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    • ClubTheWorld
      Going back to the earlier days of your career, you were part of the "big beat" trio Ceasefire on Wall of Sound records. Was this your earliest successful forray into dance music or had you been knocking out beats before then?
      Ceasefire was my first electronic project, but before that I'd played in skate punk bands and liked hip hop and it's scene.
      Do you have happy memories of those "big beat" days? It seemed like a hedonistic scene to be in that kind of carried on where britpop left off.
      It was a great time for people like me with broad tastes. Big beat had close links with the indie scene so many cool bands had came out of that era too. It was like acid house all over again, no rules............. I Have really happy memories of those days.
      What do you feel the real turning point was when big beat died and "nu skool breaks" reared its naughty little head?
      By the time big beat took a turn for the worse, I had set up Whole 9 Yards which had a real techy style (Dark Globe, Dylan Rhymes, Elite Force, DJ Hyper, Rhythm Division were all artists on the label). I was already using less samples in my production, leaning more towards electronic sounds.
      In all fairness is was a natural progression for many. It's a complete myth that nuskool breaks came directly from jungle & hardcore - it's just a few key people did (Rennie Pilgrem, Shut Up & Dance, Freqnasty, Blim). Again it was an interesting time but a lot of the music was too dark to reach the audience big beat did, thats why it's taken so long for breakbeat to get its footing in the world of dance music in general.
      Taking things up to present day, you must be pretty please with the way things have gone for you. What have been your proudest achievements along the way?
      To be honest, I feel proud to still be doing what i love for a living! Just still being here is an achievement; not to blow my own trumpet, but I feel like ive only just got started.
      You are famed for playing some of the more eclectic sets in the breaks scene, combining techy, funky and progressive breaks with 4/4 based house and techno material. Do you tend to get bored if there's only one style of music on choice all night?
      I find it a challenge to throw all your ideas into a melting pot and make a dancefloor move to different flavours. It would do my head in just being limited to one genre as there's so much good music out there. DJs should be creative. I think my personality comes out when I play, I do love breakbeat but it is only about 60% of what i play, (and even make).
      Which other DJs do you admire for their ability to mix things up and keep things interesting?
      Im really into what Marco Bailey does - techno but with an edge. I like Erol Alkan too.
      You've collaborated with many of the leading lights of the breaks scene. Who made for especially memorable studio sessions?
      I love working with Elite Force, we always seem to come up with interesting ideas and he's also a great musician, so skys the limit.
      What gems will be coming out of the MK studio in the near future?
      I have a whole new album, 'Vibrator', which will be released in June on Adrift Records. There's loads of new stuff, a few collabs with people such as Elite Force, D.Ramirez, Aquasky, Jono Fernandez, Kathrine Ellis, Roland Clark and Christian J. It's a full on ride as I wanted to do something that represented where my head is at - why pretend to be something I'm not.
      April 15th sees you headlining the Platform 12 Breaks Foyer at the massive South West Four Launch at Brixton Academy. What have you heard about the South West Four Festival?
      I've been travelling loads, so I've not been in the UK much. I know the Platform 12 line up is pretty cool though: Lady Killa, Clive Morley and Future Funk Squad. Regardless, Carl Cox is playing so that is reason enough to go.
      In recent years Brixton Academy has only been used as a club venue by Hard Dance and Drum 'n' Bass promotions. Do you think that massive scale house/techno/breaks events are something that London could do with?
      It certainly feels like something special. We'll soon find out!
      Have you partied with the Platform12 crew before? What can we expect?
      Only when I met the guys at HUM a few years back. You can expect a heavy dose of dirty late night funk from me - no idea what the other guys are gonna play...I'm sure it will be along those lines though!!
    • ClubTheWorld
      Two of the biggest DJs in the scene, Andy Whitby and Billy Daniel Bunter might come from two seemingly separate generations of underground dance culture but remain united in one, fundamental aim; a need to play uplifting energetic dance music. Both known for their intuitive ability to raise arms, smiles and atmospheres with effortless aplomb the pair are teaming up for their first ever back to back at this Saturday's Tasty Good Times at The Mass. No, it aint an April Fools, this world first dual of two of hard dance's most renowned crowd pleasers is primed to set the colourful Brixton rave alight and leave fans of euphoric uplifting hard dance well and truly chomping at the bit. We caught up with the pair as they geared up for their for their opinions on the label market, Ibiza and each other - not to mention details of Andy's eagerly anticipated AWsum label. Check it out!
      Whilst certain DJs are renowned for taking things hard, dark and filthy, you two are well known for your love of strong melody hooks and the odd vocal. What is it that attracts you to an upbeat party sound?
      BB: It's what the dance floor wants. There's nothing better then seeing people with huge smiles on their faces with their hands in the air. Stringing a set of so called intelligent vibes together is boring. Rocking the party and getting the dance floor jumping, that's what attracts me to party sounds.

      AW: For me, music has always been about having fun, be it singing along, throwing your hands in the air or whatever, anything that makes you smile and enjoy yourself basically. I've never been a fan of filth or Techno, as it's not what I'm about on a dancefloor and it doesn't get the reaction I'm looking for. I like to see people going nuts, really enjoying themselves through happy emotions.
      My aim when I'm on the decks is to have people going home knowing they've had a good night, so they can go back to their afterparties and feel like they've had their money's worth. I try to give them something to look forward to the next time they come to watch me.
      Do you ever get tempted to go all out and knock out a dirty filth or tough techno influenced set just for a change? 
      BB: I've had my days of innovating, and I've had my days of playing anthems. I played an old skool 93 dark set at Bang Face a few weeks ago, and it was pure nastiness, put me in the right crowd like bang face and I'll go as hard and dark as you want. Put me in Tasty or Hardcore Heaven and I wanna bring on the happy vibes.
      AW: I get offers, but for me there's nothing challenging about it. I'd rather stay true to what I believe I and leave the filth stuff to the filth DJs. I go a little harder at the end of some of my later sets, but the kids don't come to see me play filth or techno, they come to see me playing peak-time euphoric hard-dance.
      Do you remember the first time you met each other and what were your first impressions??
      BB: Not sure when I met Andy. It's only been briefly before and after sets. This is the 1st time we would have worked together, our crowd pleasing styles should work very well together, and with my looks and his experience we should smash the fuck out of Tasty - Good Times!!!!!

      AW: I've been aware of Billy Bunter since I was 15! I used to listen to his Helter Skelter tapes during French class in High School. I had the Walkman headphone threaded up my blazer sleeve so it looked like I was leaning on my hand when in-fact I was listening to Dan.
      As for in person, we just kept bumping into each other at different events around London. I remember seeing him @ Heaven, he came on after me and opened with a Martin Luther King acapella dropping over Ben Johnson's Come 1 cover track. A great way to start a set and that was when I started thinking about a back2back, as he liked to get things rolling with a good intro, like myself.
      Is Tasty Good Times the first time you've stepped in the box together and if not how did the idea to pair you off first come about? How have previous sets together gone off?
      BB: We was meant to do back to back at Wild child last year, but I had 4 gigs that night, and Andy was up in Liverpool and it just wasn't possible to hook up. So this is the 1st time. I think musically we are close together so it will work well.

      AW: It is the first time we've played back to back, we were booked for a Wildchild Boxing Day gig together, but I had other gigs that night so couldn't get there in time.
      What is the most bizarre habit a fellow back to back partner has ever subjected you to?
      BB: Jon Doe has gotta be my favourite person to do back to backs with in terms of fucking about and having a laugh. We are always messing about any way, so it carries over to the decks. At a Tasty last year a raver who I have nick named Jon 'mental c^nt' who has an artificial leg, took it off, Jon Doe nicked it and started hitting me round the head with it.

      AW: Luckily none. Although back2backs can be fun, I rarely do them nowadays, as I prefer to play on my own. The one's I have had though have been pretty easy and without any bizarre moments.
      Dan you've been in this game for year but given the chance to play back to back with any DJ in today's scene, who would it be and why?
      BB: After Bang Face a few weeks ago, I would say Nicky Black Market on a 93 Labrynth set, we both used to be resident's there through that 93 dark hardcore & jungle period so it would be a great trip down memory lane.
      Andy, your production discography is building steadily but what tracks have you been working on most recently?
      AW: The tracks I've been working on recently are all for my own label, AWsum. Driving, euphoric hardhouse with all the usual Whitby-magic thrown in. I'm not finding the learning curve to difficult as I've studied at the Manchester School Of Sound Recording and had a lot of advice and help early in my career from people like Peter Prichard, Lee Pasch and Steve Hill. It's to be a direct outlet of my own original euphoric power hard-dance, the first release being Andy Whitby E.P 1 U Ready? with Bump In The Night on the flip.
      Of all your own productions, which track are you most proud of?
      Out of all the tracks I've made, each one holds a special meaning to me, but my personal favourite is Neon Lights  Youre Not Alone (Andy Whitby remix), as it really gave me a chance to add a whole new way my tracks were sounding, whilst re-visiting a classic record.
      Dan, we all know you're not planning on releasing as much music but I hear you've had the odd studio session to make fresh exclusives for your DJ sets. What was the last piece of music you made and have you got any studio dates lined up for the coming months?
      BB: I'm just making exclusives for my Ministry albums .. I've not actually been in the studio for some while, but am getting loads of offers from people from all different scenes.

      Do you have any studio collaborations on the cards?
      BB: Eamonn from Liquid who made Sweet Harmony wants me to go in and make some tracks for my Old Skool sets. Clsm has been on me to make some hardcore. Pk wants me to go in and do some house, and Roosta wants me in doing Hard Dance. They will eventually tie me down, but I am so busy it's hard for em to lock me in the studio.

      Dan, you're well known for your label exploits first with the pioneering GBT and then your much loved Honeypot stables. Are those days long behind you now?
      BB: I love running labels, there is a real art to getting it right. At the moment dj'ing and running nights is my passion. I achieved every thing I wanted and more with running labels so I have no real desire at the moment to get back in to it. But never say never!!!!!

      In terms of your own sets, how much of your own sets are comprised of vinyl these days? Do you miss the hands on feel of vinyl or is it simply a case of embracing new formats with open arms?
      BB: Always embrace new technology, but the bottom line is, a good track is a good track no matter how its played.
      AW: I was the first hard-dance DJ to turn completely to c.d's. I just thought with all the options available to CDJ users why would you want anything else? Looping, hot-cueing, reverse all these features plus the fact you can play tracks you finished earlier that day made it a no-brainer to me.
      I think new formats should be embraced with open arms but at the same time in with the new shouldn't automatically mean out with the old. I only turned 100% to CDJs because it was time to take my DJing to the next level. The things I do now are unachievable on vinyl alone.
      Summer isn't too far off the radar now. Will either of you be making the trip out to Ibiza this season and have you got any other trips planned away?
      BB: I have loads of trips planned Canada, Poland, Amsterdam, Oz. Believe it or not I have never been to Ibiza. The 2 times I was meant to go, I didn't make it due to other commitments.
      AW: I won't be over in Ibiza this year, I've been 5 times before and played @ Eden and a few smaller nights but I'm too busy this summer to go over. I'll be touring Australia again for a month to promote a new compilation, plus sorting things for the label, a dvd and a new special mix to give back to everyone who's supported me in the last 2yrs.
      What is the most random situation that you've found yourself in whilst on a foreign DJ mission?
      BB: Playing in an illegal gambling den in Taiwaan that turned in to a rave. It got raided whilst I was playing. The promoter got put in prison, I was 24 hours away from home, not knowing a single person or the language, where I was staying ect ect. The trip was a nightmare at the time. I look back now and think what a great experience.
      AW: Being mobbed by Japanese clubbers in the middle of Australia was random (huge fan of my c.ds apparently).
      From the Brixton Academy to Koko club, you've both played some of most epic venues around. As a DJ, does the adrenaline rush you get from the crowd increase in proportion to the size of it or is it nice to play to more intimate offerings? What floats your boat the most?
      BB: Both equal but for different reasons. I love the intimate underground vibe. But I love the buzz off getting 5000 people in the palm of your hands.
      AW: I used to enjoy playing smaller clubs just as much as I did big but I can't lie there's no place like Brixton Academy! At the same time however, in a small club you can really concentrate on your crowd. In places like Tranzaction in Truro, Tall Trees in Newquay and Oh My God in Leeds you have a much better feeling of how the crowd are feeling and where they want to be taken. In places like HHA, you've got 4000 people looking back at you, so it's harder to gauge what they're feeling but generally it's like a snowball effect in any size club; you rock the majority and the rest come with you!
      You've both mixed album in the last year from Andy's Frantic Residents CD to your Hardcore Classics album Dan. Do either of you have any more album projects in the offing?
      BB: Yeah my next Ministry album is in the planning process as we speak. I'm also waiting for my gold disk from the last one .. Aiiiiigggghhhhhhhhhttt / Bling bling baby.

      Talking of CDs, what's in the players at the moment? You been caught up in the Artic Monkeys hype or got some classic jazz in there? We know Steve Maynard has a bit of a soft spot for some good jazz.
      BB: Soul to Souls 1st ever album featuring back to life, feel free, fair play - Proper!!!!!

      AW: I listen to a lot of hip-hop when I'm at home, anything from Busta Rhymes to Eminem to the older stuff like Cypress Hill. I mix for at least 2hrs a day, plus go through new tracks and mixes, so when it's not hard-dance that's shaking the house it's hip-hop.
      On the road to gigs I usually leave it up to my driver what we listen to. Usually he either supplies his own mixes or we go through stuff I've been given to at clubs.
      Clubbing is all about good times with good people, memories that will never fade. If you could pick out one memory in your clubbing career above all others what would it be any why?
      BB: Just being here is the ultimate thing I take with me. 17 years down the line and I'm still here doing what I love doing. Right now is the highlight of my career. I love it.
      AW: Clubbing-wise, I'd say 1998, Insomniacz in Sheffield. Illogik dropping Bounce 1 Time and the whole club pretending to ride around on imaginary horses. Think you had to be there to be honest.
      DJ-wise, anything that's happened in the last 2 years, it's all gone off to be honest. One minute I was playing smaller nights, trying to make a name for myself, working a part-time job and spending all my wages on records. Now I'm playing to thousands of clubbers a weekend, mixing albums and even having babies named after me!  I wouldn't change it for anything in the world and will never forget how fortunate I am to be in such a position.
      Dan, we'll leave things to you to sum up the Tasty crowd in three words?
      The Fucking Bolloxs!!!!!!!
    • ClubTheWorld
      The first on the dancefoor, the last off for some people it's always time to have fun. One of the London club scene's most colourful and familiar characters, Never Enough's Maria is one such clubber and while some her age might have settled into the humdrum routines of middle aged life she can be found week in, week out beaming on London's most happening dancefloors. Always displaying her trademark smile, the Brazilian has worked tirelessly to help promote some of London's biggest clubbing brands such as Antiworld, Frantic and Tasty since being swept in the clubscene at the beginning of the century. Progressing to run the most efficient and renowned paying guestlist agency in the capital, she has since embarked to take her Never Enough brand into the world of promotion both as an event brand and DJ agency. As Never Enough prepare to host the hard dance room at Billy Bunter's Love Muzik on March 17th, we catch up with Maria to uncover the secret behind her eternal sparkle.
      On March 17th you're hosting the hard dance room at Billy Bunter's Love Muzik event under your Never Enough banner. How did you first come into contact with Big Bill? What is your favourite memory/most amusing story of Bunter?
      My first contact with Billy Bunter was in 2001 at the Fridge parties. I used to support Shaun Hull who used to promote a night in Southend On Sea in Essex called Megabyte, as well as playing for the likes of Sunnyside Up, Mind Over Matter, Feersum, Riot and Frantic. One day Shaun invited me to go to the Tasty Launch Night at The Crash Club - it was absolutely wicked! I still have the flyer and since that I've been to all Tasty parties except last year from January till July coz I was in Brazil. My favourite memory with Billy is when we did Tasty and Too Much at Fridge!
      A familiar face across London's clubbing metropolis, you've been working as a promotional assistant for the capital's biggest parties for over four years. But what is the essential idea behind Never Enough? How did you first come up with the brand and how has it evolved since?
      I used to do a party called Too Much But Never Enough at Dingwalls in Camden Town Market Area and then at Bad Bobs. It was once a month on Sunday Afternoon with Spencer Freeland, Eduardo Herrera, Shaun Hull, D'Marr Ford as my residents and all of my good named friends used also to play there. Billy Bunter and Roosta were two of our favourites guests. After 11 parties I decided to give up because the neighbours around used to complain about the noise from the loud hard music and I wasn't too happy with my partner. At that time I was also helping Frantic, Antiworld, Twisted, Heat, Logic, Tasty, Riot to organize paying guest lists with my crowd, specially Brazilians, Romanians, French, Italians, Antipodeans, etc. After organizing so many Paying guest lists and booking djs, I decided to open my own business as a Ticket Agency and sell as many tickets as I could to all Antiworld Events, Frantic Events, HeatUK, Tasty, Most Wanted Events, Tidy, Riot, Logic, SW4, Turnmills Events, Hidden Events, The Fridge Events, SeOne Events and many more.  Never Enough-It's always time to have fun!!!
      Which DJs make up the Never Enough family? Can you tell us a little bit about their skills?
      I'm promoting some DJs and producers such as the Brazilians Eduardo Herrera www.djeduardoherrera.com , Eddie Santos, who has three residencies: Ponana Wimbledon, Bondai in Chelsea e Revolution in Soho and he plays regulary at QBrasil (Brazilian radio on the internet). Alec Fasani  www.djale.com.br, Fabio Fabulous, the Romanias Dani D & Stefan. Then there's some UK jocks like Mike Redina, Reminiscence, M.E.C, Memoid all from www.nrgflow.co.uk , Stu Cox www.stucox.co.uk and DJ SI who is currently teaching DJing and production professionally at the College of North East London and several examples of his productions and sets can be found here http://www.downtherabbithole.co.uk/DJSi.html. Other acts include Viking Princess Moni who is running Solid Kiss at Turnmills and I'm also proud to say that I'm promoting A*S*Y*S from Germany http://www.acidsaveyoursoul.com/ here in UK and South America not forgetting Top Dj Brazilian Vitor Lima and all the guys from Water Republic/Sao Paulo/Brazil http://nrgflow.co.uk/vitor_lima_bio.html 
      Who will be playing your Never Enough room at Love Muzik?
      For Love Muzik I booked Eduardo Herrera as his ability to excel at playing techno, house, hard house, electro, and everything in between has seen him play at numerous promotions throughout the capital. He came over to London just over 4 years ago, and has since built a reputation for himself as a highly talented, quality DJ and Producer. The sensational young talent Dani D from Romania, he is super versatile too as he playing some Hard Dance and some solid Electro sets too. That such a young man can make such a big noise. His first set in London was at my Sunday afternoon Too Much But Never Enough. Morgan Cameron (M.E.C) & Remy Cameron (Reminiscence) have been in the scene for over a decade now and have seen and followed every style with energy and emotion. This has lead on to many creative projects beyond DJ'ing such as production, photography, web design and an Inhouse Record label. Please make sure to watch out for these two extremely talented brothers as there careers along with the nrgflow collective's are set to explode eternally.
      How do you select which DJs will become part of the Never Enough family?
      I have so many requests from up comings djs and also great names around who want to be part of my dj agency. I'm always receiving emails and demos from everywhere with different styles. There is some serious and interesting music, quality mixes and brilliant tunes selection. I wish I could have more time to listen to all and to reply to all. I want to find time to organize my agency and to offer sets for talents who have never had the opportunity to show their skills around. I'm helping Enrico from Antiworld to select these guys as well, as of course he always receiving lots of material too.
      What has been your proudest achievement with Never Enough so far? Are there any moments that really stand out?
      I must say that my proudest achievement was Too Much But Never Enough the party in Camden Town and then Covent Garden. Damian, Anton, Marc French from Heat, Will, Amanda from Frantic, Enrico from Antiworld, Macey from Torque, even Billy Bunter used to be among my regular supporters on Sunday afternoon which was amazing.
      A lot of people that work within the clubbing industry confess that the scene loses some of it early sparkle once you become part of its inner mechanics. Do you ever feel that this idea rings true? How has your perspective on the club scene changed since you have been working within it?
      I've got to confess that I love what I'm doing. It's such a brilliant job. It's a pleasure and I'm proud to work with so many promotions. I'm learning with them and we are always exchanging ideas, they listen to my advice and I listen to theirs. I think the sparkle will always be there. There will always be new people enjoying it and we need to respect them.
      You first started clubbing at nights like Escape From Samsara nearly five years ago now. How different are the clubs now from when you first got hooked into the sound?
      Everything is different. That's life! Escape From Samsara was magical with Beamish,Oberon, Mark Sinclair, Darren Shambhala, DaveRandall, Owen B, Rubec and many more. Tim Samsara was a perfect promoter and DJ. I used to go to every Pendragon as well and loved it. My first time at Brixton Academy was for Pendragon NYE in 2001 which was brilliant! I used to go to all Super Fish parties at The Fridge as well and can remember the good times at Fevah at Heaven. Memories that will always be with me!
      If you could relive just one party in your five years in London which one would it be and why?
      Antiworld, Psygate and Teknoworld - Paradise City at Alexandra Palace in 4th December 2004. That was one of the best nights I have ever been to. I worked lots for that but I also had so much fun and got to see so many of my favourite djs. That party for me was one for the history book!
      You must see a sack load of DJs on your travels but of all the rising talents which DJs do you see becoming the stars of the future and why?
      There are so many to mention. I want to see all the guys that I'm promoting becoming the stars of the future. It's up to them to do it properly.
      Do you ever miss your native Brazil? Are there any plans to return or do you feel London has truly become your second home?
      Impossible not to miss Brazil as my son is still living there and I'm too far away from my family. I don't have any plans to return. I want just to bring my son to study in England in about 2 year's time. I want to make business in Brazil with the electronic music and my dreams is to stay there three months a year on holiday, just enjoying the places that I've never been before.
      What are the plans for Never Enough for the rest of 2006? Will Summer see any special plans and do you have any other parties or rooms sorted for the immediate future?
      I've been hosting rooms with different promotions. Recently I did Never Enough House and Electro room at Brixton Academy with HHA. I've also done Techno rooms with the guys from Nrgflow and Museum of Techno at Yes at Hidden. Obviously we're doing Love Muzik with Billy Tasty Bunter. I'll also be hosting the VIP room again with House and Electro for Psychedelic Academy at Brixton Academy on April 1s. . I'm organising the Official after party for Psychedelic Academy at The Fridge on April 2nd Most Wanted, Totally Twisted & Never Enough. In May I'll be back to the Academy again with a House and Electro room for Supernova-Frantic & HeatUK. Every week I've been receiving some invitations for something new. For the Summer time I want to make parties around London on the beach and also I want to make boat parties. Any suggestions just give me a shout! 
      Finally, you're still putting most clubbers to shame by dancing till your feet hurt each week but do you think it will ever be enough for Mad Maria? Will you carry on clubbing till you can't club no more or do you see a retirement on the cards within the next few years?
      Funny question! I love to dance and you always will see me on the dance floors. I'm proud to be 40 years old with all this energy that I have. I think I will carry on for few more years. I'm feeling too young for retirement. I just want to have a few breaks sometimes to do normal things, like having time to find a new boyfriend.
    • ClubTheWorld
      The London hard dance scene is littered with upcoming DJ talent but few beam with as much radiant enthusiasm as Janie Mac, resident at Flashbak and regular DJ guest at Tasty events. Since her formative 2001 awakening in Brixton's hard dance underground, the elegant but approachable blonde has doggedly furthered her DJ skills with the helps of deck guardians such as Skol, Brad Lee and Billy Bunter and now stands tall as one of the most exciting DJs on the circuit. Go girl! Even more encouragingly, she remains every bit the irrepressible hard dance clubber she always has been and is regularly found grinning, sweating and cutting shapes with the best of em at her second home the 414. Of course, it is in 414's house-party styled hollows where she first showcased her euphoric NRG charged DJ sound for Bunter, at his intimate Edge shindig two years back. But while she openly proclaims herself a small club girl - highlighting the good times clubber within her - she'll be courting on a bigger stage come April 1st when she plays main room at The Mass for Tasty's talent packed Good Times event. Fresh from rockin' the Mad Hatters House Party for SeOne's Raindance, we caught up with the rising star to chart her impressive ascendancy and track her main inspirations.
      With stormin sets at Just Groove, Flashbak and Hidden, your stock within the London hard dance scene has been rising rapidly of late but how did you first get hooked into the hard dance movement and what were you listening to before that? Was it a case of that one tune capturing your imagination or did it take a friend or sibling to show you the light?  
      It was actually my dad and brother who showed me the way! I was quite a jungle and hardcore head, but I never really went clubbing. My dad (Fin) and big brother (Rob) dragged me out kicking and screaming and took me to The Mass. I was terrified! Here was me, going out in Brixton! As I walked in, I heard Miss Shiva Dreams and I never really looked back, I absolutely loved it!! I was lucky I had Fin and Rob there with me though; I met some of the strangest people in my life that night, most of them are now my best friends!! 
       
      What the main points on your clubbing compass when you first started venturing out? Did you have a regular haunt or were you just out everywhere and anywhere?  
      Because I went to The Mass first, that became my favourite club, until I experienced the 414. I couldn't believe it the first time I went in there. It was like someone's house!! I fell in love with the place. I also enjoyed going out to the big clubs though, The Fridge, Brixton Academy, Turnmills, Camden Palace but I'd say, I'm more of a small club kinda girl! 
      With competition among upcoming hard dance jocks fiercer than ever, what first inspired you to try your hand at mixing yourself and did you always hold aspirations to play on the big stage? 
      I didn't go into DJ'ing to become famous or anything, I just wanted to try my hand at it. I love hard dance music, and wanted to give myself a challenge. It took me ages to learn, but I had a wicked teacher, Brad-Lee. My only aspiration as far as DJ'ing was concerned was to play in the 414! Billy Bunter gave me that chance about 2 years ago, to play at The Edge. I loved it!! I would love to play main stage at Brixton Academy though, don't get me wrong, although the nerves would probably kill me.  
       
      Who were your main DJ influences during your formative mixing days? Were there any DJs that you would always make sure you caught no matter what?  
      I'm an old skool girl, so I always made sure I went to see Skol, Craig Mac and Roosta. I loved the tunes they played and how cool they made DJ'ing look! Once I heard Steve Blake play too, I became a bit of a fan. My mate Brad-Lee was also a massive inspiration to me, he played hard style and hardcore, but he's an absolutely amazing DJ. I had always followed Billy Bunter, from his old jungle days so he was like a real celebrity to me (although having now met and worked for him for 4 years, he's a real pussycat) so I made a point of catching his sets. 
      What was your first main booking and did you suffer from a severe case of the nerves (i.e. were you bricking yourself!)? 
      My first booking was The Edge at 414. Nervous? Me? Urmmmm.. I think I threw up about 4 times. I was on the line up with Anthony Atcherley, Roosta and Billy Bunter. I nearly fainted when I saw my name on the flyer! I thought I had hit the big time! I had been following these DJ's for years and now I was playing along side them!!! 
       
      What has been the strangest DJ experience you've had since you started playing out? 
      I think it has to be my set at Raindance last week actually! I played first, so assumed I'd play to a half empty room, but it was packed at 10 o'clock!! I had a trancey warm up set all prepared, but the crowd were so up for it, I had to pick up the pace a bit! It was crazy!! Good fun though, seeing so many people wanting to party so early on. Them Raindance lot are bonkers! 
      Since you've started playing out, your name has been closely linked with Brixton's hard dance underground and parties like Flashbak, Just Groove and Pulse. Do you think there is a different vibe at Brixton parties compared to those in other areas of London? What is it about the area that makes it such a special region for London's true hard dance troopers?  
      Brixton is the capital of the universe as far as I'm concerned. It's where it's at! I don't know why these people flock to Brixton in their hundreds but they do! I think there is a real underground feel at Brixton parties and it just can't be matched. It's the idea of partying in a converted church like The Mass or walking round at 4am and everything in Brixton is still buzzing - where else can you get that? 
       
      You site the unfashionable Club 414 as one of your favourite venues. While some disregard it as a dingy hole, what is it that sets it apart as such a friendly and fun venue? 
      414 is my second home. I feel completely safe when I'm there. No where else could I walk into somewhere on my own and guarantee to bump into a friendly face. The staff are amazing, I adore Cybil and Louise they're such an institution! I love playing in there too. No other club that I've played at paps like it does in the 414! 
       
      Which other London venues would you be most keen to play? 
      I'd love to play main room of the Fridge (hint, hint) ha ha ha
       
      At the Heat Christmas party you had the pleasure of playing a memorable main room set with Tasty's main man Billy Bunter but when was the first time that you crossed paths with Big Bill and what were your first impressions? 
      Ha ha ha Big Bill! Wicked! My first impressions? I was a bit star struck to be honest, until I really got to know him that is! He was someone I had heard on the radio, had seen his name everywhere, so when I met him he was like a celeb! In reality though, he's been really supportive of me and backed me 100%, become a good mate. I've worked for Tasty now for four years and he's a reasonable boss. Although a pay rise wouldn't go amiss Bunter! 
       
      Whose initial idea was the back to back set and were you at all daunted by going head on with the rave legend of 15 years? How did the set go? 
      He asked to play back to back with me!! What an honour! Ha ha ha It was the best set of my life. The system in Turnmills is amazing even though I couldn't see over the decks to see how many people were dancing! Bunter made me stand on his record box whilst I was mixing to get the reaction of the crowd!! 
       
      Recently, you played SeOne's nocturnal rave haven Raindance in the Mad Hatters Hard House party. Is there an old skool raver within you and did you throw some shapes to some rave classics once you were done and dusted on the ones and twos? 
      I love old skool music! Lots and lots!! I was in heaven with the massive old skool room they had. I was throwing a few shapes on the dance floor much to the disgust of my mates who were like Janie, calm it!! I just can't help it though, old skool music rocks. I'd love to be able to mix old skool, if anyone wants to volunteer their services!!?? 
       
      Do you play any others styles beyond hard dance and what is on the Janie Mac home stereo at the moment? 
      I can mix trance and have loads of cheesy old trancey tunes at home which get dusted off once every so often. I'd love to be able to mix old skool and old style hardcore and jungle. When I'm at home I listen to all sorts of stuff, I just recently moved house and found an old Speed Garage CD which I've played to death! KC and JoJo - Show Me Happiness - Tune! 
       
      At Tasty's Love Muzik, you'll be playing in the hard dance room alongside Kutski and Billy Bunter. What can we expect from your set and what three tunes are you sure will be in your box come the 17th March? 
      I always try and drop Heavens Cry, Til Tears Do Us Part into my big sets cos it's a guaranteed winner, plus it's my favourite Hard dance tune! It always gets the dance floor jumping around. I've also borrowed (stolen really) a white label of Love Shy which is wicked. I borrowed it and plan to give it back after my set at Tasty (yeah, RIGHT!) and a few more little beauties I have tucked up my sleeve.

      Finally, what are your main ambitions for the remainder of 2006 and will we see Janie Mac venturing into the studio any time soon?  
      I'd love to write a tune! If I was going to do that, it'd have to be with Mr Bunter or Roosta, they're the best at it in my opinion. As for 2006, well, I hope to enjoy playing as much as I did in 2005. I don't plan to take the hard dance by storm or anything. This IS my year though watch this space.
    • Frantic Benz
      New Zealand-born House jock CD has been causing a real stir in London with his awesome sets for promotions like Kurruption, where he is resident. He will joing the rest of the Kurruption crew at Turnmills this Saturday 4th March where they will be hosting a room at the massive UP^^ alongside house music heroes such as Trophy Twins, Shapeshifters and Full Intention. Find out about your man CD right here!
      How did you get involved with Kurruption in the first place?
      I was introduced to Zoelee one night at Retox and gave her a demo. She liked it and got me down to play a couple of times, my sets seemed to go down pretty well and I enjoyed the parties so much I started to go down as a punter to. After a few bookings she asked me to join Kurruption as a rotation DJ.
      How was the recent Kurruption party? What's the venue like and where is it?
      It was loads of fun, as Kurruption parties always are! There was free gourmet pizza and it all goes down at a fantastic new venue in Farringdon called the Epicurean Lounge (or EP Lounge)   Friendly staff and cheap drinks and of course great tunes ensured that everyone had a good time and loads of people will be coming back for more. It's just around the corner from Turnmills, so is an ideal place to get a groove on before heading there or Fabric for a big night.
      The next Kurruption event is this Saturday at Turnmills, where you and your crew will be hosting a room at UP^^. Have you had many experiences in this legendary venue before?
      I've never played at Turnmills so I'm extremely excited - After all it is one of London's legendary super-clubs. Every time I've been to the venue I've had a great time. Everyone is so up for it and the atmosphere in the main room is second to none.
      Who will you be checking out on the line-up?
      Definitely the Trophy Twins - I saw them in Ibiza and they were great - I've also been impressed with their recent productions. Also looking forward to hearing Brad 212. His chopping and changing of records is amazing - last time I saw him I almost tripped on my jaw!
      Have you thought about what kind of beats you will be laying down on the night? Do you usually put much planning into a set?
      Personally I don't tend to plan any sets at all. I like to see what the DJ before me plays and check out what the crowds doing. I'll always have some tracks in mind but if I don't feel like the times right I wont play it.
      Speaking of which, who was the last DJ to really blow you away?
      Ryan O'Gorman, of Electric Sex, at Eden in Ibiza last year. Don't think I've danced like that for years - I didn't leave 'til late in the morning.
      I see you've made a couple of tracks, what are they like and have you been working to get them signed up?
      I've now completed three tracks.
      One with Alex Parsons - Backscratch which is coming out on David Dureizs' label Block Records. Its an up beat kind of house / electro cross over tune. One with Houseplayerz called funky rhythm which isn't signed but has been reviewed in the latest RPM magazine. See www.rpmmagazine.co.uk. The third with Elwood aka Greg Brookman called The Burn which is a slice of banging electro tinged house. We are currently finishing off the second track to go with it before sending it out to some labels. Did you make the tracks so you could have something personalised to play in your sets, or do you have serious ambitions as a producer/artist?
      I really did the tracks to have something of my own to play but it's quite addictive and I've got a bit of a taste for it now.
      You enjoyed some sets out in Ibiza last year, have you thought ahead to plans for this summer? Are there any other exciting clubbing destinations that you think need checking out?
      I'll be going to Ibiza this year on the HeatUK Ibizian heat tour with Groove Factory so I'm looking forward to a nice holiday in the sun. Any sets are a bonus really.
      London's clubs are filled with people from all over the world, which nationalities do you find are the biggest party animals over here?
      Tough question! Every dog has its day but the biggest party animals I have known here in London have been Aussies.
    • Frantic Benz
      One of Wales' hottest exports right now, Frisky has been wowing her home crowds with her tough European Hard Dance sounds for a while now, and now has her sights set on London. She will be debuting for Frantic at Hard House Academy vs HQ on February 25th at Brixton Academy in London, so we had a chat with her to find out a bit more about her...
      Hello there Frisky. Please could you introduce yourself for those who might not know you!
      Well hello there Benz! I'm Frisky (real name Holley) and I'm from little old Swansea in South Wales.
      How long have you been mixing for? What inspired you to give it a go?
      I've been mixing for just over 3 years now. I started clubbing not long before and was instantly hooked. I was like I wanna do that! I managed to scrape enough money together to get a cheap set of belt drive decks and it went from there.
      What styles of music do you play? Which producers and labels are always big with you?
      I play predominantly Hard Trance and some Hardstyle, I'm very much influenced by the whole harder European sound. As for producers who influence me, the main ones would be Isaac, Technoboy and Uberdruck. The types of labels you'd expect to find in my box (lol) are Dance Pollution, Blutonium and Fusion records. I also incorporate some of my own cheeky bootlegs just to keep my sets different.
      How did you manage to break into the scene in terms of DJing?
      When I first started clubbing I used to go to a night in Swansea called Breathe which was run by Juice (of Cally & Juice). One weekend Juice spotted me DJing back at a house party and offered me my first set - warming up for Brisk in Breathe. Fortunately my sets went down well and a couple of months later I became resident.
      You live in Wales - that's near England right? 😛 What's the club and dance music scene like where you come from?
      The Hard Dance scene in Wales is still very strong. We're lucky enough to have Bionic in Cardiff and Breathe in Swansea (which are now both in their 6th year). Anyone who has been to either event will know how friendly and up for it the Welsh clubbers are. I love playing to my home crowd.
      You will be playing at Hard House Academy vs HQ in London on February 25th. How did you come to the attention of Frantic? Is this your debut for them?
      I've known Will and Amanda indirectly for a couple of years through attending various Frantic events. I also met my good friend Maxine there, she also worked for Frantic at the time. About a year ago Max saw me DJing at a club in Wales. Since then, she has promoted me endlessly in London, giving out free CDs and bigging me up to anyone who would listen lol. I definitely owe a lot to her for all of her efforts.
      This will be my debut for Frantic and I'm deeply honoured to be asked to play my first set in London at the mighty Hard House Academy. I've been to about 10 HHA over the past few years and I always have a wicked time there. I absolutely can't wait to hit the decks on the 25th. It's also my birthday the next day so it makes the occasion even more special for me.
      Travelling to London from Wales must be a bit of a schlep do you drive or does someone else do the hard work for you? What do you normally listen to on the way to get you in the mood?
      Luckily Cally & Juice (with MC Shocker) are also on the line-up for the night so I will be travelling up with them. I regularly travel up to London with the boys as Juice is my boyfriend.
      As there are usually four of us in the car we tend to pass the time by chatting or playing word-association games that we've made up over the years (it's more fun than it sounds honestly - lol). Just to give you an example, if you had to think of famous people and cars, two examples might be  Lisa Pick-Up or Jean Claude White Van Man  see, told you it was fun!
      Who else on the HHA line-up are you going to be checking out?
      Obviously I'll be stompin' down to Cally, Juice and Shocker in the Foyer. I also want to check out Mark EG and Organ Donors and Kutski B2B. Other than these I'll be walking round the whole places taking in various different sets as this is part of the fun of HHA.
      You are playing back to back with Shimmer, another rising star in the Hard Dance scene. Have you been in touch with her to discuss battle plans?
      We're in the process of swapping mix CDs so we can get a good idea of each others musical tastes and mixing styles! We also hope to get together before the night to agree a plan of attack.
      And finally, what are your views on the Top 100 Female DJs Competition? Is it something that is going to help female DJs or will it only serve to reinforce some people's opinions that there is actually a difference between male and female DJs?
      I'm not against the idea of a separate female DJ chart although I don't think it will make much difference either way. As for male and female DJs being different, hopefully over the past few years, the female DJs coming through have helped to prove that they've got what it takes, both technically and image-wise.
    • Andy Bagguley
      We catch up with Hard dance legend Anne Savage ahead of her night at PaSSion Hard on February 4th to get her thoughts on this different concept night!
      So Anne, most people know you for you Hard House but what will you be surprising people with at PaSSion Hard??

      Well I've been busy in the studio working on some new tracks that Ill be spinning on the night.  They are still pumping, but not quite up to the 155bpm mark!
      Is it refreshing for you as an artist to be put on a night that doesn't pigeon hole you as a Hard House DJ??

      Absolutely.  Its very hard to shake a label, even if you have been djing as long as I have but slowly people are seeing past the hard house label. Its bizarre cos Hard House as we used to know it doesn't really exist in clubs any more, most of the olriginal hard house dj's play anything from UK techno and hard trance.  Anyway I've been selecting tunes from all over the world that I'm dying to play on the night!
      Do you think these kind of night that bridge between hard dance and Trance are a good idea? Do you think it could be a trend for more clubs to follow suit?

      Yeah because like I said, labels are a bad thing.  It restricts dj's to what they can play and the crowd become very narrow minded. Also a cross genre night like this enables the trance jocks to inject a bit of energy into what can be one long euphoric riff in a pure trance set.
      So whats happening away from the Decks for Anne savage right now?? As we know you're one of the busiest Ladies in Dance Music so what keeps you occupied when not DJing?

      Well I've just finished doing the voiceovers for the DJ Mag top 100 party which is being televised on ITV 2 on April 3rd.  It was a great night, I did all the interviews which meant getting cosy with some of the best talent in the world.  Also I'm hosting the Hard Dance awards with Ed Real on Feb 11th at The Fridge in London for the 3rd Year running and I've got my first release ready for my label (Anne Savage The Do with Pedro Delgardo mixes) which will be digital only, I'll be announcing more on my site www.annesavage.net  I love Pedro's work - he's done loads for Cox's Intec, and this remix is already getting support from the techno scene.
      Do you have any new and exciting goals for 2006?? Stuff that you think this year I really wanna do this??

      I want to get  my Dumb Blonde thing going.  I've a Dumb Blonde mix for Carl Cox's Global show and I'm playing at The Gallery, Hum (Rennie Pilgrem's night).  There's much more to go into the project but I'm keeping my cards to the chest for now on that one.
      What was your personal highlight of 2005. In retrospect was it a good year, average year or one to forget!?

      Its been an interesting year.  With so much uncertainty in clubland its been like, come on Savage you've got to pull something out the bag! So the groundwork has been done and 2006 is shaping up to be a better year
      How was NYE 2005 for you?? Were you out chilling somewhere or running up and down motorways DJing??

      Oh yes, clocking up those miles! I was doing a club in Swansea and Scot Project was on after me and due to bring the New Year in, but you know what he's like, so laid back he didn't have a countdown ready and didn't want to use the mic so I ended up doing it with him which was nice as I hate being in the car like a saddo with a couple of party poppers at midnight rushing to my next gig. I also did Slinky, Tidy, and Polys.
      How did 2005 compare to previous years in a musical sense? Do you feel music is still moving forward. Can 2006 bring something new and exciting to the table??

      Its really exciting now and it absolutely is moving forward. The fact that you're putting these nights on is healthy.
      Who is floating your boat musically at mo. Any new DJ's / Producers we should keep an eye on?? Will you be helping said people at all in this difficult industry??

      My other half manages some amazing young talent  Sander Van Doorn, Gleave, Chris Davies, Gavyn Mitchel, all with their own twist and interpretation of sounds that have filled dancefloors for years.
      You also work under the guise of Dumb Blonde. Is this something that is being pushed more for 2006 or just a side project when ya fancy something different??

      The two releases I have done were co produced with Coburn and were hammered by  by my peers (Sasha, Digweed, Timo Maas, Lee Coombs, Rennie, Elite Force) which is brilliant.  I'm just plugging away and it's a great creative outlet because there really is no strict sound of Dumb Blonde (that's the whole idea) so in turn there is no pressure.  I'm remixing one of the biggest breaks tunes of the past 5 years next week, which is really exciting.  I can't decide whether it's a good idea or I'm setting myself up to be slated but I'll just have to wait and see!!
      Finally, for future reference, Passion or Storm @ The Emporium and why??

      Good God that's easy! Passion.  Passion was always my favourite place to play and I was a favourite there up til about 2001, when the musical divide happened between hard house and trance so didn't get to play that often.  That's why it's so good to be back.  Bring it on!!!!
      Thanks a lot for you time Anne. take care and we look forward to seeing and hearing you at PaSSIon Hard @ The Emporium on Feb 4th!

    • Frantic Benz
      Frantic's Hard House and Trance classics night is just days away (Saturday 28th January in fact!). Benz interviewed one of the DJs from the night, David Murtagh, who will be laying down some tasty trance anthems on the night.

      Please introduce yourself David
      Hi my name's David Murtagh!
      When and how did you first get into clubbing and dance music in London?
      Proper clubbing would have been Peach at Camden Palace around 2000.
      When did you first become actively involved as a DJ or promoter?
      As a DJ would be around 3 years ago at my local pub formerly called Laurel & Hardy's, now called The Bar Inc. I'd play there weeknights and get paid in beer and get cash for the occasional weekends I've done there. Got some great memories of lock-ins there playing till 4am. That's where Prehab first started on Thursday nights, I'd get in local DJs to spin allowing me more drinking time. Its only since last Summer that I've got onto the London club scene playing events such as Trancegeneration, The Gallery (in the Cheeky People room in T2) Timeless and Heat & The Gallery at Brixton Academy New Years Eve.
      So you run your own night eh? What's it all about? When and where can we find it?
      Well the night's called Prehab and as a London Club night (aside from Thursday events) has been going since October 2004 and the first one was at Sublogic. It moved to The Southside Bar January 2005 and is still there on the last Saturday of the month. For those of you that don't know it's a free event featuring some of London's freshest talent as well as a few you haven't heard of yet.
      How do you decide which DJs to book? What criteria do you use?
      How drunk they get me, how fit their mates are and how pretty their demo CD looks. I also take bribes.
      Have you got any plans for any bigger events?
      Yeah definitely. The first big Prehab event was back in March last year in association with MPFS records at The Copyright Club featuring Guy Ornadel, Ehren Stowers, Matti Kittala(of ALT+F4 fame making his UK debut) Hooked, PK and Steelo. I'm looking to so something again very soon and am sorting out details at the moment. Expect to see Prehab hosting rooms at some events coming up in the next few months before some main room action around May time. Watch this space.

      If you had unlimited resources to put on a party, where would it be, who would be playing, and what extras would be available for your guests?
      Wembley Stadium would be something great when it opens or could even be the opening party. I was trying to think of something original, club venue wise would be either Camden Palace or The Republic (not going with their new names) DJ wise you'd be looking at PVD, Mauro Picotto, Eric Morillo, Ashley Casselle, Marco V, Eddie Halliwell and of course myself. Not sure what sort of extras could be offered. If it was at Wembley would be good to open it up completely so people could wander round the dressing rooms. I'm sure Steelo would be happy if I could arrange live Monkey knife fighting.
      Saturday 28th January sees you down at Timeless in London to spin some Hard Dance classics. What eras in dance music really stick out for you in terms of classic tunes?
      It would have to be 99-01 it for me, so many good Trance tracks
      You will be spinning with Mat Lock, a rising star on the London trance scene. What have you two got planned?
      I think Mat's gonna have a really good year, he's a top bloke and it's been great to have him down at Prehab and he'll be back next month. We've chatted a bit about what we'll play but I'll be keeping it under wraps until the night. Will be different from playing with my usual b2b partner Gary Optim who I played at the last Timeless with
      Who else on the massive 3-arena line-up will you be checking out?
      Definitely the legend that is Greg Brookman, will also take some time out from looking round the new venue to see Elvis, Little Gem and Danny Luu.
      Thanks to David for photos
    • Rascal
      Eduardo Herrera is back to inject some Brazilian charm into London's newest and cheekiest night Spank! at The Soundshaft on Friday 23rd December. Spank! Girl Chloe caught up with Ed to find out how much he is looking forward to getting spanked and just how much preparation he has out into Christmas 2005.
      So Eduardo...another year gone by...have you been preparing for the festivities over the last month?
      To be honest I think every new day is a good reason to celebrate life and Christmas & new year even better so yes I'm pretty exited.
      How do you feel about being so far from home at Christmas?
      I don't feel I'm far from home at all as world is home for me and the ones I love will always be with me.
      Is Christmas much different here than Brazil?
      Only that we celebrate it on the evening of the 24th with dinner and the boxing thing happens at mid-night.
      We have you back at Spank! on 23rd Dec to install some of those Brazilian sexy beats into The Christmas Spank! Holiday. You were with us for the launch party, what did you enjoy most?
      For sure the atmosphere, funky groovy and relaxed - all fun!
      And what are you looking forward to on 23rd?
      That atmosphere I've mentioned above and obviously to put my hands on those decks!!!
      Can you tell us a bit about what you have in-store for us?
      I'm quite in love with this Brazilian group "Ze Maria" and their electro house. I'm also looking forward to try a funky house remix I've made for a Brazilian tune called "the night"
      Who else are you excited about seeing and why?
      I'm pretty much into the music they all play, it's always exciting experiencing other DJ's sound track, full of their particular point of view.
      Will you be dipping into the grotto for a little spank?
      I'm definitely having the 23rd for loads
      What other plans do you have for Christmas and New Year?
      Take some rest after the xs
      Have you made any resolutions for 2006?
      Oh yes! Putting my head and hands more into music production is my absolute target, and for that I'll going back to Point Blank!
      Finally if you could spank anyone...who would it be and why?
      Some gorgeous people out there for turning me on so much! Bastards!
      Thanks for your time Eduardo...bring on the Spank!
    • Frantic Benz
      One of the London Hard Dance scene's brightest young talents, Seany Sean's name has been on many a clubbers lips in 2005 (for one reason or another!) with loads of sets for Frantic, as well as his wicked co-promotion 123 rocking the capital on a regular basis. I chatted with the man himself ahead of his NYD/Birthday set at Genesis @ Koko in London...
      So Seanston, how was your 2005? Pretty fucking immense from what I could gather!
      Good day beef! 2005 has been the nuts for me, I have partied harder than ever and spun more disks to nutters than I can remember, or maybe that was the partying? It's been the tits!
      How far has your DJing progressed in these 12 months? You've had loads of gigs, that's for sure - and what were your most enjoyable gigs from 2005?
      From DJing so regularly for so many great parties and promotions my confidence behind the decks has skyrocketed and I have found a true freedom of expression during live sets, (dex and fx eh Benz). Shit! Just checked HarderFaster for my sets this year. So many jump out at me, but of those playing at HHA twice was amazing 1st was with Elvis, who smacks it and everyone knows how much fun we had that night for Future. The second with the big man himself Gordon Darley, warming the foyer for Steve Maynard was the nuts. Rammed with stompin' ravers by 10! Win! But as well as Frantic all the gigs for the new blood of hard dance were amazing too 123, Prehab, Zoology, Shiva and of course Summit!
      Which tunes repeatedly smacked it for you this year? What were the tunes that had the punters running up to you and demanding to know the name? The ones you just couldn't stop playing? etc etc
      Colin Barratt's Follow Me remix jumps out immediately - everyone loved that techy Banger. As a whole the Riot! Recordings have caused a shit load of interest when played, Playing with Knives and Come On Baby got a good response all year. Definitely about the tuff mixes.
      And what about 2006? What have you got planned for the forthcoming year?
      Can't wait mate, as well as trying to outdo myself on the partying, I'm well looking forward to carrying on with my club night 123. It's all going well and my partners are so determined to take it to the next level and confirm it as one of London's best parties. DJ-wise I look forward to playing more for the brilliant Frantic - there is always a story there and the music is always great, get your swerve on indeed (Gordon Darley quote), as well as getting stuck into some Ableton Live and production to make my sets even more interesting. I have so many things in my head I want to play with and 2006 is gonna release the beast and shit loads of mix CDs, Be prepared!
      You mention you're going to get into production, what kind of sounds will you be coming out with?
      I love big and groovy and I'm gonna have the means to get my ideas down. I also love the filth, Lucy Fur, Steve Maynard, have smacked it all year and for those in the know Look out for the Champions of the North Andy Rise and Matt Pickup. Well looking forward to whipping some tracks with them. Woosh, pselect and woof!
      We see you've been nominated to represent HarderFaster at the Hard Dance Awards 2006 in February, what's this all about and how comes you're in the running?
      Yeah mate! I was nominated by my good friend Scottish Dave to represent Harder Faster, and without my knowledge! It gives a DJ the opportunity to play at one of the years biggest parties. The winner will be voted for by users of www.harderfaster.net, So if you are coming down to the Hard Dance Awards and want too hear some goooood shit VOTE FOR SEANY SEAN! (shameless)  
      NYD sees you down at Koko in London for Genesis - Frantic's first bash of 2006. Are you going to have a big one on NYE or will you be fresh faced for this event?
      Can't decide! It's me Birthday too on New Years Dy so even if I do stay in and have a quiet one it's gonna be messy! Not gonna say any more in e I get you giving it the old thought you were..etc?, I know your game Benz! Ha ha
      You are playing with rising production star Ben Bennett - what can we expect from you two goons?
      Stuff and indeed, things!
      Who else on the line-up will you be stomping to?
      Want to hear Ed Real he is so bound to bring out some special New Years Madness to Camden (Koo). But we are playing at the same time. I'm gonna be in and out! Get that Bennett!
      And then what about after that? What time can we expect you to keep going until?
      God knows, I'll be with Steelo, Bennett and you!
      Uh oh
      Interview by Benz

  • Interviews

    • ClubTheWorld
      Going back to the earlier days of your career, you were part of the "big beat" trio Ceasefire on Wall of Sound records. Was this your earliest successful forray into dance music or had you been knocking out beats before then?
      Ceasefire was my first electronic project, but before that I'd played in skate punk bands and liked hip hop and it's scene.
      Do you have happy memories of those "big beat" days? It seemed like a hedonistic scene to be in that kind of carried on where britpop left off.
      It was a great time for people like me with broad tastes. Big beat had close links with the indie scene so many cool bands had came out of that era too. It was like acid house all over again, no rules............. I Have really happy memories of those days.
      What do you feel the real turning point was when big beat died and "nu skool breaks" reared its naughty little head?
      By the time big beat took a turn for the worse, I had set up Whole 9 Yards which had a real techy style (Dark Globe, Dylan Rhymes, Elite Force, DJ Hyper, Rhythm Division were all artists on the label). I was already using less samples in my production, leaning more towards electronic sounds.
      In all fairness is was a natural progression for many. It's a complete myth that nuskool breaks came directly from jungle & hardcore - it's just a few key people did (Rennie Pilgrem, Shut Up & Dance, Freqnasty, Blim). Again it was an interesting time but a lot of the music was too dark to reach the audience big beat did, thats why it's taken so long for breakbeat to get its footing in the world of dance music in general.
      Taking things up to present day, you must be pretty please with the way things have gone for you. What have been your proudest achievements along the way?
      To be honest, I feel proud to still be doing what i love for a living! Just still being here is an achievement; not to blow my own trumpet, but I feel like ive only just got started.
      You are famed for playing some of the more eclectic sets in the breaks scene, combining techy, funky and progressive breaks with 4/4 based house and techno material. Do you tend to get bored if there's only one style of music on choice all night?
      I find it a challenge to throw all your ideas into a melting pot and make a dancefloor move to different flavours. It would do my head in just being limited to one genre as there's so much good music out there. DJs should be creative. I think my personality comes out when I play, I do love breakbeat but it is only about 60% of what i play, (and even make).
      Which other DJs do you admire for their ability to mix things up and keep things interesting?
      Im really into what Marco Bailey does - techno but with an edge. I like Erol Alkan too.
      You've collaborated with many of the leading lights of the breaks scene. Who made for especially memorable studio sessions?
      I love working with Elite Force, we always seem to come up with interesting ideas and he's also a great musician, so skys the limit.
      What gems will be coming out of the MK studio in the near future?
      I have a whole new album, 'Vibrator', which will be released in June on Adrift Records. There's loads of new stuff, a few collabs with people such as Elite Force, D.Ramirez, Aquasky, Jono Fernandez, Kathrine Ellis, Roland Clark and Christian J. It's a full on ride as I wanted to do something that represented where my head is at - why pretend to be something I'm not.
      April 15th sees you headlining the Platform 12 Breaks Foyer at the massive South West Four Launch at Brixton Academy. What have you heard about the South West Four Festival?
      I've been travelling loads, so I've not been in the UK much. I know the Platform 12 line up is pretty cool though: Lady Killa, Clive Morley and Future Funk Squad. Regardless, Carl Cox is playing so that is reason enough to go.
      In recent years Brixton Academy has only been used as a club venue by Hard Dance and Drum 'n' Bass promotions. Do you think that massive scale house/techno/breaks events are something that London could do with?
      It certainly feels like something special. We'll soon find out!
      Have you partied with the Platform12 crew before? What can we expect?
      Only when I met the guys at HUM a few years back. You can expect a heavy dose of dirty late night funk from me - no idea what the other guys are gonna play...I'm sure it will be along those lines though!!
    • ClubTheWorld
      Two of the biggest DJs in the scene, Andy Whitby and Billy Daniel Bunter might come from two seemingly separate generations of underground dance culture but remain united in one, fundamental aim; a need to play uplifting energetic dance music. Both known for their intuitive ability to raise arms, smiles and atmospheres with effortless aplomb the pair are teaming up for their first ever back to back at this Saturday's Tasty Good Times at The Mass. No, it aint an April Fools, this world first dual of two of hard dance's most renowned crowd pleasers is primed to set the colourful Brixton rave alight and leave fans of euphoric uplifting hard dance well and truly chomping at the bit. We caught up with the pair as they geared up for their for their opinions on the label market, Ibiza and each other - not to mention details of Andy's eagerly anticipated AWsum label. Check it out!
      Whilst certain DJs are renowned for taking things hard, dark and filthy, you two are well known for your love of strong melody hooks and the odd vocal. What is it that attracts you to an upbeat party sound?
      BB: It's what the dance floor wants. There's nothing better then seeing people with huge smiles on their faces with their hands in the air. Stringing a set of so called intelligent vibes together is boring. Rocking the party and getting the dance floor jumping, that's what attracts me to party sounds.

      AW: For me, music has always been about having fun, be it singing along, throwing your hands in the air or whatever, anything that makes you smile and enjoy yourself basically. I've never been a fan of filth or Techno, as it's not what I'm about on a dancefloor and it doesn't get the reaction I'm looking for. I like to see people going nuts, really enjoying themselves through happy emotions.
      My aim when I'm on the decks is to have people going home knowing they've had a good night, so they can go back to their afterparties and feel like they've had their money's worth. I try to give them something to look forward to the next time they come to watch me.
      Do you ever get tempted to go all out and knock out a dirty filth or tough techno influenced set just for a change? 
      BB: I've had my days of innovating, and I've had my days of playing anthems. I played an old skool 93 dark set at Bang Face a few weeks ago, and it was pure nastiness, put me in the right crowd like bang face and I'll go as hard and dark as you want. Put me in Tasty or Hardcore Heaven and I wanna bring on the happy vibes.
      AW: I get offers, but for me there's nothing challenging about it. I'd rather stay true to what I believe I and leave the filth stuff to the filth DJs. I go a little harder at the end of some of my later sets, but the kids don't come to see me play filth or techno, they come to see me playing peak-time euphoric hard-dance.
      Do you remember the first time you met each other and what were your first impressions??
      BB: Not sure when I met Andy. It's only been briefly before and after sets. This is the 1st time we would have worked together, our crowd pleasing styles should work very well together, and with my looks and his experience we should smash the fuck out of Tasty - Good Times!!!!!

      AW: I've been aware of Billy Bunter since I was 15! I used to listen to his Helter Skelter tapes during French class in High School. I had the Walkman headphone threaded up my blazer sleeve so it looked like I was leaning on my hand when in-fact I was listening to Dan.
      As for in person, we just kept bumping into each other at different events around London. I remember seeing him @ Heaven, he came on after me and opened with a Martin Luther King acapella dropping over Ben Johnson's Come 1 cover track. A great way to start a set and that was when I started thinking about a back2back, as he liked to get things rolling with a good intro, like myself.
      Is Tasty Good Times the first time you've stepped in the box together and if not how did the idea to pair you off first come about? How have previous sets together gone off?
      BB: We was meant to do back to back at Wild child last year, but I had 4 gigs that night, and Andy was up in Liverpool and it just wasn't possible to hook up. So this is the 1st time. I think musically we are close together so it will work well.

      AW: It is the first time we've played back to back, we were booked for a Wildchild Boxing Day gig together, but I had other gigs that night so couldn't get there in time.
      What is the most bizarre habit a fellow back to back partner has ever subjected you to?
      BB: Jon Doe has gotta be my favourite person to do back to backs with in terms of fucking about and having a laugh. We are always messing about any way, so it carries over to the decks. At a Tasty last year a raver who I have nick named Jon 'mental c^nt' who has an artificial leg, took it off, Jon Doe nicked it and started hitting me round the head with it.

      AW: Luckily none. Although back2backs can be fun, I rarely do them nowadays, as I prefer to play on my own. The one's I have had though have been pretty easy and without any bizarre moments.
      Dan you've been in this game for year but given the chance to play back to back with any DJ in today's scene, who would it be and why?
      BB: After Bang Face a few weeks ago, I would say Nicky Black Market on a 93 Labrynth set, we both used to be resident's there through that 93 dark hardcore & jungle period so it would be a great trip down memory lane.
      Andy, your production discography is building steadily but what tracks have you been working on most recently?
      AW: The tracks I've been working on recently are all for my own label, AWsum. Driving, euphoric hardhouse with all the usual Whitby-magic thrown in. I'm not finding the learning curve to difficult as I've studied at the Manchester School Of Sound Recording and had a lot of advice and help early in my career from people like Peter Prichard, Lee Pasch and Steve Hill. It's to be a direct outlet of my own original euphoric power hard-dance, the first release being Andy Whitby E.P 1 U Ready? with Bump In The Night on the flip.
      Of all your own productions, which track are you most proud of?
      Out of all the tracks I've made, each one holds a special meaning to me, but my personal favourite is Neon Lights  Youre Not Alone (Andy Whitby remix), as it really gave me a chance to add a whole new way my tracks were sounding, whilst re-visiting a classic record.
      Dan, we all know you're not planning on releasing as much music but I hear you've had the odd studio session to make fresh exclusives for your DJ sets. What was the last piece of music you made and have you got any studio dates lined up for the coming months?
      BB: I'm just making exclusives for my Ministry albums .. I've not actually been in the studio for some while, but am getting loads of offers from people from all different scenes.

      Do you have any studio collaborations on the cards?
      BB: Eamonn from Liquid who made Sweet Harmony wants me to go in and make some tracks for my Old Skool sets. Clsm has been on me to make some hardcore. Pk wants me to go in and do some house, and Roosta wants me in doing Hard Dance. They will eventually tie me down, but I am so busy it's hard for em to lock me in the studio.

      Dan, you're well known for your label exploits first with the pioneering GBT and then your much loved Honeypot stables. Are those days long behind you now?
      BB: I love running labels, there is a real art to getting it right. At the moment dj'ing and running nights is my passion. I achieved every thing I wanted and more with running labels so I have no real desire at the moment to get back in to it. But never say never!!!!!

      In terms of your own sets, how much of your own sets are comprised of vinyl these days? Do you miss the hands on feel of vinyl or is it simply a case of embracing new formats with open arms?
      BB: Always embrace new technology, but the bottom line is, a good track is a good track no matter how its played.
      AW: I was the first hard-dance DJ to turn completely to c.d's. I just thought with all the options available to CDJ users why would you want anything else? Looping, hot-cueing, reverse all these features plus the fact you can play tracks you finished earlier that day made it a no-brainer to me.
      I think new formats should be embraced with open arms but at the same time in with the new shouldn't automatically mean out with the old. I only turned 100% to CDJs because it was time to take my DJing to the next level. The things I do now are unachievable on vinyl alone.
      Summer isn't too far off the radar now. Will either of you be making the trip out to Ibiza this season and have you got any other trips planned away?
      BB: I have loads of trips planned Canada, Poland, Amsterdam, Oz. Believe it or not I have never been to Ibiza. The 2 times I was meant to go, I didn't make it due to other commitments.
      AW: I won't be over in Ibiza this year, I've been 5 times before and played @ Eden and a few smaller nights but I'm too busy this summer to go over. I'll be touring Australia again for a month to promote a new compilation, plus sorting things for the label, a dvd and a new special mix to give back to everyone who's supported me in the last 2yrs.
      What is the most random situation that you've found yourself in whilst on a foreign DJ mission?
      BB: Playing in an illegal gambling den in Taiwaan that turned in to a rave. It got raided whilst I was playing. The promoter got put in prison, I was 24 hours away from home, not knowing a single person or the language, where I was staying ect ect. The trip was a nightmare at the time. I look back now and think what a great experience.
      AW: Being mobbed by Japanese clubbers in the middle of Australia was random (huge fan of my c.ds apparently).
      From the Brixton Academy to Koko club, you've both played some of most epic venues around. As a DJ, does the adrenaline rush you get from the crowd increase in proportion to the size of it or is it nice to play to more intimate offerings? What floats your boat the most?
      BB: Both equal but for different reasons. I love the intimate underground vibe. But I love the buzz off getting 5000 people in the palm of your hands.
      AW: I used to enjoy playing smaller clubs just as much as I did big but I can't lie there's no place like Brixton Academy! At the same time however, in a small club you can really concentrate on your crowd. In places like Tranzaction in Truro, Tall Trees in Newquay and Oh My God in Leeds you have a much better feeling of how the crowd are feeling and where they want to be taken. In places like HHA, you've got 4000 people looking back at you, so it's harder to gauge what they're feeling but generally it's like a snowball effect in any size club; you rock the majority and the rest come with you!
      You've both mixed album in the last year from Andy's Frantic Residents CD to your Hardcore Classics album Dan. Do either of you have any more album projects in the offing?
      BB: Yeah my next Ministry album is in the planning process as we speak. I'm also waiting for my gold disk from the last one .. Aiiiiigggghhhhhhhhhttt / Bling bling baby.

      Talking of CDs, what's in the players at the moment? You been caught up in the Artic Monkeys hype or got some classic jazz in there? We know Steve Maynard has a bit of a soft spot for some good jazz.
      BB: Soul to Souls 1st ever album featuring back to life, feel free, fair play - Proper!!!!!

      AW: I listen to a lot of hip-hop when I'm at home, anything from Busta Rhymes to Eminem to the older stuff like Cypress Hill. I mix for at least 2hrs a day, plus go through new tracks and mixes, so when it's not hard-dance that's shaking the house it's hip-hop.
      On the road to gigs I usually leave it up to my driver what we listen to. Usually he either supplies his own mixes or we go through stuff I've been given to at clubs.
      Clubbing is all about good times with good people, memories that will never fade. If you could pick out one memory in your clubbing career above all others what would it be any why?
      BB: Just being here is the ultimate thing I take with me. 17 years down the line and I'm still here doing what I love doing. Right now is the highlight of my career. I love it.
      AW: Clubbing-wise, I'd say 1998, Insomniacz in Sheffield. Illogik dropping Bounce 1 Time and the whole club pretending to ride around on imaginary horses. Think you had to be there to be honest.
      DJ-wise, anything that's happened in the last 2 years, it's all gone off to be honest. One minute I was playing smaller nights, trying to make a name for myself, working a part-time job and spending all my wages on records. Now I'm playing to thousands of clubbers a weekend, mixing albums and even having babies named after me!  I wouldn't change it for anything in the world and will never forget how fortunate I am to be in such a position.
      Dan, we'll leave things to you to sum up the Tasty crowd in three words?
      The Fucking Bolloxs!!!!!!!
    • ClubTheWorld
      The first on the dancefoor, the last off for some people it's always time to have fun. One of the London club scene's most colourful and familiar characters, Never Enough's Maria is one such clubber and while some her age might have settled into the humdrum routines of middle aged life she can be found week in, week out beaming on London's most happening dancefloors. Always displaying her trademark smile, the Brazilian has worked tirelessly to help promote some of London's biggest clubbing brands such as Antiworld, Frantic and Tasty since being swept in the clubscene at the beginning of the century. Progressing to run the most efficient and renowned paying guestlist agency in the capital, she has since embarked to take her Never Enough brand into the world of promotion both as an event brand and DJ agency. As Never Enough prepare to host the hard dance room at Billy Bunter's Love Muzik on March 17th, we catch up with Maria to uncover the secret behind her eternal sparkle.
      On March 17th you're hosting the hard dance room at Billy Bunter's Love Muzik event under your Never Enough banner. How did you first come into contact with Big Bill? What is your favourite memory/most amusing story of Bunter?
      My first contact with Billy Bunter was in 2001 at the Fridge parties. I used to support Shaun Hull who used to promote a night in Southend On Sea in Essex called Megabyte, as well as playing for the likes of Sunnyside Up, Mind Over Matter, Feersum, Riot and Frantic. One day Shaun invited me to go to the Tasty Launch Night at The Crash Club - it was absolutely wicked! I still have the flyer and since that I've been to all Tasty parties except last year from January till July coz I was in Brazil. My favourite memory with Billy is when we did Tasty and Too Much at Fridge!
      A familiar face across London's clubbing metropolis, you've been working as a promotional assistant for the capital's biggest parties for over four years. But what is the essential idea behind Never Enough? How did you first come up with the brand and how has it evolved since?
      I used to do a party called Too Much But Never Enough at Dingwalls in Camden Town Market Area and then at Bad Bobs. It was once a month on Sunday Afternoon with Spencer Freeland, Eduardo Herrera, Shaun Hull, D'Marr Ford as my residents and all of my good named friends used also to play there. Billy Bunter and Roosta were two of our favourites guests. After 11 parties I decided to give up because the neighbours around used to complain about the noise from the loud hard music and I wasn't too happy with my partner. At that time I was also helping Frantic, Antiworld, Twisted, Heat, Logic, Tasty, Riot to organize paying guest lists with my crowd, specially Brazilians, Romanians, French, Italians, Antipodeans, etc. After organizing so many Paying guest lists and booking djs, I decided to open my own business as a Ticket Agency and sell as many tickets as I could to all Antiworld Events, Frantic Events, HeatUK, Tasty, Most Wanted Events, Tidy, Riot, Logic, SW4, Turnmills Events, Hidden Events, The Fridge Events, SeOne Events and many more.  Never Enough-It's always time to have fun!!!
      Which DJs make up the Never Enough family? Can you tell us a little bit about their skills?
      I'm promoting some DJs and producers such as the Brazilians Eduardo Herrera www.djeduardoherrera.com , Eddie Santos, who has three residencies: Ponana Wimbledon, Bondai in Chelsea e Revolution in Soho and he plays regulary at QBrasil (Brazilian radio on the internet). Alec Fasani  www.djale.com.br, Fabio Fabulous, the Romanias Dani D & Stefan. Then there's some UK jocks like Mike Redina, Reminiscence, M.E.C, Memoid all from www.nrgflow.co.uk , Stu Cox www.stucox.co.uk and DJ SI who is currently teaching DJing and production professionally at the College of North East London and several examples of his productions and sets can be found here http://www.downtherabbithole.co.uk/DJSi.html. Other acts include Viking Princess Moni who is running Solid Kiss at Turnmills and I'm also proud to say that I'm promoting A*S*Y*S from Germany http://www.acidsaveyoursoul.com/ here in UK and South America not forgetting Top Dj Brazilian Vitor Lima and all the guys from Water Republic/Sao Paulo/Brazil http://nrgflow.co.uk/vitor_lima_bio.html 
      Who will be playing your Never Enough room at Love Muzik?
      For Love Muzik I booked Eduardo Herrera as his ability to excel at playing techno, house, hard house, electro, and everything in between has seen him play at numerous promotions throughout the capital. He came over to London just over 4 years ago, and has since built a reputation for himself as a highly talented, quality DJ and Producer. The sensational young talent Dani D from Romania, he is super versatile too as he playing some Hard Dance and some solid Electro sets too. That such a young man can make such a big noise. His first set in London was at my Sunday afternoon Too Much But Never Enough. Morgan Cameron (M.E.C) & Remy Cameron (Reminiscence) have been in the scene for over a decade now and have seen and followed every style with energy and emotion. This has lead on to many creative projects beyond DJ'ing such as production, photography, web design and an Inhouse Record label. Please make sure to watch out for these two extremely talented brothers as there careers along with the nrgflow collective's are set to explode eternally.
      How do you select which DJs will become part of the Never Enough family?
      I have so many requests from up comings djs and also great names around who want to be part of my dj agency. I'm always receiving emails and demos from everywhere with different styles. There is some serious and interesting music, quality mixes and brilliant tunes selection. I wish I could have more time to listen to all and to reply to all. I want to find time to organize my agency and to offer sets for talents who have never had the opportunity to show their skills around. I'm helping Enrico from Antiworld to select these guys as well, as of course he always receiving lots of material too.
      What has been your proudest achievement with Never Enough so far? Are there any moments that really stand out?
      I must say that my proudest achievement was Too Much But Never Enough the party in Camden Town and then Covent Garden. Damian, Anton, Marc French from Heat, Will, Amanda from Frantic, Enrico from Antiworld, Macey from Torque, even Billy Bunter used to be among my regular supporters on Sunday afternoon which was amazing.
      A lot of people that work within the clubbing industry confess that the scene loses some of it early sparkle once you become part of its inner mechanics. Do you ever feel that this idea rings true? How has your perspective on the club scene changed since you have been working within it?
      I've got to confess that I love what I'm doing. It's such a brilliant job. It's a pleasure and I'm proud to work with so many promotions. I'm learning with them and we are always exchanging ideas, they listen to my advice and I listen to theirs. I think the sparkle will always be there. There will always be new people enjoying it and we need to respect them.
      You first started clubbing at nights like Escape From Samsara nearly five years ago now. How different are the clubs now from when you first got hooked into the sound?
      Everything is different. That's life! Escape From Samsara was magical with Beamish,Oberon, Mark Sinclair, Darren Shambhala, DaveRandall, Owen B, Rubec and many more. Tim Samsara was a perfect promoter and DJ. I used to go to every Pendragon as well and loved it. My first time at Brixton Academy was for Pendragon NYE in 2001 which was brilliant! I used to go to all Super Fish parties at The Fridge as well and can remember the good times at Fevah at Heaven. Memories that will always be with me!
      If you could relive just one party in your five years in London which one would it be and why?
      Antiworld, Psygate and Teknoworld - Paradise City at Alexandra Palace in 4th December 2004. That was one of the best nights I have ever been to. I worked lots for that but I also had so much fun and got to see so many of my favourite djs. That party for me was one for the history book!
      You must see a sack load of DJs on your travels but of all the rising talents which DJs do you see becoming the stars of the future and why?
      There are so many to mention. I want to see all the guys that I'm promoting becoming the stars of the future. It's up to them to do it properly.
      Do you ever miss your native Brazil? Are there any plans to return or do you feel London has truly become your second home?
      Impossible not to miss Brazil as my son is still living there and I'm too far away from my family. I don't have any plans to return. I want just to bring my son to study in England in about 2 year's time. I want to make business in Brazil with the electronic music and my dreams is to stay there three months a year on holiday, just enjoying the places that I've never been before.
      What are the plans for Never Enough for the rest of 2006? Will Summer see any special plans and do you have any other parties or rooms sorted for the immediate future?
      I've been hosting rooms with different promotions. Recently I did Never Enough House and Electro room at Brixton Academy with HHA. I've also done Techno rooms with the guys from Nrgflow and Museum of Techno at Yes at Hidden. Obviously we're doing Love Muzik with Billy Tasty Bunter. I'll also be hosting the VIP room again with House and Electro for Psychedelic Academy at Brixton Academy on April 1s. . I'm organising the Official after party for Psychedelic Academy at The Fridge on April 2nd Most Wanted, Totally Twisted & Never Enough. In May I'll be back to the Academy again with a House and Electro room for Supernova-Frantic & HeatUK. Every week I've been receiving some invitations for something new. For the Summer time I want to make parties around London on the beach and also I want to make boat parties. Any suggestions just give me a shout! 
      Finally, you're still putting most clubbers to shame by dancing till your feet hurt each week but do you think it will ever be enough for Mad Maria? Will you carry on clubbing till you can't club no more or do you see a retirement on the cards within the next few years?
      Funny question! I love to dance and you always will see me on the dance floors. I'm proud to be 40 years old with all this energy that I have. I think I will carry on for few more years. I'm feeling too young for retirement. I just want to have a few breaks sometimes to do normal things, like having time to find a new boyfriend.
    • ClubTheWorld
      The London hard dance scene is littered with upcoming DJ talent but few beam with as much radiant enthusiasm as Janie Mac, resident at Flashbak and regular DJ guest at Tasty events. Since her formative 2001 awakening in Brixton's hard dance underground, the elegant but approachable blonde has doggedly furthered her DJ skills with the helps of deck guardians such as Skol, Brad Lee and Billy Bunter and now stands tall as one of the most exciting DJs on the circuit. Go girl! Even more encouragingly, she remains every bit the irrepressible hard dance clubber she always has been and is regularly found grinning, sweating and cutting shapes with the best of em at her second home the 414. Of course, it is in 414's house-party styled hollows where she first showcased her euphoric NRG charged DJ sound for Bunter, at his intimate Edge shindig two years back. But while she openly proclaims herself a small club girl - highlighting the good times clubber within her - she'll be courting on a bigger stage come April 1st when she plays main room at The Mass for Tasty's talent packed Good Times event. Fresh from rockin' the Mad Hatters House Party for SeOne's Raindance, we caught up with the rising star to chart her impressive ascendancy and track her main inspirations.
      With stormin sets at Just Groove, Flashbak and Hidden, your stock within the London hard dance scene has been rising rapidly of late but how did you first get hooked into the hard dance movement and what were you listening to before that? Was it a case of that one tune capturing your imagination or did it take a friend or sibling to show you the light?  
      It was actually my dad and brother who showed me the way! I was quite a jungle and hardcore head, but I never really went clubbing. My dad (Fin) and big brother (Rob) dragged me out kicking and screaming and took me to The Mass. I was terrified! Here was me, going out in Brixton! As I walked in, I heard Miss Shiva Dreams and I never really looked back, I absolutely loved it!! I was lucky I had Fin and Rob there with me though; I met some of the strangest people in my life that night, most of them are now my best friends!! 
       
      What the main points on your clubbing compass when you first started venturing out? Did you have a regular haunt or were you just out everywhere and anywhere?  
      Because I went to The Mass first, that became my favourite club, until I experienced the 414. I couldn't believe it the first time I went in there. It was like someone's house!! I fell in love with the place. I also enjoyed going out to the big clubs though, The Fridge, Brixton Academy, Turnmills, Camden Palace but I'd say, I'm more of a small club kinda girl! 
      With competition among upcoming hard dance jocks fiercer than ever, what first inspired you to try your hand at mixing yourself and did you always hold aspirations to play on the big stage? 
      I didn't go into DJ'ing to become famous or anything, I just wanted to try my hand at it. I love hard dance music, and wanted to give myself a challenge. It took me ages to learn, but I had a wicked teacher, Brad-Lee. My only aspiration as far as DJ'ing was concerned was to play in the 414! Billy Bunter gave me that chance about 2 years ago, to play at The Edge. I loved it!! I would love to play main stage at Brixton Academy though, don't get me wrong, although the nerves would probably kill me.  
       
      Who were your main DJ influences during your formative mixing days? Were there any DJs that you would always make sure you caught no matter what?  
      I'm an old skool girl, so I always made sure I went to see Skol, Craig Mac and Roosta. I loved the tunes they played and how cool they made DJ'ing look! Once I heard Steve Blake play too, I became a bit of a fan. My mate Brad-Lee was also a massive inspiration to me, he played hard style and hardcore, but he's an absolutely amazing DJ. I had always followed Billy Bunter, from his old jungle days so he was like a real celebrity to me (although having now met and worked for him for 4 years, he's a real pussycat) so I made a point of catching his sets. 
      What was your first main booking and did you suffer from a severe case of the nerves (i.e. were you bricking yourself!)? 
      My first booking was The Edge at 414. Nervous? Me? Urmmmm.. I think I threw up about 4 times. I was on the line up with Anthony Atcherley, Roosta and Billy Bunter. I nearly fainted when I saw my name on the flyer! I thought I had hit the big time! I had been following these DJ's for years and now I was playing along side them!!! 
       
      What has been the strangest DJ experience you've had since you started playing out? 
      I think it has to be my set at Raindance last week actually! I played first, so assumed I'd play to a half empty room, but it was packed at 10 o'clock!! I had a trancey warm up set all prepared, but the crowd were so up for it, I had to pick up the pace a bit! It was crazy!! Good fun though, seeing so many people wanting to party so early on. Them Raindance lot are bonkers! 
      Since you've started playing out, your name has been closely linked with Brixton's hard dance underground and parties like Flashbak, Just Groove and Pulse. Do you think there is a different vibe at Brixton parties compared to those in other areas of London? What is it about the area that makes it such a special region for London's true hard dance troopers?  
      Brixton is the capital of the universe as far as I'm concerned. It's where it's at! I don't know why these people flock to Brixton in their hundreds but they do! I think there is a real underground feel at Brixton parties and it just can't be matched. It's the idea of partying in a converted church like The Mass or walking round at 4am and everything in Brixton is still buzzing - where else can you get that? 
       
      You site the unfashionable Club 414 as one of your favourite venues. While some disregard it as a dingy hole, what is it that sets it apart as such a friendly and fun venue? 
      414 is my second home. I feel completely safe when I'm there. No where else could I walk into somewhere on my own and guarantee to bump into a friendly face. The staff are amazing, I adore Cybil and Louise they're such an institution! I love playing in there too. No other club that I've played at paps like it does in the 414! 
       
      Which other London venues would you be most keen to play? 
      I'd love to play main room of the Fridge (hint, hint) ha ha ha
       
      At the Heat Christmas party you had the pleasure of playing a memorable main room set with Tasty's main man Billy Bunter but when was the first time that you crossed paths with Big Bill and what were your first impressions? 
      Ha ha ha Big Bill! Wicked! My first impressions? I was a bit star struck to be honest, until I really got to know him that is! He was someone I had heard on the radio, had seen his name everywhere, so when I met him he was like a celeb! In reality though, he's been really supportive of me and backed me 100%, become a good mate. I've worked for Tasty now for four years and he's a reasonable boss. Although a pay rise wouldn't go amiss Bunter! 
       
      Whose initial idea was the back to back set and were you at all daunted by going head on with the rave legend of 15 years? How did the set go? 
      He asked to play back to back with me!! What an honour! Ha ha ha It was the best set of my life. The system in Turnmills is amazing even though I couldn't see over the decks to see how many people were dancing! Bunter made me stand on his record box whilst I was mixing to get the reaction of the crowd!! 
       
      Recently, you played SeOne's nocturnal rave haven Raindance in the Mad Hatters Hard House party. Is there an old skool raver within you and did you throw some shapes to some rave classics once you were done and dusted on the ones and twos? 
      I love old skool music! Lots and lots!! I was in heaven with the massive old skool room they had. I was throwing a few shapes on the dance floor much to the disgust of my mates who were like Janie, calm it!! I just can't help it though, old skool music rocks. I'd love to be able to mix old skool, if anyone wants to volunteer their services!!?? 
       
      Do you play any others styles beyond hard dance and what is on the Janie Mac home stereo at the moment? 
      I can mix trance and have loads of cheesy old trancey tunes at home which get dusted off once every so often. I'd love to be able to mix old skool and old style hardcore and jungle. When I'm at home I listen to all sorts of stuff, I just recently moved house and found an old Speed Garage CD which I've played to death! KC and JoJo - Show Me Happiness - Tune! 
       
      At Tasty's Love Muzik, you'll be playing in the hard dance room alongside Kutski and Billy Bunter. What can we expect from your set and what three tunes are you sure will be in your box come the 17th March? 
      I always try and drop Heavens Cry, Til Tears Do Us Part into my big sets cos it's a guaranteed winner, plus it's my favourite Hard dance tune! It always gets the dance floor jumping around. I've also borrowed (stolen really) a white label of Love Shy which is wicked. I borrowed it and plan to give it back after my set at Tasty (yeah, RIGHT!) and a few more little beauties I have tucked up my sleeve.

      Finally, what are your main ambitions for the remainder of 2006 and will we see Janie Mac venturing into the studio any time soon?  
      I'd love to write a tune! If I was going to do that, it'd have to be with Mr Bunter or Roosta, they're the best at it in my opinion. As for 2006, well, I hope to enjoy playing as much as I did in 2005. I don't plan to take the hard dance by storm or anything. This IS my year though watch this space.
    • Frantic Benz
      New Zealand-born House jock CD has been causing a real stir in London with his awesome sets for promotions like Kurruption, where he is resident. He will joing the rest of the Kurruption crew at Turnmills this Saturday 4th March where they will be hosting a room at the massive UP^^ alongside house music heroes such as Trophy Twins, Shapeshifters and Full Intention. Find out about your man CD right here!
      How did you get involved with Kurruption in the first place?
      I was introduced to Zoelee one night at Retox and gave her a demo. She liked it and got me down to play a couple of times, my sets seemed to go down pretty well and I enjoyed the parties so much I started to go down as a punter to. After a few bookings she asked me to join Kurruption as a rotation DJ.
      How was the recent Kurruption party? What's the venue like and where is it?
      It was loads of fun, as Kurruption parties always are! There was free gourmet pizza and it all goes down at a fantastic new venue in Farringdon called the Epicurean Lounge (or EP Lounge)   Friendly staff and cheap drinks and of course great tunes ensured that everyone had a good time and loads of people will be coming back for more. It's just around the corner from Turnmills, so is an ideal place to get a groove on before heading there or Fabric for a big night.
      The next Kurruption event is this Saturday at Turnmills, where you and your crew will be hosting a room at UP^^. Have you had many experiences in this legendary venue before?
      I've never played at Turnmills so I'm extremely excited - After all it is one of London's legendary super-clubs. Every time I've been to the venue I've had a great time. Everyone is so up for it and the atmosphere in the main room is second to none.
      Who will you be checking out on the line-up?
      Definitely the Trophy Twins - I saw them in Ibiza and they were great - I've also been impressed with their recent productions. Also looking forward to hearing Brad 212. His chopping and changing of records is amazing - last time I saw him I almost tripped on my jaw!
      Have you thought about what kind of beats you will be laying down on the night? Do you usually put much planning into a set?
      Personally I don't tend to plan any sets at all. I like to see what the DJ before me plays and check out what the crowds doing. I'll always have some tracks in mind but if I don't feel like the times right I wont play it.
      Speaking of which, who was the last DJ to really blow you away?
      Ryan O'Gorman, of Electric Sex, at Eden in Ibiza last year. Don't think I've danced like that for years - I didn't leave 'til late in the morning.
      I see you've made a couple of tracks, what are they like and have you been working to get them signed up?
      I've now completed three tracks.
      One with Alex Parsons - Backscratch which is coming out on David Dureizs' label Block Records. Its an up beat kind of house / electro cross over tune. One with Houseplayerz called funky rhythm which isn't signed but has been reviewed in the latest RPM magazine. See www.rpmmagazine.co.uk. The third with Elwood aka Greg Brookman called The Burn which is a slice of banging electro tinged house. We are currently finishing off the second track to go with it before sending it out to some labels. Did you make the tracks so you could have something personalised to play in your sets, or do you have serious ambitions as a producer/artist?
      I really did the tracks to have something of my own to play but it's quite addictive and I've got a bit of a taste for it now.
      You enjoyed some sets out in Ibiza last year, have you thought ahead to plans for this summer? Are there any other exciting clubbing destinations that you think need checking out?
      I'll be going to Ibiza this year on the HeatUK Ibizian heat tour with Groove Factory so I'm looking forward to a nice holiday in the sun. Any sets are a bonus really.
      London's clubs are filled with people from all over the world, which nationalities do you find are the biggest party animals over here?
      Tough question! Every dog has its day but the biggest party animals I have known here in London have been Aussies.
    • Frantic Benz
      One of Wales' hottest exports right now, Frisky has been wowing her home crowds with her tough European Hard Dance sounds for a while now, and now has her sights set on London. She will be debuting for Frantic at Hard House Academy vs HQ on February 25th at Brixton Academy in London, so we had a chat with her to find out a bit more about her...
      Hello there Frisky. Please could you introduce yourself for those who might not know you!
      Well hello there Benz! I'm Frisky (real name Holley) and I'm from little old Swansea in South Wales.
      How long have you been mixing for? What inspired you to give it a go?
      I've been mixing for just over 3 years now. I started clubbing not long before and was instantly hooked. I was like I wanna do that! I managed to scrape enough money together to get a cheap set of belt drive decks and it went from there.
      What styles of music do you play? Which producers and labels are always big with you?
      I play predominantly Hard Trance and some Hardstyle, I'm very much influenced by the whole harder European sound. As for producers who influence me, the main ones would be Isaac, Technoboy and Uberdruck. The types of labels you'd expect to find in my box (lol) are Dance Pollution, Blutonium and Fusion records. I also incorporate some of my own cheeky bootlegs just to keep my sets different.
      How did you manage to break into the scene in terms of DJing?
      When I first started clubbing I used to go to a night in Swansea called Breathe which was run by Juice (of Cally & Juice). One weekend Juice spotted me DJing back at a house party and offered me my first set - warming up for Brisk in Breathe. Fortunately my sets went down well and a couple of months later I became resident.
      You live in Wales - that's near England right? 😛 What's the club and dance music scene like where you come from?
      The Hard Dance scene in Wales is still very strong. We're lucky enough to have Bionic in Cardiff and Breathe in Swansea (which are now both in their 6th year). Anyone who has been to either event will know how friendly and up for it the Welsh clubbers are. I love playing to my home crowd.
      You will be playing at Hard House Academy vs HQ in London on February 25th. How did you come to the attention of Frantic? Is this your debut for them?
      I've known Will and Amanda indirectly for a couple of years through attending various Frantic events. I also met my good friend Maxine there, she also worked for Frantic at the time. About a year ago Max saw me DJing at a club in Wales. Since then, she has promoted me endlessly in London, giving out free CDs and bigging me up to anyone who would listen lol. I definitely owe a lot to her for all of her efforts.
      This will be my debut for Frantic and I'm deeply honoured to be asked to play my first set in London at the mighty Hard House Academy. I've been to about 10 HHA over the past few years and I always have a wicked time there. I absolutely can't wait to hit the decks on the 25th. It's also my birthday the next day so it makes the occasion even more special for me.
      Travelling to London from Wales must be a bit of a schlep do you drive or does someone else do the hard work for you? What do you normally listen to on the way to get you in the mood?
      Luckily Cally & Juice (with MC Shocker) are also on the line-up for the night so I will be travelling up with them. I regularly travel up to London with the boys as Juice is my boyfriend.
      As there are usually four of us in the car we tend to pass the time by chatting or playing word-association games that we've made up over the years (it's more fun than it sounds honestly - lol). Just to give you an example, if you had to think of famous people and cars, two examples might be  Lisa Pick-Up or Jean Claude White Van Man  see, told you it was fun!
      Who else on the HHA line-up are you going to be checking out?
      Obviously I'll be stompin' down to Cally, Juice and Shocker in the Foyer. I also want to check out Mark EG and Organ Donors and Kutski B2B. Other than these I'll be walking round the whole places taking in various different sets as this is part of the fun of HHA.
      You are playing back to back with Shimmer, another rising star in the Hard Dance scene. Have you been in touch with her to discuss battle plans?
      We're in the process of swapping mix CDs so we can get a good idea of each others musical tastes and mixing styles! We also hope to get together before the night to agree a plan of attack.
      And finally, what are your views on the Top 100 Female DJs Competition? Is it something that is going to help female DJs or will it only serve to reinforce some people's opinions that there is actually a difference between male and female DJs?
      I'm not against the idea of a separate female DJ chart although I don't think it will make much difference either way. As for male and female DJs being different, hopefully over the past few years, the female DJs coming through have helped to prove that they've got what it takes, both technically and image-wise.
    • Andy Bagguley
      We catch up with Hard dance legend Anne Savage ahead of her night at PaSSion Hard on February 4th to get her thoughts on this different concept night!
      So Anne, most people know you for you Hard House but what will you be surprising people with at PaSSion Hard??

      Well I've been busy in the studio working on some new tracks that Ill be spinning on the night.  They are still pumping, but not quite up to the 155bpm mark!
      Is it refreshing for you as an artist to be put on a night that doesn't pigeon hole you as a Hard House DJ??

      Absolutely.  Its very hard to shake a label, even if you have been djing as long as I have but slowly people are seeing past the hard house label. Its bizarre cos Hard House as we used to know it doesn't really exist in clubs any more, most of the olriginal hard house dj's play anything from UK techno and hard trance.  Anyway I've been selecting tunes from all over the world that I'm dying to play on the night!
      Do you think these kind of night that bridge between hard dance and Trance are a good idea? Do you think it could be a trend for more clubs to follow suit?

      Yeah because like I said, labels are a bad thing.  It restricts dj's to what they can play and the crowd become very narrow minded. Also a cross genre night like this enables the trance jocks to inject a bit of energy into what can be one long euphoric riff in a pure trance set.
      So whats happening away from the Decks for Anne savage right now?? As we know you're one of the busiest Ladies in Dance Music so what keeps you occupied when not DJing?

      Well I've just finished doing the voiceovers for the DJ Mag top 100 party which is being televised on ITV 2 on April 3rd.  It was a great night, I did all the interviews which meant getting cosy with some of the best talent in the world.  Also I'm hosting the Hard Dance awards with Ed Real on Feb 11th at The Fridge in London for the 3rd Year running and I've got my first release ready for my label (Anne Savage The Do with Pedro Delgardo mixes) which will be digital only, I'll be announcing more on my site www.annesavage.net  I love Pedro's work - he's done loads for Cox's Intec, and this remix is already getting support from the techno scene.
      Do you have any new and exciting goals for 2006?? Stuff that you think this year I really wanna do this??

      I want to get  my Dumb Blonde thing going.  I've a Dumb Blonde mix for Carl Cox's Global show and I'm playing at The Gallery, Hum (Rennie Pilgrem's night).  There's much more to go into the project but I'm keeping my cards to the chest for now on that one.
      What was your personal highlight of 2005. In retrospect was it a good year, average year or one to forget!?

      Its been an interesting year.  With so much uncertainty in clubland its been like, come on Savage you've got to pull something out the bag! So the groundwork has been done and 2006 is shaping up to be a better year
      How was NYE 2005 for you?? Were you out chilling somewhere or running up and down motorways DJing??

      Oh yes, clocking up those miles! I was doing a club in Swansea and Scot Project was on after me and due to bring the New Year in, but you know what he's like, so laid back he didn't have a countdown ready and didn't want to use the mic so I ended up doing it with him which was nice as I hate being in the car like a saddo with a couple of party poppers at midnight rushing to my next gig. I also did Slinky, Tidy, and Polys.
      How did 2005 compare to previous years in a musical sense? Do you feel music is still moving forward. Can 2006 bring something new and exciting to the table??

      Its really exciting now and it absolutely is moving forward. The fact that you're putting these nights on is healthy.
      Who is floating your boat musically at mo. Any new DJ's / Producers we should keep an eye on?? Will you be helping said people at all in this difficult industry??

      My other half manages some amazing young talent  Sander Van Doorn, Gleave, Chris Davies, Gavyn Mitchel, all with their own twist and interpretation of sounds that have filled dancefloors for years.
      You also work under the guise of Dumb Blonde. Is this something that is being pushed more for 2006 or just a side project when ya fancy something different??

      The two releases I have done were co produced with Coburn and were hammered by  by my peers (Sasha, Digweed, Timo Maas, Lee Coombs, Rennie, Elite Force) which is brilliant.  I'm just plugging away and it's a great creative outlet because there really is no strict sound of Dumb Blonde (that's the whole idea) so in turn there is no pressure.  I'm remixing one of the biggest breaks tunes of the past 5 years next week, which is really exciting.  I can't decide whether it's a good idea or I'm setting myself up to be slated but I'll just have to wait and see!!
      Finally, for future reference, Passion or Storm @ The Emporium and why??

      Good God that's easy! Passion.  Passion was always my favourite place to play and I was a favourite there up til about 2001, when the musical divide happened between hard house and trance so didn't get to play that often.  That's why it's so good to be back.  Bring it on!!!!
      Thanks a lot for you time Anne. take care and we look forward to seeing and hearing you at PaSSIon Hard @ The Emporium on Feb 4th!

    • Frantic Benz
      Frantic's Hard House and Trance classics night is just days away (Saturday 28th January in fact!). Benz interviewed one of the DJs from the night, David Murtagh, who will be laying down some tasty trance anthems on the night.

      Please introduce yourself David
      Hi my name's David Murtagh!
      When and how did you first get into clubbing and dance music in London?
      Proper clubbing would have been Peach at Camden Palace around 2000.
      When did you first become actively involved as a DJ or promoter?
      As a DJ would be around 3 years ago at my local pub formerly called Laurel & Hardy's, now called The Bar Inc. I'd play there weeknights and get paid in beer and get cash for the occasional weekends I've done there. Got some great memories of lock-ins there playing till 4am. That's where Prehab first started on Thursday nights, I'd get in local DJs to spin allowing me more drinking time. Its only since last Summer that I've got onto the London club scene playing events such as Trancegeneration, The Gallery (in the Cheeky People room in T2) Timeless and Heat & The Gallery at Brixton Academy New Years Eve.
      So you run your own night eh? What's it all about? When and where can we find it?
      Well the night's called Prehab and as a London Club night (aside from Thursday events) has been going since October 2004 and the first one was at Sublogic. It moved to The Southside Bar January 2005 and is still there on the last Saturday of the month. For those of you that don't know it's a free event featuring some of London's freshest talent as well as a few you haven't heard of yet.
      How do you decide which DJs to book? What criteria do you use?
      How drunk they get me, how fit their mates are and how pretty their demo CD looks. I also take bribes.
      Have you got any plans for any bigger events?
      Yeah definitely. The first big Prehab event was back in March last year in association with MPFS records at The Copyright Club featuring Guy Ornadel, Ehren Stowers, Matti Kittala(of ALT+F4 fame making his UK debut) Hooked, PK and Steelo. I'm looking to so something again very soon and am sorting out details at the moment. Expect to see Prehab hosting rooms at some events coming up in the next few months before some main room action around May time. Watch this space.

      If you had unlimited resources to put on a party, where would it be, who would be playing, and what extras would be available for your guests?
      Wembley Stadium would be something great when it opens or could even be the opening party. I was trying to think of something original, club venue wise would be either Camden Palace or The Republic (not going with their new names) DJ wise you'd be looking at PVD, Mauro Picotto, Eric Morillo, Ashley Casselle, Marco V, Eddie Halliwell and of course myself. Not sure what sort of extras could be offered. If it was at Wembley would be good to open it up completely so people could wander round the dressing rooms. I'm sure Steelo would be happy if I could arrange live Monkey knife fighting.
      Saturday 28th January sees you down at Timeless in London to spin some Hard Dance classics. What eras in dance music really stick out for you in terms of classic tunes?
      It would have to be 99-01 it for me, so many good Trance tracks
      You will be spinning with Mat Lock, a rising star on the London trance scene. What have you two got planned?
      I think Mat's gonna have a really good year, he's a top bloke and it's been great to have him down at Prehab and he'll be back next month. We've chatted a bit about what we'll play but I'll be keeping it under wraps until the night. Will be different from playing with my usual b2b partner Gary Optim who I played at the last Timeless with
      Who else on the massive 3-arena line-up will you be checking out?
      Definitely the legend that is Greg Brookman, will also take some time out from looking round the new venue to see Elvis, Little Gem and Danny Luu.
      Thanks to David for photos
    • Rascal
      Eduardo Herrera is back to inject some Brazilian charm into London's newest and cheekiest night Spank! at The Soundshaft on Friday 23rd December. Spank! Girl Chloe caught up with Ed to find out how much he is looking forward to getting spanked and just how much preparation he has out into Christmas 2005.
      So Eduardo...another year gone by...have you been preparing for the festivities over the last month?
      To be honest I think every new day is a good reason to celebrate life and Christmas & new year even better so yes I'm pretty exited.
      How do you feel about being so far from home at Christmas?
      I don't feel I'm far from home at all as world is home for me and the ones I love will always be with me.
      Is Christmas much different here than Brazil?
      Only that we celebrate it on the evening of the 24th with dinner and the boxing thing happens at mid-night.
      We have you back at Spank! on 23rd Dec to install some of those Brazilian sexy beats into The Christmas Spank! Holiday. You were with us for the launch party, what did you enjoy most?
      For sure the atmosphere, funky groovy and relaxed - all fun!
      And what are you looking forward to on 23rd?
      That atmosphere I've mentioned above and obviously to put my hands on those decks!!!
      Can you tell us a bit about what you have in-store for us?
      I'm quite in love with this Brazilian group "Ze Maria" and their electro house. I'm also looking forward to try a funky house remix I've made for a Brazilian tune called "the night"
      Who else are you excited about seeing and why?
      I'm pretty much into the music they all play, it's always exciting experiencing other DJ's sound track, full of their particular point of view.
      Will you be dipping into the grotto for a little spank?
      I'm definitely having the 23rd for loads
      What other plans do you have for Christmas and New Year?
      Take some rest after the xs
      Have you made any resolutions for 2006?
      Oh yes! Putting my head and hands more into music production is my absolute target, and for that I'll going back to Point Blank!
      Finally if you could spank anyone...who would it be and why?
      Some gorgeous people out there for turning me on so much! Bastards!
      Thanks for your time Eduardo...bring on the Spank!
    • Frantic Benz
      One of the London Hard Dance scene's brightest young talents, Seany Sean's name has been on many a clubbers lips in 2005 (for one reason or another!) with loads of sets for Frantic, as well as his wicked co-promotion 123 rocking the capital on a regular basis. I chatted with the man himself ahead of his NYD/Birthday set at Genesis @ Koko in London...
      So Seanston, how was your 2005? Pretty fucking immense from what I could gather!
      Good day beef! 2005 has been the nuts for me, I have partied harder than ever and spun more disks to nutters than I can remember, or maybe that was the partying? It's been the tits!
      How far has your DJing progressed in these 12 months? You've had loads of gigs, that's for sure - and what were your most enjoyable gigs from 2005?
      From DJing so regularly for so many great parties and promotions my confidence behind the decks has skyrocketed and I have found a true freedom of expression during live sets, (dex and fx eh Benz). Shit! Just checked HarderFaster for my sets this year. So many jump out at me, but of those playing at HHA twice was amazing 1st was with Elvis, who smacks it and everyone knows how much fun we had that night for Future. The second with the big man himself Gordon Darley, warming the foyer for Steve Maynard was the nuts. Rammed with stompin' ravers by 10! Win! But as well as Frantic all the gigs for the new blood of hard dance were amazing too 123, Prehab, Zoology, Shiva and of course Summit!
      Which tunes repeatedly smacked it for you this year? What were the tunes that had the punters running up to you and demanding to know the name? The ones you just couldn't stop playing? etc etc
      Colin Barratt's Follow Me remix jumps out immediately - everyone loved that techy Banger. As a whole the Riot! Recordings have caused a shit load of interest when played, Playing with Knives and Come On Baby got a good response all year. Definitely about the tuff mixes.
      And what about 2006? What have you got planned for the forthcoming year?
      Can't wait mate, as well as trying to outdo myself on the partying, I'm well looking forward to carrying on with my club night 123. It's all going well and my partners are so determined to take it to the next level and confirm it as one of London's best parties. DJ-wise I look forward to playing more for the brilliant Frantic - there is always a story there and the music is always great, get your swerve on indeed (Gordon Darley quote), as well as getting stuck into some Ableton Live and production to make my sets even more interesting. I have so many things in my head I want to play with and 2006 is gonna release the beast and shit loads of mix CDs, Be prepared!
      You mention you're going to get into production, what kind of sounds will you be coming out with?
      I love big and groovy and I'm gonna have the means to get my ideas down. I also love the filth, Lucy Fur, Steve Maynard, have smacked it all year and for those in the know Look out for the Champions of the North Andy Rise and Matt Pickup. Well looking forward to whipping some tracks with them. Woosh, pselect and woof!
      We see you've been nominated to represent HarderFaster at the Hard Dance Awards 2006 in February, what's this all about and how comes you're in the running?
      Yeah mate! I was nominated by my good friend Scottish Dave to represent Harder Faster, and without my knowledge! It gives a DJ the opportunity to play at one of the years biggest parties. The winner will be voted for by users of www.harderfaster.net, So if you are coming down to the Hard Dance Awards and want too hear some goooood shit VOTE FOR SEANY SEAN! (shameless)  
      NYD sees you down at Koko in London for Genesis - Frantic's first bash of 2006. Are you going to have a big one on NYE or will you be fresh faced for this event?
      Can't decide! It's me Birthday too on New Years Dy so even if I do stay in and have a quiet one it's gonna be messy! Not gonna say any more in e I get you giving it the old thought you were..etc?, I know your game Benz! Ha ha
      You are playing with rising production star Ben Bennett - what can we expect from you two goons?
      Stuff and indeed, things!
      Who else on the line-up will you be stomping to?
      Want to hear Ed Real he is so bound to bring out some special New Years Madness to Camden (Koo). But we are playing at the same time. I'm gonna be in and out! Get that Bennett!
      And then what about after that? What time can we expect you to keep going until?
      God knows, I'll be with Steelo, Bennett and you!
      Uh oh
      Interview by Benz
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