do get a night off i like to just do the things other people take for granted like, cook a decent meal, watch TV and get an early night.
What`s your most prized possession and why?
Probably my Macbook Pro I spend more time with it than my girlfriend!
Which four words best describe you?
Peanut Butter Jelly Time
Last thing you regretted?
Putting myself on after the scratch perverts at Afterparty last month, they were possibly the best DJ set I’d ever seen and the crowd were in awe. How do you follow that!!!
Finally who would be on your ideal DJ team?
Other than those already mentioned of course (2manydjs / Scratch Pervs / Fatboy etc) I reckon to create the best party I’d have to draught in Annie Mac (Who is Ace by the way!), my good mates Cassette Jam and I’d love to play back to back with Zane Lowe.
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Jukeboxalex
By Jukeboxalex in Interviews ·
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Interview with Swedish DJ Henrik B ahead of his Trip to AREA51

Henrik B is a man of many talents, and one with an extremely bright future ahead. At only 28 years of age, this Swedish producer is already widely tipped for greatness thanks to his underground techno productions. With past releases on some of the most respected labels around including Drumcode, Primate & Corb, Henrik is also set for releases on the much talked about Pryda & Size labels, after label bosses Eric Prydz & Steve Angello snapped up more of his tough & energetic floor filling tracks.
Now established in the techno circles, Henrik showcases his versatile production abilities with “Alive”, his first house productions alongside productions members Thomas Plec and Anders Törngren collectively known as Locktown. Set for a full release late summer courtesy of Sweden’s premier House output – Nero Recordings, ‘Alive’ is set for a huge crossover assault, with Gadjo vocalist Alexandra Prince once again showing just why she’s one of the in demand artists of the moment.
Funky, vibrant & uplifting, this release has it all – and now complete with the power-vamped dub, looks set to keep on pounding those dance floors right through into the chilly winter months ahead.
Taking his name further in the dance music realm, Henrik has recently put the finishing touches to his remix of Sunfreakz “Riding the Waves”, originally out on Nero, now signed to UK giants Positiva, this is once again another journey into the many talents he possesses, with this also set for chart-bound success. Speaking about chart success Henrik B´s release “Airwalk” due out soon on the highly acclaimed Pryda label, was selected essential new tune on BBC One1 with Pete Tong.
This Saturday Henrik B touches down in Manchester at AREA51. We grad him for a quick interview to find out a bit about the man himself.......
Please introduce yourself and tell us where you are in the world?
-At this moment i am in Skövde, a small town in sweden that you probably havent heard of and find difficult to pronounce
Sweden is producing a lot of good DJ’s at the moment, What is the scene like over their?
- When it comes to Clubs the scene is still growing and house music and techno is getting more and more attention.
You have a good relationship with the Swedish House Mafia. DO you use a lot of their tracks in your sets?
Yes, of course i do. Because of the quality of the productions and great floor capabilities. They always have amazing sound!
Your playing at AREA51 in Manchester this month. What can we expect?
- You can expect energy! not fast or hard music necessarly. The tracks i play just have energy in a very special way. Electro house, funky house. Vocals, not vocals. A mixture of everything just so that you never get bored hearing the same track over and over again!
Where else have you been DJing recently?
I was in Brighton this weekend. Very good!
And what have you got coming up?
Sunday july 27th in Ibiza, Judgement sundays!
Can we expect to see you in Ibiza this summer?
Yes, Judgements Sundays and Cream@Amnesia.
What do you use in your sets nowadays?
CD´s only.
Have you been in the studio this year?
Yes, recently i made a remix of Shapeshifters track CHIME for defected records. Release in August. And then i have a new release on JOIA also for August.
How do you think DJing will evolve technically over the next few years?
I have no idea to be honest!!
What’s been your most enjoyable set to date?
KOKO Club in London was very special
And you’re least enjoyable?
-None!
What do you prefer – DJing or Producing?
-It goes hand in hand for me since i always think dancefloor when i produce!
How did you get into Dance music?
A friend of mine gave me a cassette copy of The Prodigys album "the experience" back in 91. And i was really hooked straight away! Sounded like nothing i had ever heard!
What one thing would you like to do before you die?
LIVE!
CATCH HENRIK B AT AREA51 IN MANCHESTER THIS SATURDAY
ClubTheWorld
By ClubTheWorld in Interviews ·
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Clubbing the world together ...