DJ MAG ASEAN ISSUE 005

HALLOWEEN

EDITION OCTOBER 2015

STAND THE TEST OF TIME DYNAMIC DANNIC

HARD DAY OF THE DEAD

HALLOWEEN HORRORS

FREAKY FASHION

FOREVER IN THE MIX NEVER A BORE WITH BORGORE TECH TALK WITH OLIVER HELDENS

MAIN MAN OF SUNBURN RM 15.00

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PP 18496/052014 ( 033873)

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DJ MAG ASEAN / JUNE 2015

JUNE 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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FROM THE TOP

EDITORIAL EDITOR

AUDREY RAJ

editor@djmagasean.com MUSIC WRITER

LYDIA LOHSHINI (MALAYSIA) lydia@djmagasean.com

October is a month that’s synonymous with Halloween and so this issue would not be complete if not for some thrills and spills. From feisty fashion lines to bloody cocktails, we have something tantalizingly terror-fic for you.

WRITER

DERISHA ARYAWAN (INDONESIA) derisha@djmagasean.com

PAT SANTOS (PHILIPPINES) pat@djmagasean.com JUNIOR ART DIRECTOR

Gracing our front cover this month is the legendary trio Jono, Tony and Paavo who till this very day impact the lives of so many people with their music. Their devotion and willingness to share their raw emotions through their music is simply breathtaking. This is without a doubt one of the best interviews we’ve done to-date.

We were privileged enough to also catch up with three other DJs ranked in the Top 100 DJs poll. Dannic, Borgore and Angerfist talk to us about what life is like being highly sought after following their recent rise to fame.

IZUAN SOBRI

izuan@djmagasean.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

WAN IZZATUR ASYRAF asyraf@djmagasean.com ADMIN EXECUTIVE

SHARIFAH MASTURA

mastura@djmagasean.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER

MIGZ DEL GALLEGO (PHILIPPINES) migz@djmagasean.com

SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE (MALAYSIA)

ERNEST NG

ernestng@djmagasean.com On the local front, our writers were able to talk to four promising DJs in the region. Read about Tom Taus, H3, LTN and Botcash in our ‘Best Of The Region’ section and gain an insight into how fast the industry is progressing on the ASEAN front.

It’s another month of insane Halloween parties and we’re happy to partner so many organizers across the region and bring more exposure to the scene here in Southeast Asia.

Look out for the big DJ logo at an event near you SOON!

CONTENT STRATEGIST

SHAHEILA AZMI

shaheila@djmagasean.com

MANAGERIAL CHAIRMAN

ISKANDAR OTHMAN CO-CHAIRMAN

YAM TENGKU SHAHRAIN DIRECTOR

NORAZILAWATI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

NICHOLAS DANIEL RAJ CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

KUMARAN GUNASAGARAN PUBLISHED BY REGAL GATES SDN BHD (1134948-D) A-22-13, MENARA UOA BANGSAR, NO.5 JALA N BANGSAR UTAMA 1, BANGSAR 59000, KL, MALA YSIA. PRINTED BY PERCETAKAN OSACAR SDN BHD LOT 11, JALAN 4/37 A TAMAN BUKIT MALURI, INDUSTRIAL AREA KEPONG, 52100 KUALA LUMPUR.

NICHOLAS DANIEL RAJ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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DISTRIBUTED BY MPH DISTRIBUTOR SDN BHD THE VIEWS EXPRESSED HEREIN ARE THOSE OF INDIVIDUALS AND NOT NECESSARILY SHARED BY DJ MAGAZINE

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[OCTOBER 2015 ]

CONTENTS 22

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FEATURES 22 Above & Beyond 60 Dynamic Dannic 62 Raise Your Fist !

HIGHLIGHTS 18 Halloween Horrors 78 Love Is All You Need 101 Tech Talk : Oliver Heldens

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56 70 40

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BEST OF THE REGION 30 32 34 36 38 46 48

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DJ Botcash DJ LTN DJ H3 DJ Tom Taus BEST OF THE FEST Lucy In The Sky Zero LimitsX Merdeka Madness

DJ MAG ASEAN RED 68 Fashion Trends: Fall Winter 2015

70 Main Man of SunBurn !

72 World’s Fastest Champagne Bar 74 The First Music Concept Car 76 OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

REGULARS 02 06 08 14 78 85 97

Editor’s Note Fresh From The Decks Quicktakes Fashion On The Floor Synced Tech

Apple X Hermes 5

QUOTES

DECK

FRESH FROM THE

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WE DON’T WRITE SONGS TO CHANGE THE WORLD, BUT IT’S LOVELY WHEN IT DOES END UP BEING PART OF LIFE CHANGING MOMENTS

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[ DANNIC ] YOU CAN’T JUST ADD A DROP BEFORE A BREAKDOWN AND OVERPOWER THE MELODIES OR RHYTHM, IT HAS TO BE THOUGHT-OUT AND FEEL HONEST – THAT IS WHEN THE QUALITY TUNES AND SETS EXPLODE! SEE PAGE 60

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[ BORGORE ] MY GIRL BACK THEN AND I BROKE UP, AND I HAD TO SOMEHOW BRING OUT MY EMOTIONS AND MUSIC WAS MY TOOL SEE PAGE 64

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[ ANGERFIST ] IT’S GOING TO BE BADASS AND WILL BE WORTH THE TRIP ASIA. SEE PAGE 62

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QUICKTAKE

SKRILLEX AND DEADMAU5 THROW HALLOWEEN PARTY HARD recently revealed the line-up to its annual Halloween concert, Day of the Dead, and it is loaded like the promoter has something to prove. The phenomenal line-up includes deadmau5, Hot Chip, NERO, Skrillex, Gesaffelstein (DJ set), Glass Animals, ASAP Ferg. Juicy J, Borgore, Destructo, Groove Armada, Jack Beats, Valentino Khan, Clatptone, Lee Foss, Chris Lake, and many more. This major event will be held at the Pomona Fairplex yet again, on October 31 and November 1. In an effort to enhance safety, the event will be strictly 21+ and will have a lower capacity of 40,000, from 65,000 before. #HARDDOTD15 Hard Day of the Dead at Fairplex, South California, www.harddayofthedead.com

TRICK OR TREATING WITH DUBVISION Dutch brothers Victor and Stephan Leicher are fast conquering the world of dance music as scintillating duo DubVision. With five Beatport Main Chart Top 10s, two Beatport Progressive House Chart #1s and a Beatport Electro Chart #1 to their name, they have marked themselves out as a serious force in EDM. This Halloween, you get to go ‘trick or treating’ with the boys at Jimmy’s, JW MARRIOTT Hotel Surabaya, Indonesia. Prepare for a banging night.

DubVision set to play at Jimmy’s

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

ADAMS FAMILY HOUSE PARTY This Halloween eve, October 30, The Addams family open their doors for their first ever house party at M8 Bar. Let Morticia and Gomez enthrall you with their antics, but beware of Wednesday Addams as she lurks about the bar’s darkest corners. KL party people can expect a night packed with amazing music, ghoulish waiters, ghastly décor, and tantalising cocktail potions from our award-winning mixologists. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in costume to support the night. No Cover Charge. Party starts from 5pm til you drop.

SKRILLEX ANNOUNCES HALLOWEEN AT PIER OF FEAR IN NEW YORK CITY Skrillex recently dropped a major announcement - he told the internet that he would be playing along side Marshmello, Sliink, Leikeli47, Jahlil beats and Vindata. This insane halloween party takes place at The Pier in NYC on October 31. He will play at HARD DOTD on the following day. Tickets are not on sale yet, but fans can sign up on the Pier Of Fear website: http://www.pieroffear.com/ skrillex

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

ZAC EFRON TAKES EDM Zac Efron is no high school musical kid anymore, in the new movie “We Are Your Friends” aka #WAYF. This time, Zac attempts to take over the ever-growing dance music festival scene.

The song that the film derives its name from is a nearly decade-old electro-house anthem by Justice vs. Simian. The movie scraped together an estimated $1.8 million in 2,333 theatres, making it one of the worst wide-release openings in box office history. #WAYF has received mixed reviews, but the marketing campaign for it was a success, as it caught the eyes of the public.

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QUICKTAKE

PORTER ROBINSON PARTNERS WITH HARAJUKU STREETWEAR LINE “Weirdly, we met through Vine, but I was already a fan of them. So in 2013, I was in Japan, and the clerk in the Shibuya 109 Galaxxxy location was wearing the same socks as me, so I made a short video which GALAXXXY saw and retweeted. My label in Japan, KSR, then reached out to them about a collaboration, and they sent designs right away”, explains the North Carolina born DJ. The streetwear line takes inspiration from a rich combination of Harajuku’s signature vibrant colors and the more Western long, drapey streetwear cuts. He designed a unisex hat, T-shirt, and sweatshirt—all of which feature references to his debut album, Worlds, and his interactive live show, which he debuted in Japan earlier this month. This merchandise line is super-kawaii that Robinson announced on twitter: “Unbelievable. The whole ‘worlds x galaxxxy’ collection sold out in like three hours. Thank you, guys.”

VINE LAUNCHES ‘MUSIC ON VINE’ Those obsessed with the six-second video sharing app are in for a treat! Vine has just announced the new addition ‘Music on Vine’ function, dedicated truly to artists and music lovers. The new “snap to beat” function will allow users to easily create “perfect” or “seamless” loops with their video posts, trimming videos to create “never-ending music loops” where they just play continuously without beginning or end. Explore the new Featured Tracks section, choose a song to add to your Vine, or check out what’s been added recently. There are also sound effects users can add to enhance their performances. Vine also recently partnered up with Billboard to incorporate the songs that are popular on the platform into the Billboard Social 50 chart.

Vine app announces new music functions, vine.co/music

THE NEW TINDER FOR DANCE MUSIC JUNKIES

We are all familiar with how Tinder works, and now there’s a new dating app dedicated to EDM lovers. Mix’d is the app that requires you to choose your favourite DJs and music , even pin-points what events you’re heading out to via your Facebook page. Similarly to Tinder, you can swipe left or right, but in this case you select your favourite DJs and artists to help connect with other like-minded music fans. For now, this brilliant app is only available is the US but we are super certain with high demand for dance music, this app will soon be available around the world. Au Revoir boring Tinder matches, Bonjour new rave buddies!

The latest dating app for EDM fans, www.mixdapp.com

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DAFT PUNK WILL RETURN AS ACTION FIGURES Did you catch Daft Punk’s ‘Get Lucky’ performance during the 2015 Grammys? Mediacom Toys have transformed the group into action figures resembling their all white suits at the Grammys. These action figures will be available in 2016 and will retail for roughly £100. Back in 2013, Daft Punk released another pair of action figures via Bandai and Japan’s SH Figuarts. Die hard fans can already pre-order online, so whatcha’ waiting for?

Daft Punk White Suits, www.amiami.com

PANASONIC GOES OLD SCHOOL After a petition to the musicians and DJ’s all over the world, Panasonic announced that they will re-introduce the Technics Turntables that was discontinued back in the early 2000’s. Panasonic’s executive producer Michiko Ogawa told WIRED that turntables are iconic for the Technics brand [and] it was important to show their sincere dedication [to that].

The turntable market is very small but it is a very important brand product. However, there are no further details on exactly what form the new vinyl player will take, or when it will be on the market. It will be approaching the UK soon, confessed Ogawa.

Panasonic Technic Turntables, shop.panasonic.com

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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QUICKTAKE

CREEPY COCKTAILS FORTUNATO’S FATE This ghostly drink is named after “The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe and it contains apple, assam boi, gin, lemon, Pernod, and egg white. Bold notes of liquorice, apple, and sour plum can be tasted in every sip.

Fortunato’s Fate – Ril’s Bangsar, Malaysia

SMOKIN TRICK ‘R TREAT This smoky beverage will blow you away, with a decent amount of Jim Beam and a kick of cherry, brown sugar and tabasco. After treating yourself to this drink, you will be down right in the Halloween party vibes, so be sure to sip on this special treat.

Smokin Trick ‘r Treat – Jimmy’s, Indonesia

MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH This orange drink is also named after an Edgar Allan Poe story. It contains rock melon, vanilla, tequila, orange blossom water, cream, and lemon juice. It has a touch of sweetness, with rock melon and tequila dominating the flavour with a soft vanilla/floral finish.

Masque of the Red Death – Ril’s Bangsar Malaysia

THE ZOMBIE This Halloween beverage is packed with lots of rum, absinthe grapefruit juice and pomegranate. A big surprise is waiting from this drink, so try it for a big Halloween trick this year.

The Zombie – Calavera, Malaysia

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

[INTERVIEW]

TERRANOVA

Terranova have been making waves in the industry for quite a while now. They are an electronic dance music duo based between Berlin and Paris made up of Fetisch and &ME. Fetisch first formed Terranova in 1996 as a project that at that point had various shifting members. After meeting and teaming up with Ghanian DJ &ME in 2007, the Terranova we know today was formed. DJ Mag ASEAN caught up with Fetisch to find out more about the duo.

Was there a specific DJ or Track that made you realise this was the industry for you?

It was a machine – the Roland 808.

What brought about the formation of Terranova and what inspired the name?

When I got a call from Munich Label Compost, who were about to press up a 12”, I said “we need a name for this project now or...” – I was on the way home from the record shop where I’d bought some Lee Perry re-releases (maybe it was Kung Fu meets the Dragon). On the back of the album was a text by a journalist something about turntable terranova – and I thought let’s use it. Lost the turntable after a while.

Having gotten your “education in clubs”, what do you think has been the biggest lesson you have learned thus far?

Do not let success fool you into thinking you are a 70’s rock star. Do

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

not let fear close your mind. Do not follow trends. You last longer without drugs. Greed is the root of all evil. Sleep can be good for you too.

Bigger things seem to be in store for you guys.What more do you guys have planned for the near future?

Through ‘Tell me Why’, the opening track on Restless, I reconnected with Stereo MC’s. We’d lost touch but when we hooked up late 2014 through the remix for ‘Good feeling’, 10 years seemed like 10 seconds. We have joined forces. Working on a new album together, and together with Kompakt to form a label to release new Stereo MC’s product, but I’m getting ahead of myself. That’s during the week – on weekends I play clubs.

What is your “never fail” track?

Love is the message.

If you could stage a rave anywhere in the world, where would it be and which track would you start it out with?

In Tokyo. I would play Literon‚ Machines and maybe some acapella bits of Underverse feat. Mandel Turner on top, going into Re.You‚ Nap and his remix for Tell Me Why. From there, then I’d get on the mike and say‚ Thank you Tokyo – the place where Shoko (my girlfriend), the love of my life was born

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FASHION

FREAKY FASHION

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ll Saints’ Eve is popularly known as Halloween and is identic to trick or treating. For others, it’s that one time of the year where you can dress up as whatever you want -- without being judged. Halloween costumes have evolved in many ways, with fashion and pop culture playing a major role. Today, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to ‘what to wear’ for a Halloween party.

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FOR HER

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1. ASOS Frankenstein Halloween Bodycon Dress with High Neck in Scuba,$35, www.asos.com m 2. Balmain Fringed Leather Jacket in Black,$4214.60, www.ekseption.com 3. Sergio Rossi Matrix stretch boots,$1460, www.sergiorossi.com 4. Alexander McQueen Skull-print silk scarf,$295, www.matchesfashion.com 5.Nightmare Before Christmas Group Girls T-shirt,$22.50, www.hottopic.com

D JD M J AMGA G A SAESAENA N / S/ EO PC T ET M OBER 2015

COLLECTION 4 2 1

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A UC G O TO U SB TE R2 02 1051 5/ /D JD JM M AG A GA SAESAE N AN

1. True Religion Gold Skull Jersey T-Shirt, $82, www.nordstorm.com 2. Alexander McQueen Silver Skull Necklace, $274, www.lyst.com 3. Ted Baker London Trim Fit Micro Stripe Dress Shirt in Black,$103, www.tedbaker.com 4. The Tie Bar Silk Skull and Crossbones Tie, $20, www.thetiebar.com 5. Converse Jack Purcell in Black Leather, S89, www.converse.com

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FASHION

FA SHION NE WS!

KATE & CARA TOGETHER FOR MANGO We all loved Burberry’s Fall 2014 campaign which starred two of our favourite British babes, and now Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne are together again. This time for Mango’s Fall 2015 campaign.

The campaign practices the hashtag #Somethingincommon as the slogan, and features the supermodels in 1970s inspired fashion trends which was photographed by Inez & Vinoodh. Cara and Kate rock everything from military-inspired jackets, flared denim, cropped vests to cool ponchos and suede in the images. It is absolutely no shock that the Spanish high street label chose the 41-year-old Moss and 22-year-old Delevingne for this power collaboration. The fashion industry certainly can’t get enough of these two. shop.mango.com

TIMBERLAND GOES RED Fall is around the corner, so ditch the flip flops because Timberland has launched the new Red Mono under its timeless 6’’ boots collection.

As the months get colder, your feet will thank you for its red waterproof nubuck leather and a heavy duty gum outsole, equipped with Anti-Fatigue technology – suitable for any unpredicted weather conditions

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COMEDIAN JOINS FOOTBALL LEGEND IN H&M NEW CAMPAIGN For the new H&M campaign, former Manchester United midfielder David Beckham has teamed up with actor and comedian Kevin Hart to show us a laidback look from the world of Beckham himself.

In the campaign, for the new Modern Essentials selected by David Beckham autumn 2015 collection, Hart plays a method actor preparing to take on the role of Beckham. This is Beckham’s very own picks for his essentials that a man needs each season. It will be available in our favourite H&M stores that sell menswear from the beginning of October. Guys, take note! www.hm.com

D JD M J AMGA G A SAESAENA N / S/ EO PC T ET M OBER 2015

AUGUST 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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ISSUE FEatUrE

HaLLOWEEN

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ctober doesn’t bring as much “pumpkin spiced latte” excitement here in Asia as it does in some other parts of the world, but we do enjoy hints of Halloween creeping up on us. From cob webs on store windows to impending horror movie marathons, it seems to be a season some of us look forward to. But is it also that time of the year where Halloween events start rearing up and flashing ghoulish signs all over town. Clubs and bars around town are prepping for a ghastly night.

Halloween season is also that time of the year where your rave wear becomes costumes and crazy outfits. And if you’re wondering where to go to party your socks off this year, we’ve got the scoop for you. Prepare yourself for a month of grueling hangovers, as October is set to take off with Halloween parties you don’t want to miss.

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

If you’re in Indonesia, then we’ve got just the party for you. Be sure to get your trick or treating game face on for Jimmy’s at JW Marriot Hotel Surabaya - a Halloween party you won’t forget. ‘Trick or Treat with DubVision’ is this year treat for patrons at Jimmy’s. Dutch brothers Victor and Stephan Leicher will be bringing the roof down as they blast progressive house beats through the night. Be sure to be dressed in your Halloween best, and just maybe the DubVision boys may spot you in the crowd. Jimmy’s will also be serving up their Halloween special cocktail, the “Smooking trick’r treat” that will definitely be a crowd favorite because who wouldn’t want a smokin drink!

For all you ghost and ghouls in Vietnam, we suggest you hit up the Escape Festival for your ultimate Halloween experience.

Although the Escape festival takes place on the 24th, they’re prepped to give you a pre-Halloween festival experience like

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

never before. Escape is set to be one of Vietnam’s largest EDM festivals that will take you on a bassy and rhythmic journey all night long. The folks behind the festival are gearing up to throw a vibrant party with color hoses, powders and color painting. It’s sure to be a hit, especially with headlines such as Dannic, Sick Individuals and Infected Mushroom.

So we suggest you cop your tickets and escape the grey this Halloween season with Escape Music Festival.

Cambodia, we suggest you gear up in your Halloween best to hit up Pontoon for an entertaining escape from the real world.

Known for throwing some of the biggest and best parties in town, Pontoon is never one to disappoint with their endless energy and electric parties. Be sure you mark your calendars and keep close tabs on Pontoon this October, for the best creepy clubbing experience.

Malaysia, it’s time to get your spook on at Rootz as they present A Malaysian Horror Story. Not ones to shy away from ghost stories and urban legends, Malaysia is the perfect place for a notorious night on the town. Rootz Kuala Lumpur will be transformed into a Malaysian horror house with exhilarating scares up their sleeves.

Guests can expect a Halloween night with a more local approach instead of the usual generic Halloween parties. Rootz resident DJs, Mixing in Action (MIA) will be helming the decks as they spook you into a Halloween night you won’t forget.

Ghosts and ghouls in Manila, Philippines prepare yourselves as the city turns black this October 9th for the Electro Freak Show. The folks at Rocketship Entertainment will take you on an adventure with fire dancers, stilt walkers, mimes, contortionists, fortune tellers and more as they ring in Halloween season with

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their spellbinding ways. With 10 talented DJs and Producers spinning captivating beats, it is sure to be the freakiest Electro Show in town. So bring your souls and leave your minds for a spooktacular Halloween event in Manila at Circuit Makati!

And Party people in Thailand, get your Halloween gear on for a pre-Halloween treat by the folks at Levels. On October 29, Levels and EPIC Entertainment present FELGUK’s Thailand debut as the electro house DJs get you excited to end your October. It’s never too soon to don your Halloween costumes, so suit up and throw down for an electric party at Levels, Bangkok!

Folks in Singapore we hope you’re getting yourselves prepped for Halloween because

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it’s sooner than you think. We know you guys are getting excited about ZoukOut in December but don’t forget about the Halloween parties that will be hitting your town this month. We suggest you paint the town blood red this Halloween as you hit up FREQ’ender, Singapore’s first and only music festival freak show. Also, we suggest you be on the lookout for local hotspots such as Zouk and Attica who will be throwing some massive Halloween themed parties. Keep glued to their social media sites for all the latest updates. So be sure you get your ghastly-self ready for a Singaporean Halloween weekend like no other. And if all else fails, just drag yourself over to Universal Studios for a scream of a time!

Join the madness this October and get your Halloween gear ready for you’re

about to end your month on a spooky note with all these electrifying parties! Be sure to keep on the lookout for all the latest and spookiest Halloween deets with us as we keep you up to date with the terrifying thrills this Halloween.

D JD JM M AG A GA SAESAE N A N/ /O C AU TO GB U ES R T 2015

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JUNE 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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STAND THE TEST OF TIME

COVER STORY

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here seems to be no need for an introduction to this game-changing and ever evolving band that has sold out shows the world over. Their legion of fans can just about testify to the dance music mammoth that is Above & Beyond. It comes as no surprise that the trio, Jonathan Grant, Tony McGuinness and Paavo Siljamaki, are soaring well above and beyond the realms of dance music to deliver just what their fans need to hear.

What started out as a chance meeting at the University of Westminster, Grant and Siljamaki bonded over their love for electronic dance music. It wasn’t long after they started writing music together that Anjunabeats was born in the summer of 1999 with the release of “Volume One”.

The record label started out on the idea of releasing their own music, which in turn drove them to release music under different aliases mostly, “Dirt Devils” and “Free State”. With the success of “Volume One”, which caught the attention of industry big guns such as Pete Tong, Paul Van Dyke and Paul Oakenfold, Marketing Director & Manager of Warner Music Group, Tony McGuinness took notice. Once McGuinness jumped on board, Above & Beyond was born.

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COVER STORY

The early 2000’s were building blocks for Above & Beyond as the trio started establishing themselves in the industry. Reputable trance labels proceeded to approach Above & Beyond to request remixes on tracks like Aurora’s Ordinary World, Fragma’s Everytime You Need Me, Adamski’s In the City and various others.

Their skilled capabilities were soon recognized across the dance music scene in United Kingdom. Being one of the most in demand remixers in the industry at such an early point of their careers served as a solid foundation to them later becoming UK’s leading vocal trance remixers. It was only fitting then that trio started to become remixers to the stars such as Madonna, Delerium, Dido and many other notable artists. The band made their production debut in 2001 when they formed OceanLab with fellow artist Justine Suissa with the track “Clear Blue Water”. OceanLab went on to push out various other singles but was recently disbanded as Tony, Jono and Paavo believe Justine now belongs under the Above & Beyond name. The British band’s debut single was churned out one year later in 2001 - “Far From Love” was a vocally driven trance anthem featuring Kate Cameron.

Above & Beyond hit the jackpot with their single “No One On Earth”, which featured vocals by the famed Zoë Johnston, and was voted as Tune of the Year in 2004 on Armin Van Buuren’s trance radio show “A State of Trance”. The track catapulted the band into the eye of the industry, as their tunes and beats started gaining the recognition they duly deserved. That very year, the trio debuted at a whopping #39 on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJ Poll sans any publicity or campaigns. It was evident then that Above & Beyond was starting to make waves beyond their country’s shores, and raking in fans the world over.

2006 was the year the trio made the leap and released their debut album, “Tri-State” that debuted to rave reviews, with various publications and industry A-listers singing the album praise. The release of their debut album launched them high up into the ranks with a solid spot of #9 on the DJ Mag Top 100 rank.

The Tri-State era saw the group win Best Underground Trance Music Track and Tune of the Year for 2005, and nominations for various other awards. The tracks on their Tri-State album made their rounds on radio shows and podcasts all around the world, earning them high seating on charts in different countries and regions the world over. In 2007, Above & Beyond played their biggest show recorded, with over a million people in attendance at Barra Beach Rio De Janeiro. It was then that the band was cemented as one of dance music’s biggest exports.

After months of writing, refining and perfecting, 2010 brought about the British trios most acclaimed album, Group Therapy, which was released and almost immediately hit #1 on the iTunes Dance Music Album charts. The album was well received by just about everyone and it became apparent that the trio made

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“WHEN YOU SEE SOMEBODY PUSHING THE BUTTON AND HOW BIG OF A DEAL IT IS TO PEOPLE, IT SORT OF BRINGS IT HOME FOR US AS WELL.”

music that people wanted to hear. All the songs were written and produced by Jono, Tony and Paavo themselves with male vocals being sung by Richard Bedford and female vocals by Zoe Johnston. In 2014, the band did what no other dance music artist would do and started turning their tracks into acoustic hits. Above & Beyond started moving in a direction that was almost foreign to dance music artists. Unsurprisingly their acoustic shows received rave reviews as the trio played sold out shows in London and Los Angeles.

Late last year, Above & Beyond announced their third album, We Are All We Need would be released on the January 19th, 2015. Paavo noted that the album was “like a complete natural continuum from Group Therapy” but fans already knew that as they flocked shows the world over for the “We Are All We Need” Tour. The band is like a phenomenon in the music industry, as they have managed to do what most musicians, let alone DJs, seek to accomplish. They make genuine connections with their fans, as they produce music that resonates with people the world over.

It comes as no surprise that they’ve become a cult success and

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

where fans are welcomed on stage to press the play button on their CDJs where Paavo notes “I think like so many things with music, and life and in shows are accidentals things can be the best thing that could happen to you. It never meant to become what it has become. And now three years in, we haven’t not done it in a show. And it’s become something that’s so nice. If we do like 160 shows this year, it could be easy to take it for granted that we’re in front of all these people that have come to be a part of this night. But when you see somebody pushing the button and how big of a deal it is to people, it sort of brings it home for us as well. How fortunate we are to be in that situation, at least it’s a nice sort of reminder everyday about how cool it is that we get to do it.”

Their dedication and willingness to share their emotions and music have most definitely paid off but these three men have remained so down to earth and humble through their experiences.

Paavo, Jono and Tony continue to break barriers in the dance music scene, and are eager to continue churning out those uplifting and uniting tracks. DJ Mag ASEAN had the opportunity to catch up with Paavo Siljamaki and Jono Grant during their Kuala Lumpur leg of the “We Are All We Are” Tour, and we discovered how their music has come to grip fans and build connections.

although it didn’t come easy, they have made a mark in music history and in the hearts of their legion of fans. Their emotive tracks pull at heart strings as they form real human connections with fans who sing along at shows and religiously tune in to their Group Therapy radio shows (which just successfully celebrated its 150th episode with millions tuning in). In our interview, Paavo and Jono make it ever so clear that they do what they do because of their fans and how evident it is that their music centers around the heart, of all things.

With 15 years under their belts, Above & Beyond have become a movement, that produce alluring and ear cradling tracks about love, loss and life journeys. Their tracks have been embedded in the lives of millions who walk down aisles, who go through loss or illnesses; some even remain immortal as they’re inked onto bodies. Their global touring and digital media keeps them as connected as ever to their international fan base, noting that their fans “give our music purpose.” Their packed shows somehow still manage to remain intimate and allow the crowd to be part of their experience. The “Push The Button” moment is one in particular

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

You’re in the midst of your “We Are All We Need” Tour. How has it been so far? Are you guys enjoying yourselves or has it been tiring?

Jono: It’s been both of those things really. You know in America, we’ve built quite a reputation there now so that was fantastic. This time we’ve been doing a lot of festivals, and some great Ibiza gigs. And now we’re over here, it’s been just great.

The response is amazing, every time we release a new album, it takes time for the songs to get known and embedded but I feel like that period of time is getting shorter and shorter because of the internet and because we have more fans that we did before. People know songs when they come to the gigs even earlier than they did our other album.

Paavo: And it took us a long time to write the album, so we’ve been hearing these songs for quite a long time. So it’s great for us to finally be able to play these tracks and see and hear what people think of them.

Where did the inspiration for “We Are All We Need” come from? Are you talking about yourselves and your fan base?

Paavo: You know the track that Zoe wrote with us for the album, that’s really where the name came from. When we were looking at what we would call

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COVER STORY

“IT STARTED FROM WANTING TO DO MUSIC, BECAUSE WE ENJOY DOING MUSIC BUT THEN THE FANS GAVE US THAT PURPOSE TO CONTINUE DOING IT” the album, I can’t remember who thought of it but it was one of those moments where we were like hang on, we’ve got this track called “We Are All We Need”.

Jono: I think Tony.

Paavo: It sort of felt then like a complete natural continuum from Group Therapy that we’d done. And Group Therapy is now the name of our radio show, and We Are All We Need sort of in the same way that GT came and felt like it just fitted. It’s like the perfect thing to explain what it is that we are, what we do and what the whole thing is really about. Because we are all we need as individuals. I really don’t think that we could do this alone. Together we’re all much stronger, when we do things together.

Jono: We had about five or six possible titles for the album and everyone was like, that’s the one. That’s what we’re going to call it. It’s good when you get that feeling. Sometimes you have decisions that are obviously difficult to make and everyone has their own opinions, but with that it just fitted and seemed right.

It all started in early 2000, and this year marks 15 years in the industry. How do you think you guys have evolved since then?

Paavo: When we got into it, we were sort of right at the back of a big almost bubble of Trance music in the UK around 98’, 99’, 2000. Those sorts of records were charting really high

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on the charts and it was almost part of the mainstream. It had become so big in the underground that it was almost mainstream. Then the next five years, it sort of went back underground and a lot of the major labels that were doing that kind of music, they sort of pulled out of it. And the internet came along and they didn’t know how to react to it. Whereas we were at that point very small, but we started our whole operation with the internet and digital distribution of music in mind and everything. So now looking back at the 15 years, although we were almost frustrated at the start, all these other tracks were getting all this glory and success and ours wasn’t. Maybe we were doing 2000 vinyl, but then little by little the thing’s been growing. It’s taken us a long time but it’s become very real. We have a lot of real relationships with people we’ve met over the years. And also between us, we know each other much better now than we did back then. In the 15 years, electronic dance music has really grown with the internet and places like America getting mentioned so much but they’ve really come on board with dance music. But it’s also nice going to other places and seeing that it’s not only America, it’s South America, it’s Europe, it’s India, it’s Malaysia, it’s Japan and it’s like wherever the internet is the music is. I think it’s a good thing.

Jono: I think the core of what you do doesn’t change but the techniques and the technology change over time. The kind of

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

ideas you have musically, for me at least, you’re influenced by the things around you at the time but at the same time you’re influenced a lot by your upbringing and what you heard when you were growing up, so it’s a combination of those two things really.

You have said in countless interviews that your primary focus is to write and produce songs with a purpose. And it has become so evident that your tracks have since created emotional ties with the listeners. How does it feel to know that something that was once so personal to you guys, now resonates with millions of people?

Jono: The thing for me is really when you boil it down, it just shows the power of people. Yes, we write these songs, but in my opinion, if it wasn’t our song, it would have been someone else’s song or something else that would have come into their life that they found gave them motivation or got them through whatever it is they’re going through. Really, it just shows how powerful and resilient people are. When we write the songs, we don’t write them with the intention to change the world or these sorts of things but at the same time it’s lovely when it does end up being a part of changing someone’s life. It’s quite unintentional, I might say.

Paavo: But seeing for example Tony, when he was writing “Thing Called Love” and Zoe writing songs like “Love Is Not Enough” that I was thinking how these people have the courage to write something about actual things that happened, in such a literal way. I always thought that those kind of things are best kept kind of private, especially since we’re working in a public forum.

Jono: Most of the great songs are written in that way.

Paavo: Yeah. And it’s that bravery that I’ve really come to appreciate, and that’s what really resonates with people as well. When it’s honest and real, and I’m really glad that we’ve had songs like that. And the same thing happens with “We Are All We Need”.

Jono: I think there is a lot of, when people are listening, they go “Oh! They feel that too.”

Your songs encompass a spectrum of emotions, rather than just the “Friday Night Hit”. You are with your fans through various journeys of their lives. Do your fans play as big of a role in your lives as you do in theirs?

Jono: I’d say definitely, because as you go and when you start doing music, you make music for you and it’s all very nice and you get a lot of pleasure from it. And at the same time, you take things further and when music is released to the public, it then has a life of its own. Actually, like we were saying, there was one girl in New York who survived cancer, and she’s a massive Above & Beyond fan, and she claims the music and the relationship she has with us on Twitter and stuff helped her get through this, and that was really, really touching. The point I’m making is that it actually gives our music purpose.

It started from wanting to do music, because we enjoy doing music but then the fans gave us that purpose to continue doing it. It’s almost like we then have a sense of duty to deliver or something. That’s a really wonderful thing, because we could just be making music for ourselves still, and that would be

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

okay, but it’s nothing like when you get to share it with people and they enjoy and you get that feedback. So yeah, it’s really important Following up on that, are the fans the reason you keep making music?

Paavo: Well it’s become almost like a snowball effect, I think.

Because obviously the fans enable us to tour and touring has become a really big part of our personal lives because we spend a big part of every year traveling around the world. But it’s become one of those things for us, that if we don’t tour, I at least get a bit itchy. I can do a couple of weeks at home but I sort of feel like I want to go back out again. And people sort of enable that for us, so they’ve become sort of an essential ingredient in our whole operation. We couldn’t do this without our fans, it’s not possible.

Jono: Yeah me too! Definitely for me, what keeps me engaged is the challenges, the industry changes, the music changes.

Although I think we try to listen to what else is going on, but also try to be on our own terms, in terms of deciding what we want to do musically. But making every track is a challenge for us. It’s not like we do it in our sleep. Creativity is painful, it’s a challenging process. It’s not like doing the dishes; you can do it again and again. Sometimes we’re in the studio and not much comes out and another day you write a great track. It’s that challenge that keeps me engaged, as well as like Paavo said, that we fortunately have an audience who consume and enjoy our work.

We understand that all the tracks that go into your albums are written by you guys and are based on personal journeys.

Does it ever take a toll on you sharing so much with your fans?

Jono: Yeah. I mean like I said creativity is painful generally.

Because you’re facing inner demons in a sense as well, sometimes with it, whether you’re writing music or lyrics. I think it is quite exhausting, after every album we do, everyone gets a bit tired and exhausted, I don’t know what it is that happens but maybe it’s just the actual work. But I think it’s beyond that. I think it’s an emotional thing when you put so much in a body of work and it’s really important to you.

Paavo: But I think there’s like a huge payback as well. Like what I’ve seen this year more than any other year, is when difficult things happen in our lives and people come back and support.

That’s a really humbling thing to experience, that yes, maybe we might have helped other people, but other people help us as well.

Jono: It’s like a community. I was chatting with (Illan) Bluestones’ mum the other day, and she was just saying how the Anjunabeats family is really like a family to her, and she’s a mum so she would know. The generosity with people emotionally is huge. It’s an amazing thing. It’s touching really.

Going back to what you were saying about putting your emotions into a track or album and how it can be emotionally exhausting. Has it ever been difficult for you to listen to a track because of its emotional ties?

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COVER STORY

Paavo: Well, for me there was a track called “Little Something” on the album that was written from a really personal point of view. That’s how it started; every song means different things to different people but for me that’s really about me not being there as much I might have wanted to as a father to two children. Its core is emotion, and still to this day it feels a bit strange hearing that track playing in a club. Because it’s about that, it’s what I’m doing.

Jono: But when the track came out, it was so much later when you (Paavo) weren’t feeling that way anymore, which is interesting. But I think for me its interesting coz I can accept emotionally the music but when there’s something wrong with the track that we could have done better, that’s what I find more painful rather than taking me back to the emotional state. I can kind of accept the emotional part and be zen with it and go with it. In the end, there are some music that are sad or remind me of the state of mind when it was written but at the same time, funnily enough, it’s the technical stuff that really irritates me and causes more pain when I hear it back and “I wish I had turned that up a bit”, you know.

Paavo: Yeah, that was the case with my “Little Something”. I might have learned something, and thought about it in a different light. The same thing is with production, because we’re learning all the time. We can hear what’s wrong with things.

Jono: It’s very irritating. But I think it’s not because I don’t value the emotional side. What it is for me is that I just accept that stuff happens. If you do go back to that space, it’s not necessarily a bad thing because it happened and there’s nothing you can do to change it but whereas turning something up, I feel like that was something I can change.

And finally, what started out as a name you picked from a paper on a wall, Above & Beyond can’t quite be imagined as anything else at this point. Being that it is exactly what you guys have done, in 15 years, do you think you’ve chosen the right name, and would you want to change it?

Jono: It’s funny because when we first got the name, what had happened was I typed my own name into a search engine, that probably doesn’t exist anymore and I printed out this page of

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this guy who is a motivational speaker in America called John Grant, and Tony came up with the name because he saw it on my wall. And I found it very funny. But for me I didn’t like the name at first, it sounded a bit cheesy, sounded a bit generic and didn’t have any values to it at the time. And now we’ve filled it with values, and because it’s become this thing that has toured the world, now I really like the name. It’s interesting how an established name to some degree is a good thing as well. When people attach values to it from things that you’ve done, from songs and gigs that you’ve done, things that you’ve said - suddenly that name has a lot more weight. That’s my view of Above & Beyond. I would have chosen a different name but looking back we didn’t decide to start this thing that we started. We just kind of did it and “Oh that will do”. At the time it was a really heavily considered thing. We didn’t know how long we’d be doing it for or where it would lead us. I’m really happy with the name now, But at that time, it wasn’t my favourite choice of name.

Paavo: It’s almost come to mean much more than it did at the start. It’s more perfect than I could have ever imagined, now that I look back. I really wouldn’t change it. Now it feels like the best name ever. Didn’t feel like that at the start for sure.

It was the end of the interview that reiterated how invested the trio are to their global fan base, as Paavo’s parting words hit home for fellow Malaysians who’s dance music scene is shrouded by a dark cloud of drug deaths, cancellations and taboo.

Paavo had this to say - “Especially the KL Party people, we know difficult things have happened in the country. We hope that people can learn, and take something positive from the difficulties that everybody’s gone through because it’s possible to have a great time together and look after each other in a good way so that nobody needs to set back on having fun, so we can all enjoy the music and the time we have together.”

We can only hope that his words resonate with dance music fans the world over.

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

BEST OF THE REGION [ PHILIPINES] TOM TAUS [ INDONESIA ] LTN

[ THAILAND ] BOTCASH

[ MALAYSIA ] H3

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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BEST OF THE REGION

THAILAND

BOTCASH 30

BOTCASH IS MOST DEFINITELY STARTING TO MAKE WAVES IN THE DANCE MUSIC INDUSTRY. HE DELVED INTO MUSIC AT A YOUNG AGE, AND AFTER HIS BAND BROKE UP, HIS PASSION FOR DJING BLOOMED. BOTCASH HAS NOW BEEN SIGNED TO A NEW MANAGEMENT AND SEEMS TO BE GOING ONWARDS AND UPWARDS AS HE ATTEMPTS TO PUT THAILAND ON THE GLOBAL DANCE MUSIC MAP.

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

got serious two years ago. Many people started listening to electronic music. Many festivals were introduced to Thailand.

Some even originated in Thailand. There are many new producers here as well. And I think MACHINA is one of the best among them, having his own style. LAZERFACE records is the first pure Electronic music records in Thailand. They are trying to make one big project of discovering many talented DJs/Producers and trying to bring them up from the underground.

The company is trying to expand the love of electronic music to the locals around Thailand, not just in Bangkok metropolis.

Hi there! Tell us about your journey towards becoming a DJ. When did you realize you wanted to pursue DJing?

My journey started when I was very young, I think. I grew up with oldies. My dad always played keyboard and sang Elvis Presley songs for me and my sister. I started playing classical piano when I was ten. When I was thirteen my dad bought me a Black Sabbath cassette and that was the first time music made chemistry in my brain and changed my life. I started playing electric guitar seriously and formed a band. Eight years later, my band broke up. I started going to clubs and was amazed to see hundreds of people dancing and jumping to songs they didn’t even know, all night. That’s the second time music changed my life and made me start DJing. A few months later, I wanted to play my own music and that’s how I started producing.

Was there a specific track or DJ that made you realize this was the industry for you?

I must say The Omen from The Prodigy.

It’s the first electronic song that made me want to dance my butt off.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has yet to hear it?

S ECPTTOEBMEBRE 2 O R 021 0 5 1 /5 D/ JD M J AMGA G A SAESAENA N

Even though I’m producing electronic songs, I want them to sound more musical and touching. I want my music to tell a story, not just waiting for the “ one two three” part to jump. So I use my keyboard to record my sounds live as much as possible. Sometimes, you can feel it much better with the grooves and rhythms.

Tell us the story behind your stage name, Botcash?

BOTCASH actually came from the word “broadcast” because I want to broadcast my music around the world. I changed the word to BOTCASH so it’s catchy and feels more like a name.

You’ve been in the industry for a few years now, what have your achievements been thus far?

My achievements so far would be leading the band BOOM BOOM CASH (the first live EDM band in Thailand) and co-producing hits with JOEYBOY (the number one rapper in Thailand and one of the Voice Thailand’s coaches of all three seasons). But the highest achievement would be doing what I love for a living.

What do you think of the dance music scene in Thailand?

In my opinion, dance music in Thailand just

What have you been working on for the last year? Are there any new projects or tracks coming our way?

I always explore new music genres. Future House is my latest. I’m working hard preparing lots of tracks right now and waiting for a proper release. For now, you can check out my music on soundcloud ( soundcloud.com/botcash). You can also keep up with me on Facebook (facebook. com/botcashofficial).

We heard you were recently signed to a new management; tell us what that has in store for you?

I just signed with Charlie Cult (an international artist manager and agency).

We are preparing new productions to be released in European and American markets. Something amazing is about to happen.

Tell us about your most memorable show?

My most memorable show is playing support for Martin Garrix in Bangkok.

There were more than 10,000 people.

It was the first time I decided to play music that I produced. I put them in more than a half of my set, and their reaction was amazing. Seeing them jumping and screaming for me was unforgettable. I had lots of new fans that night.

Since October is the month of Halloween, we’d like to know what your biggest fear is?

My biggest fear is flying cockroaches and being deaf. I can’t live a single day without music. I love Beethoven but I might not be able to write songs half as good as his, with my ears not working

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BEST OF THE REGION

[VIETNAM]

LOUIS TAN A.K.A DJ LTN IS PUTTING INDONESIA’S DANCE MUSIC SCENE ON THE MAP. AFTER BECOMING DASH BERLIN’S BREAKTHROUGH DJ/PRODUCER IN 2012, DJ LTN WAS PROPELLED TO INTERNATIONAL STARDOM, CREATING HITS WITH THE LIKES OF ALEXANDER POPOV AND MORE. IT IS NO DOUBT THAT LOUIS IS RANKING CHARTS AND TAKING NAMES. DJ MAG ASEAN CAUGHT UP WITH THIS JAKARTA-BORN DJ TO TALK ABOUT HIS JOURNEY IN THE INDUSTRY.

INDONESIA

DJ LTN

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

Hi there! Tell us about your journey towards becoming a DJ? Was there a specific DJ or track that made you realize this was the industry for you?

It all started when I was 16 years old and I bought a Robert Miles vinyl. His music and melody really inspired me, and since I really love music so much and it’s my passion, I really wanted to share my passion with the world through my production. That’s when I decided to concentrate on my career as a DJ/Producer. During that time, Tiesto, Above and Beyond, and PVD were my biggest influences on the scene.

How would you describe your sound?

My sound currently ranges from deep house to uplifting trance. My sunrise remix is quite on demand at this stage as I try to combine the deep house sound with some trance elements. On the progressive side, I always do my best to create an emotional breakdown as it’s really important for me that the music has its own meaning. Sometimes I also produce some big room sound which is quite popular at the moment and also some uplifting. It all depends on my mood.

You have an impressive track record in the industry. What have been your biggest achievements thus far?

So far, my biggest achievement is my compilation which came out last month.

It’s called “From The Record Bag: Jakarta”, which hit number one on the Beatport Top 100 Trance Releases.

And also my single collaboration “Paradise” with my great friend Alexander Popov featuring the powerful voice of Christina Novelli. It featured on Armin Van Buuren 2015 ASOT Ibiza Ushuaia compilation, which is out already. The single itself will be out on October 2nd on Armin Recording - Armada.

You were Dash Berlin’s Breakthrough DJ/Producer in 2012. What did that feel like, and how has that propelled you in the industry?

I was honestly very surprised at that time.

I really didn’t expect that but I was really honoured and humbled. It really boosted my career as more people started to recognize my production.

Talk to us about your tracks, ‘Never Let Me Go’, ‘Daylight’, ‘City of Lights’ and the others. What influences or inspires these tracks?

‘Never Let Me Go’ sounds like a melodic vocal trance, an instrumental idea that came from one of my favourite tracks all of time from Cosmic Gate, ‘This Moment’.

On the other hand, ‘Daylight’ and ‘City of Lights’ are both more into the club peak hour style. There were many great tracks out there from great producers which influenced me to produce both tunes. My latest single is ‘Outside The Lines’ featuring the beautiful voice of Adara. I made two versions of this tune, the Original Mix which is more of a club anthem, and the Sunrise Remix, which plays to a more calm and moody atmosphere. DJs can choose

either one of them to suit their set.

You have been in the industry for quite a while now. How do you think you have evolved since you first started out?

It’s been a long journey for me. You can hear my first production which sounds very simple, the mixing still really amateur, but I did spend a lot of time in the studio to improve my sounds and at the moment I am very happy with the results, but there is still so much to learn as there are so many great producers out there. Experience is the most important key during the process of improving sounds.

What’s your take on Asia’s electronic music scene and its fans?

In my opinion, Electronic music is starting to become a big hit in Asia. The young generation nowadays appreciate the music more than ever before.

October is Halloween month. What would be your go to Halloween track?

Hmmm, I think there will be a release but I can’t say yet! Thanks so much for having me.

What brought about the idea to start your podcast, Above The Sky? The idea behind the Podcast “Above The Sky” is more like a journey. It starts from deep house up to progressive trance and even sometimes uplifting stuff, depending on the selection of demos I receive during that time. I want the listeners to feel the flow of my mix, as my podcast is more into melodic kind of sounds.

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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BEST OF THE REGION INDONESIA

MALAYSIA

H3 34

H3 IS NO NEWCOMER TO THE DANCE MUSIC SCENE IN MALAYSIA. HE HAS CONQUERED CLUB CIRCUITS WITH HIS BASSY HITS, GARNERING A WAVE OF NEW FANS AT EVERY SHOW. SINCE HIS DEBUT IN 2009, H3 HAS SET HIMSELF APART WITH DYNAMIC AND ENERGETIC SHOWS SETS TO WORK HIS WAY TO THE TOP OF THE CHARTS. WITH HIS ALBUM, STVRGATE’S IMPENDING RELEASE, DJ MAG ASEAN TOOK A PEAK INTO WHAT H3 HAS IN STORE FOR US.

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

EP “Break Up Sucks, Cuddles Are Better”. Tell us more about it. What’s the story behind the tracks?

‘Break Ups Suck, Cuddles Are Better’ was a pet project I worked on while my album ‘STVRGATE’ was in final stages of production and packaging. I was coping with a very difficult personal issue in my life and I decided to use my creative input as therapy and release, for what was going on at the time. And ‘Childish’ is actually the third and finally ‘chapter’ in this EP where everything comes full circle. The “Happy Ending”, I guess. Haha!

Tell us a bit about your journey towards becoming a DJ. Hey DJ Mag! Ok well I started out hosting monthly underground parties in various locations starting from the garage of my parents’ house, to Pool Cabana’s and then even an abandoned factory lot. At one of the parties, the DJ Duo ‘Mixing In Action’ showed up and was impressed by what I had to offer and gave me my first gig. That was 6 years ago and it’s been a rollercoaster ever since.

Was there a specific DJ, artist or track that made you realize this was the industry for you?

Yes definitely. French Electro Duo; Justice’s ‘Cross’ Album totally changed the way I felt, not only about music but electronic performances and showmanship in general. They paved the way for stylizing the art of DJing.

How would you describe your sound?

To be honest my sound is ever evolving. I’ve produced chart topping (Hitz.FM MET10 & Androids Top30) and International Blog featured tracks of different genres including Moombahton, Dubstep, Trap and Future Bass. But I think the one constant in my sound is I try my best to include as many Local sounds to my production such as the gamelan samples in my track with Arabyrd entitled ‘Kek’ or the local chant samples in my tune “Why Can’t You Say So”.

Talk to us about your upcoming album STVRGATE. What can we expect to hear?

STVRGATE is my attempt to bridge the gap between underground ‘Future Bass’ genres and Commercial Radio Friendly music. I’ve collaborated with many artists on this album spanning the globe; from New York, Korea and of course our local talent such as Nemo, Arabyrd, the HOAX Collective and Meliha Faisal.

You’ve also recently released “Childish” as part of your 3 Track

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

We hear you will be spinning at It’s the Ship this year and also hosting a “H3 on 3” Basketball challenge. Tell us more about it. Are you excited to be on board?

Yes! This will be my 2nd year performing on It’s The Ship and also hosting the “H3 on 3” Basketball Challenge! Last year was an absolutely amazing experience, to be able to not only perform in front of your fans, friends and respected artists, but also to live amongst them for 4 days, 3 nights. It’s almost like Summer Camp but a lot more hyped. Haha!

The H3 on 3 Basketball Challenge was something we came up with to allow the artists and party goers to mingle and get acquainted with one another. When planning out the Challenge, we expected maybe 3 or 4 teams to show up but when we started, we had almost 20 teams! We felt pretty bad having to select just a few to Challenge my team but we’re going to make sure everyone gets to Challenge Team HThrizzy this year!

What is the H3 experience?

High energy, fast paced emotive music, coupled with crowd participation and explosive drops.

Bigger things seem to be in store for you. Are there any projects or collaborations we can look forward to?

Yes! After the release of my album, I’ll be working with an amazing graphic and stage team on what we’ve conceptualized as “The STVRGATE Experience”. A DJ Set cum Live show including Visuals, a responsive Live Stage Set-Up and Collaborative Live Performances. Think - The Major Lazer Show, only with a Spherical ‘Stargate’ and Visual Animation.

You will be touring South East Asia and Australia in the near future. What can fans expect from this tour?

They can expect my blend of “Stargate Music” and lots of love!

10. What are the three things that you think DJs and Producers need to pay more attention to when creating quality music?

Originality in sound is very important to an artist’s brand. And always try to be a step or two ahead of the trend. Look out for new sounds, new vibes and new concepts before they blow up.

Stay ahead of the game!

Halloween is impending, what would be your go to Halloween track?

Ah. An oldie but a goodie: Proxy – Raven (Crookers Remix) What is your biggest fear?

Waking up one day and realizing I don’t enjoy the music that’s coming out anymore. Oh, and finding a snake in my bed probably. Haha.

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BEST OF THE REGION

PHILIPPINES THAILAND

TOM TAUS

3 36 6

FALLING IN LOVE WITH DANCE MUSIC AND ITS CULTURE, HIS SETS TAKE A DIRECTION MEANT FOR FESTIVALS WITH A BIG STAGE, LIGHTS, EFFECTS AND THE ENERGY OF A DANCE DRIVEN AUDIENCE. RETURNING TO THE PHILIPPINES IN 2014, HE BROKE HIS OWN RECORD AT HIS SOLO CONCERT WITH A CROWD OF OVER 10,000 PEOPLE. WHILE IN LOS ANGELES, HE BECAME ONE OF THE OFFICIAL DJ’S FOR PUMA AND GUESS CLOTHING AND IS NOW A BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR PUMA PH. CURRENTLY TOURING THE PHILIPPINES AND ASIA, HE NOW HOSTS HIS OWN DANCE BATTLE SHOW CALLED “MOVE IT” ON TV5 PHILIPPINES. HIS TIME IS NOW JUGGLED BETWEEN PERFORMING, TOURING AND WORKING ON HIS UPCOMING REMIXES AND MUCH ANTICIPATED ORIGINAL TRACKS

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

How did you fall in love with dance music and its culture?

I first heard dance music in grade school, mostly from my sister.

At that time, she was in her teens and was heavily into music. She was a singer, so she loved different genres, and one of them was house. But the track she introduced me to that really made an impact to me loving house music was “It’s You It’s Me” by Kaskade.

Whenever I would hear it, it gave me a good feeling, such a positive vibe, and I always remembered that getting into dance music.

Through the years as dance music evolved, I got exposed to every aspect of the culture that made me fall in love with it, from the music, to the lights and it’s choreography, and how these events brought people together from all walks of life. It didn’t matter where you were from, or what you did in life. You were all just united under one universal language,music.

Who DJ or producer you look up to the most, and why?

Whenever someone asks me this question, there is never any hesitation on who I mention as the DJ that I looked up to the most– and that’s DJ AM. The way he would mix one song to the another, to throwing you a track that you would never expect a DJ to play, making it so cool that you would just be in awe at how he put that together. He approached it in a way where he wasn’t just mixing one song to the next, but it was a show, a total performance.

That’s when I developed my identity as a DJ. I wanted to put my own style to it like he did, something to be known for. So being a drummer, I always noticed I was itching to fill in drum runs during a track, so I experimented spinning along with a drum pad, and the rest was history. Even though I play dance music, you could still hear a part of his style in my set until now.

We heard you’re currently working on some remixes and original tracks. Tell us more about it.

Well, I think it’s pretty known that the next step for a DJ is production. I’m already producing my own mash ups and bootlegs that I use when I perform. But of course, I am looking forward to having original music to be released.

Give us 3 tracks that define your music music style, and what is your motto as a DJ? “Bruck Out” by Retrohandz. “Guest List” by Alvaro & Jetfire. And “You Dancing” by WildOnes & David Julien. Motto is: One life to live so… Let’s dance!

Let’s throw in a fun question. If you were to be the King of the Universe, Master of All, what will be that one track that would be your theme song?

Heal The World by Michael Jackson.

Any shoutout our readers and your fans out there?

I guess what I would tell anyone is to move forward in life with good intentions and be the best person you can be. Whether it’s in your craft, or how you treat people and the things in this world, with respect, love, and kindness. No matter if things work out or not, at the end of the day, you will make a difference

You were picked to open for Ariana Grande’s Honeymoon Tour concert in Manila, and played for Road to Ultra: Japan.

Congratulations! How are you attaining these gigs, and how do you prepare?

It’s a combination of spinning at the right place, at the right time, and knowing the right people who believe in you and your talent.

That’s what mostly happens. I spin for an event where people who attend hear me. Some of those people get me for another event, then more people hear me. Eventually I performed regularly for these events and productions. And of course the word spreads through recommendations and conversations. In terms of preparation, I practice, practice, practice.

From all of your gigs, which one is your most favourite or memorable gig?

It just recently happened, and that’s Road to Ultra: Japan. It’s my first international festival that I was a part of, and I played on the main stage with some of the biggest names in dance music such as Armin Van Buuren, David Guetta, Alesso, Skrillex, Afrojack, Dash Berlin. But what made it even more special was my sister and some of my closest friends flew to Japan to support me.

Any festivals or clubs in the Southeast Asia region you’d love to play for next?

ZukOut Music Festival in Singapore, and of course all the Ultra and Road To Ultra in the region.

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Warp Music Festival

On October 24, Thailand’s beach will be home to a massive dance music festival, called the Warp Music Festival.

This will be the first ever electronic dance music festival to hit the shores of Jomtien beach in Pattaya, Thailand.

Warp Music Festival just announced their Phase 1 Line Up, featuring big names like Andrew Rayel, Thomas Newson and Tungevaag & Raaban. With Phase 2 on its way to us, we’re getting pretty stoked for what they have in store, especially since the festival is themed around “The Madness On Mars”.

Electric Music Parade

The folks at Wave Productions are set to throw you ghosts and ghouls out there a festival like you’ve never seen (and heard) before. With a spook-tacular poster already released we’re guessing they’re about to go all out with their Halloween theme.

Set to enchant us on October 31 at Ecopark Ancol starting 3pm, expect to catch local and international DJs helm the decks. No official line up has been announced yet, but Wave Productions are not ones to disappoint. Tickets range from 250 IDR to 350 IDR, so be sure you get your hands on a pair before they sell out. And remember, go dressed in your Halloween best!

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

Escape Festival Vietnam 2015

Prepare yourselves this Halloween for a festival like no other. The folks at Escape have outdone themselves once again as they bring you Halloween 2015 – Rave in Color. Escape your everyday grey, and rave with thousands in a sea of vibrant hues as your favourite DJs take you on a magical musical journey. On the October 24, engage in one of the largest EDM festivals to hit Vietnam, that will be headlined by a DJ Mag Top 100 DJ, Dannic as well as Infected Mushrooms, supported by Sick Individuals and many other local talents. So cop your tickets before they run out!

Future Now Music Festival

Get your spook on and Leave the World Behind this coming Halloween as Future Now Festival takes you on a ghastly journey through the realms of dance music. Budweiser, together with the folks at Future Now Music Festival aim to please their legion of fans, and after their successful Rave in Color and Red in Motion events, it won’t be a surprise if they knock it out of the ball park with this two day festival.

Although very little information has been released, the official Facebook page for the event has been dropping subtle hints on the festival. Keep yourself glued to us for all the latest info, and we suggest you keep the October 30&31 free because we’re predicting something big!

ELECTRIFYING RUN!

ELECTRIFYING RUN! Assemblage

STRIX Inc. will be throwing massive indoor party this Halloween and you don’t want to miss it. Assemblage 2015 presents The Court of Owls, headlined by Thomas Newson, FTAMPA and Tom Swoon, alongside various other supporting acts who will hit the decks for an unforgettable night. This Halloween costume dance event will take place on October 30 at World Trade Center Pasay City Philippines. The folks at STRIX Inc. guarantee an unforgettable night out so grab your tickets swiftly like a “predator to a prey.”

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BEST OF THE REGION

ZTUDIO , BANGKOK : REDEFINING YOUR NIGHTLIFE

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here’s a spanking new club in Bangkok and you’re going to want to make it your party playground. Ztudio Live Hall Bangkok is one of the newest clubs to open at Royal City Avenue, Bangkok’s party central and is emerging as the capitals go to party spot since its opening in August. Brought to you by the big guns behind Waterzonic and Asiatique’s Full Moon Party, ZAAP – Bangkok’s leading event promoters know just what gets you going so you bet your last dollar that they know just how to throw a party!

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Bangkok’s elusive nightlife scene is one that attracts both locals and foreigners all year round. Over the years the scene has upped its game and is now flaunting swanky new rooftop bars, electric cocktail bars and best of all, bigger and better nightclubs. Folks looking to enjoy a night out are now spoilt for choice as the capital is turning into a clubbing mecca as RCA becomes the home to a well stacked row of superclubs.

So when you’re in Bangkok we suggest you do as the locals (and tourists) do and hit up Ztudio , RCA’s brand spanking new establishment for a night of booming beats

and relentless energy. The establishment is clearly on its way to swipe the title of being the pulse of the city’s electronic dance music scene as the newly built dance music playground is raking in loyal patrons and a slew of dance music giants past its doors.

Established by ZAAP and O.N.E who are party organizers, Ztudio seeks to bring their large scale event elements into the confines of a club to allow partygoers and all new club night experience. Ztudio Live Hall is anything but your typical club, as they aim to remind their patrons that as

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

unique as their name is, each individual is encouraged to use the venue as a studio to express themselves through a night of dance music and endless partying.

Ztudio Live Hall has taken over the spot where Ibiza/Creek Club once stood at RCA. The night club is quickly becoming the talk of the town and home to all the cool kids, with over 500qm in space, Ztudio is made up of one large room for party people to move and dance around. With a capacity between 1500 to 1800 patrons, Ztudio was built with the idea of allowing all its party goers to a more spacious dance floor. And get this; entry is free on most days!

The clubs sound system is put on display every Thursday through Saturday as they host some of the best local and international acts. Although Ztudio is yet to have Resident DJ’s, you can be sure they’re still on the lookout for promising talent. The management behind Ztudio have a DJ on every night and are treating their sets as auditions for the 5 slots for Resident DJ’s that will be filled by December. So if you’re an aspiring DJ and think you have what it takes to helm the decks and take charge of the massive dancefloor at the club then head on over there and show them what you’ve got.

Fret not, Ztudio’s main attraction since their grand opening in August has been their “TGIF” nights in collaboration with Grey Goose that will bring you dance music’s A-listers and hard hitters every Friday night as they spin your favorite

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BEST OF THE REGION

dance tracks as you dance the night away.

Big names who have graced the venue are, Alvaro & KC Jones, Tom Swoon, Quentin Mosimann, Vicetone, Carnage, Vinai, Wolfpack and even hosted Revealed Recordings Asia Tour as part of their Thailand leg. So you can be sure that the folks behind Ztudio will spare no expense when it comes to throwing a massive party. ZAAP and O.N.E. are definitely incorporating their event management skills into making Ztudio home to a slew of international acts.

Upon entering Ztudio Live Hall, the minimalistic interior is themed around

international underground clubs. It is outfitted with top notch lighting and sound equipment, which are put on show during their weekly events. Partygoers can dance to pulse pounding beats as laser lights pierce through them in rhythm with the music. And you can expect more than simple shots of CO2 because these event planners go big with grand cannon jets of CO2, smoke and confetti. The club also features a state-of-the-art sound system using L-acoustics which are some of the best equipment in town. This is the very same sound system, the esteemed OMNIA club in Vegas uses, so there is no doubt that you feel every beat, rhythm and drop reverberate through you on the dance floor. The establishment has an elaborate sequence of spectacular lighting, sound and effects that just about puts them on top of their league in the capital’s nightlife scene.

Ztudio Live Hall also flaunts a well-stocked bar of Vodka’s Whiskeys, Tequilas Wine and premium grade Champagnes that add to the allure of the club. Their collaboration with Grey Goose spills into their beverage menu where they have Ztudio X Grey Goose signature cocktails. The GG Passion Kiss, GG Aurora ad GG Z are just

Where The PArTY COMeS ALIVe

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PArTY ON!

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some of their signature drinks. Their mixologist has come up with tantalizing cocktails that you will not be able to get elsewhere. The GG Passion is one drink you should most definitely try your next trip to Ztudio.

The well balanced and sweet cocktail is so good that you may have one too many if you’re not careful. But since its Halloween this month their blue and red hued GG Aurora and GG Z seem the perfect fit for when you’re dressed in your Halloween best.

Speaking of Halloween, Ztudio will be hosting their very first Halloween themed party this year and you can bet it’s going to be a spooktacular event as we already know the folks at ZAAP and O.N.E. have a history of throwing some of Bangkok’s biggest and best parties. And if that’s not enough, they’re even in the works of opening yet another club called Zone in Rangsit, all solely for your partying pleasure.

Ztudio is clearly not just your average club; it’s a live studio that seeks to make all their patrons wildest party dreams come true. It is no doubt that they’re seeking to be Bangkok’s ultimate entertainment destination and they’re just about on their way to achieve that. Their only advice to you is that you “Leave your old night club experience behind, welcome to live Ztudio”

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BEST OF THE REGION DANCe MuSIC PLAYGrOuND

WOLFPACK SOAKING IN A CAPACITY CrOWD AT ZTuDIO

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BANGKOK’S NeW PArTY CeNTrAL

eLeCTrIFYING ShOWS!

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BEST OF THE REGION

revelry

LUCY IN THE SKY , JAKARTA If you’re in Jakarta and looking to unwind after a long day, then Lucy in The Sky is the place for you. Since its establishment in December 2011, Lucy quickly became one of the finest rooftop bars and restaurants in Jakarta, known for its comfortable and laidback ambience.

Step into the second floor of Fairgrounds, a venue complex formerly known as the Bengkel Night Park, legendary music concert venue. The site was refurbished to cater to multiple bars and restaurants, with Lucy in The Sky being the crowd favorite. Once you get there, the establishment welcomes you with an open-air and eco-friendly environment hosting eclectic designs and recycled interiors.

It won’t be long before you settle in to the calming atmosphere Lucy in The Sky delivers, as you unwind your evening away.

Wine and dine above the city skyline with Lucy’s selection of food and beverages as you socialize with company or treat yourself to their wide array of offerings. All this while you listen to in house DJs spin house music as you wind down for the evening. The atmosphere here changes towards the later part of the day when Lucy slowly transforms into more of a party. The establishment transitions smoothly from an evening escape to a party with a view, gaining a loyal following from patrons. Lucy seem to have it all figured on how to entertain their customers and make their experience a memorable one, every time.

There’s a very urban and hipster-esque vibe coming from this place, and it’s one of many reasons why Lucy In The Sky attracts a young crowd. But most patrons visit Lucy’s for its gorgeous surrounding view of tall office buildings in Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) with many suggesting the best time to be there is when the sun starts to set. And if you think the name sounds familiar, it’s because it was inspired

by The Beatles ’hit, ‘Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds’.

They successfully translated the spirit and the vibe of this song into a modern and friendly hangout place where people in Jakarta love to keep coming back from time to time.

LUCY IN THE SKY | Fairgrounds, SCBD Jalan Jendral Sudirman Lot.14 Kav 52-53 South Jakarta, Indonesia 12190 (+62 21 515 2308 / 09) www. lucyinthesky.co.id

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BUDDHA-BAR, MANILA

Transport yourself in a world of luxury and sophistication.

Since it opened its doors in 2012, Buddha-Bar Manila has elevated cosmopolitan dining to a whole new level with its rich serving of tantalizing Modern Asian cuisine. The brain-child of visionary restaurateur Raymond Visan, Buddha-Bar Manila carries with it the sophistication and world-class service that the Buddha-Bar international franchise is known for.

Here, one can escape into a world of inventive flavors and experience culinary genius all in one plate.

Remove yourself from the frenzy of urban life and plunge into a remarkable place of enchanting proportions. Located at Picar Place on Kalayaan Avenue, Buddha-Bar Manila is an impressively spacious three-storey establishment that can accommodate more than 500 guests. With its numerous balconies and an outside terrace, Buddha-Bar Manila offers its guests a multitude of diverse atmosphere.

The bar mezzanine is enlaced with 18th century style wrought-iron balustrades that looks out over the dining area where the monumental Buddha sits serenely enthroned. The amber-colored lighting, rich mahogany furniture, Chinese and Japanese art objects, Khmer statues, decorated wood panels, lush reds and gold, luxurious fabrics, and Portuguese mosaics all come together to create an opulent and refined décor.

the West. Buddha-Bar’s musical identity has embodied an innovative and avantgarde aspect, thanks to the subtle mixture of captivating Electro-Ethnic rhythms and tribal sounds, played each evening by a resident DJ. http://www.buddhabarmanila.com/

The Buddha-Bar menu offers a selection of Pacific Rim cuisine dishes, a masterful blend of fine ingredients and spices where Chinese, Japanese, Thai and other East Asian flavors combine subtly with a zest of

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BEST OF THE REGION

Zero LimitsX Merdeka Madness , PENANG

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olks in Penang partied it up on August 29 as Zero Limits x Merdeka Madness took place to a crowd of over 4000 attendees at prominent F&B square Precinct 10. The venue was turned into dance music playground with the help of event partner Showgear. The event started out with Malaysian cultural dance performances in conjuction with the Independance Day celebrations. Cuvee’s resident DJ Sars from Mars then took over the decks as he got the crowd pumped up for the night ahead. DJ Faliq, Ruby Yap, Noize Faktor and DJ Irwan & MC Phatt followed suite as the crowd danced the night away. Once Far East Movement took to the stage, energy levels even higher. Noize Faktor ended the night with a bang as the y closed the show to a successfull event as Malaysians rang in yet another year of Independence with their comrades in unity and dance music.

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BEST OF THE REGION

HYDRO , MANILA

DRAGONFLY SOFT OPENING LAUNCH VENUE: Dragonfly Club ADDRESS: Ground Floor Lobby, Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto Kav 23 CITY : Jakarta

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HYDRO MANILA MUSIC FESTIVAL VENUE: Mall of Asia Concert Grounds ADDRESS: SM CITY MALL OF ASIA, Seaside Blvd, Pasay, Philippines CITY : Manila

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party

ROAD TO ULTRA SINGAPORE VENUE: Marina Bay ADDRESS: Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre CITY: Singapore

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he inaugural edition of Road To ULTRA Singapore took place on the19th of September at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, setting a new record for the largest indoor dance music event in Singapore history.

Road to ULTRA Singapore also goes down in history as Singapore’s first completely cashless event of this scale, and one of the biggest parties of the 2015 F1 weekend. Three of the world’s most popular DJs - Skrillex, Nicky Romero and Alesso, took to the legendary ULTRA stage for an eight-hour production of music, lighting and theatricals , brought direct from the team behind globally renowned electronic music festival, ULTRA. Over 11,000 fans made it an event that will do down in history.

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O AU CG TO UB S TE R2 0 20 1 51 5/ /D JD JM M AG A GA SA ES A EN AN

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party

ABOVE & BEYOND KL LIVE VENUE: KL Live ADDRESS: Jalan Sultan Ismail CITY: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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LABEL ToneDef Music (“ToneDef”) is a Philippine based record label, events and music brand. It is the first record label in the country that is exclusively dedicated to producing and releasing electronic dance music by Filipinos, wherever they may be. Fellow music enthusiasts and producers, Josh Evangelista, Mannix Manalo and Miguel Cortes founded it in 2013.

In its current set up, ToneDef consists of three (3) sub labels, ToneDef Beats, ToneDef Recordings and TnDf, and in a short amount of time; it has built a reputation for cutting edge and dancefloor ready dance music.

Steadily building up its catalog, ToneDef has released tracks from a variety of artists, including from its own stable as headlined by DJ/Producers Kidwolf, John Sedano, Those Damn Nerds, Hong Kong based Alegar, Cebu based Jan Areno, and US based DJ/Producers Josh Evangelist, and Minor Twitch; featuring vocal works by Radha, Khai Lim, Kio Priest, Kim Trinidad, Tricia Coronel, Christrose Castro, Sha Supangan, Jacy Sim, Bonnie Rabson, Nicque Robinson, and Joyen Santos. The label has also on occasion released tracks and remixes by artists such as Richie Kidd, Scott Diaz, Santiago of Santiago & Bushido, The Solderist, MicFreak, Sparkee, Cardinal Zen, GOH, Techno Curse, Silverfilter, Brian Cua, Abdel Aziz, Mecha, Ian Sndrz, Katsy Lee, Justin De Guzman, Just Coffee, and Curse & Bless among others.

ToneDef also maintains a pool of DJs for events that include Raph Carbonell, Herb Cabral and Bounce Electronic Music & DJ School faculty and alumni

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such as Kevin Ruiz, Franco Zarate, Nikita Del Rosario and Malia Viardo to name a few.

Last May, ToneDef released its highly successful first compilation album “La Boracay 2015” to coincide with the extremely popular Labor Day holiday festivities in the island of Boracay. In mid October, ToneDef is targeting the release of its second compilation album, “Masskara” as its offering to the annual festival held in the city of Bacolod, located in the province of Negros Occidental.

Mid September also saw sub label ToneDef Beats launch the single “Only You”, by Las Vegas residents, WeRWolvz at Chaos Nightclub, City of Dreams in Manila.

Also scheduled for release before the year ends are collaborations by Ian Sndrz and Khai Lim, Vega and Zenith, Miguel Cortes, Josh Evangelist, EPs from Micfreak featuring FEEN on vocals, Kidwolf, and John Sedano under the ToneDef Beats label; EPs by Evo Evolver, Joyen Santos, Mecha, and Curse & Bless under the TnDf sub label.

ToneDef Music currently shares a home with and is partly owned by Bounce Electronic Music and DJ School located at the W @ the 5th Building in BGC, Manila, Philippines. www.tonedefmusic.com www.fb.com/tonedefmusic www.youtube.com/tonedefmusicph www.soundcloud.com/tonedef-music www.instagram.com/tonedefmusicph www.twitter.com/tonedefmusicph

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

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NIGHT LIFE

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#41

[BORGORE]

#30

[DANNIC]

#37

[ANGERFIST]

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DYNAMIC DANNIC

D

annic has become one of the industry’s most highly sought after DJ/Producers, evidently as he jumped a whopping 44 ranks to become #30 on DJ Mag’s poll. He has since been globetrotting; spreading his music to fans the world over. It was a surprise that we managed to catch up with Dannic as he stands strong on the forefronts of the dance music scene.

Hi Dannic ! At what point did you know that becoming a DJ was something you wanted to pursue?

For me, it was around the time that Fedde Le Grand released ‘Put Your Hands Up For Detroit’ – a huge tune that completely put Fedde on the mainstream map as a dance artist, and started my interest in wanting to produce and DJ. Who would you credit as your biggest musical influence?

As well as the Dutch artists I liked growing up including Fedde, I’ve always been into French house and Motown, like Daft Punk for example. I love everything from

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‘Homework’ over to their more groovy stuff, full of bass on ‘Random Access Memories’.

has barely been told before. I felt like now was the right time in my career to share it.

You’ve had one of the most staggering climbs up the DJ Mag Top 100 poll. How does it feel knowing that you’re getting the recognition you deserve?

I still pinch myself! I remember when I got the call from my management team telling me my new position – I didn’t stop smiling for a week!

It’s a great feeling of course. I’m just glad the fans who have seen a Dannic show or spent their money on my releases, logged on and took the time to vote.

In Dear Life, we heard that your first big gig was at 17 at Café Bruxelles. How was that experience for you?

I remember being so nervous! But who isn’t at their first gig? It was a great success and shortly after I was offered my first residency there. It’s really where it all began for me

Your documentary, Dear Life, lets your fans have a glimpse into your personal life and your journey. What brought about the idea to film a documentary?

The fans have given me so much and I wanted to give something back, something that was more personal than my Front of House series where we went on the road to my shows or backstage with my peers. ‘Dear Life’ lets fans look at where it all began for me. We have footage of my family and friends back home talking about my childhood and early career - it’s a side of me and a story that

You have a very close relationship with Hardwell and Dyro. Tell us how that came to be and will we be seeing the formation of a DJ trio act?

My first releases were on Hardwell’s Revealed imprint and I also met Dyro through the label.

We’re three friends with similar tastes, all Dutch, and had some great times touring on our Revealed bus tours together. Visiting all these cities and events can be lonely apart from the artist- tour manager relationship, so to share time with those guys was great fun.

Haha, the trio act would be great to do but we all have such hectic schedules, who knows when we’ll be able to fit it in.

You recently released the video for your

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

#30 track Survivors. What inspired the making of the track?

‘Survivors’ was a long time in the making. Me and Hardwell always wanted to jump back into the studio together after ‘Kontiki’, which was over 3 years ago now. We wanted to make a feel-good, uplifting anthem and we got a crazy response when we premiered it at Ultra shows!

We hear you’re in the plans of coming up with your own label. What drove you to decide to venture into that?

It’s still early days, but I think it’s time to take my own sound down its own route. I’ve had an amazing year and I’m always A&R’ing new music that I want to release with my Dannic Selection EPs and some of my tracks I feel would be better suited to another home. Now feels like the right time. I’m excited!

You are this year’s Miller SoundClash headliner. What is that experience like, especially since you yourself won a DJ competition at the start of your career?

I’m excited to be partnering up with Miller. Growing as an artist with the Dancetour competition I first won for DJ’ing, is really where my career kicked-off, so to be able to give something back to the next generation of guys coming through is great.

What are the three things that you think DJs and Producers need to pay more attention to when creating quality music?

It is important not to force it. Whatever genre you’re working in, for example tropical house, progressive, big-room or trance, it has to come from a genuine place otherwise the listener will know. You can’t just add a drop before a breakdown and over power the melodies or rhythm, it has to be thought-out and feel honest – that is when the quality tunes and sets explode!

Bigger things seem to be in store for you. What more do you have planned for the coming year?

I’m setting the foundations to start my own label so I’m already into the planning for that, discussing what direction we want to head in and what we’re thinking of for our first batch of releases. It’s also going to be great heading out to Vegas again for the Miller Soundclash later on in the year and then I’m travelling to Japan for Sensation, and Ho Chi Minh City for Escape Festival. Hope to see you on the dancefloor!

Is there anything you’d like to say to your Asian fans?

I’ll see you all in the fall for Escape and I’ll hopefully be coming back to Thailand before the end of the year – I can’t wait to party with you all!

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RAISE YOUR FIST!

K

nown as one of the world’s leading hardcore acts, Angerfist has been paving the way for hardcore fandom and DJs alike in the industry. He is the first hardcore artist to ever be on the DJ Mag Top 100poll and has landed himself a comfortable seat on the #37 spot. His undeterring passion for the industry is evident through his destructive beats. DJ Mag ASEAN had the chance to catch up with this DJ to find out the inner workings of Angerfist.

Hi there! Tell us more about your journey towards becoming a DJ? I started making music when I was 16. Back then I only used pre-programmed loops and was just exploring. Later I made the switch to plugins and samples, and was able to REALLY make music. After some years, and when I made some tracks that were good enough in my opinion, I sent them to Buzz Fuzz. After a while he sent me an email saying that he really liked them, and wanted me to do a release on his BZRK label. I was excited to say the least! He eventually got me in touch with Masters Of Hardcore,

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where I released my first Angerfist EP on their sub-label Overload. Later I would start releasing on the main Masters Of Hardcore label. That’s where it all started, about 15 years ago. Now in 2015, 4 artist albums and many separate EPs later, I never could have dreamed that it would grow to what it is today.

Was there a polgnant moment in your life that made you realize electronic music was something you wanted to pursue?

When I was still young, I remember the first hardcore CDs coming out and I was immediately drawn to this violent and powerful music. My favorite artist was DJ Headbanger. His epic huge synths really got to me instantly. Me and my friends all loved hardcore music and would later go to many hardcore events as well.

Tell us more about your sound and what influences it.

I can get inspiration from anything. I listen to all types of music and any good track can be inspiring. Also, music is emotion, which

basically means a happy or sad mood can be inspiring too. I guess it depends on many things. Sometimes you just have many ideas and can spend many hours in the studio, and sometimes nothing comes out. It’s always a surprise.

What brought about the idea to create an onstage persona?

When I first got signed, I had many tracks that were about to get released, and Masters Of Hardcore suggested I take a few aliases (Menace II Society, Kid Morbid, Bloodcage, Angerfist) so I could spread the tracks out a bit. Later I decided to focus on one name, and I chose Angerfist as the main project. I like the name and in attempt to add a more unique element to it, I added the hooded sweater with the logo and the white hockey mask. I think this combination was the best choice I ever made.

You broke into the industry at 16. In your opinion, how has the industry changed since then?

Hardcore is changing constantly. If you

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#37 listen to tracks from 5 to 10 years ago, the difference is huge. Nowadays it’s much more violent than in the early days. But that’s just the evolution of music, and it’s a good thing. Also the styles within hardcore constantly change. For instance, Crossbreed (a mix between hardcore and drum n bass) emerged from nowhere a few years ago.

It became popular pretty quick but lost its popularity pretty quick too. In Europe, there is currently a wave in popularity in Frenchcore and Uptempo. It’s cool to see these constant changes in the genre. It’s so diverse in subgenres and styles that it will never die.

How do you think your sound has evolved since the early 2000’s up to this point?

The style has become much more complex and intense than before. Also the level of diversity and “quality” has improved over the years. Hardcore is getting more and more worldwide recognition. That makes me happy. Although it is still an underground style of music, it slowly appears more often on mainstream events around the world. It’s growing, people are getting more used to hard music I think. It sounds more natural to people once they get more into it. It’s a hard generation, and that’s the way it should be.

Bigger things seem to be in store for you, what else can fans expect from you in the coming year? Any projects in the works?

The main project for this year is my solo event “Raise & Revolt” in the Netherlands in November. I will also do an anthem and a full release in the theme of the event. I haven’t made much music lately because I’m moving to a new studio, so I can’t wait to get straight back into it. Check my Facebook for more info on the event. It’s going to be badass and will be worth the trip from Asia.

What is your “never fail” track?

There’s a few, but my current favorite is Bad Attitude.

If you were a gladiator, what track would be playing when you enter the arena?

“Pagans” which I did with Lowroller.

Lastly, will we be seeing Angerfist is Asia anytime soon? And do you have anything to say to your fans there?

We’re working on some dates in Asia, so stay tuned. To the fans: COME PREPARED AND RAISE YOUR FIST!

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WWW.DJMAGASEAN.COM

NEVER A BORE WITH BORGORE

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saf Borger is basically an EDM unicorn in his onstage persona, Borgore. From his classical roots to deathcore metal and eventually finding Dubstep, Borgore is taking over the dance music arena. We caught up with the man himself to find out how he says, he made Dubstep better.

somehow it turned into a career.

How did it all start out for Borgore? Was being a DJ a childhood dream?

I always studied jazz and classical music, but throughout my army service I took a break from music. Then my girl back then and I broke up, and I had to somehow bring out my emotions and music was my tool. So I started by writing British grime and Dubstep, which was the music I listened to back then and

You started playing the piano at three, graduated from a prestigious school as a saxophone major, and was even a drummer for a death core band. How did you transition from classical instruments to heavy metal and now electronic music?

The transition made sense because I know how to play music, unlike a lot of other producers. If anything, I would recommend

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Was there a specific DJ or Track that made you realize DJing was something you wanted to pursue?

It was a night out at a small bar in Tel Aviv, when I first heard dubstep. It made me realize DJing is something I wanted to do.

that people who want a career in electronic music invest time in learning an acoustic instrument and music theory.

How do you think your background in music has helped your production skills thus far?

I actually understand harmony and rhythm and not just guess in the dark. Also, the fact that I understand music deeply helped me switch between so many genres throughout all these years.

We saw that you recently asked your fans to help you with the title of your next EP. Have you decided on one yet?

It’s called “Keep It Sexy”.

How would you describe “Gorestep”?

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It’s like dubstep but I made it, hence it’s better.

You’re part DJ, part record label owner, and part EDM unicorn. What is it like in a day in the life of Borgore?

Music, music, music, music, climbing, gym, hot chicks, music, music, music, and more music.

Bigger things seem to be in store for you. What do you have in the works for the coming year?

My EP is coming out on October 2nd and it’s super fire!!!

October is Halloween month – what is your go to Halloween track?

I don’t actually have a Halloween track. I guess I can blame that on the fact that I never celebrated Halloween in my country?

What’s your biggest fear?

Death.

What type of cake wouldn’t you share with anyone?

I’m not sharing period.

Lastly, will we be seeing you in Asia anytime soon?

Hopefully. You guys have the best food in the whole world.

Just thinking about Asia gets me excited!!!

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RED B Y

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M AG

A S E A N

Rolling out the carpet for the modern, stylish and discerning music lover, RED brings you the latest handpicked premium lifestyle must haves from around the globe. Indulge in the finest that fashion can get you in TailoRED, fix your spirits with StirRED, check out the best rides (on and o the road) in EngineeRED, and get jacked to the top-class tech and gadgets around town in GeaRED.

[ TA I LO R E D] [INSPIRED ] [STIRRED] [ENGINEERED] [GEARED]

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LEWIS HAMILTON AND NICO ROSBERG SUIT UP FOR HUGO BOSS X MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS HUGO BOSS is a leading player in the

premium and luxury segments of the global fashion market, and is focused on creating and marketing high quality apparel and accesorries for men and women.

HUGO BOSS will be the official supplier of lifestyle and formal wear clothing for the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team. The brand HUGO BOSS itself has a phenomenal expertise in sport and lifestyle sponsorship and is an active enthusiast of Formula One and motorsports. With inspiration from the Formula One team, a “BOSS for Mercedes-Benz Collection” will be launched twice a year that features a range of casual business looks inspired by the Formula One team itself. This classy collection includes leather bombers, t-shirts, sweatshirts, polo shirts, jeans and sneakers for a relaxed but sophisticated off-duty

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look. Toto Wolff, Head, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, stated at the announcement “We are delighted to welcome HUGO BOSS to our family of team partners, and to further extend the existing partnership with Mercedes-Benz. The synergies between our two companies are both striking and extensive; we operate to the highest levels of precision and quality in our pursuit of perfection, with both brands targeting the premium and luxury market. As a team, we are very pleased to have attracted another brand of the stature of HUGO BOSS to add to our already extensive and impressive suite of partners. Everyone at the team is excited about the prospect of being ‘kitted out’

by HUGO BOSS at the race tracks next season.”

The German luxury fashion and style house based in Metzingen has kept its luxury apparel game strong and we think Lewis Hamilton is a spot on choice for this luxurious collaboration, Hamilton proves that he is unstoppable even after splitting from his long-term girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger of The Pussycat Dolls in February, reportedly due to their differing views on marriage. www.hugoboss.com

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ESCAPE THE ORDINARY WITH KATE SPADE THIS FALL Every fashionista was head-over-heels for

the Kate Spade watering can clutch from last season’s collection, and Kate Spade has done it again. Continuing with the year long theme of “escaping the ordinary”, this season’s collection is inspired by fairy tales imagined from Roald dahl stories including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and the character of Truly Scrumptious from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Kate Spade New York invites you to experience a world of whimsical adventure for fall 2015. Do expect the unexpected in this collection.Novelty bags include a fox clutch, mushroom clutch, furry owl, and candy wrapper clutch. A large portion of tartan inspired fabrics have been included in this line and as always with Kate Spade, whatever the season, you can still live colourfully. Pink still dominates, with hints of earthy colors and not forgetting the classic neutrals. Whatever your current mood is, there will surely be something to feed your imagination. www.Valiram.com

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SHAILENDRA SINGH MAIN MAN OF SUNBURN

Joint Managing Director of Percept, India’s largest and only entertainment, media and communications conglomerate.

For this month’s Inspired personality, we feature a man of many talents, the mastermind behind SUNBURN GOA - India’s first home-grown dance music festival. SUNBURN GOA is well known as Asia’s Premier Dance Music Festival and ranked 4th Best Festival (In the Mix). If trance is your pick, then SUNBURN is a must.

We chat with Mr Singh, who was also announced as In the Mix’s 50 Most Powerful People in EDM, and get an inside scoop on what goes on in the mind of one of India’s biggest superstars.

How does a superstar like yourself spend the weekend? What do you do in your spare time?

For me everyday is a weekend because my passion has become by profession and I treat my business like a sport. Love playing winning or losing doesn’t matter. Sundays - I love playing Cricket, love the sunshine, the green grass and the warm humid Mumbai breeze in my cricketing whites. Saturdays - my favourites are watching a movie at the cinema or being part of a cool underground party.

What are you currently listening to? Can you name one song stuck in your head right now!

United we are, by Hardwell.

Tell us about your favourite EDM festivals. And what festivals are you planning to go for next?

Snowbombing is next on my list - 2016. Favourite festival - Sunburn.

Goa has always been great for Sunburn throughout the years.

Can you explain how this year will be different compared to

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previous years?

Every year is special because Sunburn’s soul matures and grows every year and unites different souls from all over the world. It’s a festival with heart. It’s all about love and true love never dies.

Of course the line-up, technology and experience will go a few notches up from 2014.

What would you describe as the best part of Planet Sunburn?

When you go to planet Sunburn, you leave your world behind and sometimes that is important to do.

Do you have any secrets to maximum enjoyment at an outdoor rave?

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Correct shoes are bloody important, and of course you are known by the company you keep so ensure you are hanging with people you love. Pick your sets before you enter the festival. I generally prefer a liquid diet while at the festival.

Five apps you can’t live without.

What’s an app?.. I still type text messages by tap tap tap, tap tap tap. . .

What has been your highlight in 2015?

The answer is in reinventing oneself.

You have to destroy what you have built to rebuild. I never knew I had the balls to do that. The ultimate highlight of course is the worlds biggest guest list event featuring the world’s no 1 DJ at Mumbai, at the D Y Patil stadium. All this so that we can educate 3000 kids from childhood to livelihood. I have been saying all along, dance music has the power to make a social difference.

What are your favourite summer destinations?

The beaches of Goa are my ultimate, ever since I used to carry car batteries through the jungle for goa psy trance parties in secret beach coves. The Jurassic Coast of UK and Winchester, where I play nomadic country cricket in the summers.

If you could only listen to 1 artist for the rest of your life, who would it be and why?

Oh gosh. . . that’s tough. I would have to say. . . Bob Marley. Just completely dig his energy and respect that his music was true to who he was. He inspired people to make a social difference. That’s powerful.

I shouldn’t say this, everyone will laugh but. . . I love Dido and Norah Jones first thing in the morning.

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What were your childhood hobbies?

Cricket. and any other sport. I was born to play and do so, whenever I have a chance.

What are your plans for Halloween this year?

We don’t really celebrate Halloween in India. We have enough festivals that celebrate life, good fortune and the victories of our many gods and myths. No need to celebrate the horrors of life.

How do you prepare for a night out?

Gather my close friends for some music and cocktails on the terrace. Lately, I quite prefer day and sundowner parties.

Nothing like drinking bubbly in the afternoon sunshine. If the party keeps going through the night, brilliant. Saves all the expectations of getting ready and hoping to have a good time once you finally do step out. Life’s a party. Just keep celebrating.

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DOM PÉRIGNON AND ASTON MARTIN JOIN FORCES

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ho doesn’t love a bit of French fizz? Even James Bond has a high obsession with Champagne - Dom Pèrignon in particular. In 1964’s Goldfinger, the British spy exclaimed: “My dear girl, there are some things that just aren’t done, such as drinking Dom Perignon ’53 above the temperature of 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

That’s just as bad as listening to the Beatles without earmuffs.”

Earlier this year, Aston Martin Milano announced a collaboration with luxury champagne producer Dom Pérignon The Bespoke Rapide S. With a 550bhp, 6.0-litre V12 engine up front and a snug,

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leather-lined four-seat cabin behind, the Rapide remains the same. The recent changes only occur in the trunk, where the high-end vehicle has established a hand built cellar with three bottles of champagne from 1998, as well as two crystal glasses and two bottle openers.

What a stunner! The hand-built, leatherclad trunk is detachable as it is a rather small space and is part of the Rapide S Dom Pérignon Deuxieme Plénitude pack. Currently, this vehicle is only a promotional car which will be exhibited at various venues in Italy within a selection of resorts and restaurants, but after the promotional road trip ends, the Aston

Martin Milano dealership will actually start offering this as optional equipment called the Deuxième Plénitude Special Kit, available to pre-order.

According to The Drinks Business, this luxury piece has a starting price of £147,950, can go from 0 to 60mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 203 mph. As the world’s fastest champagne bar, this dazzling bad boy promises to compliment your luxury nightlife when you arrive at the most chic events in town. So don’t just be seen at champagne bars, travel in your own luxury champagne bar in style! www.domperignon.com

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DOM PÉRIGNON NOW AVAILABLE ON EMIRATES AIRLINE

Pérignon and two-Michelin star chefs, they allow passengers to sample canapés of cured duck with saffron poached peach; walnut baguette with Persian feta cheese, fresh fig, and truffle infused honey, and, wild smoked salmon, lemon and cumin cream cheese on norlander bread, on flights from Dubai. Charcoal crackers topped with ash goat’s cheese and quince jelly, teriyaki-marinated duck breast with a curried apricot and apple chutney, and mixed sesame coated tuna with wasabi mayonnaise is available on flights to the home of the exquisite Burj Khalifa.

What a way to spoil passengers who are looking to edge-up their superstar jet-setting lifestyle! This certainly proves how glamorous living in Dubai truly is for the rich and famous. We welcome this, with open arms.

“Food and wine pairing has reached its tipping point, in that it is now an expected part of the fine dining experience. We have a likeminded partner in Dom Pérignon, who also strives to bring the dining experience to life and help elevate the rarity and richness of their product,” -- Joost Heymeijer Senior Vice President, Catering at Emirates.

“Using the finest produce, these gastronomic innovations and unusual food combinations are meant to heighten the flavour of the Champagne and elevate the overall fine dining experience of Emirates’ First Class cabin,” -- Emirates.

‘Flying first class, up in the sky. Poppin’ champagne, livin’ my life’ (Fergie, Glamorous). That’s right, this glamorous new collaboration between Dom Pèrignon and Dubai based airline, Emirates Airlines, now allows first class passengers to treat themselves to a pairing menu of six carefully designed canapés, intended to complement and enrich the experience of the all new exclusive Dom Pérignon vintages and Champagne pairing menu en route.

Developed by Emirates’ team of culinary experts, in collaboration with Pascal Tingaud, Chef de Cuisine at Dom

DOM PÉRIGNON RELEASES VINTAGE ROSE 2004`

The former Con Edison electric substation on Sixth Street in New York’s East Village, which was the home studio of artist Walter De Maria became the venue where Dom Pèrignon hosted a grand cabaret for the fashion set. Revelers, including Dennis Basso, Stella Schnabel, Cory Kennedy, Johannes Huebl, Devon Windsor, Timo Weiland and Arden Wohl, packed into the East Village’s Walter de Maria space, transformed into an interactive playground swathed in pink light.

Chef de Cave Richard Geoffroy of Dom Pèrignon explains the nose sings out loud and clear, beginning with fresh, intense red fruit: redcurrants and wild strawberries, complemented by warm notes of ripe hay, blood orange and cocoa. The attack is smooth and embracing, but it is the impression of precision that dominates in the end. The wine’s chiselled integrity, intense and penetrating, is prolonged with the unexpected hint of green citrus that marks the vintage.

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PEUGEOT FRACTAL: THE FIRST MUSIC CONCEPT CAR BY PEUGEOT AND SUBPAC

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“Music is a central part of the driving experience.

Integrating SubPac technology into the automotive world has always been a part of our road-map, and we’re beyond thrilled to be a part of the forwardthinking Peugeot Fractal,” -John Alexiou, SubPac’s CEO. “Once people physically feel the true impact of music and sound, there is no going back to just hearing it.” -John Alexiou, SubPac’s CEO.

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he SubPac brand is a patent pending immersive audio technology that provides a new physical dimension to your music and media experience by translating low frequencies sound into a full body experience. It is high-fidelity Tactile Sound, advancing producers, DJs, sound designers and creators in their craft in high fidelity, while being wearable, portable and quiet to the outside world.

Peugeot meanwhile has high-quality products and services, fine-tuning in design, attention to detail and driving experience- all pf which contribute to the emotion that each PEUGEOT conveys. With more than 60 million vehicles sold, these qualities have been a cornerstone of the brand’s commitment for more than 125 years.

During the Frankfurt Auto Show, Peugeot unveiled the world’s first music-based concept car featuring SubPac audio technology – Peugeot Fractal. The Peugeot Fractal is built around music performance, not necessarily drive performance. This collaboration between the French Automaker and Canadian company is predicted to debut with a blast as it incorporates SubPac’s tactile bass technology in the car, transferring low frequencies directly to the passenger’s bodies. We are certain that this will make dance music fans obsessed because they’ll be able to feel the music in their bones.

This state of the art drive is characterized by its unique 80 percent 3D-printed interior and technology heavy drivers station, which is also known as the Peugeot i-Cockpit. The Peugeot Fractal combines SubPac’s Tactile Bass Technology into the back of each seat, creating an illusion of visceral and high-fidelity driving experience, like nothing you have ever experienced.

Drivers also receive a smartwatch remote system and custom loudspeakers by FOCAL. As for the external design, the car is capable of alerting road users such as pedestrians and cyclists of its presence by different sounds specific to the vehicle’s status (acceleration, deceleration and cruising speed). Catching a glimpse of the car, you can feel how luxurious yet trendy it is, and the music features’ major role in shaping the design. For sure, this masterpiece has been built for music, and tech lovers. Visually, it is spot on!

The Peugeot Fractal’s interior and exterior sound design, created by international electronic music producer and Ninja Tune artist Amon Tobin, present a multitude of customizable sound palettes. Look out for this fancy new drive and make history when you get your hands on the world’s first music-concept car – the rest of your friends will be hands down jealous. www.businesswire.com

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PPLE’S MOST LUXURIOUS WEARABLES: THE APPLE HERMÈS COLLECTION

On September 9, Apple revealed their new iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPad Pro and Apple Hermes collection at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco.

Apple partnered with high fashion brand Hermès for an updated Apple Watch, to offer new and stylish bands in its wearable line. A family owned company, Hermès is managed by Chief Executive Officer, Axel Dumas, a sixth generation member of the Hermès family.

The Apple Watch Hermès collection is made up of the Single Tour, Double

Tour and Cuff leather straps designed and crafted by the Parisian luxury brand. The Single Tour, with a 38mm stainless steel case, comes in fauve Barenia leather, noir box leather and capucine Swift leather, while the Single Tour 42mm stainless steel case comes in fauve Barenia leather and noir box leather. The Double Tour pairs with a 38mm stainless steel case is available in fauve Barenia leather and bleu jean, capucine and etain Swift leather. The Cuff pairs with a 42mm stainless steel case is available in fauve Barenia leather only.

Across the collection, each stainless steel case features an etching of the Hermès signature and includes a customizable face with three exclusive dial designs inspired by Clipper, Cape Cod and Espace Hermès watches.

As a luxury fashion brand, Hermès has created beautiful watches for both men and women. With this collaboration, we do hope the French fashion house

contributes its high fashion appeal to the Apple watch, making it a much more wearable piece for consumers. Since its establishment in 1837, six generations of enterprising and passionate artisans have contributed to spreading its values: a savoir-faire built on the application of highly precise and skilled crafts to the finest materials, the love for beautiful objects created to last over time and the spirit of constant innovation.

Starting October 5, the collection will be available at select Apple retail stores, select Hermès stores, specialty stores and department stores in Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Korea, Russia, Singapore, Switzerland, the UK and the US. For the rest of the world, it shouldn’t be much longer after that. For more information on Apple Watch Hermès please visit www.apple.com/apple-watch-hermes or www.hermes.com/applewatchhermes

“Apple and Hermès make very different products, but they reflect the deep appreciation of quality design,” – Jonathan Ive, Apple’s chief design officer.

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ASHION FORWARD CHARGING CABLES

Are you always getting the most hipster phone casing, but still using an original cable? It’s time to up your phone personalization! Now American tech brand ,Belkin has added a stylish design to its new line of charging cables.

Belkin Charging Cables are known for their durability and functionality. These Belkin charging cables are a part of the lightning to USB collection and feature iOS compatibility as well as a convenient clip that allows these cables to hook onto any bag, purse or key chain. “The merging of fashion and tech results in beautifully crafted accessories that consumers want to use in their everyday lives. We are extremely proud of this collection of fashion charging accessories and are delighted to launch them with retail partners that share this same vision,” said Melody Saffery, director product management, Belkin. Stylish yet functional, this gadget will make your smartphone pleased indeed. www.belkin.com

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Pics: CAROLINA FARUOLO & VICTOR FRANKOWSKI

ON THE FLOOR

Main Stage highlight: ANNIE MAC

Love is all you need!

Other than Glastonbury, Rob Da Bank’s Bestival is the UK’s best-loved festival. With a main stage prized for marquee bookings, its other stages are filled to the brim with dancefloor brilliance. Here’s Adam Saville’s clubbers’ guide to Bestival 2015...

D

uran Duran, The Chemical Brothers and Missy Elliott... Bestival’s headline acts are always huge and this year is no different. The past has seen the likes of Stevie Wonder, Kraftwerk and Bjork rock the main stage, which is closer to the size of Glasto’s third biggest one (West Holts).

However, it’s not just the top-line acts that keep Bestival’s loyal — and notably fresh-faced — festival-goers flocking back each year to make the most of a fun fancy dress theme. The main acts might hinge on their novelty (stadium-filling)

value but the surrounding stages are mostly about solid DJs and live dance talent.

The Big Top, The Port, Bollywood, Diesel Only The Brave and Temple Island are just a few places where dance-land’s most finest can be spotted this year, and — with a ‘Summer of Love’ theme — we’re here dressed like a rave hippy to show you clubbers how to make the best of Bestival...

NOT too long ago, purists were cursing the sight of a DJ on a festival main stage. With the dawn of EDM, it’s become much more frequent, but it was Rob Da Bank who was doing it way before the US got their mitts on dance music (again), filling downtime between live sets by entertaining tune-spotters with his house, disco, tropical breaks and Afrobeat records.

These days, however, with the UK house explosion, DJs are now deemed important enough for an actual, main slot on the bill rather than filler, and who better than UK house dame Annie Mac? With the help of LED palm trees and a neon backdrop, the Radio 1 icon commands the stage with as much gusto as any four-piece band. She’s on the mic, hyping the crowd as her energetic bassline house bangers — immaculately mixed — send 20,000 clubbers completely bananas on the Bestival hill. The Eats Everything remix of Tiga’s ‘Let’s Go Dancing’ is just one tune that receives a chorus from the crowd, before a euphoric finale of N-Trance ‘Set You Free’ hits the ‘Summer of Love’ theme right on point and has the place going mental. Not one for die-hard house heads, but this sure is fun!

The Big Top Tops off!

OTHER than the main stage, The Big Top is Bestival’s most popular stage, especially when it’s raining but mainly because of its size and bookings. Host to the likes of Rudimental, Gorgon City, Jamie xx, Tame Impala and FKA Twigs this weekend, it’s easy to see why, with its collection of more obvious dance sounds — played live and DJed — as opposed to obscurer names spotted eslewhere.

Unsurprisingly, the result is a crowd that isn’t the most discerning, but not in the least bit chin-stroking, making it a reliable source of good times throughout the festival.

On Saturday, we find ourselves putting our personal prejudices aside to leap with ecstasy to the sound of ‘Need U (100%)’, ‘I Got U’ and ‘The Giver’, among others, whilst secretly nostalgically wishing for Duke Dumont’s Dubsided and Turbo days. Indeed, the vibe might be closer to ‘Now That’s What I Call Marbs’ than the more caustic territory of his early work, but nobody can deny it’s a great show.

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Pic: GARRY JONES

The Port

Shipwrecked sounds THE Port, also known as HMS Belfast, is huge! A gigantic shipwrecked vessel at the end of the field, with space for 10,000, stacked with a monstrous Funktion One soundsystem, it’s the biggest stage here dedicated only to DJs. We arrive on Friday afternoon to the sound of Greg Wilson digging out Larry Levan’s remix of The Joubert Singers to a joyful collective. Horse Meat Disco follow up with more disco classics, before Guy Gerber does his best impression of someone pleasing the lowest common denominator. Disappointing for those expecting the majestic melodies of his usually absorbing deep, druggy sets, his set sadly is no journey. Instead it’s a jumble of pad-heavy deep house and stripped-back techno followed by a flat series of brain-numbingly relentless — and grey scale — tech-house thumpers,

Bollywood Spice of life which leave Tale Of Us no room to drop it down into more spacious techno territory. It’s a real shame that clearly underestimates what this clued up crowd are after, only serving to confuse rather than conjure the trippy dancefloor environment we hoped for.

We hear Kiwi and Andrew Weatherall team up for a newbie verses veteran tag-team on Saturday afternoon. The low-slung beatnick disco-tech from the Love From Outer Space man meets the chunky, earth-shakingly robust robotics of Kiwi’s ‘Short Tail’, leaving this (male) correspondent laying in the grass dressed in a pair of yoga pants, a furry gillet and a feathery headdress thinking, “That’s more like it!”.

But sets aside, it’s the sheer girth and humungous sound that makes The Port Bestival’s most impressive dance stage.

This isn’t a boat party, it’s a boat rave!

MORE like the setting for a huge Hindu wedding than your average festival tent, this marquee with a cocktail bar — for obvious reasons — is a favourite amongst serious clubbers with a flavour for fun.

On Friday, DJ Q throws together bassline wobbles like DJ EZ on GHB, with enough spin-backs to give Andy C whiplash. Despite our desire to hear a tune in full, we’ve no qualms about bouncing around to the sound of Trumpet & Badman (his collaboration with DJ Haus) in a ruby red tent with Indian rags draping down from the roof.

The vintage sounds of Norman Jay attract an older collection of heads on Sunday afternoon, who rejoice to the sound of Stevie Wonder’s all-time classic ‘As’. It’s an emotional moment and the perfect lift for a crowd with heavy legs and lacking serotonin on the last day of the festival.

But after dark is when Bollywood really lights up. People are pushing to get in to see Ben UFO after the main stages close on Sunday, but we’re just amazed by the sight of lit-up palm trees, a large pink Bollywood tower of elephants and a fluorescent big wheel in the distance. Not many festivals can rival the awe-inducing magic of Glastonbury, but this field certainly comes close.

Main Stage highlight: JUNGLE THEY may have become the stuff of prime time TV ads, but their show on Saturday afternoon proves exactly why they’re the soundtrack of summer 2015. The calypso rhythms and live brass of their band is as tight as it gets. ‘Busy Earnin’ is a rousing festival moment — even for the more stiff-lipped among us.

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The Grand Palace of entertainment

Temple Island

What a drag!

A CAULDRON of ear-piercing noise with a raised booth facing a platform crammed with dancing mentalists, Temple Island is a compact spot unrivalled in terms of clubbing energy at Bestival this year.

FROM the outside, The Grand Palace may look like a pony open-air drag show, but don’t be fooled. Look beyond the stage and you’ll find a big, sweaty tent hidden behind a hill where we find Sink The Pink getting their razzle on to the sound of ‘Barbie Girl’, ‘YMCA’ and ‘Toxic’ by Britney Spears until 4am. We leave al our pretensions at the door. This sweaty cabaret of gay is the place to really let our glittery wigs down.

We walk in to get bombarded by the sound of UK-flavoured future house from Disciples — heavy with bass but clean on production. At other times, the likes of A Sagittariun, Flight Facilities and Luke Vibert can be found dropping bombs here, making for a diverse selection of DJs to satisfy all walks of switched-on raver.

Our body is a temple

Sugar skulls Feed your head

A DIMINUTIVE stage under a canopy with beds to lay over and crates to dance on, this Mexican-themed tent contains a stretched camper van selling ice cocktails and a meaty Void soundsystem.

We find ourselves elated by the sound of Hauke Freer’s funky low-slung mover ‘XK’ late on Friday, as House Of Disco deliver a lesson in laid back cool, before Joe Roberts drops everything from Hall & Oats to Cheryl Lynn and Midnight Magic on Sunday afternoon; so good it gets a nine-year-old MJ impersonator to work his stuff in front of a delighted dancefloor.

Nandos: rule the roost Chicken out!

RATHER than opting for a chicken-only music policy (‘I Feel Like Chicken Tonight’, ‘Birdie Song’, ‘Funky Chicken’), Nandos have gone all out this year.

With a DJ booth above the kitchen — dubbed the “Coq au Van” — and a DJ roster consisting of Jackmaster, Mistajam and this correspondent, it has no trouble pulling a crowd... and not just for the chicken!

Diesel only the brave Diesel power!

A NO-FRILLS stage with a solid soundsystem, Diesel Only The Brave plays host to the likes of Psychemagik, Eton Messy, Paul Woolford and one of Jackmaster’s many sets this weekend. Situated in the Magic Meadow, next door to Temple Island, it does everything a third-wall dance stage needs to, adding yet another top quality place to dance our socks off this weekend.

Main Stage highlight: MISSY ELLIOTT NO BESTIVAL would be complete without a bonafide superstar, and this year it comes in the form of a closing set from Missy Elliott. ‘Lose Control’, ‘Work It’ and ‘Get Ur Freak On’ all get outings in the rain, while her dancers b-boy wearing white masks and black baseball jerseys. Brought on stage in a giant pyramid, hip-hop’s queen of bling is clearly full of beans, spitting lyrics and connecting with the crowd in between energetic routines. It’s a show of epic proportions matched by a jaw-dropping explosion of fireworks at the end.

Soundtracked by ‘Love Is In The Air’ and ‘All You Need Is Love’, we’re treated to heart shapes in the sky, streaming stars and glittering tulip-like formations, all greeted by collective “oohs” and “aahs” from the hugging congregation. 2015 is the year Bestival found love.

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DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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ON THE FLOOR

A Mucky Weekend

We sent our intrepid new correspondent Ben Hindle off on tour for a ‘mucky major, Geffen — happened to drop the same as 9/11. An unprecedented case of bad weekend’ with party-hard festival-rockers the Dub Pistols, taking in a beach week timing, the album’s chances in the charts, bar in Brighton, the Sound Control venue in Manchester and Boomtown Barry’s Stateside superstardom and an otherwise very positive relationship with the Festival in Winchester. The question was: would they break him?

T

he second sentence Barry Ashworth says to your DJ Mag correspondent is: “Do you want half a pill?” Perhaps not the most conventional greeting, but then the infamous Dub Pistols frontman has a reputation, and it seems that — at least within the first minute — he’s determined to keep it.

We’ve met Barry at Riki Tik Beach Bar, a Caribbean grotto that expands under the arches of Brighton seafront like a red, yellow and green Tardis. I’m off for a “mucky weekend”, as The Pistols would put it. We’re meeting the rest of the band tomorrow, ahead of gigs at Manchester’s Sound Control and Boomtown Fair in Winchester. For now though, Barry is in DJ mode, ready to treat the locals to an evening of what he calls “party jungle”.

It’s a term that could be used to describe much of the new Pistols material. Barry has come a long way since falling for acid house in the late ‘80s, getting into promoting and then starting acid house bands — Deja Vu and then the Dub Pistols — in the early-to-mid ‘90s. He’s been through life-changing highs (both drug-fuelled and not) and dream-crushing lows, and now that former partner Jason O’Bryan has left for pastures new, associations with big beat and eclectic hip-hop have been blown away by a freshly stocked arsenal of reggae, ska and drum & bass anthems.

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Barry and his ever-evolving family have become the epitome of the ‘festival band’. Not your finger-laser-wielding, family-friendly Coldplaytypes, but the grubby kings of places like Boomtown, Nozstock and Beat-Herder. Their latest hit, the self-explanatory ‘Mucky Weekend’, is the ultimate theme tune for the hedonistic, gurning British youth, and their obsession with getting off their faces in muddy fields.

What a perfect fit for this merry band of misfits and miscreants. Barry himself brings to mind a line from Bill Nighy’s ageing rock star in the film, Love Actually. “Don’t buy drugs,” he warns.

“Become a pop star, and they give you them for free!” However, where Nighy’s regal mug pokes through his fiendish crooner façade, the Chief Pistolero actually looks the part, leathery hide cracked by decades of debauchery. “I look like a fucking tortoise,” he chuckles later in the evening, “because I’ve not stopped pissing myself with laughter, thinking: how the fuck am I getting away with this?”

Barry isn’t an out-of-touch oldie looking for a comeback either. He understands his market better than most, and he’s already been to the brink and come back stronger. It’s well documented how the apocalyptic second Dub Pistols album, ‘Six Million Ways To Live’ — the product of a $1.5million deal with American

label were all destroyed instantaneously. “It took me three years to get out of the deal,” Barry remembers. “I thought I’d walk into another deal no problem, but everyone was like, ‘Why would the biggest record company in the world let you go?’ They wouldn’t touch us with a barge-pole.”

But when you hit rock bottom, they say the only way is up, and even if you’re an alcoholic drug-fiend, at some point you have to push two wobbly legs under yourself and climb back on the horse. So Barry dragged the Pistols back from the edge of oblivion and transformed them into one of the most highly sought-after acts of the summer. Often playing up to five nights a week, the band — formed of a regular line-up of session musicians — has become a well-oiled machine.

And somehow Barry still manages to fit in several days in the studio each week. “I try not to spend too long in the studio now. I used to stay in there for days... put crime-scene tape across everything and sleep under the desk,” he laughs.

“Mixing the first album was a nightmare. I was coked off of my mind and the minute the coke ran out, I hated everything.”

FUCKED That’s not the only time the rock & roll lifestyle has affected the Pistols’ progress. Barry muses on a dark period when they “were more interested in getting fucked than playing”.

Guitarist Johnny King, aka Johnny Rockstar, was

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

Seanie Tee

Andreas Jensen

Barry Ashworth

even forced to take a two-year hiatus. “We’d always go and do a good show, but then we’d be a fucking disaster afterwards,” Barry emphasises with the tone of a been-there-done-it-all geezer.

But after a few too many embarrassing and mildly-terrifying incidents, Barry admits he’s slowed down a little. No cocaine for him anymore.

Barry’s even moved out to the country, although he says it hasn’t made much difference thanks to his hectic schedule. Until a year ago, he’d lived all his life in West London and Barry has kept a strong connection to his working class roots.

Being a rock star isn’t all glitz and glamour, and Barry’s been grafting in the Dub Pistols since nearly before this writer was born.

On the trip back from Brighton, our casually inebriated conversation reflects his working man attitude. We discuss the privatisation of public services; the “ethnic cleansing” of Londoners

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

through gentrification; government propaganda against refugees and immigrants; the crisis in Greece, his advice to the fallen nation — “Just tell the rest of Europe to fuck off.” We talk and talk and before we know it we’ve arrived at Barry’s. The valium he gave us earlier kicks in just at the right time. We’re asleep before our head hits the pillow.

CHAMPIONS DJ Mag awakes to two breakfasts, the first a full English cooked up by Barry’s other half, and the second a “breakfast of champions” — an assortment of medicinal treats, which we pocket for later. The band are running late so after we’ve wolfed down our eggs, beans and bacon, there’s time for Barry to encourage almost a litre of Absolut down this writer’s neck before we hit the road. Chatting in the sun-kissed garden, we’re eased by the rapport he and his partner share.

Jack Cowens Barry teases her about losing her fried eggs to an unruly pan-lid, and she ribs him on his inability to cook even a bacon sandwich. What would he do without her, I ask?

“Live at Greggs!” she replies.

Our transport arrives, helmed by Steve, and populated by rapper Seanie Tee, guitarist Andreas Jensen, sound engineer Billy Borez, and drummer Jack Cowens — the youngest of the bunch, who bares a striking resemblance to Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere (he’s heard that one before). We remind ourselves of the lesson from music journo flick, Almost Famous — “These people are not your friends!” — and steel ourselves, ready for a barrage of suspicious looks and awkward silences. What fools we are. They may be an odd bunch, but the Dub Pistols are more than amicable.

Seanie apologies for forgetting his weed for the first time ever, and doesn’t even get too angry when DJ Mag accidentally steps on his sunglasses later on. Our journey in the ‘tour bus’ — a Ford Transit converted to include a couple of extra benches and a table; plastered with various badges and a wartime warning about S.T.I.s — provides time to learn about the crew. Billy, who moonlights as a Reddit moderator, tells us of his home studio/man cave. We discuss Jeremy Corbyn with Andreas. Seanie has finally started Game Of Thrones. The group seem worlds apart at times, but then what modern family doesn’t? And crucially, they gel when needed, to become a formidable skadubfunkyjungle groove machine.

VODKA When we finally reach our destination, yet more

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characters are added to the mix: bass obsessive Dave ‘Iron Man’ Budgen, and horn-player Tim Hutton, who’s written extensively for The Prodigy and Groove Armada. Dave’s behaviour appears strange at first, particularly his habit of doing pull-ups whenever there’s a bar handy. We discover he’s thrown his back out, and the movements help relieve the stress on his spine. Was the wild lifestyle of the Dub Pistols to blame?

“Shit genetics,” chirps Dave, who despite being loaded up on various super-strength painkillers is still in constant agony — but the show must go on.

Once soundcheck is over, the drinking begins. Barry’s scored a few extra bottles of vodka from the manager and somehow gotten his hands on yet more medicinals – well, when you become a pop star... From here on out, a golden glaze swamps our Manchester evening. We meet umpteen DJs, PRs, fans and a guy who’s the spitting image of comedian Charlie Day, each time having to explain why there’s a scruffy-haired student-type following Barry around.

The Pistols take to the stage and, bar Barry taking a tumble after an over-eager fan attaches herself to his ankle, the show goes off without a hitch. As the frontman bursts about the stage, only pausing for another swig of vodka, we join the frenzied crowd.

The Sound Control venue is perfect. A warehouse-loft, it holds many but still feels intimate. The riotous energy ricocheting off of every surface is infectious. Barry leans over the barrier to hand DJ Mag the rest of his booze and we’re instantly mobbed by punters, craving a sip from the chalice of their god. After the show, the band become men of few words.

“It was tight. I was off my head,” says Barry when we ask how he thinks it went. “Fucking hot,” responds Jack, after going at it hammer and tongs, only to be jokingly handed a glass of milk to quench his thirst. Still, he was right; the Pistols had let loose a hail of incendiary rounds, leaving their name glowing cherry red in the minds of the mass.

BOOMTOWN Our journey home is a blur of flashing streetlights and absurd conversations, the details of which we willingly lose in the dark recesses of our memory. Neither Barry or DJ Mag gets any sleep back at his, and on our way to meet the band for Boomtown, talk is sparse. We pop off the odd question awkwardly, feeling like we should make the most of the few hours we have left. Does Barry have to drag the band out of bed a lot, or is it the other way round, we manage to enquire? “Most of them are pretty good now, it’s not like they’re kids anymore,” begins Barry. “Occasionally someone will go off the tracks a little bit... I’ve missed so many flights it’s unreal...”

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He sings quietly and jokes about his dulcet tones. “I need a drink, I know that,” he says. “A stiff one.”

Boomtown happens in a flash. Your correspondent assumes the identity of wheelman, Steve, to gain access; we steal the chairs from Goldie Lookin Chain’s third of the tent; and after a lengthy soundcheck, everyone heads backstage to prepare. Seanie straps on his Pistolero bullet-belts and massive sombrero, whilst Barry, also in festival attire (a top hat and black military jacket, complete with aiguillette), laments about not being able to “break me”.

It may be early, but Boomtowners will get up at any time to see their heroes in action; thus, as the Pistols emerge on stage for the final time this weekend, they’re greeted by an ever-growing sea of adoration. Picking tracks on a whim, they unleash festival favourite after festival favourite, including ‘Gangsters’ by The Specials (Barry’s own idols) and the obligatory ‘Mucky Weekend’. Afterwards, the usual air of calm backstage is charged with electricity. “That’s dedication,” beams Dave, showing off his bloody fingertips. Most of the band decide it’s finally time to retire for the weekend, but a few remain, eager to take a wander and greet their fans in person. Barry treats himself to a new jacket, bright red this time. He looks like a lion-tamer, a ring-master; I suppose he is.

Dub Pistols’ wild antics may have been restricted somewhat over the years, but their fiery heart still burns strong. When Barry wants to party, there’s no stopping him, come hell or high water, and it’s almost believable that he’ll go on forever. I wonder out loud whether the mythos of Dub Pistols could supersede Barry, and the band could pull a Kraftwerk — continuing onwards regardless of who takes to the stage. “I don’t know,” Barry replies, “because I’m the least talented person in the band. My talent is finding and discovering and producing. I’m like a conductor. I find the best... but I don’t think people would have it.” BEN HINDLE ÝÛK`]ÛdYl]klÛ;mZÛGaklgdkÛYdZmeÛ I]lmjfÛF^ÛK`]ÛGaklgd]jgk¿ÛakÛgmlÛfgoÛgfÛ Sunday Best Recordings on all formats. Their Killa Sound tour traverses the UK in November and December.

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

SYNCED

Alchemist and Oh No are dropping a new album under their Gangrene collabo moniker and ‘You Disgust Me’

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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DISCO REVIEWS JONATHAN BURNIP jonathanburnip@gmail.com

QUICKIES

Hotel International/ Samuel Berdah From Manilla With Love Days Of Being Wild

8.5

Surprise release from column favourite Days Of Being Wild, with some rather epic sounding, mid-tempo, Italo-style disco manoeuvres. Last heard a couple of years back, Hotel International (including label-head Franz Kirmann) hit gold with the giddy ‘Nos Anneés Sauvages’ and fruity, EBM-style number, ‘9 Semaines 1/2’. The duo share this limited vinyl-only release with label Club Bizarre’s Samuel Berdah who appears with the two slow, spiralling, minimal wave cuts ‘Answers’ and ‘The Major Drum Instinct’.

Broken Mirror (Legowelt Remixes) 20/20 Vision

9.5

Electro stalwart, Random Factor drops some hi-tech funk for 20/20 Vision while Legowelt works in some sci-fi magic for the discotheque.

8.0

Jay Shepheard’s breezy vintage Italo-house tribute, ‘Henry’s Theme’, and Llorca’s (operating here under his Art Of Tones guise) excellent mid-paced disco sleazer, ‘Don’t Need No More’. Both feature next to other strong efforts by PBR Streetgang, Lukas and Phil Gerus.

Future Feelings

Barotti

Various Artists

Summer Riot Pt. IV Futureboogie

8.5

Bristol’s Futureboogie crew heat things up over this inclement season with part four of their Summer Riot series — mixing up some lively disco tunes with deeper, old school house styles. Standout moments on this five-track EP are

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She Once Knew EP (inc.

Massimiliano Pagliari Remix) Gomma

8.0

Multimedia artist/performer, Barotti, debuts on Gomma with this lead single taken from his forthcoming album, ‘Rising’ — due at the end of the year. Combining his love of ‘baroque’ in equal measure with his love of analogue electronics, Barotti’s idiosyncratic, ‘modern classical’ style is a suitable addition to Gomma’s eccentric catalogue; fitting in well with the elaborate, theatrical ‘pop music’ of Mocky etc. And, in addition, an elegant disco remix from Massimiliano Pagliari bridges the gap from performance to club.

St. Anthony

An Ode to Anthony H. Wilson (Andrew Weatherall Remixes) Skinny Dog

9.0

Mancunian poet, Mike Garry, aka St. Anthony, pens a tribute to the late, great cultural impresario and

Oba Chule

8.0

Random Factor

Maceo Plex lands again on Kompakt with this moment of rather sophisticated disco-noir. ‘Mirror Me’ follows on from his smash remix of GusGus’ ‘Crossfade’ (less the more obvious, driving club dynamic in favour of much leaner dancefloor appeal), and to accompany this slick, icy-cool rhythm is a vocal appearance from the excellent C.A.R. (aka Chloé Raunet) of Kill The DJ. Those seeking the familiar, tougher side to Maceo Plex’s production, fear not, the release includes a galloping, acidic ‘Dark Dub’.

Mexican trio Future Feelings have kept their profile low over the past few years, only reaching out with a few remixes and productions for local label, Tickle Sound. Their rather unruly return, ‘Downtown Girl’, employs a few obvious tricks to get the party started, alongside a slew of remixes — notably from Italo-disco legends Klein & MBO (sadly without founding member Mario Boncaldo, who passed away earlier this year), Ilya Santana and Russian duo Kim & Buran.

Kojak Giant Sounds

Mixed by Tee Scott in ‘82, West End reissue this boogie favourite with THAT wild, electronic intro. Essential.

Kompakt

7.0

West End

10

Mirror Me

Nang

Ebony Cuts

Time (2015 Reissue)

Maceo Plex feat. C.A.R.

Downtown Girl

Stone

Finnish disco crew work out a tough Afro-funk edit for DJ Ionik’s label based in Finland. Backed with the house/disco hybrid, ‘Carrie On’.

Moscoman

Akachi/Nobody Else ESP Institute

9.0

Disco-techno doubleheader from Moscoman.

‘Akachi’ and ‘Nobody Else’ mark the producer’s debut for the excellent ESP Institute label.

Various Artists

You Can Trust A Man With A Moustache Vol. 3 Moustache

9.5 Rounding up some of the more unsung talent from Rotterdam’s vibrant hi-NRG and electro scene, ‘You Can Trust… Vol. 3’ gathers music from less prolific talents such as Rick van Breugel (here with two cuts as Ricky Da Dragon and Electrick Dragon), party-starting duo The Problems, and label boss David Vunk. Expect a highgloss homage to Italo-disco; the legacy of Bobby O and the memory of Ron Hardy’s Muzic Box.

JOSH CAFFE NERVOUS / BATTY BASS 01. OUT OF EDEN ‘The Future Of Sex (Hard Ton Remix)’ Get Up Recordings

“This is from my first release under Out Of Eden, a musical project between myself and David Newtron. Hard Ton gave this an old school feel with elements of Master C+J. We worked with a great London vocalist, Fi McCluskey.”

02. ROMARE ‘Roots’ Ninja Tune

“This EP’s super-dark and trippy, and ‘Roots’ is definitely a stand-out one for me. Really hypnotic with a great melody.”

03. DJ JUNE ‘Kiss’ Vintage Music

“I love the vocal distortion on this. A great psychedelic summer track from Sunner Soul’s Vintage music label.”

04. JUS TADI ‘Feel The Vibe’ Our Records

“This track sends me into a musical trance. Has some nice jazz elements lifted by trippy synths.”

Factory Records boss, Tony Wilson.

His charming accolade is backed with a rousing string arrangement from producer Joe Buddell and a couple of killer mixes from ideal remixer choice, Andrew Weatherall.

Here, Weatherall’s production is reverted to being suitably retro; his instrumental and vocal versions roll out a dreamy, early '90s-style Balearic haze.

05. ROISIN MURPHY ‘Evil Eyes (Severino & Nico De Ceglia Remix)’ Play It Again Sam

“Roisin’s vocals really do it for me, and this is a great remix from Seve and Nico. The original is petty amazing too.”

06. YSE SAINT LAUR’ANT ‘Bow Legged Robot’ Edtorial Records “Absolutely love this track from the ‘Faux Metier EP’. Tom Tom Club-style vocals mixed with some great funk elements.”

07.

DR PACKER ‘Shared Nights’ Hot Digits Music

“Overall a great EP. Old school vibes shine on ‘Shared Nights’. Also has a good rework of ‘Ghetto Heaven’.”

08. OPAL ‘Ain’t No Way’ Silver Clouds

“The opening lyrics to this track are the best! Who wouldn’t want to sample it? A true classic.”

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

HOUSE REVIEWS

SYNCED

BEN ARNOLD ben.a.arnold@gmail.com

QUICKIES Alan Fitzpatrick Tribe

Whistleblower

7.5

Benoit & Sergio House With 500 Rooms Leftroom Limited

Tough stuff from the Southampton producer, but it's the clattering Trus'me remix that does the business, all skittering percussion and a gently farting bassline. Get in.

Lauhaus

Return To Tabarca EP Danse Club

7.5

7.5

Unabashed largeness from Benoit and Sergio here. There are pianos, bells, and probably whistles somewhere too.

It's thunderous, peaktime anthem business, and no mistake.

Drum Talk Lose Again feat. Josa Peit Crosstown Rebels

7.5

Jacques Renault Silver Machines Public Release

Quietly incendiary stuff from Dutchman Lauhaus here for Brodanse's Danse Club imprint.

'Unconditional' is a total and utter bombshell.

Use with caution.

7.5

As ever, Let's Play House don Jacques Renault brings pounding disco fire to proceedings, this time for Beats In Space man Tim Sweeney's Public Release label.

Excellent stuff.

BEESMUNT SOUNDSYSTEM PETS RECORDINGS 01. FANTASTIC MAN ‘Animal Language’ Fince Choice Records “Wonderfull bongo vibes.”

02. HUNEE ‘Hunch Music’ Rush Hour

“Amazingly versatile album by this new born Amsterdammer.”

03. INTERSTELLAR FUNK 6.25 Tape Records

“Straight-up banger from the Amsterdam-based selector.”

04. LARRY HEARD ‘You Rock Me/The Sun Can’t Compare’ Alleviated US

“This repress gives all of you the chance to own this absolute classic.”

05. DJ SPIDER & MARSHALLITO ‘Nuclear Winter’ The Trilogy Tapes

“Perfect for that girl-on-girl action.”

06. ARMANDO PRESENTS ‘The Chicago Bad Boys’ Saber

“Seven lost tracks found in the Trax vault by Armando Gallop, Roy Davis Jr, Corey Rodgers and more.”

07.

emerging heads have to learn. The former Smokescreen soundsystem mainstays are now reinvigorating their once prolific Drop Music imprint, and not before time. Herein lie three discotheque devastators (and a nice downtempo number for when you get home). 'I Think Of You' shows their mastery of the subtle but wildly effective drop, while 'Still Feel Good' and 'Turn Around' chug like buggery. Welcome back to the fold.

ALMA NEGRA ‘Maloya’ Highlife

“If African tribes had drum machines in the 1800s.”

08. ZOOVOX ‘Transistor Madness’ Lectric Sands Records “Moody synths done very well, classic ‘80s vibe.”

09. SYMPATHY NERVOUS ‘Polaroid’ Vanity Records “Just listen...”

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

Kez YM

Solidity EP City Fly

9.0 Japanese producer Kez YM, aka Kazuki Yamaguchi — who has previous form on Cologne's Yore Records and Gerd's excellent 4Lux — has attracted deep love from the likes of Moodymann and Larry Heard with his unctuous, soulful grooves.

'Bump Into The Sky' will no doubt be landing in the box of the former, a winding, organheavy jam. 'My Joy', with its girthsome kick and party vibes, is a stone-cold killer, those vamping pianos and a dirty bass loop making it thoroughly irresistible. 'Eagle Eye' is purest space-funk, while 'Spiral Traffic' busts out the guitar licks to absolutely devastating effect.

This is the second Money Shot track for City Fly this year, too.

So there's that.

Spooky grooves from east Londoner Drum Talk, notably with title track here, 'Lose Again', featuring the icy vocals of Brandt Brauer Frick affiliate Josa Peit. She has a touch of the Róisín Murphys about her delivery, which is no bad thing, by the way. 'Wildcard' is a frisky, more upfront proposition, layered thickly with dizzying arpeggios, dark stabs and a rolling bass. 'Gamma' too builds up more of those simple, stepping keys. Very, very nice indeed.

SDXN Only Water EP Frontier Records

8.0

Now here's a lovely thing indeed from Brighton-hailing producer mucky bassline on 'Trash Track'. 'An SDXN. 'Eyes' feels complex, pulsing Oriental Tale', with its stuttering its way through a lean six minutes, broken beats, slapped bass and but earning your respect in spades. stately pianos, wraps things up in It's all lush and blissful, but with most elegant fashion. some grunt in that sturdy bass and percussion. 'Only' washes phasing Jay Shepheard pads over you like a warm bath.

E To The Power 'Saturn' keeps that understatedly Galaktika epic vibe going, with blazing pianos.

7.5 Manchester's Winter Son turns his version of the track too, a beatless, Retrofit bossman Jay Shepheard joins with Barcelona's Galaktika for Balearic masterstroke. this sturdy three-tracker. 'E To The Mugwump feat. Circlesquare Power' is a chugging, throbbing After They Fall (Remixes) groove, with a posh-sounding Subfield/!K7 female getting confused about 8.0 maths over its pulsing synths. It's not often you get to say that. 'Kerrs Dropping from Mugwump's debut Pink' is slick and understated, a album 'Unspell', 'After They Fall' Takuya Matsumoto mood-setter. 'Light Of The Silvery gets the re-rub treatment. First up Assembly EP Meda Fury Toaster', meanwhile, starts is the unstoppable Tuff City Kids 8.0 innocuously enough, but soon (the meeting of Lauer and Gerd builds layers of acidic blips, bleeps Janson), who turn in a shimmering, Japanese producer Takuya and distortion, all pitch-bent out of rave-meets-Italo anthem. Runaway Matsumoto is the latest to pitch all recognition. One to freak out the — aka Mugwump chums Jacques up for R&S affiliate Meda Fury, 7am loons, and it will serve them Renault of Let's Play House fame with what is an absurdly generous and Marcos Cabral — go super-deep, six-track EP. Opening gambit 'Be' is right for not being in bed. evoking the bumpy vibrations of an effortlessly classy piano houser Inland Knights Mood2Swing. Eskimo Twins slow in a most classic mould. 'On The The Pollination EP proceedings right down, crack out March' is subtle and strange, with the reverb machines and get all dubits crackling white noise, giving way Drop Music disco on its ass. And it's no more to jazzy Detroit stabs. 'Rain Flower', 8.5 than it deserves. meanwhile, makes liberal use of Andy Riley and Laurence Ritchie steel drums, while big band strings have forgotten more about couple with digital disco vibes and making house music than many

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ELECTRO / PROGRESSIVE REVIEWS ANGUS THOMAS PATERSON angusthomaspaterson@gmail.com

QUICKIES

Johan Vilborg feat.

Linney Unravel Me

Enhanced Progressive

7.0

A characteristic blast of melody from Vilborg that sees him working with some particularly tight arrangements, plus some excellent feather-soft vocals courtesy of Liney. It’s a mellow build to its surprise drop and rush of synths, which blast out over the top of a crunchy electro groove that keeps it functional for the EDM crowd. A canny balance of trance, electro and main-stage.

FreeFall Pressure Audiophile

7.5

A rogue record that situates itself on the edgiest reach of the EDM spectrum, ‘Pressure’ sports a sleazy vibe that compliments its mainstage-ready thrills. FreeFall delivers in terms of huge drops and brash electro noise with all the trimmings, though it’s bundled with a deep house-style R&B sample, which is actually a genius tactic as it turns out. Festival excess with swag.

Yotto

Wondering feat. CAPS Anjunadeep

9.0 Finland’s Yotto comes of age as a producer with ‘Wondering’, mashing deep house formula with spine-tingling progressive euphoria for one of the biggest records off the ‘Anjunadeep 07’ comp. An early breakdown ushers in some particularly sumptuous melodies and vocals, paving the way for the punch of one of those familiar tromboneled hooks. Yotto allows it to take centre stage, though it’s his lush embellishments that bestow it with such a unique character.

Seductively geared both for the peak-time and deeper dancefloor moments.

yet, while ‘Lunar’ and ‘Exchange’ draw more on the grander melodies we expect from Olander.

Evidence of an artist broadening his signature sound.

Mike Koglin & MoodFreak pres.

Sudhaus Vesta Silk

8.0

Koglin and MoodFreak craft a certain captivating ambience within this bigroom progressive record. Built around a solid dancefloor drive, it’s complimented by some particularly lush atmospherics that are woven neatly into the harmonies, the sonic shimmers given room to breathe in the breakdown before a tough drop gets things moving again.

Jeremy Olander

Bastian Bux

Suara

Suara

Hannover EP

7.0

Olander moves deep into melodic techno territory for his first release on Suara, a direction hinted by his back-to-back Essential Mix with Prydz earlier in the year. It sees him crafting steelier grooves to wrap around those thick synths that give away his progressive roots.

‘Hannover’ is his deepest offering

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Tempus Fugit

7.5

The second track this month to utilise one of those familiar Ten Walls-style trombone hooks, this one is delivered with a lot more aggression. Bastian Bux fashions his riff with such intensity that it rips through the record’s mix like it’s a soft fabric. A big-room record with real impact.

Above & Beyond

Counting Down The Days (Yotto Remix) Anjunabeats

8.0

A trancier offering from Yotto’s than his Money Shot single this month, he works the treacly vocal from Above & Beyond like a pro, transforming it into a fist-pumping prog anthem. Different as it may be from ‘Wondering’, there’s such a unique sound to what’s emerging from Yotto’s studio.

Mandingo

Parallel Universe Rekids

7.0

‘Parallel Universe’ illustrates how effective a simple, full, rich synth melody can really be,

kicking off on a tough growl before its electro melody swirls, and it spins off into some Rekids-style psychedelic weirdness in the middle. Melodic techno garnished with loving strangeness.

LTN feat. Adara

Outside The Lines (LTN's Sunrise Mix) Enhanced Progressive

7.0

Another lush ‘sunrise’ remix from LTN in progressive mode, turning his hand this time to one of his own big room offerings on the Enhanced stable, giving it a deeper re-rub.

The pulsing synth strings ebb and flow to keep the energy high, working fabulously with the vocal.

Audien

Daydreams EP Astralwerks

8.5

A solid indication that he could have a lot more to offer beyond straight-up club cuts, electro kid Audien works with a cast of singer/songwriters across this EP, demonstrating a flair for musicality and pop arrangements to compliment his natural affinity with melody. All of this places him light years ahead of his EDM contemporaries. ‘Rooms’ represents the most familiar Audien club offering, though it all features his characteristic whizz-bang studio trickery.

JAMES GRANT ANJUNADEEP 01. SOLOMON GREY

‘Miradors (Jody Wisternoff & James Grant Remix)’ Anjunadeep “One of mine and Jody’s new remixes on ‘Anjunadeep 07’. The original is stunning, love those vocals!”

02. YOTTO

03. MACEO PLEX 04. DEMS

‘Made For Myself (Jody Wisternoff & James Grant Remix)’ Anjunadeep

“Me and Jody putting our touch on some more beautiful vocals for ‘Anjunadeep 07’, this time from London band DEMS.”

Wired To Be Inspired

7.5

‘Wired To Be Inspired’ is the latest from Lange and his new Create label, and marks the return of the adventurous spirit that’s proved so defining for the UK veteran. Techy flourishes sit alongside the sugary melodies, with Lange executing a few creative surprises, not the least of which is the titanic electro bassline that drops out of nowhere several minutes in. It’s this exact kind of sonic boldness the trance scene badly needs at the moment.

‘Wash Away My Tears’ Ellum

“One of the best and most consistent producers around these days.”

Lange Create

‘Slowly’ Anjunadeep

“A rising star in our Anjunadeep camp, this is one of my favourites of 2015.”

05. DUSKY

‘Skin Deep (Global Communication Remix)’ 17 Steps

“A match made in heaven, who better than Tom Middleton to work his magic on Dusky’s epic melodies.”

06. MARIBOU STATE

‘Wallflower (Lane 8 Remix)’ Anjunadeep

“Serious dancefloor weapon here, I love the original and Lane 8 has brought a whole new dimension to it.”

07.

DISCLOSURE ‘Omen feat. Sam Smith (Jonas Rathsman Remix)’ Island

“Another special remix from Jonas, epic and subtle in equal measure. This one sounds great live.”

08. CUBICOLOR

‘Down The Wall’ Anjunadeep

“A sleeper underground hit from Cubicolor, these guys are definitely ones to watch.”

09. RYAN DAVIS ‘Brun’

Anjunadeep

“A personal favourite from our new ‘Anjunadeep 07’ compilation, the melodies pack an emotive punch.”

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

TECHNO REVIEWS

SYNCED

RICHARD BROPHY, richardbrophy@gmail.com

QUICKIES Chris Moss Acid

Righteous Acid Beats Computer Controlled

7.5

‘Distorted Acid Beats’ might have been a better name for this release.

Chris delivers a series of tough, uncompromising tracks, smothered in layers of acid and abrasive percussion, which culminate in the stuttering, vocalsampling ‘What Size Is Your Jack'.

Myth

Evaporate Halcyon Veil

8.5

Arnaldo

Your Favourite Colour Is Green Yet You Dress In Black

STL

Listen Up

Smallville

Mutual Friend

7.5

8.0

William Smith returns to Smallville with more discerning house and techno. From the robodisco of ‘Never Used To Be Better’ and the deep house keys of ‘Million Mile Love’ to the blissedout techno of ‘Moving On’, this is a sublime, sophisticated affair.

Stephan Laubner has always been adept at striking a balance between the experimental and the soulful — and this talent is audible on ‘Listen Up’. ‘Mind Puzzlin’ is a mesmerising affair; starting off with the German producer’s lo-fi drums, it gradually and seductively leads the listener into a maze of woozy chords and repetitive stabs. ‘Smile Function’ is a typical Laubner DJ tool, but he impresses most here with ‘Wrong’.

Like ‘Mind Puzzlin’, it features raw drums, but its combination of rumbling bass and frosty, Lawrencestyle melodies cannot fail to capture the listener’s attention.

Nautil

Canopee Further

First up on Rabit’s new label is ‘Evaporate’. The work of 21-year-old producer Myth, it fuses the tight rhythmic shuffle of 2-step with computer game-generated trance versions of Polygon Window’s greatest hits.

It’s an unusual but distinctive debut.

8.0

Further is one of the most individualistic underground labels, so it’s no surprise that ‘Canopee’ comes from techno’s left of centre. The stepping, haunted title track, the dubbed-out techno of ‘Galdae’ and the cold bleeps and atmospheric tones of 'Mue' are all up to the US label's usual high standards.

SLOWBURN LUNAR DISKO 01. PABLO MATEO ‘B1’ Lakrec

“Stripped-back machine-funk with atmospheric strings.”

02. JOHN HECKLE ‘Bon Voyage’ Lunar Disko

“Nostagic Italo-flavoured peak-time action here from the Lunar camp.

Essential!”

03. RIC PICCOLO ‘Sonrie’ Bordello A Parigi “Funky as hell reworks from Ric.”

04. HEINRICH DRESSEL ‘Lurking Underwater (JTC Remix)’ Barba Records

“Crazy rhythms here from JTC on the remix, like Larry Heard on acid.”

05. FUNKINEVEN/GREG BEATO ‘BSDISS’ Apron

“Apron serving up the goods again with this moderate tempo disco track.”

06. VARIOUS ARTISTS ‘Secondary Modern EP’ Talhachi

“Four heavy and varied house tracks from Marvis Dee, Haku, ESB and Flexible Fellas (Cliff Lothar, Orgue Electronique and Egyptian Eyeliner).”

07.

experimentation, what better way to end the release with the epic synth soundtrack that is ‘Uranus Unknown’?

REGELBAU ‘RB02’ Regelbau

“Second release from a Danish collective of DJs and producers. The first EP is also worth checking.”

08. VARIOUS ARTISTS ‘Ethos Series 3’ Nous

“It’s hard to pick a favourite on this six-track EP, all tracks are excellent.”

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

The Exaltics Remixes

DJ Overdose

Solar One

8.5

Hero’s Gone Mental

L.I.E.S.

9.0 The Hague’s DJ Overdose isn’t the most obvious fit for Ron Morelli’s label, but it deserves praise for providing him with a platform to release on. Over these four tracks, Overdose shows why he is so respected.

From the high-paced electro drums and '80s synth-pop riffs of ‘Brain vs Heart’ through the fusion of epic Vangelis influences and tearing low-end on ‘Haex Hril’ into the low-tempo industrial grind of ‘Trail Of Tears’, this is some of the meanest, most original electro to come from the West Coast in recent years.

Der Zyklus

Axonometric Zone

8.5

Hot on the heels of the ‘Biometry’ reissue comes new material from Gerald Donald’s Der Zyklus project. As is the case with all his work, ‘Axonometric’ is influenced by scientific theory. This finds expression in the abstract stylings of ‘Isometric Projection’ and two brutal electro rhythm tracks, ‘Perspective Grid’ and ‘Plan Oblique’. However, while Donald brings a brutal, elemental force to his work, he also shows another more reflective side, expressed here on the beautiful, otherworldly synths of ‘Explosion Diagram’.

Slowburn LDRX2 LDRX

8.0

Dublin producers Slowburn are known for their US-influenced house sound, but on this release for Lunar Disko sub-label LDRX, they broaden their range. The tough drums and musical imprint of Trent and Damier are still audible on Phil Long’s solo jam ‘Nat909’.

Working collectively, Slowburn’s ‘First One Back’ inhabits a similar space thanks to its robot bass and hollowed-out drums. From there on in, the mood changes; ‘First One Back’ is a stripped-back beat track, immersed in acid, while Dave Hargadon’s solo track, ‘Solace’, is a sublime slice of home listening techno.

Passenger

Hybrid Science EP Tabernacle

8.0

The work of Andrea Di Maggio, ‘Science’ is in keeping with Tabernacle’s raw take on techno.

'Correlated Motions' sees vicious percussive bursts and distorted bass unravel over dub beats, while ‘Subsurfacial Nerves’ and ‘Protong Genetics’ ramp up the intensity with noisy acid lines, buzzing bass tones and tough claps. ‘Epta Waves', with its skittish drums and woozy synths, marks the zenith of Passenger’s visceral approach. After all that

The stellar line-up on this remix package is a sign of how highly Robert Witschakowski is regarded by his peers. Even Gerald Donald contributes a rare remix with his Dopplereffekt project turning ‘Instinct’ into a nervy, juddery track replete with eerie synths.

Elsewhere, Objekt shows his skills with a spiky, hyper-rhythmic take on ‘Journey To Jupiter’, while Ultradyne do a cyber-punk-style grind on their take of ‘Compressed Thoughts’. The standout versions however are the rolling rhythms and shimmering synths of ERP’s take on ‘My Language’ and the gentle melodies and tumbling beats on Gosub’s reinvention of ‘i.m.o.E.H.’

Submersible Machines Waypoints Photic Fields

9.0

Like that other great Texan producer, ERP/Convextion, mystery artist Submersible Machines maintains a low profile and only releases music sporadically. This approach only serves to underscore his highly distinctive sound and ‘Waypoints’ is as impressive as his two releases on Lunar Disko. ‘The Searching’ and ‘Porthole’ are led by warm Juno bass licks and feature his trademark misty, mysterious melodies. ‘Abyssal Plains’ is more dancefloor-friendly thanks to its tight drums but doesn’t lose his atmospheric touch, while ‘707 Dreams’ is all warbling, spinetingling keys and woozy filters.

Sublime stuff as usual.

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SYNCED

TRANCE REVIEWS TIM STARK djmagtrance@gmail.com

QUICKIES Future Disciple

Miroslav Vrlik & Andre Visior

Adeline

Touchstone Recordings

Red Sky

7.0

Always Alive

Miroslav Vrlik & Andre Visior are somewhat 'firmament-fixated' this month (their ‘Falling Skies’ on Silent Shores also dropped into the inbox). With its epically plucked, Airwave-esque superstring though, ‘Red Sky’ is the pick of the pair.

Orkidea & Activa

Nifra feat Seri

Black Hole Recordings

Coldharbour Recordings

Z21

7.5

Faithless

MONETY!

SHO

Salva Mea (Save Me) 2.0 (Above & Beyond Remix) Anjunabeats

9.0 Class act, Above & Beyond. No Faithless too obvious for them.

It’s ‘Insomnia’'s forerunner/ blueprint, the (bit controversial) superior ‘Salva Mea’ that’s the object of their remix affections.

Class remix too. Concerns about too-cool skimp-age on the cornerstone pizzicato (after a cheeky tease ‘n’ rug-pull early on!) are allayed in the final third, with a floor-whacking rendition. Around the side are chimes, Maxi Jaxx-rhymes and epic basslines.

Richard Durand Faces Of Chaos Reloaded Music

8.5

Reloaded, Durand’s new, well, everything (label, album, mixcomp, radio show and more) kicks off, quite literally. On ‘Faces Of Chaos’, out goes even the remotest scrap of melody/restraint. In their place: whipping breakbeat loops (think ‘Tour De France’'s intro on steroids), foreboding vocals and a series of accelerating riffs, each more lashing, fierce and effective than the last. Stimulating stuff.

90

Armin van Buuren feat Mr Probz

Another You (Ronski Speed Remix) Armind

7.5

Was the original version too mainline/daytime for you? No prob(z), Ronski Speed, on hand here, to club ‘Another You’ right up. Heaps of mid-range pump and a superbly judged and delivered lead line lock his version up tight.

It’s a further testament to his nous on the FX knobs that the vocal is suddenly sounding a lot more credible, too.

LTN feat Kimberly Hale Meant To Be Statement!

8.0

To not be moved to the odd goosebump or two by ‘Meant To Be’ may signify you’re no longer breathing the good stuff. Having strayed from the established LTN script with his album, this is Louis back at his melodic best. The track’s a masterclass in aquatic harmonics, aquiline riffs, deep-end-of-thepool chords and pads, with a gift of '80s-esque housey piano-line hovering over the top.

Monojoke & Tuxedo Fallen Culture J00F Recordings

9.0

These days, when I click to ID an ear-turner, odds on it's something on J00F. ‘Fallen Culture‘ from the wonderfully named Monojoke & Tuxedo triggered a new record click-response time. Its slow-

roll drums, bass-led groove, panoramically celestial FX and chiming harmonies (somewhat reminiscent of Maceo Plex’s ‘Dexter’s Flight’) will all leave you agog. High order galactic trance that’s not to be missed.

7.5

After ‘Kwiwakurra’ and ‘The Mayans Are Coming’, expectation for Future Disciple’s output is hefty. ‘Adeline’ has lots to cheer (infectious FX, shouty vocal loops, breezeblock drums), but, by comparison to the aforementioned, its leadline’s somewhat rote.

Army Of Lights

8.0

‘Z21’ sports a refreshingly confident sleek ‘n’ linear production profile.

Truckin’ tempo, psy-bass, acid squiggle and high drama orchestral drums shudder its netherregions, while break-side, its pads should get that gooseflesh up.

‘Army Of Lights’ juggles the juxtaposition between its tough-asnails tech underlay and stabby running riffs with a surprisingly lifty and elevating leadline well.

Seri’s far-from-slouching in the vocal dept too.

Las Salinas

Honey Bunny VANDIT Records

8.0

Through their sounds and arrangements, guys like iLan Bluestone and Andrew Bayer have been responsible for arguably the single healthiest production transition the scene’s made in five or six years. Las Salinas put their fine spin on that here. Oceanic melodies and quirky electro FX with double-dollops of distortion are confined to their own sections of the track. Yet, when heard as a whole, collectively it couldn’t be more innate.

Max Graham

Airtight (Remixes) Cycles

RICHARD DURAND RELOADED MUSIC 01. BITMONX ‘Back In The Game’ Spin Twist Records

“This track is atmospheric, but still has plenty of drive, and a nice hook to it too.”

02. SIMON PATTERSON

03. GREG DOWNEY & BO BRUCE

‘These Hands I Hold (Sean Tyas

Remix)’ Perfecto Records

8.0

The third release on his new Cycles imprint sees Max hark back to his Hope days, with two new interpretations of ‘Airtight’. The mixes from Tim Penner and Henrik Zuberstein occupy similar deeper space, governed by an echoing, shadowy tone and riffs rife with ether. Excellent both, but postbreak Penner’s is the one that surprises, splicing a tough, technolike gene into proceedings.

‘Apex’ Perfecto Fluoro

“Simon does it again. Much requests for my sets.”

“I don’t play a massive amount of female vocals, but this one’s really got me.”

04. RICHARD DURAND ‘Face Of Chaos’

Reloaded Music

“After weeks in solitude in my studio, this is my first single in my new style — and on my new label, Reloaded Music.”

05. JORDAN SUCKLEY ‘Aztec Curse’

Damaged Records

“Jordan Suckley’s productions just keep gaining momentum.”

06. BEN NICKY ‘Red Alert’ Who’s Afraid Of 138?!

“Powerful and energetic with a pretty, elegant piano part.”

07.

INDIANIX ‘Deep & Roll’ Iono Music

“An urgent, pumping bassline and wide, stretched melodic pads.”

08. LIQUID SOUL & ZYCE FEAT SOLAR KID

Science Fic-

tion Iboga Records

“The deeper side of psy-trance, with a really catchy groove.”

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

BASS REVIEWS

SYNCED

OLI MARLOW, info@sonicrouter.com

QUICKIES Wiley x Zomby Step 2001

Mr Mitch

The Man Waits (Remixes) Gobstopper

8.0

DJ Madd

Rum Punch EP

‘The Man Waits’ marked a bit of a turning point for Mr Mitch — it dropped at a time when he was furrowing even further into his own style, entrenching a real sense of blown-out space into his work. It’s fitting, then, that to celebrate five years of his Gobstopper label, he’s commissioned remixes of it and here the spatial master Logos and budding producers Gage and Iglew all contribute their own unsettling beat-less impressions of it.

Cosmic Bridge

7.0

Big Dada

8.0

I always thought it’d be fucking amazing if it turned out that Zomby was actually just another alias of Wiley. Wouldn’t that absolutely be something, though? One day the smoke clears and it’s just Wiley standing there smirking? That shit would make your head explode.

DJ Madd enters the world of 160bpm music on Om Unit’s Cosmic Bridge, which is honestly one of the best co-signs he could have dreamed of when making music that transplants the dub-heavy science of a soundsystem to this new, quicker pace.

Air Max ‘97

Core Work/Expenditure Decisions

7.5

MONETY!

SHO

Double Barreled Mitzi (Turbo Mitzi VIP)/Legion (VIPinch Mix) Tectonic

9.0

IVY LAB 20/20 LDN 01. ALIX PEREZ & EPROM ‘Minotaur’ Alpha Pup

“Perez & Eprom team up on an EP for Big Daddy Kev’s imprint. Four strippedback, sci-fi half-time bangers.”

By now Pinch & Mumdance’s ‘Turbo Mitzi’ should be pretty ubiquitous to anyone spending time listening to Rinse or frequenting left-leaning dancefloors, so the release of the rollocking 'Double Barreled VIP' remix is a thing to be properly celebrated. Pinch’s retooling of Mumdance & Logos’ ‘Legion’ comes stamped on the flip and it’s probably even more emphatic than the A-side, with the Tectonic boss amping up the drunken, stuttering flat bass drum intensity several notches.

02. SAM BINGA FEAT SLICK DON ‘Run The Dance’ Critical Music “Fans of grime will love this cut. Will definitely have you drawing for the gun-fingers.”

Tuff Sherm & Patch Free

Fang Lilies

Hot Haus

Signal Life

Dern Werk EP

8.5

Intermission EP

Kevin McPhee

04. SABRE ‘Yoga (Alix Perez Remix)’ Plazma Audio

Not So Much

WNCL

“This tune is absolutely mental. Alix once again showing us how it’s done.”

05. DARKHOUSE FAMILY ‘Bulgarian Track’ Unreleased

“Unmistakeable groove and swagger to their music, Darkhouse mix traditional samples with modern beats.”

06. ALIX PEREZ

‘Gully Halves VIP’ Exit Records

“The bass in this tune actually made a CDJ vibrate and fall off the desk at a show once… Absolute monster.”

07.

STRAY ‘Spooky Dub’ 20/20 LDN

“Can’t say too much about this one but trust us, it’s an absolute killer!”

08. DEFT ‘For Sudden’ 20/20 LDN

“If you’ve been to one of our nights, you’ll have heard this. A straight 20/20 anthem.”

09. KROMESTAR ‘3D’ Unreleased

“Prepare to get sprayed with beer when this comes on in the dance.”

10. FINEPRINT ‘Can’t Lie (Ivy Lab Remix)’ B3SCI Records

“A little soulful half-time joint. One for the baby-making playlist.”

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

8.5

I’m a staunch supporter of Mosca for a number of reasons, but a lot of my respect for him stems from the fact that the man is a really fucking good producer — regardless of the style he approaches. Think back to ‘Bax’, ‘Tilt Shift’, ‘Square One’, ‘Nike’ — they’re all completely different stylistically, but they’re all insanely good. So it’s no surprise that his latest EP, with its three very different takes on the hypnotic techno format, is very much essential.

8.5

After a lil' hiatus, the Signal Life label has dutifully spluttered out a four-tracker from Fang Lilies (which, Google tells us, is the mouthwatering notion of label owners Twwth & Desto working in collaboration). Cut loud in the vein of Mumdance’s Rinse show, which explores the intersection of techno, grime and noise, there’s a bevvy of wonderful moments strewn all across the EP from the first switch on ‘Echelon’ to the ethereal butterfly melody of ‘Color Crop’.

Mosca

NSM004

Chameleon Crystals

Imagine the sound and forthright pound of a selection of raw, bumpy house workouts from the bro behind Dro Carey. Feels good, right? Well, in essence that’s exactly what you get from Tuff Sherm & Patch Free’s stellar first outing on DJ Haus’ Hot Haus label — four floor-working cuts that bump and lollop to their own groove. ‘Dern Werk’ is the upbeat highlight whilst the chords and pads of ‘Zone 3’ prove that melancholy can be just as righteous.

03. SHIELD ‘My Flava’ Unreleased

“As cold as it gets when it comes to half-time... a staple in every Ivy Lab set.”

Breaking ground on his own label venture, Air Max ‘97 displays a little bit of that ‘Pulse X’ style, bludgeoning impact of his Liminal Sounds release on B-side ‘Expenditure’, fusing his hard, grime bass stabs with a top-end of rippling, elliptical pitched toms. When paired with ‘Core Work’ the tune takes on a bit of a different meaning though, physically flipping the tropes into a more techno dimension. It’s a wrong footer. It sure rides goofy, but it bangs.

TW EP

7.0

Returning to one of South-East London’s most consistent labels, the Canadian talent Kevin McPhee sketches out another rather nagging mantra on ‘TW’ with his big booming 4x4 kicks, rippling snares and breathy off-beat open hats framing and driving the infectious vocal perfectly. His label boss ups the edit ante on his remix, however, managing to make his version at first bump with his trademark bounce and then sound as lush and as temperate as something by The Avalanches.

Shigeto Ghostly

7.5

Pitched as something of an intermission between suites, Shigeto’s latest clutch of six tracks is aimed to outline where his headspace has been at whilst touring and participating in numerous other things. And considering his road life and the constant lure of collaboration it’s not surprising that the EP jumps around, trying numerous different things at each possible turn. It’s exactly what makes his work so fascinating though, and it proves especially so on a fabulous blossom of a track like ‘Do My Thing’.

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SYNCED

HIP HOP REVIEWS NEIL KULKARNI, 81 Crosbie Road, Coventry, CV5 8FX

QUICKIES

Finale feat. Kenn Starr & Hassaan Mackey 7 Days Mello Music Group

Illinformed Where's The Bud Real Life Drama Records

7.5

I'm kind of sick of rappers' woes.

Good christ, they're whiney at the moment. I don't mind if a rapper at least gets angry, flexes that radginess outwards, in fact I prefer it. But it's the mopeyness of rappers at the moment, the self-pity, that I can't stand. '7 Days' could've just been another moany track about the fact that most rappers have to bleeding well work for a living, but it's a corker, beautifully understated both verbally and musically, simmering with tension but also with a touch of resignation that makes it a track you can nod to in all senses — no matter what kind of 9-5 hell-train you find yourself ladling gravy on. Great production from Oddissee as you'd expect and if this is any hint, Finale's 'Odds & Ends' collection is another corker in MMG's crown and some of the best Detroit hip-hop you'll hear all year.

Diggit. sublime east-coast production legends Joyner is clearly influenced DJ Soko feat. Guilty Simpson by. Get the mixtape and jack this The Beast single loud — it achieves that Left Of Center brilliant feat of being insanely 8.0 catchy without getting annoying.

I’ve been rinsing it for weeks and Soko's 'Domino Effect' LP is a haven’t got sick of it yet. Enjoy. barnstormer, featuring cameos from a stellar list of underground Juicy J feat Lil’ Herb and overground Michigan MC Ain’t No Rapper and production talent, including Soundcloud Guilty Simpson, Finale, Jae 7.0 Musick, Newstalgia (who produces here) and Red Pill. 'The Beast' It’s his voice. Juicy J has never is just one of many highlights. had the most amazing rhymes Guilty Simpson is on fire in 2015 but there’s something about his (his soon-drop 'Detroit's Son' voice I find utterly addictive — the LP is just astonishing) and here way he changes tempo midway he sits in Newstalgia's soundthrough this banger, starts lounge delivering sharp lines jazzing out on a syncopated beat, with unbridled confidence and then flows straight back on the authority. Great cuts from Soko and pulse for another verse, is utterly a thrumming sense of propulsive compelling. Crucially, for music gloom'n'doom that's gritty, grainy, designed to be played out, the bass rainy and ravishing. Here come the on this is a monster, guaranteed dark months. Thank god summer to rattle fillings in club or car and is over. absolutely refusing to let up until your speakers are dust. If you want Joyner Lucas a hip-hop tune this month that will That’s OK cause aggravation to non hip-hop N/A fans, THIS is the one. Excellent.

8.0

Really loving Joyner Lucas’ new mixtape ‘Along Came Joyner’ — lyrically he’s sharp, funny, has the kind of voice that’s just the right side of whiney, with rhymes that hint at a real febrile intelligence at work. This is his newest single that combines trap-style tricks like gunfire and barked Outkast-style backing vocals with a grittiness of tone that’s completely unique — like the best traits of post ‘98 diaspora rap melded with the

92

Dreezy Nonstop Interscope

8.5

Absolutely loving the production on this — is US hip-hop getting more influenced by grime and dubstep or am I hearing things? The beats and loops on this wouldn’t sound out of place on a Gantz/Commodo/ Kahn production, bass that lunges deep, wibbly arcs of retro-synth and 8-bit fizz — all of it suggests not

7.5

Gangrene feat.

Action Bronson Driving Gloves Mass Appeal

8.5 Alchemist and Oh No are dropping a new album under their Gangrene collabo moniker and 'You Disgust Me' (what a great title) is an ear-popping treat to file next to Alc's own 'Israeli Salad' album from earlier on in the year. This lead-off single with AB has a gloriously '60s feel of psychepunk, kinda like the Electric Prunes/Chocolate Watch Band/13th Floor Elevators finding themselves freestyled over by a pack of Beatnuts-style bad-asses from the Barrio. Great unconventional beats, superb unconventional rhymes and a guitar lick so deliciously warped you'll be getting Os Mutantes vibes all the way through to the witching hour. Superb. only that Dreezy is going to be a voice to watch but that she may well emerge as one of the most fascinating new female rappers of 2015. I’m already hooked, and so should you be.

Rick Ross feat. Gucci Mane, Meek Mill and Whole Slab Turn Your Back Maybach Music Group

4.0

All that ‘talent’. All that ego.

All that money. All those points to prove. I just wish someone would’ve given Rick Ross a better backdrop to rant on than the weedy Pro-Tooled piddliness he’s given here. His vocal is outrageous, frequently his voice cracks into what sounds like real frantic rage and confusion, his repetition of the hookline sounding increasingly unhinged as the tune goes on.

EVERYTHING I'm hearing from Illinformed's soondropping 'The Mould Tape' has been utterly essential. 'The Platoon' might just be the most awesome collabo-track to feature Bristol's mighty Split Prophets and 'Where's The Bud' sees Eric The Red, Leaf One and DJ Riseone dropping weed-hungry rhymes over a frankly fantastic slab of dubby D.I.T.C-style hoopla. Get the tape immediately.

Black Josh & Pete Cannon Smoking Kills EP Blah Records

7.5

Manc MC, Blackpool producer, cotton and guns and rock & roll — this

fucking rules, strident bristling rhymes, smoking beats throughout and some flexing from a DJ Sammy B-Side that scratchadelically speaking entirely seal the deal.

Snarfle it up before it skidaddles.

Chief Keef Fat Glo Gang

6.0

My own personal favourite trap/drill idiot-savant returns with this track that says nothing, goes nowhere, but does it with such an oozing sense of purple-drank fuckitude and rank amorality, it's getting jacked LOUD in my car and domicile every chance I get. Never mind the bollocks he's talking, just pump up that bass and drink deep.

DR SYNTAX KOMPYLA RECORDS 01. NX WORRIES ‘Suede’ Stones Throw

“This is a good dose of audio testosterone. Good for playing while doing pressups in the rain or climbing several steps at once. Tough-guy stuff.”

02. DR DRE FEAT. ANDERSON PAK ‘Animals’ Aftermath/Interscope

“Best Premier beat for years, and his shouty bit at the end is pretty special.

Plus Anderson Pak is great, isn’t he?”

03. SEAN PRICE ‘Songs In The Key Of Price’ Duck Down

“This is bittersweet now he’s gone. He was still so on-point, doing what he did like no-one else. RI-P!”

04. SPARKZ ‘Go’ Bandcamp

“Love this one. Sparkz is killing it on the raps and the beats. Every week in the tour bus he has a new EP done, it seems!”

05. LEVELZ ‘LVL09’ Bandcamp

“Manchester has raised the bar very high recently, and Levelz are at the forefront of it.”

06. BLACK JOSH & PETE CANNON ‘Everyday’ Blah Records

“Pete’s beats are always banging. You get a beat tape off him and everything sounds mastered, it’s great. Meanwhile, Black Josh is getting better and better.”

07.

DR SYNTAX & PITCH FEAT. MATTIC ‘The Evidence EP’ Band-

camp

“Sorry, I know putting my own tune in makes me a right plum, but that Mattic verse! Cripes. Shout to my M9 Pitch churning out the bangers.”

08. KNXLEDGE ‘Hud Dreems’ Bandcamp

“This whole album is great instrumental hip-hop. Everything sounds very precise and fresh. Instant classic!”

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

HARD DANCE REVIEWS

SYNCED

DJ KUTSKI kutski@mac.com

QUICKIES MANDY & DV8 Rocks

The Bitch Is Back Dirty Workz

8.0

MANDY has been the centre of an internetfuelled hate campaign this summer when Dirty Workz announced her signing to the label. This is her two-fingers up to the haters — and good on her! Here she delivers a solid, uplifting hardstyle release with great vocals

by DV8.

The Pitcher Bitches Cry

Fusion Records

Seriously dark, nasty, hell-raising beats here from The Pitcher with a simple rap vocal sample used to great effect, intertwined with sinister synths and hard as nails kick-drums.

CLSM

Gravity Wave Stamina

8.0

The kings of the underground UK rave scene are back with this pounding freeform hit.

The pounding groove and uplifting melody make this a solid hit for me.

7.5

Gregor le DahL

Dr. le DahLs Castle CDR

8.0

Gregor le DahL is a German producer who specialises in a retro video game-themed take on the UK hardcore sound. With this latest hit, Gregor takes us on a trip down memory lane to the classic final boss level of the beloved Nintendo classic, Megaman 2.

The chip-tune synth-work and high-energy melodies perfectly compliment the UK hardcore style of music, so if like me you like a bit of cheese with your crackers, this one will be up your street too.

Adrenalize feat Festuca Check This Out Scantraxx Silver

8.0

Alex Prospect & Joey Riot

Delivering the next generation of hardstyle stars, Scantraxx Silver has been on fire this year giving those worthy of a release on this mighty label the opportunity to shine. Q-Dance’s tip for the top, Festuca teams up with Adrenalize for this euphoric hardstyle smasher with an energetic main melody riff that gets more powerful throughout.

Move Your Body Lethal Theory

10

Bass Modulators

Let Me See Ya (Noisecontrollers Remix) Scantraxx

9.0

ATMOZFEARS SCANTRAXX 01. ATMOZFEARS

‘Gold Skies (#DB15 Weekender OST)’ b2s records

“My very first ‘anthem-ish’ (solo) track for a major festival, and I’m really proud of it!”

02. AUDIOTRICZ ‘United As One’ Scantraxx Recordz “This record has everything. Chills from head to toe!”

03. ATMOZFEARS

‘Release’ Scantraxx Recordz

“This track means the world to me personally, it holds lots of beautiful memories.”

04. DEVIN WILD

‘Everlasting’ Scantraxx Recordz

“Perfect tune with perfect summer vibes. Woo!”

05. BASS MODULATORS ‘Let Me See Ya (Noisecontrollers Remix)’ Scantraxx Recordz

“Banging remix of a big hit, done in a unique Arabic-ish style.”

06. ATMOZFEARS & DEVIN WILD ‘Nature’s Gasp’ Scantraxx Recordz

“Fresh out of the studio, a melodic piece with nature written all over it.”

07.

SUB ZERO PROJECT ‘Funky Shit’ DWX Anarchy

“Banging tune with earth-shattering kicks, a dark melody and a devastating main part.”

08. JOSH & WESZ ‘World At Peace’ DWX

“Lovely dive back into time, with a beauty of a melody.”

09. OUTBREAK ‘Brain Smacker’ WE-R

“Heavy beats and a quite unique screech, done right.“

10. ENERGYEZED ‘Dreams & Fantasies’ Scantraxx Recordz “Title reveals it all, perfect relaxing tune with hypnotising lyrics.”

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

Hardstyle pioneer and unique sound design expert Noisecontrollers takes on one of Bass Modulators’ biggest tracks to epic effect, making great use of the slightly Arabic feeling in the melodies and short simple male vocal snippets in the lead up to the main breakdown. Twisting and adding his unique take and stamp onto the main melody in the breakdown, Noisecontrollers takes this to the next level.

A*S*Y*S

You (Mad II) Subground

8.5

ACTI’s Subground label celebrates its milestone 50th release, having pioneered his very own sound that has inspired countless producers in other genres to push the boundaries. Without taking the glory for himself, he’s invited hard dance legend A*S*Y*S to deliver his tough techno/hard trance influenced sound onto the label with an epic breakdown and a real heads-down drop before the classic A*S*Y*S acid sounds come in with a twist for 2015.

Nightfall feat MC See No Surrender Fusion Records

8.0

Fusion have been really back on their A-Game over the past few months, snapping up lots of new artists and delivering stand-out tracks covering the full spectrum of hardstyle. This release crosses over the raw and uplifting sounds with some twisted raw beats and heavy MC vocals, broken up with an impeccable melody. The switching between styles in this track is really refreshing, along with the vocoded MC vocals in the outro section which adds that special touch.

Organ Donors & Juxtaposition Show Me Love (Hard Edge Remix) Audio Surgery

9.0

The Organ Donors have been pioneering this 'hard edge' sound for some time now, taking the elements of their hard dance roots and fusing it with more of a modern mainstream sound — to great effect. On their latest offering, a collaboration with Juxtaposition, they rework Robin S’s house classic from yesteryear with a chunky groove, pounding kick-drum and

Fast-rising UK hardcore talent Alex Prospect teams up with label boss Joey Riot on this monster of a track. In many ways, it's quite an understated track. The syncopated and re-pitched diva-style vocal is the main hook to the track, with a cool melody and groovy bassline.

This track isn’t fighting for the peak-time anthem slot, but there is just something so infectious about it from the first listen that keeps drawing you back.

It’s classy in what it does, and with all slow burners like this, it is sure to out-last the biggest tunes of today with regards to longevity in DJs' sets. Unique and awesome, I love it!

gliding electro bassline. A definite crossover hit for hard dance DJs and house DJs looking for something extra peppery to finish their sets with.

Ran-D & Digital Punk

Survivors (E-Force Remix) A2 Records

9.0

A2 records has undoubtably been one of the leaders of the rawstyle revolution over the past two years.

Fronted by Alpha², they celebrate its 100th release with the 'A2 Unstoppable EP', a four-track EP with brand new remixes of the biggest hits on the label to date. My pick of the bunch here is this brutally hard new remix from E-Force, making great use of the original vocals with a hard yet accessible main drop.

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ALBUM REVIEWS

9.5 St Germain

Blond:ish

Parlophone

Kompakt

Welcome To The Present

St Germain

Benjamin Damage Obsidian

50 Weapons

9.0

A fitting farewell

BENJAMIN DAMAGE was the first, and now also the last, artist to release an album on Modeselektor’s 50 Weapons label, and that is fitting, because more than anyone, he exemplifies what the label has always been about. And that is a mix of in your face, texturally rich techno and deeply soulful stuff that rather bucks the Berlin trend for stripped-back concrete funk. UK artist Damage has definitely veered between the two over the course of his relationship with the label but this swansong, we are told, is his most personal work yet, one that cobbles together “fragmented memories from all the music I’ve ever liked”. Far from being fragmented, though, ‘Obsidian’ is a complete sound world that can be played, in full, over and over again.

When people get personal, they tend to get deep, and that is the case here. Damage’s third LP (his second solo effort, having also collaborated with Doc Daneeka) is as absorbing as staring into a bottomless black abyss. After a celestially ambient opener, you’re sucked down into a subliminal and frictionless groove that is hugely physical and intermittently soaked in dream-like

Magnifique

Bleach

Ludovic Navarre was making deep house long before many of today’s DJs and dancers were out of short trousers. Across the course of two albums, ‘Tourist’ and ‘Boulevard’, he oversaw the perfect coming together of jazz, dub and house, and whilst those elements remain on his first album for 15 years, he also brings a new influence to the table: Malian desert blues.

As ever, Navarre’s lush and organic work marries real musicians playing real instruments with fine synthesis and cunning sampling. All sorts of bits of unpronounceable African percussion also help colour the grooves — which range from house-leaning and uptempo to soulful and romantic — and the players themselves also add their own indecipherable but emotive wails.

Less lounge-y and more tender than ever before, this eponymous album is Navarre’s most honest yet. Kristan J

About time that Canadian duo Anstascia D’Elene Corniere and Vivie-ann Bakos delved into the long-player format. The general epicness of their productions would surely benefit the additional breathing room. As such, ‘Welcome To The Present’ is unrushed and contemplative — it’s not until near the end of track four, the breathy ‘Endless Games’, that you hear a 4/4 kick. It was influenced by travels in South America and India, then assembled in a makeshift studio in Tulum, Mexico, so there’s a liberal slathering of the spiritual too — the sounds of flowing water and chattering creatures, while an indentation of ‘world music’ pervades. It even ends with a spoken word polemic sampled from psychedelic zen philosopher Alan Watts. So it does all feel a little ernest. Where albums from so-called ‘club artists’ can be criticised as little more than a series of dancefloor tracks,this is at its best on

Caryl

less ponderous moments. Ben Arnold

pads. That juxtaposition continues throughout, where brain-soothing, floaty chords often offset primeval and punchy drum patterns.

Despite being an album full of shadowy caverns and soot-black atmospheres, there are some moments of light, such as the sorrowful ‘Pulse Width’, which sounds like the closing credits to your own life, and the following cut ‘Shimmer’ which immediately raises your spirits with its serene sense of space and calm. These gentle rises and falls continue through the second half and offer some of the most seductive sounds you will hear from a techno producer this year. As such, ‘Obsidian’ is a fitting farewell for one of the last decade’s most essential labels. KRISTAN J CARYL

9.0 !!!

As If Warp

Funk gets stronger Six albums in, !!! really feel unstoppable. Despite being at a point, late in their career, when most bands have long since rinsed their formula dry, the American outfit feel like they’re just getting better and better. Once they were tagged as disco-punk, but the funkier parts of their sound have been pushed to the fore. With basslines as slick as a snake writhing in a vat of oil, they should be packing out stadiums with this album.

‘Freedom! ’15’ is part guitar epic, part throbbing disco groover, while ‘Funk (I Got This)’ is a low-slung sample-laden house cut. Elsewhere, ‘Sick Ass Moon’ is an overtly electronic trippy synth piece. What !!! excel at is combining heavy dance beats with fully live instrumentation, and they do it with a panache few have the audacity or ability to attempt. ‘As If’ is the sound of a great band at their peak. Ben Murphy

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6.5

8.0 Aphrohead

Resurrection

Crosstown Rebels

Ballsy techno resurrected With people eager to scream ‘ELECTROCLASH’ into his face, it’s easy to forget that Felix Da Housecat makes anything else. But he did and he still does, as this return for his ’90s techno alias Aphrohead proves. ‘Resurrection’ is bubbling with hugely enjoyable trippy techno. It loosely channels the jacking spirit of Felix’s native Chicago, but the endgame here is (mostly) more concerned with beefy beats that prod your cerebral cortex until your legs start dancing. ‘Elevator (I’ll Take the Stairs)’ unleashes the first of many wide-eyed grooves, continued in excellent oddball house sprint ‘Grown Man Cryy’ — there are even a few headsdown, fists-clenched workouts (‘Front To Backk’ and acidic banger ‘Medusa’).

It’s certainly not beard-stroking techno — the electro hooks that permeate the album see to that — but it is a ton of fun and catchy as hell at its highest points. Tristan Parker DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

9.5

7.0

6.5

9.0

Special Request

Mauro Picotto

LV

King Midas Sound/Fennesz

XL

Alchemy

Brownswood Recordings

Ninja Tune

Modern Warfare

From Heart To Techno

Ancient Mechanisms

Editions 1

Rave rebooted

Strong return

All you need is LV

Editions won

We’ve waited too long for the return of Special Request, the junglist/ warehouse rave alter ego of producer Paul Woolford, to return. And what a comeback. This time he’s dropped it to house speed, chucked in some 4/4 kicks and made it more playable for a host of dancefloors. But has Wooly sold out?

Has he fuck! The breakbeats and crazy drum edits are still present and correct; synapse-scrambling bass warps our skulls; euphoric rave pianos enter the fray — it’s the most exciting dancefloorfocused record in a long time. If the spring-loaded beats and immense head-rush riffs of ‘Reset It’ don’t get you jiggling your jelly, it’s time to hang up the raving boots. ‘Take Me’ will make you come up with no assistance required, and the whole thing is laced with ultra-modern production and sounds you could never have heard in old hardcore records. The bomb,

For those whose last encounter with Mauro Picotto was amid the dizzying millennial-era, plenty about the Italian techno-trance-hard-house producer has changed, and remained the same.

Opening with ‘Proximus Medley’, whilst this may not be ‘Iguana’ or ‘Lizard’, the big-room mentality that defined him then is laid bare the moment what can only be described as an Aztec chorus enters in the midst of a huge breakdown. It’s not for everyone, and naysayers may be forgiven for thinking the album is a write-off from there.

Not so, when there’s such perfectly proportioned, dark, heads-down bass-laden rollers like ‘Atomic’ and ‘My Friend Tesla’, the latter of which seems to channel Oliver Klein’s ‘Rheinkraft’ and other heavy, late-’90s-earlynoughties proggy-tech workouts. At it’s strongest moments, the album boasts some bonafide bombs, worthy of

Si Williams and Will Horrocks like jamming. As their recent full-length with Josh Idehen and trips out to visit Johannesburg MCs suggest, the concept for this latest, more experimental LP came from a series of live sessions with jazz pianist Tigran Hamasayan back in 2012. No prizes for guessing that the end result is a jazzier, rather than grimier, affair. Piano noodling is the order of the day here, after the pair found an old piano in Will’s new flat and recorded its notes painstakingly.

Coupled with field recordings of Belgian streets, it makes for an eclectic palette.

‘Jump & Reach’ bangs the hardest though, with more than a hint of their bass-producing past, and there’s whispers of various UK dance strands here, namely dubstep and jungle, buried deep under layers of textural

explosive. Ben Murphy

appreciation. Martin Guttridge Hewitt

Martin

File this one under ‘dream pairings’.

London’s avant-dub collective King Midas Sound continue to push their musical boundaries and challenge themselves with a series of collaborative albums, each made with a different artist. The inaugural ‘Editions 1’ meshes their sound with the sublime, granular soundscapes of Christian Fennesz to create a sprawling, haunting electronic album full of songs equally rooted in bass culture, pop and experimentalism. Fennesz’s dramatic atmospherics and drones are further emotionally charged by Roger Robinson and Kiki Hitomi’s lyrics rooted in despair and isolation, while Kevin Martin (The Bug) drags it further into the depths with his woozy, bleak production. From ‘Waves’’s tonal passages stretching out and slowly unfurling harmonically to ‘We Walk Together’’s slow environmental collapse punctuated by fraught vocals, this stunning LP is a beautiful listen from

jazz — which is no bad thing. Felicity

start to finish. Zara Wladawsky

Disclosure Caracal

Island / PMR

4.0

Payday groan

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

HAVING diluted the soulful garage of ‘90s pirate radio for Radio 1 with debut album ‘Settle’, on ‘Caracal’ it seems like Disclosure brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence now want heavy rotation on Radio 2. Sam Smith and his any-wetter-and-he’d-beMarti-Pellow blue-eyed soul schtick returns for ‘Omen’; Miguel does an any-smoother-and-he’d-be-TrevorNelson’s-bonce R&B turn on ‘Good Intentions’; and on ‘Holding On’ jazz vocalist Gregory Porter — a man twice Howard Lawrence’s age — doesn’t

sound half as knackered as the tired house he’s singing over, which is probably what Simon Mayo would drop if he headlined Space. The brothers have said that this is their attempt at songwriting after ‘Settle’’s clubbier fare but seem to think that means simply slowing their pop-house formula down and hiring a vocalist to cover their lack of ideas. But no matter who’s singing — a big name like Lorde, a fresh find like Nao or Howard himself — every song is as soulless and ultimately anonymous as the

shopping centres this will be blaring out from. OK, it’s impeccably produced and the odd bassline gives ‘Echoes’ some bump, but ‘Caracal’ seems so calculated to sell squillions of copies that you feel one of the world’s biggest dance acts are really more concerned with a different bottom line. PAUL CLARKE

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ALBUM REVIEWS

7.0

7.5

Larry Gus

Marbert Rocel

DFA

Compost Records

I Need New Eyes

In The Beginning

Existential selection

Good album, ‘Beginning’ to

The title of Panagiotis Melidis’ new LP is inspired by French navel-gazer Marcel Proust. Not only that, but the Greek producer also says it’s about his own ‘obsessions, anxieties and inadequacies’. If that sounds like he needs a shrink, you might think listening to ‘I Need New Eyes’ would leave you calling for one as well. But actually, this album is better suited to listening on your own couch than a therapists’. Lyrically, it might be more self-obsessed than your average Facebook post, but musically it’s an often disarming concoction of psychedelic pop and world music samples. Part of Panagiotis’ inferiority complex apparently comes from comparing himself to other musicians, so he probably won’t want to hear that this album sounds like a mixture of Caribou and David Byrne without being quite as good as either. But for a record so focused on failure, it’s actually a modest success. Paul Clarke

end Celebrating its 20th year in the business of jazz, bossa, house, techno and underground electronica, Munich’s Compost Records presents this fourth album from Leipzig quartet Marbert Rocel. It’s a very lovely thing, too.

Opener ‘80 Horses’ is moody and melancholic, right up to the moment it dramatically appears to throw a drumkit down the stairs. ‘Dawn Of The Day’ is a thick glut of percussion and DFA vibes, while ‘Me, Myself and I’ appears to have nicked a mirror ball from the Paradise Garage. Closing track ‘With Your Love’ is masterful. It’s all not a million miles from Little Dragon’s excellent and coincidentally fourth album ‘Nabuma Rubberband’. And though that might be a bit of an easy comparison (they’re both European, electronic fourpieces with a penchant for hip-hop beats, fronted by a female, vaguely otherworldly vocalist), if you liked that, you should be all over this. Ben Arnold

7.5

9.0 Robert Logan

Kelpe

Slowfoot Records

Drut Recordings

Flesh

The Curved Line

Logan’s run

Ahead of the curve

You can sometimes be skeptical when people make a big deal about how a record was constructed. All too many professed boundary-pushers are actually frustrating or dull to the ear, until you’re told of their technical innovations. On Logan’s third fulllength outing he again proves himself capable of translating his unorthodox approaches to production into an album that’s anything but boring.

Who knows how to describe it, hence the impact. At once jarring and intoxicating, ‘Vespine Domain’ comes close to freestyle jazz played by a theremin quartet as it first begins pulling you in with its sci-fi rhythms and general synth lunacy. The album veers between mutant dubstep (‘Viker Raver’) and sledgehammer techno (‘Straighten’), heading into otherworldly, blissed-out opiate moments via analogue alien oddness.

Typical of any really good trip, it’s really difficult to define. Martin Guttridge Hewitt

Kel McKeown has been around for a minute — over a decade in fact, releasing analogue krautrock, house and hip-hop-leaning electronica while handling his own Drut imprint. On this, his fifth LP, he hits the ambient jackpot with rich textures and widescreen, swelling loops.

Live drummer Chris Walmsley lends his sticks to ‘Sick Lickle Thing’ and ‘Canjealous’, which revolves around a Plaid-like melody line. Elsewhere, highlights are ‘Valerian’, which lumps thick, lush layers over a skeletal beat, and ‘Drums For Special Effects’ where he goes to town on his trusty Korg Polysix.

There’s not quite enough standout material to excite constantly, and it works best as one whole listen rather than as separate tracks, but props to Kel for managing to condense so many ideas into one smooth journey. Felicity Martin

Loco Dice

Underground Sound Suicide Ultra Records

8.0

Loco Nice THE seven years since his debut LP have served Loco Dice well. The former cult favourite has gone on to become one of global dance’s biggest behemoths but happily is one of the few to make the transition without ditching his roots.

Every one of his sets bares the hallmarks of his long-standing love of hip-hop and pays homage

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to his passion for chunky funk. This sophomore album is much the same. Still couched in fatbottomed, firmly-rooted house and techno, a bubbly dub undercurrent pervades but elements of rap and hip-hop are never far away thanks to collaborations with Neneh Cherry, JAW and Just Blaze. Glistening chords, lithe synths and

pixelated keys also add more colour than you might expect from a Dice joint. The end result is a pleasingly original album that puts many of his peers’ phoned-in efforts to shame. KRISTAN J CARYL

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

ON THE RIGHT TECH

“Since I was 10 or 11, I started listening to hard dance, then a few years later, when I got into house music, I saw a lot of DJs live and that was when I wanted to start producing my own music.” - Oliver Heldens

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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TECH NEWS

FOR EVER IN THE MIX GET INTO THE GROOVE

The new soundsystem speakers from American company Pure Groove are giving us the horn...

p.159

SAMPLING MADE EASY

We step into the studio with techno whizz Saytek to put Korg’s new Electribe Sampler through its paces.

NO RETREAT, NO SURRENDER

Numark are taking no prisoners with their Mixtrack Pro III controller.

PRO TO THE MAX

Novation’s new Launchpad Pro is no push-over.

TECH PRODUCER

Assorted tips and tricks to help your productions on their way.

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Evermix is a new DJ mix platform embracing dance music lovers everywhere...

I

n the good old days DJs would market themselves by passing on mixtapes. These tapes were usually done at home or live at a gig — what you heard was what was played at that very precise moment. It was amazing how far these tapes would travel and whose hands they would find themselves in.

The beauty of these tapes was that you got to hear the DJ at his very best (or very worst). There was no tweaking of mixes on a computer. The mix came straight out the back of the mixer. It wasn’t enough to have good tunes. If you wanted to prove your worth, you also had to have good mixing skills as well. The tapes went on to form a massive side industry that sat alongside the early dance and rave scene, and gave birth to companies such as Global Underground. However, in recent times, this whole area has shifted and embraced technology with the introduction of sites like Soundcloud and Mixcloud, where DJs can pre-record a set and upload it to the web.

However, something appears to be missing from the modern take on the humble mixtape, and that’s the whole associated club/live experience.

One company looking to change all that and offer a new take is Evermix. They have looked at how it used to be and have combined modern technology and a pretty nifty black box to take us all back to the glory days of real DJ mixtapes.

So what is Evermix? Evermix is a combination of hardware and software, aimed at the whole dance music spectrum — the DJs, clubs and the fans. It allows DJs to turn up to their gigs, plug in, record and then broadcast their sets direct to their Evermix webpage or the club’s Evermix page; in fact, it will allow users to upload to their own social media networks and link back to Evermix, simply at the push of a button on an associated DJ app.

Fans attending the club-night can interact with the mix by downloading the general Evermix app. They can check into events and interact with friends using the app to see what events they’re attending, what they’re listening to and what musical tastes they have. Fans can also upload time-stamped photos of the night and will be notified if a friend uploads a photo from a night they were at. When playing back, listeners can jump to certain points of a mix and see what was playing when a certain photo was taken. The Evermix app allows fans to re-live the night as they lived it or experience nights that they couldn’t go to. They can also find mixes by browsing their favourite DJ or club night’s Evermix profile page.

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

STUDIO ESSENTIALS DOUBLE TROUBLE Earl and Ad, better known as Trojan Sound, have come up with a world’s first. The first ever Double DJ mixer. Known as the Trojan, the mixer has six channels; four line and two phono inputs, and allows two sets of DJs to play at the same time. From first looks, it can only be described as a thing of beauty. trojanrecords.com

The Evermix webpage is a simply intuitive, good-looking design that really does offer a more complete user experience for both DJs and fans over some of the already existing music upload sites. It feels more complete as the social network element is fully integrated into the site. Dance music enthusiasts can interact with each other, browse for DJ sets and much more. Also, DJs and fans can take photos from the gig and link them directly onto the uploaded mix.

There is so much user interaction, but not at the expense of becoming overly complicated.

So how do DJs/clubs get their mixes up on site? This is where the little box comes into play. Once again this is simplicity in itself. Take a line out of the mixer, plug it into the box, attach the box to your mobile device via USB, and that’s it. Once connected, there is a handy LED indicator on the top of the box to indicate that everything is running perfectly; the light will even flash red if the signal from the mixer is running too hot. Progress of your mix can be viewed in the app, as well as other handy elements. Once you’ve recorded the mix and are happy with everything, you simply deliver it to your site.

And so on.

The nice thing about Evermix is that it really does take you back to the days of the mixtape, and this updated way of promoting yourself as a DJ — taking in the additional benefits of social media and networking — offers a more personal and intimate affair than just posting your mixes online en masse. evermix.fm

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

ALL MIXED UP Pioneer are ramping up their assault on the DJ market with yet another new product release. The new DJM-S9 is a twochannel Serato enabled mixer that features a whole heap of DJ goodies such as performance pads and FX buttons. The robust mixer looks good and delivers plug-andplay integration with Serato DJ’s four decks and boasts DVS support, on-board Beat FX, two USB sound cards, and a toploaded input switcher for seamless DJ transitions. £1299 pioneerdj.com SPIN SPIN SUGAR! Numark has now jumped into the turntable arena with the release of the TT250USB DJ Turntable. A direct-drive deck looking very similar to the Technics of yesteryear, the TT250 comes with a S-Shaped tone arm, with cartridge and stylus to boot. The TT250 is USB enabled allowing DJs to record, direct from the deck to a computer. £199 numark.com

We get the lowdown on some of the world’s biggest DJs and producers’ studio essentials.

Clarisse Records label boss Mendo drops his five...

Voice Processing — Ableton Live “To increase the power of a vocal, I normally use an FX in Ableton Live called ‘Voice Processing’, found in the Audio Effect Rack. The preset is ‘Female Vocals’. Just by turning this on and muting the ‘Gate’ option will give you more clarity, through the compressor and ‘Dynamic Tube’.”

Mastering — Waves’ L2 Ultramaximizer “For my mastering, I like Waves’ L2 Ultramaximizer. It gives a lot of warmth.

With my mixes, the threshold normally will be between -3 and -6db, and I also reduce the ‘Out Ceiling’ to -0.2db to make sure that it won’t saturate on big soundsystems.”

UAD Pultec-Pro “The UAD Pultec-Pro is my favourite plug-in, but it’s only available with UAD soundcards. You simply add this plug-in on any track if you want that extra warmth. Simply adding this plug-in on the track, you already notice a big difference. But be careful because it requires a lot of CPU and will slow down the speed when bouncing your final recording. You can also disable it where there is no treatment; that way you will save time during your final bounce.

Waves PS22 Stereo Maker Plug-in “In order to add some stereo depth to audio, I use Waves PS22 Stereo Maker Plug-in. It’s really simple. Just browse around the presets and choose the one you prefer. I normally stick to the default one.”

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TECH NEWS APP: DEVELOPER: FORMAT: PRICE:

EMPEROR MACHINE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT MPC3000

Emperor Machine’s new release ‘Love Lick/Sisco Seeker’ EP is out now on Nein Records, here’s what he can’t live without…

“Way back around 1994, I bought my MPC3000 two days before we were booked in at the Roundhouse Studios in London to record vocals for a new Bizarre Inc LP. The MPC 3000 was the successor to the MPC60, which I already owned, but the 3000 offered more sample time and a few more tricks. I had to have it!

“It didn’t take me long to learn how to use it, being a 60 user, plus the 3000 has a help key that gives you information on whatever screen and cursor position you’re working in.

“I am still a fan of working in numbers rather than graphic objects and with the 3000 I’m working without the luxury of a computer display. I work faster than using a computer sequencer like Logic probably because I’m not messing around with EQ/FX. “For me, sequencing and sampling with the MPC is the fastest way to write drum tracks.

Recently I used it to sample drums on Love ‘Lick/ Sisco Seeker’ for Nein Records.

“I remixed Groove Armada’s ‘Look Me In The Eye Sister’ using just the 3000. It’s that good. It’s got a feel of its own, and I wrote all of the last ‘Future Four’ EP on Phantasy Sound using the 3000 with all my old floppy sample library!

NINJA JAMM, the music creation app from Ninja Tune, is now available for Android users. Designed by venerable DJ duo Coldcut, the app is available to download for free via Google Play. Ninja Jamm is a fun app that allows users to remix, mash up and jiggle about with some of Ninja Tune’s revered acts. Users can download tracks and the samples and stems that make up the track and mess with them to their heart’s content — either chopping and changing the arrangement or adding filters and other sound-mangling FX to the proceedings.

Ninja Jamm takes full advantage of your smart device’s touch-screen and makes for easy operation by using touch control. The sounds and samples are top-notch; well, they would be considering the calibre of artists available to remix. Whilst the app is free to use and comes pre-loaded with Coldcut’s ‘Beats & Pieces 3’, users will have to pay to download other acts to use on Ninja Jamm. But

TURNING JAPANESE Check out this rather tasty-looking rotary mixer from up-and-coming Japanese hardware manufacturer Alpha Recording System. The ARS MODEL 6700 is a six-channel mixer that could be classed as the modern-day version of those now legendary UREI mixers. It’s subtle in design but not lacking in the sound department. alpharecordingsystem.com 100

NINJA JAMM NINJA TUNE IOS / ANDROID FREE at around £0.79, it’s not a bad deal at all — to own a piece of music and get to deconstruct it for such a nominal fee. In use, Ninja Jamm is a fun app and easily allows users to kill time making some pretty tuff beats, whilst also enjoying the simplicity of the app itself. One nice feature is that when you shake or tilt your smart device whilst using the app, it applies an FX to the proceedings. To tie in with the Android launch, Ninja Jamm is premiering its brand new ‘Samplepacks’ from Loopmasters, which enable users to create studio quality tracks from a wide collection of beats, basslines, synths, vocals and FX drawn from genres like house, techno, trap, hip-hop and dubstep. House and trap packs come free with the app.

MINI ME Minim by Livid Instruments is the world’s first pocketsized wireless instrument designed for mobile music creation. Minim’s sleek and ergonomic design allows for intuitive control over iOS apps, DAWs, software plug-ins, MIDI effects units, and much more. Minim includes a stand-alone app that bridges third party apps with Minim’s controls, allowing players to use Minim as an instrument, sampler, sequencer and song creation device right

PIMP MY RIDE Pioneer’s DDJ-SB gets a revamp for 2015. The DDJ-SB2 has all the features of the original DDJ-SB, including Filter Fade, Performance Pads and advanced features such as iZotope FX, loops and cues, but now comes with added trim pots, level meters, Pad Trans beat effect and four-deck control. £189 pioneerdj.com

out of the box. lividinstruments.com BOX IT UP Label in a box by Ditto Music is a novel way for DJs and producers to start up their own record label.

The service comes in three tiers and offers potential label-owners everything they would need to set up and run a successful record label as a business. It’s a complete, easy to use package that comes in a box. The service will ensure that your label is registered with PPL (rights collection society) and pre-arrange your business banking; you get your own label web domain as well as making sure that you are set up as a proper legal entity. dittomusic.com

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

TECH PRODUCER

TECH TALK

What was the first piece of kit you ever bought?

“I bought a pair of KRK 6 monitors when I was 12 or 13 years old.”

Your dad, has he been a big source of inspiration and guidance for you in your career?

“Musically yes, he used to listen to everything except the radio, Why did you choose these so the house would be filled with speakers? all sorts of music from classical to “My dad chose them for me; he techno and early electro to drum & said they would be best for the bass, disco, so I guess I got a huge records I was producing, so I went musical inspiration from him.” with his choice. We got some off a friend second-hand, so they What made you get into music weren’t expensive. Otherwise it production and technology? would be a pretty big expense for “Since I was 10 or 11, I started a twelve-year-old kid.” listening to hard dance, then a few years later, when I got into Your hit track ‘Gecko’, what was house music, I saw a lot of DJs the main synth used in creating live and that was when I wanted this monster? to start producing my own music.

“The main synths I used were Following that, I wanted to make Native Instruments’ Massive music that would get played and Sylenth by Lennar Digital, out by other DJs, my goals grew although my dad suggested using and I started putting on my own a Mini Moog but still I felt there parties in Rotterdam. Once you’ve were more creative opportunities achieved one aim, you move your and freedom using Massive and sights onto the next thing and Sylenth.” things just build.”

With your new track ‘Shades Of

OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

Grey’, the bassline is a prominent feature of the track, can you tell us some of the techniques that you used to create the bass?

“I already had the vocals laid down, so it was pretty easy for me to create a bassline that would go with them. There was one going around in my head and I really liked it. I recorded it and moved a few things around and experimented a little until it worked well with the vocals, then that was it. It was pretty simple for this track.”

on Kontakt. I also really want to try out PreSonus Studio One instead of Fruity Loops.”

Why PreSonus instead of something like Cubase, Logic or Ableton?

“Cubase is made by a massive company, Steinberg. I like the fact that one of the guys from Steinberg went off on his own to develop PreSonus, bit like Ableton and Bitwig. Nowadays computers are so much better than 10 or 20 years ago, so now these new computers can run so much more than before. PreSonus has been designed to work well on these new computers, it’s really a great DAW I’ve heard, so I am happy to try it out.”

What software and kit are you using when it comes to producing your tracks?

“It’s pretty basic actually, I use Fruity Loops Studio and pretty basic plug-ins. Nexus pianos, stuff like that. Soon I’m going to try out ÝÛFdan]jÛ?]d\]fk¿Ûf]oÛkaf_d]Û Kontakt by Native Instruments.

J`Y\]kÛF^Û>j]q¿ÛakÛgmlÛfgoÛgfÛ Kontakt is like an upgrade from Positiva/Spinnin’.

Nexus. As I said, I am using Nexus for my pianos and instruments, but in the future I will do this all

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TECH PRODUCER We reveal some handy tips and tricks to help you on the road to wicked productions...

VARELA’S DREAM TECHNO

OUNDS s KILLER S the freshest sound How to create on the dancefloor...

Waves’. ‘Great’ is one of my favourite tracks on the album because it is the mixture of different tunes started and never finished. The bassline is from the Juno synth and the percussion is from Damage/ Kontakt. After this, I also did some versions and I found an incredible vocal, very deep and added it to one of these, and the track ‘Fascinator’ was born from this. “‘Caramba’ is also a fantastic tune inspired by one of my favourite groups from the ‘80s, Imagination.

I will never forget the keyboard

melody from an electronic piano like Rhodes or Wurlitzer used in the song ‘Illusion’. I was impressed!

The combination of all these different styles and sounds from the past to the present, different machines and plug-ins, all my emotions in the different periods of my life, and the opportunity to release it on one of the most prestigious labels ever in the electronic scene, has allowed me to make the perfect album that I could have only dreamt of.”

SAMPLETANK: SAMPLE MAGIC – BLOQ K?@JÛDFEK?¿JÛJ8DGC<ÛK8EB shifts focus a little and takes a look at Sample Magic’s new Virtual Instrument for Native Instruments Kontakt format. However, it is still a sample-based review as BLOQ is derived from sounds from an arsenal of vintage synths and drum machines. All in all, 17 synthesisers and 13 drum machines — including the Roland TR-808, TR-909, TB-303, Jupiter 8, Jupiter 6, SH-101, Arp Odyssey, Sequential Circuits Pro-One, Prophet 5, Clavia Nord Lead 4 and Akai MPC 60 to name but a few — went into the making of BLOQ. Every key of every patch was painstakingly sampled through a variety of highquality pre-amps at 24-bit resolution via a Prism Orpheus soundcard, as the guys told us, to ensure that this new sample instrument sounds every bit as authentic as the original sound sources it has sampled.

The look of BLOQ is pretty cool in itself and the GUI (Graphic User Interface) makes for a very pleasing user experience. Samples and sounds are tweakable using the parameters that are available in BLOQ. Listening to the sounds, we have to say that Sample Magic have done a good job offering a wide variety and range of sounds that can be used in variety of musical genres.

BLOQ comes in two parts: BLOQ Synth and BLOQ Drum, and we don’t really need to elaborate much more on this, other than BLOQ Drums GUI is also a very userfriendly element to the overall package. As mentioned, the sounds on offer are of a very high standard, and will find a home in many musical genres.

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“INTEC Recordings is the perfect label for my style of electronic music and where I wanted to release my most complete work, which came straight from the heart. Some of the tunes are made with experimental sounds focused strictly on the dancefloor, taken from the most huge collection of actual synthesizer plug-ins. Many of these creations also have the soul of old school techno made with the analogue and powerful sounds of my most loved machines like the Korg MS20, Monopoly, Roland Juno106, SH101 or my Roland Drum machines TR808 and 909.

“I remember the track ‘Destiny’ that I started to make on a flight travelling to Japan in 2002! It was a typical creation that I did not know how to finish. After the tour, on the flight back to Madrid, my mind was still full of ideas. One of the versions is now the track ‘Alarm

Welcome to Plug-in Corner, our monthly exposé of some of the best plug-ins around for creating electronic music

SUGARBYTES OBSCURIUM MAC/PC NATIVE £69.80

F9J:LI@LD is a generative synthesizer that uses a mixture of scales and chords to produce vivid harmonics along with organic and lively sounds. Producers are also able to create bubbly arpeggios and modular-type sequences with its in-built sequencer.

The user interface does seem a little daunting at first, but after using Obscurium for a little while, it is something that users will get used to quickly — taking to the colourful, maxed-out layout.

Firstly, the synth engine — this section is made up of two main oscillators. The first is an analogue emulation; saw and pulse waves that producers can morph between and add up to eight voices within a spread, to create that big supersaw sound. The second oscillator is FM, with three modes and routings, overtones, and a knob to alter the ratio between carrier and mod frequencies.

The effects section comprises three effects — chorus, reverb and delay — which can be edited independently and also applied to your other software instruments by hosting them inside the Obscurium. This feature works really well, and lets users get more out of their existing instruments. At the core of the Obscurium is essentially a sixteenchannel step sequencer. This sequencer is editable by moving different coloured dots, with each colour representing a different channel; there is plenty to play with here. Users are able to edit pitch, cut-off frequency plus resonance of a filter and the mix between the two oscillators. Chords can also be created from the CHORD channel, which selects one of twenty-four chords from the root note in the current table. In

PRICE

£TBC

CONTACT

samplemagic.com

DJ MAG ASEAN / OCTOBER 2015

VERDICT BUILD QUALITY EASE OF USE FEATURES VALUE FOR MONEY SOUND QUALITY

8.0 9.0 9.0 8.0 9.0

HYPE

A great reproduction of a classic synth that sounds every bit as good as it looks

GRIPE

The Slimkey Keyboard may not be to everyone’s liking.

ARPing back!

Korg’s ARP Odyssey is a nod to the past, with its foot firmly set in the future...

KORG have been leading the way when it comes to dance music production with a myriad of kit that crosses many bases and many genres. Their Electribe Series Production workstations have been welcomed into the fold by a league of loyal fans; the Volca Micro range of synths, drum machines and sequences have graced the stage of many an experimenting DJ/artist; and their reproduction of the classic MS20 is a modern day classic in its own right. Now they drop the bomb, revisiting one of the all-time classic synths from yesteryear — the ARP Odyssey.

The ARP Odyssey first hit the streets circa 1972. It was pitched against Moog’s Minimoog synth and a chance for ARP to get a foothold in this fast emerging market. The original ARP sounded great and looked the part too… Jump forward to now and Korg have picked up the mantle again and delivered their take on this legendary classic. The Korg ARP Odyssey is a mini recreation of the original ARP and looks every bit the part.

The cool black and orange livery of the standard version is every bit as cool as its predecessor, however Korg have also introduced limited edition versions — the white panelled Rev1 and the Gold and Black Rev2. Both looking stunning — for this particular reviewer, the Rev1 steals the show!

The new Korg ARP Odyssey also ships with a rather cool retro hardshell carry-case to keep your new, beloved purchase safe from the perils of the road if you do opt to take it out of the studio. All these things make for a great bit of kit, even before it has been switched on.

Before we talk about how it sounds, we would like to carry on showing this little synth some more love. The build quality is fabulous; the feel of the Korg ARP is sturdy and smacks of a quality build. The sliders and buttons have a firm assuring feel to them and the Slimkey key-bed, whilst not to everyone’s liking, is decent enough to play on. The back of the synth is also pretty cool, with the ARP Odyssey

G HITS THE SPOT

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g-technology.com OCTOBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

logo taking up the majority of the back panel, alongside a decent array of connections. USB and MIDI in connectors sit alongside output and external input connectors for the addition of an external sound source. There is a headphone socket for a more personal listening experience and a compliment of CV, Gate, Trigger in and outs for additional soundmangling capabilities.

Now to the sound: Korg’s ARP Odyssey sounds, well, simply ace, truly unbelievable, but this has to be expected as Korg created this little beaut with a little help from the original design team. If authentic reproduction of the original ARP is what you are after, then this is what you are going to get. However, the new version incorporates elements of all the three original models, making it more versatile than what has gone before. As mentioned, the sound is great, the basses really rock the speaker stacks, and raw electronic lead sounds et al can be teased out of this modern day classic. It is a synth player’s dream, tweaking around

Korg have delivered a rather fantastic sounding and looking version of a classic synth that has been heard on many records for around 40 years and will be heard on many more to come.

8.6/10

the parameters makes for PRICE instant sound £759 gratification, you CONTACT can be subtle or korg.com you can go big, however you want to play it.

The layout of the controls on the top panel is in-keeping with the original look and styling of the ARP Odysseys, with helpful diagrammatic graphics to aid in the creation of your own patches.

It’s obvious from this review that we love the Korg ARP Odyssey, due in part to the fact we loved the original. It’s great that a company like Korg, with all its own heritage, will give a nod to the past and come up with a synth and product such as this. Their MS Mini was well received and no doubt their take on the classic ARP will become equally loved by all.

D8B@E>ÛDLJ@: on the road can be a hazardous affair, especially when it comes to your precious storage unit.

At any stage, these rather fragile devices can give up the ghost simply from taking a knock or a simple drop. G Drive’s new 1TB ev ATC rugged all-terrain hard drive is the four-by-four of mobile storage devices. Perfect for the travelling producer as it comes wrapped in what can only be described as close as can be to an indestructible shell.

The ev ATC comes in two flavours: Thunderbolt for lightingfast performance or USB 3.0, if your computer doesn’t come with the former. The rugged case that protects the drive is watertight, floats in water, can survive a drop from 2m and simply keeps the drive protected from dust and other nastiness. This is definitely a drive to be considered.

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THROUGH THE LENS

Just snapped a cool picture? Send it to info@djmagasean.com with ‘Picture Perfect’ in the subject line

TO SEE MORE OF MIKHAIL ARCE IGNACIO’S WORK INSTAGRAM: @mikhailarceignacio

Mikhail Arce-Ignacio is a DJ/Producer from Manila and also happens to be just as passionate about photography as he is about music.Having been in the industry for about eight years now and being a DJ it has given him access to scenes a normal photographer usually wouldn’t. It has also helped him understand what to look out for in a performance, when to raise his camera for an incoming shot and how the performers want to be photographed.

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FACEBOOK: mikhailarceignacio WEBSITE: www.mikhailarceignacio.com

DJ MAG ASEAN /OCTOBER 2015

SEPTEMBER 2015 / DJ MAG ASEAN

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DJ MAG ASEAN /OCTOBER 2015