BPM MAG - Mar/Apr'12 by BPM Magazine

ALL ABOUT THE

BEATS

THE

PEOPLE

& THE

MUSIC

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contENts

MAR/APR ‘12 EDITION 60

Your latest copy of BPM Mag delivers! 04. 06. 08. 09. 10. 12. 13. 16. 17. 20. 21. 22. 24. 25.

EDITORS NOTE & CONTRIBUTORS THE WALL CAPE TOWN ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL CAPE TOWN ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL THE LITTLE MISFIT MUSIC NEWS MUSIC NEWS AVICII AVICII MI CASA MI CASA MPI PROJECT CHRIS HOY AKA SHIFT / ESC CHRIS HOY AKA SHIFT / ESC

26. 28. 30. 31. 32. 34. 38. 42. 44. 46. 48. 50. 52. 54.

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EDITOR’S NOTE EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: Feature Writers and Columnists Mary Honeychild - Mary is a fusion queen, her love for music is defined by her roots of drums, saxophone and deep bass. She discovers the break and combination in genres and takes us on journeys into the origin and amalgamation of scenes such as Jazz, Hip Hop and EDM. The Little Misfit - The Little Misfit is an anonymous observer who has been around the electronic music scene for more years than most. She’s seen it all, done it all and has the tales to tell. Not much surprises her any more although she is still wholly excited by music, dancing and socialising within this scene. It’s with this passion and experience that she casts a slightly jaundiced, feminine eye on the many components that add spice to Cape Town EDM Culture. Tendai Luwo - Recovering blueberry muffin addict, dj, remixer and voice over artist, Luo first firmly sank his teeth into music while working for Rhodes Music Radio (RMR 89.7fm) in 2009 and has never looked back since. Now a loyal disciple of all things deep and soulful, He can be found roaming the streets and alleyways searching for his next dose of good 'ol house music. Craig De Sousa needs no introduction. His love and passion for music is demonstrated in each and every performance whether it’s as a house DJ, radio presenter or producer and has a career spanning back to 1996. Look out for Craig’s Ableton Tutorials as he imparts valuable knowledge each edition. Nathan Kabingesi – Nathan is a self-confessed house junkie; you can usually spot him in a corner of the dance floor getting high off the DJ's supply. Appreciating the finely spun mix, he's not shy about calling out the occasional slip of the needle. Expect incisive and considered opinions on everything from the latest album releases to trend developments in the world of EDM. Rachel Briant: – Music has always played a big role in this lady's life, from the soulful realms of acoustic to the resounding beat of electro. Rachel loves exploring the never-ending landscape of soundbites, keeping her heart and ears open to being inspired. With a philosophical slant on everything, this writer will find the humour in any music scene. Jonathan G Shaw – Production Tips – Jon is a professional record producer who has worked with a multitude of artists and record labels in a freelance capacity. Outside this, he lectures music business at the University of the Witwatersrand and provides business consultation to the music industry. jshaw@smstudios.co.za Dave Skinz - DJ, Music Manufacturer, Wordsmith, Record Store owner, Promoter, and gamer par excellence are some of the multi-faceted roles that Skinz has played in his 15 year love affair with dance music. When not indulging himself in MMA footage and band practice, he spends his time waiting for Arsenal to take the treble. www.daveskinz.com

Creative Cape Town

s I write this we are just days away from the Design Indaba, a week away from Ramfest, a few weeks away from Flamjangled and a month away from the Cape Town Electronic Music Festival. There’s also the Avicii national tour, Neelix @ ESP... Mark Knight national tour in April; and those are only the events that have crossed my radar right now – further research will no doubt reveal a ton of other stuff going on, but I’m like you. I’m also oversubscribed to so much information that I can’t remember half the things going on over the next month or two. I’ll just go with the flow... see what pops up on my social media platform – if it does that is, ‘cos social networking is a funny thing – it’s so omnipresent now that it’s as easy to miss something as it is to notice it’s happening; and even less likely to get me excited. There’s an old adage that says that if you see something often enough you’ll stop noticing it. Isn’t that what’s happening with so many of these events? You see the initial announcement and go ‘wow, that’s cool’ but then... a month later when the event is about to take place the excitement has dwindled a bit. Information overload, folks. In the good old days when printed flyers were the way to market a party I’d be careful not to start distributing them too soon so as not to lose the impact and excitement of my event. Nowadays I get SMS’s and emails for events a full month before they are happening – notably two days before a competitors event I might add – with twee little cries out for attention like “Hey fans, one month ‘till we blast off. Can’t wait... Feel the excitement!!!” Well, sorry promoter but I’m just thinking about this weekend right now! SMS me a few days before the event and that may work! Which makes the timing of Little Misfit’s column all that more pertinent in the face of these big events. She takes a jaundiced look at promoters in the face of some recent debacles and asks some prickly questions. That’s not to say they’re all bad; all the aforementioned are pretty stellar events and we are fortunate in this country to have a fair share of honest, resourceful promoters with good intentions. But then there’s always those dodgy cretins too. Tendai Luwo also looks at the recent allegations made by Glenn Underground about the state of our Urban House party scene and takes a contemplative stance on what was pretty arrogant of the Chicago DJ/producer. It’s a good read with some thoughtful rhetoric. But it’s our cover feature – the Cape Town Electronic Music Festival – featuring the likes of Black Coffee, Haezer, Sibot, Killer Robot, Jullian Gomes and many more that will get my attention this month. It’s the culmination of years of creativity that has been bubbling away both here in Cape Town and countrywide which the organisers are distilling into a one week long event, complete with workshops, some club nights and then a moerse skop at the V & A Waterfront on the last weekend of March. Heck, just getting the V & A to buy into it deserves a pat on the back. This is not to be missed. Read all about it on Pgs 8 & 9. I am also super excited about our new Pioneer competition thanks to Proaudio and Pioneer DJ SA. We’re giving away a brand new Pioneer DDJErgo compact DJ controller! This controller bridges the gap between DJing and lifestyle and is such a cool prize. Check it out on Pg 36. Elsewhere there’s tons of other good stuff to read up on; to entertain and inform... and that’s why you love us! So enjoy. DAVE MAC Editor-in-Chief

CONTRIBUTORS: Thomas Whitebread, Dave Mac, Terri Love, Lois Siddhu, Mary Honeychild, Damien Albetto, Charlie & Tony - Hemporium, Pedro from AfrodesiaMP3, Paul & Peter - Tuerk Music, Chris & Clint - Audiosure, Riqardo Neves, Marcel Zandberg, Beatarmy, Seeka, , David Maclean, Heather Mennell, Rachel Briant, Dave Skinz. The Little Misfit, Nathan Kabingesi, Tendai Luwo, Mickdotcom, Nic Roos, Greg Bester & Craig De Sousa.

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BPM Fan Page Messages Neo Sehlabane - The future of House Music is indeed in SA! So this is a chance for producers to make their mark in the book of time.

King Guru Hlatshwayo - Wow guys just saw the latest copy and yea I'm impressed I must say. It's like you keep on upgrading each and every month. Well keep up the good work!

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Comments on BPM Mag 9000 Facebook Fans and Loving it. Thank you so much for your support, we do this for you! Musa Mkhabela - And now for the 1st 10 000... Let's go!!!

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Comments on Simon Cowell's plan to launch DJ talent show Kamogelo 'Doda' Modiselle - Needs a careful approach. It can either dumb down the world of the DJ or shed some light to the rest of the world!

King Guru Hlatshwayo - Keep it up guyz, u r al doing a wonderful job. Mpho Harmony - Just got the Jan/Feb edition, what an inspiring article by Dj Christos n Jules O'Riordan... #inspired#

Antoan Satharoth - It's awful.

Sanele Mkhwanazi - Just got my first mailed BPM big ups guys thanks a mill:) I saw Dave Mac on tv, you're right SA DANCE SCENE is really on another level take care.

Fujak Mcphee - Being a dj is very trendy nowadays...it’s the logical progression..it’s gonna suck hugely though... especially if Cowell thinks he knows enough to be a judge

Win Slow - What makes an outdoor party brilliant is a great venue, excellent sound, vibrant party-goers and a great line-up of artists and djs. Love and Light Day Party has all these qualities!!! Looking forward to going!!!

Jason Bolton - I hope the rest of the judges are real DJs and not celebs at least. Rory Chandler - I would rather die

Annerize Bezuidenhout - Outdoor day parties are the best, sunshine, lovely happy people coming together for a awesum time. The great music and an amazing line up! Good memories in the making.

Jean-Pierre Julius - lol, This should be entertaining. :) Jade Cosmos - it will be a show of who plays the biggest commercial tracks through their auto-synced software whilst trying their hardest to sell their image... Bradford Newcomb - Boycott at all costs - next thing you will know is that Cowell was a regular at the Hacienda back in the day DeepWit Recordings - Just wanted to give a big thanks to all of you at BPM Mag for the support on our upcoming release! We are honoured and flattered to have you reviewing our music! Khumo Molefe - I love Jhb because it's a melting pot of the different cultures represented worldwide and it’s also the hub of multimedia in the African continent.

Xolani Thabiso Maphalala - hey bpm thanx for the new copy of the mag. Musa Mkhabela - a GREAT shoutout to BPM Mag. 2011 has been great + I'm lovin the Jan/Feb issue. Keep them coming more + more in 2012!!! Djmsakhoss Mathale Zakes - Thanx guys for giving us the best and the latest news of music industry and the best equipments, I'm inspired by bpmlife! I just got my copy today, but I'm always updated from your website!! www.bpmlife.co.za Luvuyo Deejay Best Magagula - Got my Jan -Feb' 12, issue yesterday and Wow I must say I'm loving the Cover Feature! Thanks team bpm 4 another exciting mag, Happy New Year!

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COVER FEATURE By Malu Lambert

ape Town’s ready for it,” says Duncan Ringrose, event organiser. He’s referring to the first Cape Town Electronic Music Festival (CTEMF): booming right at us at the end of March. “We drew inspiration from international festivals such as, Sonar in Barcelona, and Movement in Detroit.” Music festivals happening right in the city: urban beats in an urban jungle. There are plusses to having a festival in the centre of the metropolis: we all love driving out to a farm to party, but there’s something special about a festival in the middle of the city. You also don’t have to set up camp, bother with ablution blocks and you can get a taxi home, and then start all over again.

“

Black Coffee

Photo by Adriaan Louw

CAPE TOWN ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL Haezer

I’ve caught Duncan driving between appointments, but he assures me his Bluetooth is on and he can answer my questions - putting on the biggest electronic music showcase the city has ever seen; you have to make time where you can. If you hear the term electronic music, and you only think of house, forget it. The scene is as diverse and multilayered as the country we live in, and that’s the aim of this festival; to showcase all forms of digital dance music. The weird stuff that always gets played on the second floor, or in the back room, is now as big as the other scenes, and these days there’s enough of a support base for formats, say, like glitch and techno as opposed to just commercial house. The festival, happening from 27 March - 01 April 2012, is split into two parts. The dancing and drinking starts on a Friday, and goes till the Sunday. It’s a fairly wide spectrum of the music scene; a nice chunk of what CTEMF defines as electronic dance music. The preceding week sees a flux of workshops and info-sessions for musical peers and public alike. “This part is geared around the business side of music,” explains Duncan. The aim is to have sessions

“We're here to represent one picture and give Cape Town a taste of electronic music across many genres; a smorgasbord of different styles.” and insights into the different scenes, with a speaker line-up that is looking impressive, and topics that are varied. For example Black Coffee and Amaru Da Costa (Soulistic Music) will be chatting about the phenomenon of house music in South Africa, while Miles Keylock (Rolling Stone SA) will focus on the role that media plays in an artist’s career and how to use the press effectively. You’ll also hear from scene stalwarts like, Hilton 'Roach' Roth (African Dope Records) on the state of the electronic music scene as well as from Regan Tacon (Nano Records) on the event promotion side of things. (These are just a few mentions). Cape Town is ready. Much like a growing Lego collection the various nights have built on the development of the electronic music scene, to leave us with a complete picture; every genre represented.

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COVER FEATURE

Photo by Andrew Berry from Weareawesome

“We’re all part of the same scene, even though the music styles are different,” says Duncan somewhat profoundly. This is my light bulb moment in our conversation. We may segregate ourselves with fashion - but we all walk to the beat of the same electronic drum, it’s just the BPMs that may vary. The impact and influence of the aforementioned nights, no matter what the music of choice is, are not to be underestimated. Every genre has had, and will have a role to play. Let’s look back for a moment. There were the Pickle Parties, which introduced a broader range of hip hop and beats to the Cape Town city centre. And, of course, there’s Homegrown, South Africa's drum ‘n bass institution; it’s been going for over 10 years now. The list goes on: Subsonic, the first series of guerrilla techno warehouse-

Das Kapital

Monique Pascall

style parties in Cape Town; Trevor Mitchell, a purveyor of fine music, fashion and art; Discotheque, the regular electronic night that broke the scene open and pushed electro to the forefront; Step Up, which sowed the seeds of Dubstep in the city; Cold Turkey the bridging point between the CBD and rest of Cape Town for all things bass; Fiction, all of the nights pioneered their particular genres and pushed the envelope; in fact it was the Killer Robot night at Fiction that gave techno a regular home and really cemented it into the weekly socializing patterns of many people. Back in the early days Techno was a very dirty word... they changed all that! Then there was Arcade's monthly nights at Mercury which introduced the new rave scene to a younger audience. Also, Thursday nights at Marvel, many years ago, were the breeding ground for 90 percent of Cape Town’s alternate electronic scene. So which acts can we expect to see at CTEMF? “Headliners are always a tricky one,” muses Duncan. “There are so many heavy hitters. But if I was to pick a handful it would be: Haezer, the biggest electro act out of South Africa (Friday). Sibot who is easily the freshest live electronic act in South Africa (Saturday). And, Black Coffee, the man making the most waves on behalf of South African house music on a global scale (Sunday).” Other artists to look out for are: Dank, the beat maker for Sedge Warbler; this will be his first live show as a solo artist. Das Kapital, “definitely the hot pick of the year,” and Monique Pascall, who is said to be delivering something really special in the prime time set. Also keep an eye out for Jullian Gomes who is making a name for himself so quickly it’s unnerving. There are of course many other great artists on the line-up aside from the afore-mentioned that are all well worth seeing perform over the entire festival. In all other scenes creative individuals have a platform to showcase their work. Designers have the Design Indaba, foodies have Taste of Cape Town, and writers have the literary festival, and so on. It was only a matter of time until the electronic music scene had somewhere to show off. “We believe we can use as many forms as possible of electronic music as the main filler on a single dance

Sibot

floor, which will give Cape Town a comprehensive music festival. We're here to represent one picture.” Duncan is quick to add though, that CTEMF does not by any means claim to represent every niche and genre conceivable and prefers to see the inaugural event as the starting point of what will hopefully grow and expand into a broader base each year. If you love EDM - you wouldn’t be reading this magazine if you didn’t - then you have no excuse. Don’t miss this iconic moment in Cape Town’s electronic music history.

When: 27 March – 1st April Where: Cape Town CBD and V & A Waterfront For ticket prices and a full itinerary keep your eyes on www.ctemf.com or join their Facebook page – facebook.com/CTEMF Scan this tag to go directly to the CTEFM Facebook page on your Smartphone:

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The Little Misfit

COLUMNIST By The Little Misfit

When good parties go bad... It's the Wild West out there and it's run by glow-stick slinging cowboys. here was no tap water and the toilets were disgusting." "No shade." "The party just ended." "None of the VIP promises were met; we didn't see a whisper of cheese or wine.” These are just some of the (milder) comments posted on “The Gatecrasher SCAM” Facebook page that was set up by disgruntled patrons determined to air their grievances after their complaints were reportedly being deleted from the event page by the promoter. Gatecrasher featuring Paul van Dyk was shambolic. Where to begin? The crimes are splashed all over social media: a sound cut during PvD's set, Media Player visuals on the main stage (snigger), a sham of a 'VIP' area; no exclusive toilets, camping or bar. And that was only the beginning. Those that made it to sunrise, resolutely sticking it out for the psy, well, were more livid than disappointed. The promoter provided no shade. A group of trancies made their own during Headroom's set, pulling cloths, tents, whatever they could onto the dancefloor - these people make a plan! The party was over pretty quickly. Headroom was allegedly unplugged during his set, and other artists due to play after him were only cancelled on

“

that Sunday morning. The reason I’m dredging this sorry story up, isn’t because I’m a gleeful vulture, but because it illustrates a point: it can be the Wild West out there, and if we’re not careful can be overrun by glow-stick slinging cowboys. The scene is completely lawless there ain’t no sheriff in town; no one to be accountable to, and organisers can get away with murder. Promoters are a mixed bag; some are super organised, pay on time and throw unforgettable parties, others can be dodgy cavedwelling cretins that would trade their granny for a discount. Promoters, even the good ones however, are guilty of repeating a litany of crimes. Among them; paying late (or not at all), are scarce when you need them, putting their DJ friends in the main slots, stringing along a booking, cutting corners on things like décor, shade, water and so on. They can also be egotistical, hold petty grudges against artists and generally lord over the talent. And oh boy do some of them take chances. A common felony is to release a ‘big name’ on a flyer - before they’ve even agreed to play. The promoter then capitalises on the crowd-pulling effect the artist has, and simply says, ‘whoops, my bad’ and blames a designer or a minion. Then there’s the whole ‘exclusivity’ thing. DJs, like other freelancers, aren’t paid a set salary; they have to play if they

want to make money. ‘Exclusivity’, means the artist can’t play another gig close to the date of the agreed upon one. The rub here is that the promoter is hardly ever willing to pay for this right and expects it for the standard fee. “Obviously having a more unique line-up is a draw card for promoters,” a well-known music producer tells me. “But it is, in essence, a restraint of trade for a DJ, who is often forced to accept this or lose the booking.” If only all organisers could play by the rules. A prominent party promoter has this to say: “You can’t control everything: door, stage, medics, bar, and more if you don't have a radio or cellphone on you. This is a typical dodgy promoter tactic – they can’t be found when you actually need them, especially for pay-outs.” This promoter also goes on to say that event licenses are essentially a step-by-step guide on how to host a party. “Follow it to the letter and you’ll have a safe, organised event.” We need a solution. How about an independent regulatory body? I’m not talking about policing events, but instead monitoring them for the benefit of the good promoters, artists and punters alike. A system where DJs get paid 50% of their fee upfront, where dodgy promoters are blacklisted, where there are no quibbles over fees and exclusivity. Where people get the party they paid for. Or am I dreaming?

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MUSIC NEWS BPM Reports

ALL THE LATEST CLUB & DANCE MUSIC NEWS FROM SA AND AROUND THE WORLD...

Looking for daily club and dance music news? Check out our daily lifestyle blog @ BPMLife.co.za

Slippery ‘n Wet presents NEELIX (Germany) and BRIAN CROSS (Spain) LIVE at ESP - 20 March 2012 Internationally acclaimed Neelix, the world’s Number 1 Progressive Psy-Trance DJ, will be performing LIVE at ESP, on Tuesday 20 March 2012 (the next day is a public holiday) at a special Slippery ‘n Wet event. And, as a special gift to all ESP fans this big night with 4 Dance Arenas will also feature fast-rising Spanish DJ Brian Cross presenting POPSTAR exclusive to ESP – fresh from the hottest floors at Amnesia Ibiza and the world.

A Taste of Sónar 2012 Sónar touched down in Africa for the first time with A Taste of Sónar at Design Indaba on the 2nd of March 2012. This marked the event's first appearance on the African continent, making it a fat thumbs up for the electronic scene in South Africa. International acts Modeselektor, Brodinski and Byetone shared the stage with leading local lads Fletcher, Das Kapital, Killer Robot and BLK JKS. Sónar takes place every year in June in Barcelona and is widely acknowledged as a leading platform for avant garde and experimental electronica and is seen as something of a benchmark for the global electronic scene. Sónar is a heady mix of leading names on the international scene and exciting new artists pushing the envelope. The Design Indaba is a multidisciplinary creative platform that runs a variety of projects that all campaign for a better world through creativity. Its flagship event, the Design Indaba Conference, annually brings together the world's top designers, innovators, entrepreneurs and thought-leaders for a three-day conference in Cape Town. The Design Indaba Expo, which runs alongside the Conference, is a 100% local platform for high-quality South African design products.

Cape Town Electronic Music Festival (CTEMF) 2012 The Cape Town Electronic Music Festival (CTEMF) is the celebration of a scene coming of age. It marks the point at which the Electronic Music Scene in South Africa has been recognized by itself and beyond as an industry that has reached the state of being self-sustainable. The festival will take place in Cape Town from 27 March - 01 April 2012. The core Festival will be held at The V&A Waterfront from Friday 30 March - Sunday 01 April. This will be preluded by a week of Workshops, Infosessions, Showcases and Fringe Events from Tuesday 27 March 2012.

Young Guru –Jay Z's beat maker hosts workshops at SAE Institute in Cape Town Young Guru has more than a decade of experience in sound engineering , music production, and A&R for the acclaimed Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. He has mixed ten of Jay-Z’s eleven albums. Young Guru, will be hosting a series of two workshops in Cape Town on Monday 19th March at SAE Institute Campus CT at 2 pm and on Tuesday 20th March in Lentegeur, Mitchells Plain at 2 pm. On Tuesday 20th March he will be doing a Live DJ gig with the venue still to be confirmed. For further details check out: http://capetown.sae.edu/en-gb/home/

Protoculture Remixes Bryan Adams’ Track

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MUSIC NEWS

Protoculture was initially contacted by Mark at Loverush UK to do the remix [Mark has been working quite a bit with Soul Candi in South Africa.] He'd heard the remix Protoculture had done with Max Graham for Grace's classic Not Over Yet on Perfecto Records, which climbed to the number one on the Beatport charts and stayed there for well over a month; including number one on all the UK Buzz Charts and Musicweek Club Chart. Mark had put together the original track with Bryan Adams on the vocals. Protoculture did the remix, sent it off and then one evening he got a surprise Skype call from Bryan Adams, to say that he was very impressed with the remix. He eventually ended up requesting the Protoculture mix be used as the main mix for the official music video. The track premiered on Armin van Buuren's A State of Trance radio show to much acclaim, being played a second time after being requested so much. It shot straight to number one again on the MusicWeek promo club charts and general charts. It also aired on Gareth Emery's Sound of Garuda radio show and is also on rotation at Kiss FM and the BBC at present.

Vince Clarke and Martin L. Gore form VCMG, release new album

Grammy nominated DJ and owner of Toolroom Records, Mark Knight to tour South Africa this April. His Toolroom imprint founded in 2004 has proven immensely succesfull as one of the biggest selling labels on Beatport and reaching the milestone of 100 releases in 2009. Mark Knight is also recognised the world over for his extended seven hour DJ sets. He has headlined at festivals and clubs from Ultra Music Festival Miami to the Terrace at Space Ibiza, Cocoon Frankfurt, Space Miami, Ministry of Sound London, Pacha New York as well as hosting Toolroom arenas at key festivals including; SW4 London, Global Gathering UK, Dance Valley Netherlands. Knight shows little sign of rest and he is bringing that high energy all the way to South Africa. This is definitely a tour to look forward to! Confirmed dates are: Thursday 26 April- Durban at Origin, Friday 27 April – Cape Town (Venue TBC) and Saturday 28 April - Joburg at Truth.

Vince Clarke and Martin L. Gore, they of Erasure and Depeche Mode fame respectively (although Clarke was also a founding member of Depeche Mode before leaving) have re-united to form the production duo rather unoriginally called VCMG! Their debut album drops this month (March 12) on Mute Records and is a highly anticipated release after putting out a taster EP called EP1 / Spock. It’s the first time in 30 years these two have reunited to create music together and it’s a straight up techno 4/4 beat dance record. No vocals, no pop sensibility and certainly not aimed at mainstream radio, Ssss, a 10 track album, was done entirely in their own respective studios, sharing files over the internet until the project was completed. Check out Dave Mac’s review of the album on Pg. 42.

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16 | BPM

Artist Q 'n A vicii aka Tim Berg, Tom Hangs and Ashwin is the 22 year old Swedish, Grammy nominated, Dance Music sensation, who has taken worldwide EDM by storm in recent years with his debut single reaching Top 20 in several countries. Thanks to a non-stop schedule and consistent hard work he has managed to work his way into the number six spot on the DJ Mag poll. Avicii has done all this with a career spanning nothing more than four years and possesses a young, fresh, eager and optimistic energy that is reflected in the music he produces. Much to the delight of his South African fans Avicii brings his own brand of Electronic goodness to our shores this March with the help of H2O, Anything Goes, Showtime Management and Lovoka. He insists that his music is best described as ‘Big Room Melodic House’, admits to sampling Old school fifties R&B and says he likes ‘eating babies’… must be how he stays looking so young.

Sky-rocketing to fame at a headspinning speed must really make you view life differently than four years ago. Before all this happened what did you envision for your future, honestly? To be honest I wasn’t really sure what would become of me! Everything just happened so fast that I didn’t really have time to think about what I would do if the whole music thing hadn't worked out! I notice that you prefer to not get too boxed in or closed off by EDM's many sub-genres when it comes to your music. In an attempt to describe it, does the description ‘Euro Progressive Trance’ fit what your production sound is predominantly like? I think of it more as House rather than Trance but I definitely incorporate trance sounds to some degree. During the last few years I've dabbled in all kinds of sub genres. I've incorporated parts of everything into my sound, so I guess it's more or less a mixture of everything I've done so far. It’s a bit hard to call it just that, it’s definitely part of it! I describe it as ‘Big Room Melodic House’! Seek Bromance was a major worldwide hit for you. What was your creative idea behind making this track? Did the production happen organically? Actually the melody was lying around on my computer for some time before it was turned into the track you know now. I was playing around with a couple of synths and came across the lead sound that started turning into 'Bromance'. From

then on it evolved through a bunch of different beats and styles before I settled on the calm marimba/pluck break and the big room sound. The first versions barely sounded anything like what you hear in the final track! Your manager, Ash is mentioned a lot during interviews you have done. How much has he attributed to your rapid success and how much do you think is simply your raw talent? Ash has been great and without him I wouldn’t be close to where I am today. He's been there from the very start, every step of the way. He has helped me in all parts of my music development as well as everything surrounding my career. With regards to your monthly radio show Le7els, what do you do on the show that makes it special for your fans? [Avicii’s weekly radio show can be found as a podcast on iTunes as well as on his own podtree.com page. Simply Google AVICII – LEVELS PODCAST]. The whole idea behind the show was for me and Ash to be able to play the tracks we like. We play both new stuff and the classics; it's also a great forum for us to show off new tracks, upcoming releases and share announcements for the fans. If you tune in the odds are you'll get to hear something exclusive and funny. You are playing at the Tomorrowland Festival in Belgium in July; describe your experience there last year for those of us who haven’t been, it seems like such a fantasy dream come true, visual display. Yeah I played Tomorrowland last year and it was amazing to say the least! The visual display is crazy, it really does feel kind of like a fantasy dreamland and the energy is through the roof. With that many happy people and talented producers gathered all in one spot, it was really something special and I think this year will be just as good. DJ Mag’s Global 6th Top DJ. How did this realization affect you? It was really exciting, I went from not even being on the list in 2009 to spot 39 in 2010 and spot 6 in 2011' so it's all gone really fast. It felt great to get that kind of recognition and to know that I have such great fans backing me up! What is the one thing your fans don’t know about you that will probably surprise them? I eat babies. Name one song from when you were growing up that you would love to Remix if you had the chance... Well I've already gotten a chance to

sample Etta James and Gwen McRae which turned out great. There are so many tracks I grew up with that I would love to do something with. To be honest not all of them would really work out in a House setting, perhaps something from Ray Charles or Nina Simone. Your South African fans can’t wait to see you perform here! What excites you the most about the visit, other than of course rocking the socks off the crowd? Just seeing the country and meeting the people. I've never been to South Africa but I've heard a lot of good things about it. I'm really excited to see what it's like! Be sure to be a part of the experience! Don’t miss the opportunity to catch this ‘Wunderkind’ in your city and to find out for yourself what all the fuss is about! Catch him: Friday 30 March at The Wavehouse in Durban - Doors open 3PM, Avicii Set: 10PM. Saturday 31 March at H20 in Johannesburg - Doors open 11AM, Avicii Sunset DJ Set: 5PM. He closes the tour on Saturday 31 March at Thunder City in Cape Town Doors open 5PM, Avicii DJ Set: Midnight.

17 | BPM

Artist Q 'n A

By Mary Honeychild

AVICII

The 'Wunderkind' Dance Music sensation

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FEATURE

By Nathan Kabingesi i Casa have been on the scene as a group for less than a year but have already been nominated for multiple SAMA and Metro FM awards, toured with The Layabouts [UK dance trio], achieved Gold status with their debut album Mi Casa Music and spent weeks at the top of every relevant chart with their hit singles Heavenly Sent and These Streets. Nathan Kabingesi caught up with trumpeter Mo-T and vocalist J’Something to talk about not winning but winning, their meteoric rise and the inevitable comparisons with that other vocal house group.

“People were coming up to us afterwards and saying that for them Mi Casa and Drake were on par...”

The story of how the group formed is the stuff of legends. But it couldn’t have been all that easy right? Well initially we weren’t feeling the idea of forming a group, and then when we did get into the studio, the first song we finished (That Man) wasn’t well received by the label (Soul Candi). But we knew we were onto something and just kept at it. Tell us a bit more about the creative process in the studio, is it more structured and planned or do you just walk in, have a jam session and let the pieces fit themselves together? It’s all collaborative and spontaneous; we all bring our ideas together and let the process unfold itself. For the album, we’d walk into studio and Duda would start playing a melody on the keys, Mo would improv something on the horn and I would freestyle over that and from that process we’d build a song. Mike, our co-producer, walked into the studio one day and, as a joke I guess, starting saying something like “let me take you back to a time when…” and that became the opening line for Give You Love. Along with Zahar, you guys are the surprise success story of last year. What do you attribute your meteoric rise to? You know every time we get a chance in an interview we always say thank you, ‘cause it’s literally because of the fans that we’ve become what we are. I think our music is only a part of the reason for the success we’ve had; our label Soul Candi, Musica, various music video channels, as well as radio

have all played a part in giving our career the momentum it’s currently enjoying. And I think South Africa’s been waiting for a band like us to show up, so it’s also a case of right people at the right place at the right time, so being lucky is also a part of it. With a group like yours, either your entire career becomes about the group or your individual talent is given more opportunities to shine, which is the case for you guys? Mo – It’s all Mi Casa; Mo-T used to play with Fresh & Euphonic and some other guys, but when we started Mi Casa he had to turn down gigs because the group became our focus. So yeah, we’re all 100% committed to Mi Casa, no outside projects, we just don’t have the time. Nominated for five Metro Awards; best video, song of the year, best newcomer and best group album. But you won none. Does that mean

anything to you guys? What’s more important, the nomination, or winning? Not winning the awards really doesn’t matter, although it would have been great to win. I (J’Something) have been dreaming about doing music all my life, and to be sitting at the awards, hearing your name being called out for the song of the year award and being in the top three; amazing. I mean we got to perform and that was great. Having guys like HHP come up to us and say how much they appreciate our music was incredible, and of all the acts that were nominated, knowing that we had only been together for about four months, and nominated in so many categories, it was just a great affirmation that we were headed in the right direction. The SAMA’s are coming up so we’re looking forward to that and hopefully picking up an award or two.

Mi Casa

What was it like opening for Drake? Yeah man, it’s one of those nights you think back on and it’s just good memories. People were coming up to us afterwards and saying that for them Mi Casa and Drake were on par, which was great to hear. We had our full seven-piece band on stage with us which is always great ‘cause we don’t get to do that as often as we’d like. We were hanging out with Drake backstage and people were making comparisons between Joao to Drake which was funny. Great experience. Comparisons with Liquideep, who are using their own unique blend of production and vocals to great success, are inevitable. But you guys don’t seem to have the same fan base, what separates you? We’re best of friends with them, but when you really think about our groups and the music we make, you can’t really compare the two because we don’t do the same thing at all. We’re not DJ’s, we’re a band. I mean, eighty per cent of our album was recorded live. Live performances are more about being free and creative, switching up the arrangement on our songs, and that give and take of energy with the crowd is always great.

Anyone with eyes can tell your music is particularly popular with the ladies. Is this ever a problem for you guys? As a b(r)and we try and stay approachable, I mean we reply to all our tweets, and if people want to come up and take pictures we oblige them because that’s how we are. But sometimes it does get a little scary. We were backstage at a show in Zeerust and we had something like ten girls backstage that mobbed Joao and it looked like they literally wanted to take a piece of him home with them. And at the same time there was a woman who managed to get into his car and started taking his clothes and screaming,“I’ve got Mi Casa”. There were women fainting at one show in Boksburg, girls in the crowd at a Vaal show bawling their eyes out, but then you go to an album signing in Cresta and it’s much more relaxed, so I guess it does depend on where you’re at. Musically, what you’re doing is unique in the context of the genre you’re in; what are some of your musical influences? Tortured Soul were definitely a big influence early on in the formation of our sound.

21 | BPM

FEATURE

Given the success you’re enjoying locally, have you guys thought about trying for global market penetration? We’ve had interest and remixes done by guys like Charles Webster and Abicah Soul. We’ve gotten love from The Layabouts, who also helped out with the mastering of the album, and Spirit Chaser. We actually had our first show with The Layabouts; we’d literally just decided on a name and we were off on tour with them. I remember the New Years’ Eve show we did with them; probably the best show we’ve done. You’re performing in Mozambique in March, any plans to take this show on the road beyond Southern Africa? Yeah, we’ve got plans to go Tanzania later this year as well as Bulgaria, Portugal, Spain, North America and Turkey. Miami (Winter Music Conference) is something we definitely plan on doing next year; our schedule for March is just too hectic to even think about going over now. Their debut album, Mi Casa Music is available at all major music retailers. You can keep up with them on Twitter, Facebook and their Mi Casa Music website.

22 | BPM

FEATURE By Rachel Briant

MPI PROJECT (Mike Politis)

Zimbabwe (Rhodesia back then) first, then New York and finally, Johannesburg, Mike’s cosmopolitan childhood also helped shape his relationship to music; some of his tracks even feature kwaito! [Not bad for a white boy, Ed] With over two decades of music production under his belt, Mike approves of the recent commercial hype around the Dubstep and drum & bass genres, as he thinks it could allow more artists like him the chance to make a living doing what they love. He enjoys travelling and believes that variety is the spice of life. “Experiencing different countries and cultures opens your mind to new sounds,” says Mike. “I try and take things that I like about these cultures and use them in my music.” Playing under the name of MPI Project standing for the no-nonsense term ‘Meanpoint of Impact’ - this Joburg based performer and producer was signed to an American label in 2004. A few years after this he found himself touring the UK, “a less cut-throat scene,” he says, that instantly recognised his talent for electronic music production. After playing alongside some of the top artists of that time at some of the biggest clubs under the European label Be Yourself Music, Mike returned home to start up a series of his own record label companies, continuing to produce track after hot track. His recent album release marks the start of a series to be produced under the Sony label. “I’d be lying if I said putting this Dubstep compilation (We Love Bass Vol. 1) together was easy… but the end result was excellent,” he tells me. “I expected it to do well but it went way beyond my expectations.” The first compilation of its kind to be launched in Africa featuring artists like The Prodigy and Mix ‘N Blend, We Love Bass Vol. 1 experienced a complete sell-out in South Africa within weeks of release and has gained the attention of the international media. Mike is planning on putting together its follow-up, Volume 2 - a drum and bass mix - later this year. “It’s been humbling to work alongside some of ike Politis is the kind of man who doesn’t the world’s greatest music producers – the Smashing rely on luck to get him places. Armed Pumpkins and King Unique, to name a few,” - He has enjoyed with an array of eclectic tunes, badass working with Sony Music on various projects over the last few beats and an admirable dedication to years, including doing a remix for Foster the People and doing hard work, his career has seen him some production work for Harry Brookes Jnr. achieve recognition from the “Working with Sony Music is cool,” says Mike. “I’m international dance scene and play looking forward to many more projects with them over the alongside some of the world’s best years - they’re a great bunch of people.” electronic music producers. His latest Continuing to release under his own label, Yucatech project, We Love Bass Vol. 1 - a Dubstep compilation album Recordings, MPI Project will be touring Zambia, New York and produced under the Sony label and featuring some of South Africa’s hottest talent – has experienced overwhelming success Europe later this year. Mike is also currently working on an ‘electronic band’ concept with some of Johannesburg’s key locally, as well as attracting global attention. players, so watch this space! “I always knew I wanted to work in music and not have a desk job,” says Mike. “It has been a passion of mine for as long Check out the MPI project here: as I can remember and I am grateful that I can now call it my www.mpi-project.com day job.” His family living for some time above a record store, a www.soundcloud.com/mpi-project young Mike would spend as much time as he could listening to www.facebook.com/mpiproject music and learning as much as he could. Growing up in

Seasoned electronic music producer charters new territories

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24 | BPM

INTERVIEW By Dave Mac

Shifting Boundaries with Chris Hoy aka Shift & ESC

hris Hoy has been in the dance music business for some time. From the humble start of producing his first album and selling 20 copies to friends under his Shift moniker 12 years ago, he is due to release his 6th psytrance album and has a bunch of other projects on the go; he’s a busy man and whilst many of his colleagues have become 9-to-fivers, this father of two [he married his school sweetheart] continues to forge a career in music and ain’t packing it in anytime soon...

So, another Shift album due out this year! Got anything new planned? Well, there’s been a progression in my style over the years towards a more accessible sound, but essentially it’s still got the pounding rhythm and searing leads that I’m known for I’m always up for experimentation and I guess there is a bit of a Dubstep influence in this one, though it’s nothing too drastic. The ‘fans’ don’t like it when I deviate too much. Having moved on from just producing psytrance (more about that later) would you say the experience garnered from all the other productions has influenced your psysound? Hugely! It’s been an important part of my development as a producer to work on other styles. It’s given me insight into new grooves, sounds and moods that I wouldn’t have put to use in my psy if I hadn’t been doing these ‘experiments.’ Ever tried writing a 138 [bpm] or slower psytrance track? Yes, but it’s not for me… I like my psy quicker; if I’m making slower than 140 its going to be something else. If it’s that slow it’s really progressive (but you can’t argue with Beatport eh!) The trend seems to be towards EP’s (tailored for Beatport etc.) as opposed to full length solo albums these days. You are bucking the trend a little by putting out a full length. Wouldn’t it be easier to bang out a couple of EP’s? I’m old school, and I have the tunes to do it. Yes I’m no longer constrained by having to fill up a CD, but on the other hand if I have the tracks ready then I’ll just put them out together. Honestly the sales are dismal compared to what we used to get so I don’t really think about it in that way. It’s just a big business card for gigs, and so the more music I can put out the better. Other than the satisfaction of producing another body of work, what’s the payoff? The gigs, the recognition and it’s a force of habit. When writing psytrance do you have to make a point of not re-hashing all your old producer tricks to sound fresh or do

you always have a new bag of tricks? The bag just gets bigger. You’ve done some high profile remixes, on a more mainstream tip, for Just Music. How did this link up with the label come about? A cold call email would you believe? I wanted to remix a Zebra & Giraffe track so I mailed them to see if I could get the files. Most labels don’t even read, let alone respond to these kind of requests from people they don’t know, but Karl Anderson [label head] threw me a bone, and from there on its been a great working relationship. So is ESC a production name you use exclusively for the Just Music remixes? No, although almost all of my remix work for them is done under that name, I’m not limited to working only with them. They’ve taken an original single from me recently (on a Ministry of Sound compilation) and I’ll be doing an album for them this year too; Stadium Dubstep, D ‘n B and Electro in the mould of NERO, Chase & Status, Magnetic Man.

25 | BPM

INTERVIEW

“It takes a lot of drive, faith, and focus to make a living in this industry, and I'm not likely to give up on it anytime soon. Besides, my mother says I'm unemployable, and she would know!”

Other than what I assume is paid-for remixes, in this tiny little cyber world we now live, is there any exposure value left in doing remix work like this, such as the possibility of getting a call from some massive international artist’s management for example? Well locally I can’t really do much bigger than those I have already done (Locnville, Flash Republic, Zebra & Giraffe, Pascal & Pearce etc.) and I’ll keep pushing for the bigger ones from overseas. Just Music have been very helpful in getting me opportunities so far and they believe that I have the ability to take this commercial skill international. You won’t get anywhere without dreaming about it… so far its working for me. I often hear producers say “Oh I could write a commercial track if I wanted to for the money, but I’m not into that!” Could you? Do you think writing a mainstream dance hit is any easier than more underground stuff? No way! I may have thought so at one point but indeed it’s more difficult than most would imagine. Underground music is really much easier to make. A lot of it is crap anyway. Otherwise we’d all be living the life on our yachts.

and research into what’s going down on the dirty floors of Cape Town. Definitely more underground. And you’ve done some pop production work too; Louise Carver and Die Heuwels Fantasties both come to mind... Yeah the Heuwels track I wrote with Neil Basson from Foto Na Dans (I got friendly with them while working on a SHIFT remix on their last album) and the Louise Carver work came through a reference from a mutual friend. She took a chance on a new direction for her next album and I’m pleased to say that I have produced half of the tracks on it. A few commercial dance tunes and some more down tempo moody tracks. Hopefully some will be playlisted on radio stations this year. Last question; you’re a family man, wife, kids and all. Not too many can do music full time and still pay the bills. Ever considered getting that ‘9-to-fiver’ like so many of your colleagues have? Never! No, I’m lying; the thought had definitely crossed my mind on more than one occasion when things have been hard. But every time it looks bleak I push harder, try more things, speak to more people and put myself out there. It takes a lot of drive, faith, and focus to make a living in this industry, and I’m not likely to give up on it anytime soon. Besides, my mother says I’m unemployable, and she would know!

You also dabble in electro, Dj’ing under the moniker of USB Human – do you DJ your own stuff or is this just an outlet to play out your more underground tastes in electro? Follow Chris online: I occasionally play some of my own productions, but mostly it’s for a bit of fun facebook.com/psyshift

26 | BPM

Artists Q 'n A By Tendai Luwo

Sai and Ribatone

or a long time the formidable house duo popularly known as Sai & Ribatone were like the Loch-ness monster of the industry. Everyone had heard about that them and loved their music, but few knew who they really were or had seen them. Now all of that’s changed and BPM has grabbed the opportunity to sit down and chat with the humorous yet equally humble duo.

BPM: Who are Sai and Ribatone? Sai: Sai is a childhood nickname I got from a friend. My real name being Sandile Mavuso. I’m a normal guy with a 9 to 5 and an abnormal love and passion for house music. Riba’s name comes from his surname, Mahlatse Riba. He is the pianist and vocalist of the group while I’m the DJ. Riba: I actually met Sai at a Kwani Experience gig I was playing. He approached me once I had finished and told me about his music and the ideas he had. We met the following day and made Sunday Showers that very same day. From there we knew we had chemistry and the duo was formed.

babies and I take pride in watching them grow and seeing how far they’ve come. BPM: So what are the plans for the future? S&R: (With a laugh and a smile) Work! Work! Work! We’d like to grow our brand both locally and internationally and hopefully one day even perform with a full band. BPM: Any chance of solo projects? S&R: Solo projects happen without a second thought and when we do get there it won’t be due to disbandment but rather because we both just make music every day and like to share this.

BPM: Coming from different backgrounds musically, who BPM: Who inspires you? brings what to the group? S&R: It all goes with the ideas each person has at the time. We S&R: Everyone plays a different role when it comes to both always contribute differently yet equally to a production. inspiring us, from Oskido and how he grew as a brand to the family at Soulistic, and generally everyday life and the things we see around us. BPM: For a while you only released a few singles at a time. Why the decision to do your first full length album, Here and BPM: Lastly, craziest experience while performing? Now? Angola was definitely hectic. We played till 7.30am! S&R: Before this we wanted to play it safe. We wanted to work with people in the industry who shared the same drive as us. We were also conscious of our image and a formula that would work for us, and all these things take time to find. Hence we only released an album now.

“Soulistic to us is more like a family than anything else and as with any family every child is different...”

BPM: What was the journey like when it came to creating this album? S&R: The album has been a long time coming. Some songs are from as far back as 2007, and we had over 400 to choose from. More than anything we wanted to showcase an album that represented us and our personality. BPM: Wow, okay! So I guess there is some significance behind the title Here and Now? S&R: Definitely! ‘Here and Now’ is the spirit we carried throughout making the album. We believe no matter what, you have to work with what you have here and now. BPM: How do you find it working with Soulistic, and where do you feel your sound fits in with the label? S&R: Soulistic to us is more like a family than anything else and as with any family every child is different so our sound fits in just right. Of course we appreciate the guidance we receive from Nathi (Black Coffee) a lot too. BPM: Ribatone, what is it like working with Kwani Experience and how is this different from the Sai & Ribatone project? Ribatone: Unlike being just me and Sai, Kwani Experience was an 8 piece band and has been a great experience. Both projects have been my

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28 | BPM

FEATURE By Mary Honeychild

Kaskade

America’s number one DJ talks about dance Music in America, remixing and his new album ‘Fire & Ice.’

hicago born and raised Ryan Raddon aka Kaskade has been DJ-ing and producing dance music since the early nineties and managed to (very impressively) put himself through college with the gigs he regularly attended, the parties he threw and running his own record shop 'Mechanized Records'. He blew up globally in 2003 receiving rave reviews from Billboard and URB Magazine for his album It’s You, It’s Me, released on OM Records. The early influence of Chicago House and the new wave sonic sound

that blossomed in the eighties embedded a love within teenage Ryan, for the taste of the future sounds. This exposure launched him onto a platform for Dance music that has since, never withered. Last year American Dance music fans voted him their number one DJ. Says Kaskade … “It’s crazy to see how popular the genre has become over the last couple of years. I am proud to be a part of this scene and see it get the recognition that I feel it deserves.” The US perception of Dance music is in the process of change and is starting to enjoy a better reception alongside mainstream Pop, R&B and Hip Hop; Ryan elaborates; "People here are

still not sure what to think of it [Electronic Music]. They have heard it, most of them like it but the actual artistry behind it is still a mystery to most. I think the general public still thinks of drugged out ravers when they think of dance music but that is changing.” He pauses thoughtfully, then continues, “American artists that have very recognizable talent, are easy to see and accept. It is hard for someone to recognize the artistry of an artist/ producer of EDM since the magic happens alone in a studio most of the time.” Kaskade’s motivation for continuing to stay on, spreading the knowledge and love for the genre in his home country comes down to good old fashioned American pride; that and the underground nature of the scene that has always existed there. This is why he has never opted to move to Europe where the love for EDM is a burgeoning beast of an industry. With modern dance music trends blurring genres, Kaskade has done successful remixes for artists like Seal, Nicole Scherzinger and Beyonce to name a few. On his approach to remixes he says “I work with the vocal as if it were something that I had produced or written and try to make it into something that I would use in one of my shows. That is the ultimate goal to take the song and make it playable in a club situation.” His seventh album Fire & Ice is a stunning, quality two disc set [reviewed in BPM Jan/Feb ’12 issue]. Disc one is high energy while Disc two features chilled out and relaxed versions of the tracks on the first disc. "I liked the idea of having two versions of each song, it helps illustrate that a great song can be produced many ways but if it is strong enough the song will always stand.” As a veteran and lover for dance music since its early inception, I ask him what about the old days did he not think would ever change as the years passed; “I loved vinyl so I never would have seen the whole mp3 thing working out. I really miss all the packaging that used to come with the music.” Much like the format we buy music in today has changed from vinyl to CD to download, music styles are changing, merging and blurring the lines between pop, dance, R & B and Hip Hop. This is why talented artists like Kaskade are bidding an advantage in the future electronic music is headed in. Check out his latest double disc album Fire & Ice to hear why.

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SHOW US YOUR FACE!

Jersey shore ain't got nothing on these cuzzies bru!

Squat and pout ladiesâ&#x20AC;Ś squat and pout

The Jay Sean entourage pulled through too

Nina got really bored of being the third wheel to her boyfriend's Bromance.

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Where the beat lives on... Disclaimer: All names and comments made are purely fictitious and in no way are meant to be taken seriously.

Rockstars and Captains dominated VIP

31 | BPM

Photos by:

The Powerpuff girls came out to play, never being ones to miss a good party

Melanie did the evil laugh 'cos Stacey had no idea what she had slipped in her mug! Thabo was stoked to get his picture taken with the Kardashian look-alikes.

With much delight, Gary went on to describe the shape and size of this weird pineapple he found on the dance floor.

Dress Code: Strictly Off-cut shirts.

The Deep End with Luo

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COLUMNIST By Tendai Luwo

ow! No way! You lie! This? There’s no way this can be a local production. You can’t even tell hey.” This statement has been uttered by many mouths in this country of ours with regards to South African house music. Even I myself have been found guilty of such utterances. Honestly, I even found myself carrying out PhD like research to ascertain whether the likes of Mi Casa and C.9ine were really local outfits, and even then, once fully satisfied, I still have those ‘pinch me I’m dreaming’ moments when I listen to the quality of their productions. The issue is, if we as a sovereign house music nation have doubts about our own music, why is it that when

“

“South African House music (in its current form) has been referred to by a myriad of terms called Afro House, Deep Tribal, Ancestral, however it's only now in recent years that it has culminated in a hybrid ensemble of indigenous sounds fused with international trends.” On 12 February, he posted the following statement on his Facebook page, quoted here verbatim; ”Let me be the 1st to say that South Africans Need To Learn About Black American Music, Esp House Music which is not that African Sh*t, get it right you all are youngans to an old sound, and yea i said it, that's why all picks i see of sum of your parties are in backyards and if you don;t like what

music production available to anyone with regular access to a computer. But in the same breath it opened a Pandora’s Box filled with Culoe De Song and Boddhi Satva wannabes. The key issue is, although productions by the abovementioned artists’ music may seem somewhat simple to make, the layering of those basic percussions and harmonies still requires a well learned ear. The younger talents entering the industry sometimes forget that those who we praise on the local podiums may have quit their jobs or dropped out of school, but still strove to have some form of music knowledge, even if it was attained through apprenticeship rather than a formal institution. And this is what Glenn Underground was pointing to when he stated “South Africans need to learn about black American music, Esp House Music”. I must emphasize though that no one is advocating an exodus to American sounding house, but rather a need for musical development within our own spheres. The classic example is the Soweto Gospel Choir, who’s music is uniquely African but worthy of Grammy nominations. That’s the standard which they set and the house industry should attempt to emulate. But it must also be noted that South Africa is a young nation on many fronts, the most important fact being the financial weight of black South Africans.

UNDERGROUND MUSIC BLOWN TO THE SURFACE. Glenn Underground posted a statement on his Facebook page with regards to our music, everyone felt like he had blasphemed the House music gods and cast evil spells on their loyal disciples from the southern tip of Africa? Everyone took shots at the musical legend. It was a free for all on blogs, twitter timelines and Facebook news feeds, but few people took the time to analyze and dissect what exactly was being said by the house music veteran. For those who do not know Glenn Underground or may have missed his statement, he is an American producer, hailing from Chicago ‘The birth place of house music’.

ive said then delete me beat it” Now although the statement is rude to say the least, Glenn has a point. Simply broken down, the issue is not about our music as a sound, but the quality of the product. Our sound as a nation is unique, it’s fresh, it’s loved the world over. But the quality of our productions leaves a lot to be desired. This doesn’t refer to the Black Coffee’s and DJ Christos’s of this industry, but to the younger individuals who make up this blossoming musical fraternity of ours. The release (or more honestly, the mass availability of bootleg copies) of Virtual DJ and FL Studio, has made

Simply put, the average person with above average talent and drive usually doesn’t have the money for a lot of the tools required for high-end studio quality productions. We are probably the capital of bedroom producers. All that aside, it still begins with our mindset, for its no secret that we get better every day. All that’s required is for us to humble ourselves in the face of criticism, and soon enough we won’t be able to tell what’s local and what’s not, and it certainly won’t even matter.

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FUN STUFF We grab 5 minutes with some of our favourite DJ's and ask them... Well... Just about anything we feel like!!!

5Mins with...

onique Pascall is a Techno, Tech House and Chill Out DJ as well as a VJ artist. She is the South African Cleopatra of dirty progressive Techno with the smoothest rolling bass lines. Ask anyone, crowds adore her. A regular on

1. If you could be any animal (other than human) what do you think you’d be? An Owl 2. Your most common expression is... Live and let live. 3. What do you think is the most over rated virtue? The one you have to keep telling people you have. 4. If you were an MC what would your aka name be? Spliff Star Mo 5. You hate it most when people... Lie 6. What is your latest 'cool' purchase? My Intervalometer 7. The first thing you thought when you woke up this morning? Ugh...! Thank goodness I landed on beach sand yesterday. 8. What is the one thing a teacher said to you that has stuck with you? Never have any regrets. 9. Being beautiful means... Being comfortable, being yourself. 10. When is it okay to lie? When you tell yourself that it’s late enough in the day to have some chocolate. 11. What was your part time job in college or high school? Dog walking/pet sitting 12. One thing you have learnt about yourself recently that has surprised you? I can still do cartwheels 13. Your definition of Underground Techno is... Even Underground Techno has grown into a more global and commercial sound due to ease of accessibility, so I don't really think it’s all that underground any more.

Monique Pascall

all major music festival line-ups, Monique’s energy emits a genuine love and passion for life and music. She’s a busy lady but we managed to pin her down for 5 mins... Literally!

14. What makes a man sexy in your opinion? Confidence without arrogance Intelligence without ego Caring without smothering. Ambition without obsession And of course a sense of humour with a nice smile. 15. What is the one thing you think all men should simply stop wearing? Uber tight or over baggy pants. PLEASE! 16. You often get mistaken for... Somebody else's girlfriend 17. The best thing someone has ever come up to you and said at a gig? I can't say it's the best thing, but the most recent thing I can remember was some guy recently proposing to me while I was busy playing. He asked me if I could be his wife and play music for him everyday and he’ll take care of the dinner and diamonds. 18. Being a DJ in today’s society is like... Making toasted cheese and tomato sandwiches.

19. The one song on your iPod that would surprise friends... Gotye - Smoke and Mirrors 20. Your most treasured possession is... My Mac, it provides many hours of audio and visual. 21. You take approximately how long to get ready in the morning? It really depends what time I get to bed, about forty minutes. 22. What one item is always in your fridge? Lemons / Lemon Juice - It goes with nearly everything. 23. The South African Dance scene needs more... Bass & Visual stimulation?! Quality produced experiential events where people get real value for their time & money. There are a couple of people making a big difference already, much respect to you guys!

Photo Credit: Deborah Rossouw – One Small Change

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ALBUM REVIEWS

busy dancing to, to appreciate the romanticism. Kimara Lovelace’s Merry Go Round is a brilliant, up tempo and jazzy ode to good lovin’. Disc two features more outstanding productions like Distant People ft Rainy Pain’s Connected which is about loving oneself (deep), The Layabouts remix of Toni Braxton’s Make My Heart as well as the oh-so-funky original disco mix of Love is You by DJ Meme Orchestra ft Tracey K. Instead of coming off schmaltzy, great track selection and smooth mixing make this a top notch compilation. Reviewed by Nathan Kabingesi

SAI AND RIBATONE - HERE & NOW (SOULISTIC MUSIC) <House> Sai & Ribatone have been in the industry for a few years now, slowly building up a fan base while crafting the sound that is manifested in Here & Now, their first full length album. What takes you off the bat is the pure musicality these guys possess, evident in the opening track Avenue of Dreams feat. Thiwe. The combination of up-tempo drum sequences, synth piano chords and silky smooth harmonising between them and Thiwe shows a maturity in the duos production that features prominently in tracks like Overrated and What We Gonna Do. Collaborations with Black Coffee reinforce the sonic similarity that led them to partner with Soulistic Music for this release; a combination of intelligent arrangement and dance-floor sensibility with a touch of that undeniable afro-jazzy funk that the label has become synonymous with. Sai & Ribatone have done what few artists manage on the first try, and that is to put together an album of good music that you can also dance to. Looking Into My Soul is a sublime instrumental, while Tonite is a cleverly camouflaged party track. There’s also a remix of their Sunday Showers, the track that helped launch their careers so many moons ago. A top quality release. Reviewed by Nathan Kabingesi

BLACK MOTION - TALKING TO THE DRUMS 4. (KALAWAJAZMEE) <Afro House> KalawaJazmee has done very well for itself out of finding talented youngsters and giving them the platform to shine. Black Motion are the latest in a line of ready-forconsumption artists that are proving to be very popular at the moment. Disc one features their hit tracks Father to Be feat Dr. Malinga, BhanaShilolo feat Zulu, Banane Mavoko feat. Jah Rich as well as Kakaramba which will more than likely prove to be a hit as well. There’s also the very well arranged Set Me Free with Xoli M and Dimensions feat. Lando which both show in different ways what the gifted pair of producers is capable of putting together in terms of music that isn’t just DJ fodder. Drums of Africa is an infectious tune that you will either love or hate, while another collaboration with Xoli M entitled Just Another Day is further evidence of the duo’s musical sensibility, great arrangement and vocals on this one too. Disc two is completely superfluous though; apart from Save Us and a remix of Set Me Free, none of the tracks on it would have detracted from the album by being left out. Reviewed by Nathan Kabingesi

2. MAYA JANE COLE DJ-KICKS (!K7 RECORDS) 3.

<House/Techno/Experimental> Not everyone will like Maya Jane Coles’ first commercially released compilation— the latest instalment in !K7’s longrunning DJ-Kicks series. But if you’re familiar with dance music’s new darling, you’ll know that she doesn’t like to be put in a box. Edgy, trippy and experimental, Coles explores the outer edges of house, techno and bass music with her characteristic genre-defying approach. Diverse and enthralling, it’s a 22 track meander through the sonic shadows - with sunshine peeping through sporadically. Dark and cerebral in some places (Roberto Bardini Hate Me, Sigward Nuerd), warm and uplifting in others (Larse Karoo, Adam Stacks Hey Love), it’s an ambitious blend that defies categorisation - much like Coles herself. Interesting combinations and unusual overlaps transport the mix from stripped down, muted beats into deep house then techno and finally dropping dramatically into bassy depths. She’s included two of her own productions, exclusive to this release - Not Listening and Meant To Be (under her Nocturnal Sunshine moniker). While some may argue that it’s too stylistically broad, too all over the place - if you’re eclectically minded you’ll appreciate Coles’ adventurous vision and bold execution. Out on 17 April through !K7 Records. Reviewed by Heather Mennell

3. LOVEBOX 3 – VARIOUS ARTISTS (SOULCANDI) <House> If you were ever inclined to set the mood right with a mix of house tracks, your playlist would look very similar to Lovebox 3. A double disc release, it features some of the more popular house tracks of 2011, tied together by the theme of, you guessed it, Amore. There are tracks about the promise of love like Love is Just A Call Away (Essential I Mix) by Abicah Soul ft Ceibei. Plutonic love? Rocco and Nikos ft Tony Wilkins have got you covered with If You Ever Need A Friend. Into Life (Glenn Underground Remix) by The Rurals ft Jaidene Veda is just beautiful, while Miguel Miggs’ Lose Control ft Lisa Shaw is a disco inspired gem of a tune that you’ll probably be too

&LIGHT C I T Y

RODRIGUEZ JR - BITTERSWEET (MOBILEE) <Deep House, Minimal, Tech House> Bittersweet is the debut solo effort by French house producer Rodriguez JR. a.k.a. Olivier Mateu. His sound has evolved quite a bit since his days as part of the techno duo The Youngsters. Encompassing a number of sub genres of house, the album takes you on a sonic journey through just about every conceivable mood changing texture and tone with each track. Bittersweet, the title track, is a bare-bones techy number that utilizes a lot of synth, string and drum loops to create a vaguely hypnotic feel. Los Matadores employs more traditional arrangement with eerie synth effects as well as trumpet overlays resulting in a more dance-floor friendly sound, while The Ubiquitous Dr Pook is just plain spooky. Then there’s Shape I See which is warmer, especially toward the end. The Music Don’t’ Lie is funky and dirty, and Massilia has a lovely slow, atmospheric build up that makes you wish the track was longer. The last track, Bare, almost defies description but suffice to say it’s a perfect come down track; deep kicks, airy synth and haunting vocals gently leading the ears back to the body and tucking them in for the night. It’s different, it’s deep, and if you enjoyed Goldfish’s first album then you’ll probably like this too. Reviewed by Nathan Kabingesi

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ALBUM REVIEWS

VCMG – Ssss (MUTE/JUST MUSIC) <Techno> VCMG stands for Vince Clarke and Martin Gore; for more info on the duo check out our music news on Pg. 13. A collaborative side project for the twosome, Ssss is filled with phat, analogue, synth driven techno-trance and it’s this actual analogue sound, along with the arrangements, that gives the album a somewhat oldskool feel. Witness first track, Lowly, a slow brooding opener that would not be out of place on a late 90’s techno/house album. Track 2, Zaat, picks up the pace a little with a really cool bouncy, tech vibe and once again sounds like something I would have played in the late 90’s and things pretty much continue in this vein throughout. The thing is Ssss is actually a great album. The ideas are solid, one can listen to the entire record from beginning to end without getting bored and the production is top drawer. But it is quite far off from what seasoned DJ’s who know how to work dancefloors are doing these days, as there are no dramatic builds, short 2,4 & 8 bar loops, rising synths or any of the other production tricks modern dancefloors are responding to. So whilst fans and aficionados (me included) may love the album it’ll take a smart (or brave?) DJ to find a place in his/her set for these tracks. Conclusion: Ssss is absorbing techno to listen to and proof that well written music outscores clever production tricks any day of the week. Reviewed by Dave Mac <<<Editors PICK>>>

7. DIE ANTWOORD - TEN$ION (COOPERATIVE MUSIC) Die Antwoord's auspicious debut, $O$, was as nuanced as it was cocky. Behind the glare of its zefneck bravado were swiveling layers worthy of a Rubics cube; intricate linguistic and cultural codes laced the Doef-Doef and enhanced Waddy and Yo-Landi's flow. Ten$ion is a more direct, streamlined affair - the earbending rhymes are simplified; ditto the beats and squiggles; crowd-along hooks and choruses abound. Contrary to The Artist Formerly Known As Waddy's history, this follow-up is not a complete reinvention, nor does it venture much into terrain not staked out by $O$ - the latter's recipe has just been tightened. The Dr. Dre/early Snoop-referencing So What? offers a funky synopsis of Ninja and Yo-Landi's journey; other highlights include the Freeky one; 'Hey Sexy's arenaseducing guitars and chorus; and fadeout Never Le Nkemisi 2, which bookends the album with Xhosa chanting, kicking off with a straight emo-riff which deliciously deconstructs into an Aphex Twin Windowlicker nod. Very pretty. Reviewed by Mickdotcom

8. MARKUS WORMSTORM - NOT I, BUT A FRIEND 10.

<Electronica/Ambient> Wormstorm has left a potent, if veiled mark on SA's electronic music scene. From his best-known wack-beat party outfits The Real Estate Agents and Sweat.X, to playing a central role in the formation of The Artist Currently Known as Ninja's Constructus Corporation project, to by now mythical stacks of compositions snuggling in African Dope's obscure audio libraries. Aside from the nearimpossible-to-get-hold of Rachel the Bear, circa the mid-Noughties, Not I, but a friend is his most publicized solo effort. An Ambient venture which fuses digital with instrumental scores it is surprisingly... spare. Breathy, Film Noir-esque monologues tug the melodies into twee, night-swept cinematic scenes, all Vaudeville smoke and dark alley mirrors. Ponderous atmospherics abound, citing the similarly sinister melodrama of Felix Laband's Dark Days Exit; the unnerving (but by now predictable) low-register cello bows of 1st-movement Explosions in The

Sky/Godspeed You Black Emperor; and the acoustic-synthetic splicing motifs of Zappa's Civilization Phase III epic. Some promising sonic details are tucked into the general atmosphere, and it's great that the likes of Brydon Bolton and Inge Beckmann have been realizing the album as live music, but on the whole 'Not I..' feels too reminiscent of much that's come before. Fans of discerning ambient music will appreciate its nestling 'scapes. [Currently downloadable for gratis at all the right sites.] Reviewed by Mickdotcom GAMBINO - CAMP (GLASSNOTE/ 9. CHILDISH JUST MUSIC) <Hip Hop> Childish Gambino aka Donald Glover is a comedic actor on popular TV series Community. With this album he does little more than live up to the first part of his name with his invented 'real persona', selling himself as the misunderstood educated black man. Hip Hop is an art form being grossly misrepresented by artists attempting their focus solely at milking the scene to fill their pockets. It's weak when this is done by artists who possess a real talent for poetry and word play, much like Donald Glover. This debut album is a mirror reflection of what's happened on a large scale with commercial Pop-Rap. Bonfire is an obvious imitation of the modern Lil Wayne flow. Heartbeat is an electro infused melodic beat complete with a pop vocal chorus by Donald himself. Rappers singing, once again. Firefly is based on a popular R&B sample often used in mainstream easy listening Hip Hop reminiscent of a Lupe Fiasco delivery. Gun to my head, if I had to choose a track to play, it would be this one. Unfortunately and quite obviously what stands out with Camp the most is the inability to maintain a Childish Gambino flow that is unique to him, instead of copying MTV. Could we get some more storytelling and less gags and punchlines please? Reviewed by Mary Honeychild

10. CARD ON SPOKES – IN YOU GO (INDEPENDENT) <Electronica> Damn. Grinning-myself-stoopid this is good stuff. Bob like your neck is Jello/shake your ass till its Fuzzo good. 'Kay so the spotlights are on the new Die Antwoord, Mathambo and Wormstorm releases, but along comes the debut EP by Shane Cooper (aka ‘Card on Spokes’), bassist for the likes of underground elite Babu, Closet Snare, and the Kyle Shepherd Trio - (are these guys tripping on cosmic synchronicity or what?) and damned if Shane doesn’t steal the show (okay-okay, haven't heard the Spoek; so steals it from Waddy and Wormstorm). This is one of those rare releases that grab you from the opening riddim/riff/crunch and just drag you into Forests of Yum. The beats are palatic and the grooves just bleeed Kool. Conspiracy Theorist blatantly riffs off the post-WARP melodic interventions of Clark’s Totems flare; Song for Nevin sounds like Cooper roped in Joe Zawinul to remix an early 90's Warren G/Nate Dog instrumental - all oozing Ghetto struts tweaked into some kinda virtuoso of cool. Circle Freaks leads us into a spliff-heavy back corridor of some Mystery Club where the music from the various levels (one churning out warped techno; another Psy-Trance; a third stripped-down, acoustic Hip-hop) coalesces into unlikely harmony. Give us another toke yo. My only, and marked, lament is that the goodness stops too soon. More please! Reviewed by Mickdotcom

11. KHAINZ – SIMPLE AS THAT – (ECHOES)

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ALBUM REVIEWS

11.

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<Techno/Tech-House> Khainz is a pretty rocking dude! Formerly known as Freakulizer – well not formerly – Simon Schwendener would probably produce under his original moniker if he was still partial to psytrance but judging by the quality of this release and no doubt the many gigs he’ll be getting off it, I doubt we’ll be seeing much Freakulizer anytime soon. Simple As That dishes up 9 very well accomplished tech, minimal tech and tech house servings that for me, as someone who knew his psy project music very well, can honestly say that with this project he has indeed found his niche. Opening with the ultra groovy Borracho Y No Bebe, a track he cowrote with Kore, the tone is set as the album sneaks up on you track by track. Each offering is a guaranteed floor pleaser with one thing in mind – dancing! Techhouse can be quite repetitive once the initial novelty of the percussive groove has been set but Khainz seems never short of ideas and clearly knows how to build tension and release on the dancefloor. It’s all in the basslines really! If you’re a fan of the likes of D-Nox & Beckers, Riktam & Bansi (their minimal project), Kaiserdisco etc then Khainz will definitely hit all the right notes for you. Reviewed by Dave Mac

12. CORONA - SONAR LUMINESCENCE (SOLAR TECH) 13.

14.

<Progressive & Psytrance> This is Corona’s aka Magnus Claussen and Mike Davies second fantastic album. It has an ambient sounding title although there is nothing ambient about this full on pumping release with psychedelic sounds and uplifting melodies. The crunchy synth at the start of Triptronic is badass; it then switches to a hypnotic beat and later to some good Goa sounds. This track seems to have everything and more. Eine kleine Bang Bang is a rather amusing title for a psytrance tune as it translates to “A small Bang Bang”. Subsonic is one of those bouncy midmorning tracks that renews your energy for the rest of the party and Shakedown just lifts your spirits higher and higher with mesmerising bass. All In is a perfect dance track that will keep you glued to that perfect spot in front of the speakers, where the bass hits you in the centre chakra. The sweet keyboard tones increased my grin and they were a light distraction from the non-stop beat. My head was bopping to Forward that has that yo-yo sound which is awesome and also amusing. Tektite steps the banging up another notch and Metaphonic closes this set on a high, no slowing down here. Recommended. Reviewed by sevenR

13. BEST OF MY SETS – V/A – COMPILED BY BANEL (IBOGA)

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<Progressive House/Tech House> If you have been looking for a bread and butter minimal tech/ progressive album look no further than this as the main man of Iboga Records, Banel, dishes it up in spades . The double album kicks off with a funky track, Start your Engines by Matt King. Spektre & Subfractal’s Ram Raid has spooky effects and vox and then Tom Hades heats things up with a couple of big build-ups from Inside a Cave. The two tremendous tunes from that progressive trance due, Lish, tingled my dance senses. Riktam & Bansi’s Flap It and Cyrus & Hoffman’s The Thing are both great for shuffling. Behind Blue Eyes & Krusseldorf share three beautifully hypnotic tunes; Horizontal View (featured twice) is remixed by Sun Control Species and Kisses From The Clouds is remixed by Phaxe. Walking with Sue by Emok & Ronin is an instant classic as it has dance floor anthem written all over it. I was surprised when I saw Sun

Control Species on the track list as I never had them pegged in this genre. And for the lovers of the odd-inclined A. Balter & Eitan Reitner supplies Hope along with many more great tracks that follow on this album. Recommended. Reviewed by sevenR

14. GROOVE ATTACK - V/A – COMPILED BY LIQUID SOUL (IONO MUSIC) <Progressive Trance> Groove Attack follows hot on the heels of another top progressive artist’s double album compilation put out recently, Ace Ventura’s Dance Computer. The reason why I mention Ace’s release is because in many ways Liquid Soul’s latest V/A offering reminds me a lot of the aforementioned. Aside from the obvious; they’re both mammoth double discs of previously unreleased tracks, the selections they both chose for their compilations feel very much like what one would expect from each respective artist. Liquid Soul is all about massive melodic tunes, big production, expansive outdoor sounds and... well... just a touch of cheesiness. But who doesn’t like a little bit of euphoric melody in the late afternoon? Notable offerings include Major 7, D-Addiction, Timelock and Perfect Stranger on the tougher side of the spectrum. Liquid Soul weighs in with some typically expansive offerings most as collaborations and with his signature sound very present and artists such as Zyce, Sonic Species (an E-clip rmx) and Earsugar all take things a little deeper. Groove Attack will no doubt please fans of melodic prog as it is a collection of quality music that also offers DJs some good options in a set. Reviewed by Dave Mac

15. SHULMAN - ALIVE (ALEPH ZERO) <Electronica/Downtempo/Psychill/Chillout/ Ethnic> Alive is Shulman’s 4th studio album and sees them expand their musical horizons even further with a host of known Shulman tracks reconstructed and created using live arrangements – yup that means real instruments kids; a drummer, guitar player, bass player and keyboardist, and wind instruments: saxophone, shehnai, zorna & ney infused with the electronic wizardry of the production duo at the helm. Opening with the 14 minute Transmissions in Bloom first featured on their album, Endless Rhythms of the Beatless Heart, the tone is set for a heady mix of world music beauty and trippy electronica. But there is a twist! A real twist. Shulman’s live arrangements see them venture into space rock (evident on the opener), ethnic world reggae vibes on Mia Nihta Mono Den Ftani although I must point out that this is just one of several styles infused into this second track; and even expect some jazz with big dollops of world music too. This track too was first released on Endless Rhythms of the Beatless Heart and sees quite an interesting departure from the original. With the use of musicians playing instruments comes an intriguing marriage between the otherworldliness of Shulman’s electronica and the convention of a musical performance. The result is substantial to say the least. An absorbing listen and an accomplished piece of work. Reviewed by Dave Mac

For more reviews online go to: BPMMAG.co.za

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DJ PICKs ARTIST | TRACK | STYLE

D-Addiction - Salvation EP - Psyprog Salvation is D-Addiction’s (Adi Ashkenazi ex-Quantize) debut release. The title track has a preachy message and the echoey melody and crunchy synths makes you want to boogie. Down Under is a trippy, psytrance collaboration with Mr Bill, from Australia, with a nice bit of Dubstep thrown in at the end. Picked by sevenR Soulscape - Audio Clash - Progressive Trance One of the top Brazilian progressive trance artists, Soulscape (Gaspar Tartari), has released another solid EP. The title track is a collaboration with another Brazilian artist, Mental Broadcast (Romarci Dias) and has a cool psychedelic sound. The EP also contains a remix of a gently moving Solaris Vibe track. Picked by sevenR Alion – Free Form EP – Progressive Trance Free Form is the second EP from Alion (Diego D Amato) the Italian producer. The title track of this progressive release contains vox normally associated with darker tunes but the music style is very melodic. I found this a very interesting and an unusual departure from the expected norm. Picked by sevenR Solaris Vibe and Nitrodrop – Lucid Reality EP (Digital Nature Records) The Lucid Reality EP is the result of a fitting collaboration between Solaris Vibe (Assaf Vizovich) and Nitrodrop (Gil Dagan and Dima Gafner), all from Israel. These stunning progressive tunes are meticulously produced and the hilarious track named Burtation contains the vox of Serene Branson's famous brain fart. Picked by sevenR Side Effects – Complete Control EP – Progressive Trance The two Israeli artists, Yarden Yogev and Tzahi Geller aka Side Effects bang out three very good progressive tracks on this brilliantly produced and groovy EP. The angelic and sexy female voices used very creatively, aroused the senses and the smooth rhythms made my feet tap. Picked by sevenR Vertical Mode – Laser Shot EP (Hommega/Noya) Vertical Mode’s (Moshe Keinan aka Xerox) tracks are filled with interesting psychedelic sounds and the tunes are so big they want to break out of the speakers. The crunchy synths and distorted voices compel one to disappear into the thumping music and explore it with your mind and feet. Picked by sevenR S Range and Etic – Tone Generator EP - Digital Nature Records Swedish trance musician S Range (Anthony Sillfors), and Israeli producer Etic‘s (Etay Harari) collaboration has produced two new progressive trance tracks. The title track is bordering on the plain and not much to write home about, but Kick Back turns it around with a more dynamic sound and interesting effects. Picked by sevenR

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track does feel like it takes you back to those days of smoking spliffs and cruising in shag'en wagons! Picked by Beatarmy Taras Van De Voorde - Mandela's Four Double Six - Tech House Yip here is an international artist showing SA some love. Phatt basslines, cool trumpet too and in the background the voice of our x president Mr Nelson Mandela! I have heard some local remixes and none of them can compare to Taras Van De Voorde from the Netherlands version of this track. Picked by Beatarmy Netsky - Give and Take - Drum n Bass Netsky aka Boris Daenen returns to dancefloors and airwaves worldwide via this exclusive digital-only one-track single. Give & Take re-establishes Netsky as one of D+B’s leading lights as the buzz starts to build around his second album which will drop later in 2012. Feel-good dancefloor-driven liquid D&B at its best. Picked by Beatarmy Micasa (Wesley Cheia's remix) - These streets - Progressive House We always support local guys and this is one guy who deserves this month’s local talent prize! Wesley a good mate of the Beatarmy has won the recent ''these streets'' Soulcandi competition, a great original track from the Micasa group who has just gone gold on their album sales. This remix is a little more on the prog side but still using the great vocal. Picked by Beatarmy Minister – Murder - Afro House Murder is an EP for those who love South African rhythm. To add flavour Minister added a dub feel and you can also enjoy the Jungle Mix which is now taking South Africa by storm. Minister is leading the way into creativity with New Kingdom Productions. Picked by Afrodesiamp3 Various Artist – Kalawa Jazmee Dance – Afro House Get your copy of Kalawa Jazmee Dance release featuring, Alaska, Oskido, Brothers Of Peace, Winnie Khumalo, Dr Malinga, Professor, Kanyi Mbau, DJ Vetkuk vs. Mahoota, Mjokes all under one roof. A must have release for the year 2012! Picked by Afrodesiamp3 Afrikan Roots – Shikisha EP - Afro House Afrikan Roots consists of Pretoria based artists/producers in South Africa. This time they bring you their massive latest release Shikisha. Strong Roots was created to introduce Pretoria's finest and upcoming hit- makers; have a taste of African tribal music at its best. Picked by Afrodesiamp3

Motherland ft Adam Howard – Adam & Eve - Afro House Static Plastic presents Adam & Eve, a timeless trumpet driven jam produced by Motherland (Static Plastic & Tim White) with Mr DYF featuring Katherine Ellis - All day Lover - Progressive Adam Howard blowing the horn on this heart string puller which House was originally released under the House Africa stable in its With big artists like Avicci coming to SA end of March it seems a clinical form in 2006, after some serious rework on the drum lot DJ’s are all heading the Progressive way. A great catchy remix section. Picked by Afrodesiamp3 by Ron May from Russia on this one! Katherine Ellis aka Kathy Wood, Arrola and K. Ellis has been providing us with great vocals Slavic ft Rocio Starry – Summertime EP - House Deep since the days of Belinda Carlisle in 1991 and has only got better Slavic Productions presents an artist featured from Spain (Vera) in the years. Picked by Beatarmy Rocio Starry, a professional soloist and a vocalist featured on the songs Summertime, Come Back, Crazy and Deep Eyes (Ohos The Pierces - You'll Be Mine - Indie Rock Profundos). In collaboration with Slavic they managed to release Just because we’re DJ's doesn't mean all we listen to is house their first EP Summertime which included the Cuban Conga Mix, music... For something a little different try out these sisters. The Dub Mix Session and Instrumental Dance. Pierces are an American New York-based band. Growing up they Picked by Afrodesiamp3 listened to legends Simon and Garfunkel for inspiration and this

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What's hot @ Where the beat lives on...

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TOURING WITH TUNERAIDER – A DJ’S DAILY DIARY WIN A HIS & HERS SUNGLASS SET FROM OAKLEY Tuneraider tours Europe for two weeks, starting in Portugal for the ‘Nostradamus BDay Party‘ and their famous ‘Masked Carnival’ on a boat. She heads to the Covilho Mountains after that for an all girls DJ line up at the Companhia Club. She rounds it off in Barcelona, Spain where she and DJ Ganeisha play at the last gig of her tour. Read her journal to learn more about her first time European tour experience ... Read More @ BPMLife.co.za

INTERVIEW: CHIANOSKY - SOULFUL DIVA TALENT BEYOND HER YEARS The tradition of the emergent South African pop songstress is a coiled trail leaden with sign posts bearing the names of countless wannabes, should’ve beens and wash-outs peppered with the occasional break out act. Indeed, luminaries such as Miriam Mkeba and Brenda Fassie have each walked the oily tightrope of Diva-dom to varying degrees of success. Enter ChianoSky. Hot off the heels of a hit radio single with a tantalizing, yet classy, video to accompany it, we caught up... Read More @ BPMLife.co.za

BPM VIDEO: MARY SCARY ON SHIT GIRLS SAY TO DIE ANTWOORDMary Scary is a self-proclaimed lesbian Diva Rockstar who found her calling on the dirty streets of New York and now lives it up in Cape Town where she is furthering her journey to love, life and super Rockstardom. In this video, while getting ready for a night on the town, she lays down a few lines that girls throw at now global Afrikaans rap sensation Die Antwoord. So ridiculously funny. Quote: “Are you really the aliens from District 9?” Read More @ BPMLife.co.za

INTERVIEW: EREFAAN PEARCE THE CAPE TOWN DEEP HOUSE TASTE Erefaan Pearce. A Deep House veteran. He has been bumping his dreamy, emotional music at popular Cape Town bars and clubs since the inception of the now burgeoning Dance scene in the city. We chat to him about his latest release, ’What Happened’ Ft Kylie Auldist playlisted on 5FM, the growth of the local House music scene and his own digi label, 77Soul. You have been playing Deep House at some of Cape Town’s most classic Long Street bars for more than a decade.... Read More @ BPMLife.co.za

BPM LIFE PODCAST: WHITE NITE /025 White Nite forms part of the Cape HipHop outfit “ETC Crew”. His sound is descendant of a diverse musical past and a solid foundation in Hip Hop & its roots, Downtempo and Turntablism. Drum ’n Bass & Jungle has also always been a passion, he played regularly at Niskerone’s now-legendary D'nB weekly “It Came from the Jungle” since its inception in 2006. He has performed alongside international heavyweights including Blu & Exile, Scratcha DVA, Kode9 and... Read More @ BPMLife.co.za

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Hybrid Power Amplifiers

Built to work...

B- Series B600MK4

R 2,700.00

STEREO POWER... * 8 Ohm 200W - RMS/Ch * 4 Ohm 300W - RMS/Ch MONO BRIDGED... * 8 Ohm bridged Mono - 500W - RMS * Freq. Response - 20Hz - 20kHz, +/- 0.3 dB * Protection - Short Circuit, DC Voltage, Turn on/off transient, Current Inrush, Soft Start, Thermal Overload * Signal to Noise Ratio > 95db (@ 8 Ohms) * Dual speed fans

B900MK4

R 2,883.00

STEREO POWER... * 8 Ohm 300W - RMS/Ch * 4 Ohm 450W - RMS/Ch MONO BRIDGED... * 8 Ohm bridged Mono - 800W - RMS * Freq. Response - 20Hz - 20kHz, +/- 0.3 dB * Protection - Short Circuit, DC Voltage, Turn on/off transient, Current Inrush, Soft Start, Thermal Overload * Signal to Noise Ratio > 95db (@ 8 Ohms) * Dual speed fans

B1200MK4

R 3,200.00

STEREO POWER... * 8 Ohm 400W - RMS/Ch * 4 Ohm 600W - RMS/Ch MONO BRIDGED... * 8 Ohm bridged Mono - 1100W - RMS * Freq. Response - 20Hz - 20kHz, +/- 0.3 dB * Protection - Short Circuit, DC Voltage, Turn on/off transient, Current Inrush, Soft Start, Thermal Overload * Signal to Noise Ratio > 95db (@ 8 Ohms) * Dual speed fans

B1600MK4

R 3,575.00

STEREO POWER... * 8 Ohm 500W - RMS/Ch * 4 Ohm 800W - RMS/Ch MONO BRIDGED... * 8 Ohm bridged Mono - 1600W - RMS * Freq. Response - 20Hz - 20kHz, +/- 0.3 dB * Protection - Short Circuit, DC Voltage, Turn on/off transient, Current Inrush, Soft Start, Thermal Overload * Signal to Noise Ratio > 95db (@ 8 Ohms) * Dual speed fans

B2200MK4

R 5,492.00

STEREO POWER... * 8 Ohm 700W - RMS/Ch * 4 Ohm 1200W - RMS/Ch MONO BRIDGED... * 8 Ohm bridged Mono - 2100W - RMS * Freq. Response - 20Hz - 20kHz, +/- 0.3 dB * Protection - Short Circuit, DC Voltage, Turn on/off transient, Current Inrush, Soft Start, Thermal Overload * Signal to Noise Ratio > 95db (@ 8 Ohms) * Dual speed fans

B4000MK4

R 8,000.00

STEREO POWER... * 4 Ohm 1500W - RMS/Ch * 2 Ohm 2000W - RMS/Ch * Freq. Response - 20Hz - 20kHz, +/- 0.3 dB * Protection - Short Circuit, DC Voltage, Turn on/off transient, Current Inrush, Soft Start, Thermal Overload * Signal to Noise Ratio > 95db (@ 8 Ohms) * Dual speed fans

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50 | BPM

DJ CHART CHRIS JACK (Anything Goes / CPT / Deep / Tech House, Techno) 1. DJ Cra$y - That Amen Track (BrEaCh's Return To 93 Remix) (Dirtybird) • 2. Thomas Smith Retina Scan (Anthea Scholtz Delayed Remix) (Last Night on Earth) • 3. Phillip Arruda - Feels Like Space (The Junkies Remix) (Roots and Wings Music) • 4. Fur Coat feat Cari Golden You and I (Original Mix) (Crosstown Rebels) • 5. Jordan Peak - Pass The Roach (Original Mix) (Robsoul Recordings) • 6. Scuba - The Hope (Original Mix) (Hotflush) • 7. Alberto Pascual - Serious Injury (Original Mix) (Plus 8 Records) • 8. Subb-an - What I Do (Burnski's ‘Tulum’ remix) (Culprit) • 9. Maceo Plex - Deez Nutz (Original Mix) (Ellum Audio) • 10. Youan - Promises (Original Mix) (CDR) MONIQUE PASCALL (Sshadoworkss /CPT /Techno) 1. Rainer - Nuevo cedar (Desolat) • 2. James Harcourt - A beautiful surprise (Twisted Frequency) • 3. Strict border - Sugar foot (HiFi Stories) • 4. Nick curly - Lights from the inside - Remix (Break New Soil Recordings) • 5. Damon jeep - Cheerleaders - (Definitive Recordings) • 6. Adam Beyer - No rain, Joel mulls after rain mix (Truesoul) • 7. Futur-e insolence (Galore Music) • 8. Max cooper Epoch (Herzblut Recordings) • 9. Loco dice remix - Down you get (Desolat) • 10. Shenoda - Shots (Hypercolour) DJ LUO (JHB / Deep House, Soulful House) 1. Adil ft Black Motion - Summer Sunshine (Faimos Entertainment) • 2. 340ml ft Dj Shimza & Cueber - I'll Be Back (Soul Candi Rec) • 3. Boddhie Satva ft Vikter Duplaix - From Another World (BBE) • 4. Mi Casa - These Streets (JuluSound Remix) (Soul Candi) • 5. The MuthaFunkaz - Muthaz Day (Karizma Remix) (Code Red) • 6. Q-Burns Abstract Message ft Lisa Shaw - This Time (Rivera Rotation Remix) (ITH) • 7. Ray Foxx - The Trumpeter (Chocolate Puma Remix) (Defected) • 8. Chymamusique Jazz According To House (Cannon Soul Remix) (Chymamusiq Rec) • 9. Sai & Ribatone - I'm In Love (Soulistic Music) • 10. Avi Elman - Hanging On A Dream (SoWhat Mix) (Tony Rec) DJ MYZO (Blissful, Disasterpeace / CPT / Psytrance) 1. Sinful Reactions - Why Don't They Stop It (3Dvision ) • 2. Dirty Motion - Just Another Freak (Yabai Rec/ Disasterpeace Rec) • 3. Tryambaka - Saw Your Saw (Spectral Rec/One Foot Groove) • 4. Zinx vs. Wired World is at War (Terror Lab Industries) • 5. Hiyamyzo - Soda Can • 6. Hiyarant - The Taste (Disasterpeace Rec) • 7. Khopat vs. Tryon - Timewave (Hypergate Rec) • 8. Orca Spaceships (Doof Records) • 9. Dapanji vs. Bliss - Freeze Master (Phantasm Rec) • 10. Xatrik - Dangerous Conditions (Disasterpeace Rec)

DJ QUE BLVD (Madala Soul / JHB / House) 1. Torquato & Boghosian - Zulu Girl (Yoruba Rec) • 2. Terance Parker - Love's Got Me High (Jimpster Rmx) (Empty Queue) • 3. James Blake - Wilhelms Scream (Deeper Journey Mix) (Atlas Rec) • 4. Osunlade - Blackman (Yoruba Rec) • 5. DJ Roland Clark - Sometimes It Snows In April (Delete Global Rec) • 6. Nicola Conte Arabesque (Mica tone Mix) (Pacha Recordings) • 7. J. Axel & Astrid Suryanto Roam (Highway73Remix) (Luxury House) • 8. Lotus & Strauss - Grand Master Plan (Yoruba Rec) • 9. Sin Palabras - Yemaya (Yoruba Soul Mix) (Yoruba Rec) • 10. Ben Westbeech - Infections (Strictly Rhythm) DJ VICE (Kinkysoul Records / Polokwane / Deep & Soulful house) 1. Boobjazz - Too High (Stir15) • 2. Motorcitysoul - Carry On Cowboy (Carry On) • 3. Harley & Muscle ft Lem Springsteen Number1 (Charles Dockins Rmx) (Soulstar) • 4. Pablo Fierro - I Don't Speak About House (Original Mix) (Stimulated Soul Rec) • 5. Migosy - Skyline (Sean McCabe Vocal Mix) (Hi: Rise) • 6. Moodymanc - Father (Original Mix) ( LANDED Records) • 7. Chymamusique - Uber Vibes (Cannon Soul Remix) (Chymamusiq Rec) • 8. Sole Kitchen Inspiration To Write (Jullian Gomes Mix) (Seasons Limited) • 9. Blue & K-White - Decimal Deep (Drumshift JazzTek Touch) (Bluepoint Recordings) • 10. Dee Mac - Feel It (Original Mix) (Seasons Limited) SLAVIC (Afrodesia MP3 / Gauteng / House) 1. Phonique ft. Erlen Oye - For the Time Being (Dessous) • 2. Liquid People - Son of Dragon (Soul Heaven Records) • 3. Robert Babicz - Astor (Shur-I-Khan Remix) (Systematic) • 4. Junior Jack - Luv 2 u (Defected) • 5. Slavic ft. Rocio Starry Summertime (Afrodesia Mp3) • 6. Louie Vega & Jay 'Sinister' Sealee (Diamond Life) • 7. The Layabouts & Kathy Brown - Choices (The Layabouts Main Vocal Mix) (MN2S Records) • 8. T3n - live 4 now (Foliage Records) • 9. Slavic - God i thank you (Afrodesia Mp3) • 10. Noise Complaint - Radical Alternative (Cabana Recording) FUNK DEEPSTAR (Soulcandi / JHB / Deep House) 1. Mr. O & Funk Deepstar ft CKenz - Got This Feeling (Soul Candi) • 2. Studnitzky - Hauke Rmx Ep (Atjazz Base Elements Rmx) (Best Works Recs) • 3. Darque ft. Kaylow - Difference (Lele X Underground Rmx) (Peng Africa) • 4. Rocco & C. Robert Walker - I Love The Night (Louie Vega Roots Mix) (Foliage-Recs) • 5. Agev Munsen & Roland Clark - That Thing About Deep (Munsen's Main Mix) (Vega Recs) • 6. Miguel Migs - Close Your Eyes ft. Meshell Ndegeocello (Osunlade's Yoruba Soul Mix) (Om Rec) • 7. Mi Casa - Heavenly Sent (Charles Webster Vocal Mix 1) (Soul Candi) • 8. Jullian Gomes - Love Song 28 ft. Bobby (Original Mix) (Marketing Music) • 9. Namy ft. Monday Michiru - There She Stands (Frankie Feliciano Vocal) (KingStreet) • 10. Djeff ft. Sandy Spady - One Night (N'Dinga Gaba Remix) (Tribe)

52 | BPM

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ASTROBABBLE

Lois Siddhu lives in a circle of mountains in the Baviaanskloof. For professional Astrological counseling CALL 049-8391178 or Email: masonwaspstudio@telkomsa.net

MARCH 2012 19 FEBRUARY - 19 MARCH

By Lois Siddhu

With Mercury retrograde broken down communications can be expected.

PISCES

ARIES | 21 Mar - 20 Apr | FIRE Looking for re-enforcements from outside rather than waiting for your own inner authority to come up you invariably shift into pleasing others which means that you try constantly to justify your existence instead of just being and accepting yourself. TAURUS | 21 Apr - 20 May | EARTH The challenge is to shift from your underlying belief structures to include and embrace life in its fullness. Don't judge the outcome of events but see how the wheels of life are still turning.

LIBRA | 23 Sept - 22 Oct | AIR It is inevitable that you will start asking yourself some personal questions and you need to find some answers as to where and what you want to achieve and create in your life. SCORPIO | 23 Oct - 21 Nov | WATER A lot of your emotional issues at present are directly related to your home and also to the way you care and nurture yourself. You need to realize your own personal needs and attend to them.

GEMINI | 21 May - 21 Jun | AIR If you insist on an eye for an eye solution then you are allowing no opportunity for grace and love to transform situations and unconscious angers and irrational fears can upset your equilibrium.

SAGITTARIUS | 22 Nov - 21 Dec | FIRE You may once again be in a quandary concerning a problem on the home front that has intermittently bothered you for some time. Discuss the issue with your partner and you possibly will hit on a solution.

CANCER | 20 Jun | 22 Jul | WATER Divinity is linked to your encounter with the forces of life and not with the people who bring this about. Don't confuse the teacher with the lesson, the ritual with the ecstasy, the transmitter of the symbol with the symbol itself.

CAPRICORN | 22 Dec - 19 Jan | EARTH When you are feeling insecure about any part of your life and especially in your friendships, be open minded and learn new ways of approaching your life and situations that are more challenging to you.

LEO | 23 Jul - 22 Aug | FIRE This lack of mercy can arise when you judge the action of others in black and white, which may make you feel justified in your retaliation and punishment but is devoid of compassion and empathy.

AQUARIUS | 20 Jan - 18 Feb | AIR Partnerships that are not allowed change and freedom are doomed to failure whereas being true to your own desire to pursue your dreams and ideas will literally rejuvenate flagging relationships.

VIRGO | 23 Aug - 22 Sept | EARTH When you ask that you get sent guides to assist you, you only find signs to the road you need to follow. However the choices are yours to make and the results will be there to live through.

PISCES | 19 Feb - 20 Mar | WATER Procrastinating around your workload will cause problems and it will benefit you if you concentrate on finishing what you've started as your attempts to assert yourself get diffused through the emotions.

APRIL 2012 20 MARCH - 19 APRIL

The AUTUMN EQUINOX is on the 20TH MARCH at 7:16 in the morning. Mars and Mercury turn direct.

ARIES

ARIES | 21 Mar - 20 Apr | FIRE Sparks can fly when the sun conjuncts Uranus and there is a definite transformation around monetary issues, which can cost you, but on the other hand you may gain greater awareness and spiritual growth.

LIBRA | 23 Sept - 22 Oct | AIR Avoid office politics and gossip stories as you may find yourself the brunt of the jokes and cause unwanted frictions. Curb your own criticism and view situations with a new and expanded insight.

TAURUS | 21 Apr - 20 May | EARTH Facts and reality are also only a certain viewpoint and if you shifted your personal way of looking at life, you may find glimpses of other possibilities, which are equally valid and true.

SCORPIO | 23 Oct - 21 Nov | WATER Life does not get any easier, but rather stirs up verbal disputes and causes disruptions in various areas of your life. Get, and keep a firm grip on life for a while.

GEMINI | 21 May - 21 Jun | AIR There are many realities beyond the comprehension of your physical senses. Take note of your imagination as this is the dwelling place of your own, unique creative self. Allow the magic of life to enter into your daily habits.

SAGITTARIUS | 22 Nov - 21 Dec | FIRE Your scenario changes into communication and verbal repartee. You could find yourself in the midst of other's arguments so it is advisable to avoid having the last word as this may place you in a compromising situation.

CANCER | 20 Jun | 22 Jul | WATER Include in your schedule the time to connect to nature through gardening or just walking outdoors. It is also beneficial to give yourself time on your own to receive inspiration and new vision. LEO | 23 Jul - 22 Aug | FIRE Life offers you a reprieve during which you need to sort through your home and relationship issues. You are required to take stock and find the balance in your responsibilities regarding your home liabilities. VIRGO | 23 Aug - 22 Sept | EARTH Procrastination comes form the lack of order and Virgo's are notorious for their orderliness in some way or another. You will find with practical application every task can be accomplished if you don't over extend your services.

CAPRICORN | 22 Dec - 19 Jan | EARTH Unfortunately the lessons are about dealing with the hardcore, practical issues of life and you are the one that has to do the hands-on application. So roll up your sleeves and apply yourself to the task at hand. AQUARIUS | 20 Jan - 18 Feb | AIR You may seek to justify your lack of alignment with any worldly purpose because nothing measures up to your ideals or personal dreams. This may result in frustration from failing to undertake action that contributes to bringing these ideals into manifestation. PISCES | 19 Feb - 20 Mar | WATER Your vision is changing and the old cycle of identity is dissolving and the new is coming into manifestation. This will give you enough confidence to release old forms of expression that are not working in your life now.