Infusion # 267: Mar 20-Apr 3 2016

MUSIC • PEOPLE • LIFE

GEORGE FITZGERALD AND DAVE CLARKE LINE UP FOR XL Turns 5, Roska, Jack Parow, DJ Premier, Danny Tenaglia, Mala, Dubfire, Joey Negro, Tyga, Avicci and more! infusionmag

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CHARL CHAKA

Managing Partner charlchaka@infusion.ae

We’ve been sent cupcakes, teddies and caps this week from In Vip and ToyRoom – we’re editorially impartial, obviously, but they were good cupcakes!

ANDY BUCHAN

Editor andy@infusion.ae

VIP PATEL

Magazine / Sales Director vip@infusion.ae +971 050 169 8712

CHRIS RAYNER

Online chris@infusion.ae

PAULA MANGUEIRA Design design@infusion.ae

Well done to the 117 Live group who have teamed up on naming rights for their new venue with global charity Autism Rocks, naming their new venue the Autism Rocks Arena.

Sunday - Okku. Monday - Secret Circle. Tuesday - Sub-Culture.

Wednesday - Disconekt.

Mid-week clubbing has never been so good!

CONTRIBUTORS:

Vip Patel, Chris Rayner, Matt Zaharias

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Dubai’s non existent drainage system – yes, that storm was biblical, but the flooding from a few hours of rain was beyond silly!

Ticket prices are going a bit mental in town – first there was Nouvelle Vague charging AED250 for a cover music gig at the Music Room, then Rudimental and Disclosure for AED400. Great line up, but that’s a lot of money.

People posting workout videos and pictures from the gym. JUST NO.

BLACK LIST

SAY WHAT? RUMOURS Kink (bottom right), Audiofly, Henry Saiz and more are confirmed to play the Plus Minus Arena party on April 29.

Outkast, Fuse ODG (pictured) and DJ Abdel could be coming to new hip hop night Dubai With Attitude in the near future.

OLD JOKES HOME: Just viewed a house for sale entirely filled with mirrors.

I thought, I can really see myself living here.

DANCEFLOOR DICTIONARY Drum and drummer :: really boring tribal house/percussive techno that sounds like a bongo on repeat.

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WE LOVE Deep Crates

Who else but Deep Crates would bring out acts like Horace Andy, Quantic, General Levy and DJ Yoda? Who else but Deep Crates would have a playlist that veers from South American funk to boom bap hip hop via drum and bass and reggae? And who else but Deep Crates would have a spread of DJs, producers, record collectors, B-Boys, graffiti artists and more in their ranks?

Every party they throw lives up to their motto – good music for good people. And they’ve thrown a lot of parties across the city from The Music Room to Q Underground and from the Dusk Terrace to new home Velocity. Helmed by renowned turntablist Break DJ Lobito, they’ve been bringing alternative flavours to the city for 5 years this summer, and long may that continue.

Deep Crates Cartel vs Channel One Soundsytem, Thursday March 31, Velocity, 9pm-3am

LOOKING

BACK

Retrospective on what’s been happening in our world.

• WHAT WE DID • PHOTO GALLERY

Looking Back

What we did

GROOVE ON THE GRASS FEAT. PAN-POT @ EMIRATES GOLF COURSE

Groove on the Grass returned for its first party since its epic New Year’s Eve gig with Techno legend Richie Hawtin, bringing with them crowd favourites and previous guests Pan-Pot to headline.

The evening started off with Hoolz taking control of the main stage, laying down some stripped back house while the sun slowly dipped behind the Marina skyline. Over in the the Green Arena, the Tag Heuer DJ Competition kicked off proceedings. Even though it was early, a good crowd of clubbers, industry and friends filled out the dance floor to cheer on the contestants. Fuente walked away with the title after chopping through some bass house, breaks and techno to the joy of the crowd and judges.

After the competition, we made our way back out to the main arena and found a cosy spot where we hung out while Trigger & Glove upped the pace and really got the party going. By the time Panpot took to the stage, the place was heaving and their arrival was announced by the Co2 cannons firing off into the night sky. What followed was a master class in stadium techno.

We didn’t have a single complaint from the night, the venue, music and organisation was one of the best we have experienced in Dubai.

We’re glad we don’t have to wait too long until the next one!

Chris Rayner Up next: Groove on the Grass feat. Hot Chip DJ set, Friday April 8

BRICK LANE BEATS @ THE BLACK LION, THE H HOTEL Going out for curry and a pint is a British institution, so upon hearing The Black Lion was hosting a weekly Tuesday night inspired

by London’s infamous Brick Lane, we jumped at the chance to see what the East End influenced Gastro pub had to offer. The menu was made up of UK curry house staples like Korma and Vindaloo and dishes were simply referred on the board as “Hot, Medium and Mild”. We opted for the Hot and the Mild, which arrived quicker that you could say Mulligatawny Soup.

Served with a mountain of poppadums, homemade chutney, rice and roti, the hot (Vindaloo) certainly had a kick to it. As a lover of all things spicy, I’m a believer when eating curry that if you’re not sweating it’s not hot enough, and to my delight 5 or 6 mouthfuls in I was reaching for both my London Pride and napkin to mop my brow. Both dishes were made in a typically British pub style, with curry dolloped on top of the rice and a lone roti by its side, very different to their counterparts found in neighbouring Karama and this couldn’t have been epitomized better than by the chef Gavin Cubitt, a jolly lad from Essex who enjoyed in interacting with patrons during his breaks. For anyone who enjoys a good ol’ Ruby Murray (curry) and a Pig’s Ear (beer), Brick Lane Beats will be right up your alley. Vip Patel

Looking Back

ZERO GRAVITY POOL OPENING With summer on the way, it’s now peak season for the beach clubs in Dubai, and Zero Gravity have thrown down the gauntlet with their newly opened pool expansion. At 600sq ft and featuring a 22m curved acrylic ‘infinity’ front edge, it’s visually impressive as well as extremely inviting. There’s an extra bar and new changing rooms to boot, and they’ve also added some variety to the drinks on offer.

But the renovation is more than just a new pool – after dark benefits as well, with the stage moved to the center of the outside area, and there’s a new dance floor and customised L-Acoustics sound system to match – both points of contention from our previous reviews which they’ve now taken care of. Over one hundred speaker boxes have been placed all around the venue to ensure you don’t miss anything and their consistent lineup of international DJs means there’s always someone worth hearing.

Matt Zaharias

OFFSHORE (SUNSET SESSIONS VOL.1) Since Never Get Out The Boat ended last year, there has been a gaping hole in the Dubai party calendar. There are several good boat parties, but not all of them bring together that same magic mix of music, DJs and the crowd. But Offshore came very close.

Blue Marlin residents Jixo & Danz know how to build a set, to move people and most importantly create a vibe and that’s what happened on the inaugural ‘Offshore’. The boat, The Desert Rose, is something else - it’s modern, fun and sprawling and decked out with a Funktion 1 system with the open top deck acting as the dancefloor.

We left at 4pm to perfect weather and an open bar (AED200 for ladies, AED400 for men) – everyone was mingling, laughing and enjoying the warm up tunes from Michka, and Secret Circle resident Aidin Karami as we headed back to port.

Stephen Day Up next: Offshore Vol 2, April 2, Pier 7 Dubai Marina

BACK2BASICS FEAT. JOHN DIGWEED @ PACHA

CLUB MTV FEAT. EXAMPLE @ NASIMI

DWA FEAT. DJ YODA @ THE ACT

TRIPLAND @ CIRQUE

HED KANDI FEAT. SANDY RIVERA @ XL

JOHN DAHLBACK @ CHAMELEON CLUB

PIKNIC ELECTRONIK FEAT. CLAPTONE @ MONTGOMERIE GOLF COURSE

PLUS MINUS FEAT. MATHEW JONSON

@ LEVEL 41

TOGETHER @ DEK ON 8

GROOVE ON THE GRASS FEAT. PAN-POT @ EMIRATES GOLF COURSE

LOOKING

FORWARD

Where we filter out the best things that are coming your way...

• LOCAL NEWS •INTO THE GROOVE • ROSKA,ROSKA, ROSKA •MICHAEL MAYER •CHAMELEON •HIT THE ROAD, JACK

Looking Forward

Local News LIV AND LET LIVE

There’s another beach club in town as Liv at Yas Beach is launching on Thursday March 24 with a big-hitting line up of Adriatique (pictured), Nick Curly and Amin Golestan on deck duty. Thursdays are a late night affair, with the venue open from 11pm all the way until 4am, while Fridays are an all day pool party and Saturdays host the Liv Beach Brunch. The following Thursday March 31 sees Norwegian nu-disco and house star Finnebassen take to the decks.

MALA MAKES UAE DEBUT

Bi-weekly bass night Karak Beats have one of their biggest bookings yet as they’ve signed up Mala, one of dubstep’s pioneers, to play at Velocity on Thursday March 24. A low-end bass warrior, he’s one half of revered duo Digital Mystikz, and is joined by regular MC collaborator SGt Pokes. Doors open at 10pm and tickets are AED100.

Thursday

24th March

LIVE DJ SET

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Looking Forward

ET W!LD SVEN AT VÄTH EDEN IS BACK!

You wait years for the German techno don to come back to the UAE, and now you just can’t keep him away – Cocoon main man Sven Väth is back at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE on Friday March 25. Expect yet more epic vinyl based techno goodness from the larger-than-life DJ who gets the party started from the DJ Booth.

MUSIC IS THE ANSWER: TENAGLIA PLAYS BLUE MARLIN

An American dance music institution, having helped shaped house music for more than 30 years, Danny Tenaglia is confirmed to play Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE on Friday April 1. The New York native is a fan of extended sets when he gets to cover virtually every house music base, and is joined by Swiss-based DJ Barem on support.

Looking Forward

ET W!LD JOEY NEGRO AT EDEN GETS SUNSTROKE

Funky, soulful house outfit Sunstroke have confirmed one of their biggest bookings in their history, as Joey Negro is playing their 360 party on Friday March 25. A man with a rich, varied history in dance music – he’s recorded as Raven Maize, The Sunburst Band and most famously as Jakatta who were behind ‘American Dream’ – he’s one of the most respected DJs on the circuit, with an incredible treasure trove of edits and rarities. Expect 360 to go off in style!

EDEN’S ON DUBFIRE!

Techno don and ex-Deep Dish star Dubfire is bringing his renowned Sci+Tec sound to Eden on Friday March 25. A renowned innovator who likes to push DJ technology, he’s known for his pulsing, driving techno sound and is a big draw in the region thanks to his Deep Dish heritage and Iranian roots. Support on the night comes from deep house duo Hunter/Game and Reboot, as well as local residents Kaytek and Trix.

ET W!LD DECIBEL AT EDEN MARK THEIR CALENDAR

Decibel are back with their tech-house night on Friday March 25 with Cocoon signing Mark Reeve at Media One hotel venue Level 41. A rising techno star, he’s partnered with Pig&Dan and released on cult labels like Soma and Drumcode, and will be joined by Groove on the Grass founder Deian and Decibel Tech resident DJ Toubba.

Early bird tickets are AED80, with ladies free before midnight.

SPIN SPIN SUGAR

Barasti’s big beach party Sugar Beach is back on Friday March 25 with Grammy-award winning act Dirty Vegas headlining. The British trio shot to fame with their globe-conquering hit ‘Days Gone By’ in 2002, and are still a big festival and club draw following their reformation in 2008. They’re joined by the Drum Warrior, one of the leading club percussionists having performed alongside Calvin Harris and Steve Aoki. The fun starts from 3pm and it’s free entry all night.

GET W!LD TYGA & FLO ATRIDA EDEN 117 Live, the team behind Nicky Minaj’s up-coming concert on March 25 have confirmed that Tyga and Flo Rida will be performing the following week on April 1.

Both events are to be held at their purpose built arena next to Dubai Outlet Mall, which is now called the Autism Rocks Arena after teaming up with the charity. The family day on April 1 will include laser tag, crazy golf, a zip line and petting zoo, as well as evening performances from RnB pop stars Flo Rida and Tyga, with all tickets just AED50. Head to www.117live.com for tickets and more info.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAIF AND SOUND Radio 1 show Saif and Sound celebrates its third birthday at People by Crystal in Abu Dhabi on Friday April 1. The radio show airs from 7-10pm every Friday, with DJ Saif playing a mix of current and classic urban dance music.

Head down on the 1st to hear him play his Revival Night which includes the best of old school hip hop, commercial classics and newer cuts.

HOLI FESTIVAL OF COLOURS

Paint throwing party the Holi Festival of Colours is back in the UAE on Friday March 25 at the JA Al Sahra Desert Resort. A Hindu celebration of the good over the bad, it marks the beginning of Spring as festival-goers hurl coloured powder hurled into the air as part of the ritual. Alongside that, Dutch prodigy Thomas Newson – who’s had support from Hardwell, Avicii and Tiësto – is playing alongside Dion Mavath, Omar Basaad, Ilona Maras and more. Doors open from 7pm, and tickets start from AED150.

HOUSE BRUNCH BUNCH

Want your house music kicks, but like your brunch as well? Then #Housebrunch could well be the answer. Held at Story Rooftop on Friday April 1, DJs Armo and Matt Pike will take brunchers on a warm up journey from 1pm building towards uplifting house anthems by the party’s close at 9pm. Brunch costs AED300 including a British style menu and drinks, with free entry from 4pm onwards for the after party.

RUDIMENTAL AND DISCLOSURE PLAY DUBAI!

Rudimental and Disclosure have been confirmed to play Dubai Media City Amphitheatre on Friday April 29. Drum and Bass act Rudimental will be playing live, with Disclosure dropping a DJ set.

Rudimental are favourites on the UAE scene having played here several times before, and will be bringing their funk-friendly mix of Drum and Bass and beats for a full live show. It’s the first time Disclosure have played in Dubai, and expect classic hits like ‘Omen,’ White Noise’ and ‘Latch.’ More names are to be confirmed, with general admission tickets AED399 from www.ticket-line.ae

HEY BROTHER AVICII

Peppermint are back in action on Friday April 1 as they have Swedish DJ Avicii headlining their World Trade Centre show. His previously scheduled show in 2014 was cancelled due to ill health, meaning fans have had to wait several years to catch the ‘Levels’ and ‘Hey Brother’ DJ and producer in action. Early bird tickets are AED295 from Platinumlist.net.

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HOT CHIP, HOUSE DJ GEORGE FITZGERALD AND TECHNO TITAN DAVE CLARKE LINE UP FOR THE NEXT INSTALLMENT OF GROOVE ON THE GRASS ON FRIDAY APRIL 8. WE PROFILE ONE OF THEIR MOST ADVENTUROUS LINE UPS…

INTO THE GROOVE Groove on the Grass, Friday April 8, Emirates Golf Course, 5pm-3am.

HOT CHIP Once a gawky electronic indie band, Hot Chip have grown into a world-conquering gawky electronic indie band.

Their second album might have spawned the indie classic ‘Over and Over,’ but their later albums – including last year’s ace ‘Why Make Sense?’ – have become increasingly electronic, with their dance music roots and history coming to the fore.

And the two band members coming out to DJ, have a very strong DJ and dance music history behind them. Joe Goddard, vocals, synth and percussion in the band, is also part of mostexcellent dance music offshoot The 2 Bears, while Felix Martin (drums, synths and programming in the band) has travelled the world as a DJ in his own right, having put mixes together for Bugged Out, DJ Kicks and The Essential Mix. Expect left of centre house and techno from two of the most electric – and eclectic – electronic DJs out there.

Where getting Richie Hawtin was a statement of intent for the Groove on the Grass team, so is signing up techno veteran Dave Clarke. A major player in the British techno scene since the early 90s, he’s remixed for pivotal names like The Chemical Brothers, Depeche Mode, New Order and Underworld.

GEORGE FITZGERALD

A first for the region, George Fitzgerald is an increasingly indemand DJ and producer who’s released cutting edge house music on Hotflush, Aus Music and Hypercolour. He’s got a busy schedule ahead of him, with confirmed tours of America – as well as gigs at California festival Coachella – and gigs in Fabric, Holland, Scotland and Ireland.

Musically, he started out as a dubstep influenced producer in 2010, but has since branched out into bass-friendly house and techno, full of textured vocals, emotive pads and haunting melodies. He brought all those experiences to bear on his debut album Fading Love released last year by indie giant Domino, bringing him further into the public eye. They described his album as sitting between Jon Hopkins and Hot Chip, making him the perfect opening act for the night.

Now based in Amsterdam, he’s a festival favourite having hosted his Dave Clarke Presents events at Tomorrowland, as well as guest slots at Pukkelpop and Glastonbury. His club profile remains strong, with regular sets at Fabric, Fuse and Berghain, with no two shows the same: ‘I like to be on my toes and be instinctual and “live,” so I will deal with each gig as it comes. Of course some are more “pressured” than others, but as an artist you feed off that.”’

He’s notoriously picky with his gigs, hand-selecting events that draw a strong, knowledgeable crowd, a crowd where he can push his sound and revel in all aspects of techno and electro.

DAVE CLARKE

Roska, Roska, Roska

Superheroes are back with another regional first as they have UK Funky star Roska on deck duty on March 31. We caught up with the bass-friendly DJ to talk babies, Rinse FM and paying the bills…

“My daughter is 3 now, it’s been not too bad at all. I’m usually up late so I don’t mind checking on her in the early hours of the night.”

“UK Funky is where my roots are plus the tracks are exciting and have elements from a lot of UK based sounds. I can also fit in a lot of Bass music into my sets too.”

“I think that every genre has its time to shine and being a fan of Grime and making the music years ago its good to see what is happening now.”

“I do a good amount of shows which pay the bills. I’ve been in music 7/8 years so it’s good to still be around and able to do it full time. When I left work it was a big risk but you’ll never know what is on the other side unless you go and experience it.”

“I feel there’s loads of hubs for good music around at the moment so it’s kinda hard to place it on one brand.

I had a good time at Rinse, I felt I needed to move on and spend more time in the studio and with my family.”

“I’m looking to have fun with the show, play some new and old UK Funky and music either side. I’m really looking forward to the show.”

Superheroes feat. Roska, Thursday March 31, Dek on 8, Media One Hotel, 6pm-3am, free

The Last Time with Michael Mayer It’s the last Piknic Electronik of an excellent season, so we thought we’d ask their last headliner, Kompakt’s Michael Mayer, the last time he…

Piknic Electronik feat. Michael Mayer, Saturday April 1, 1-9pm, advance tickets AED130.

The last time I laughed out loud was…

Today during Kompakt’s lunch time. The food is always fantastic and one could fill books with the funny conversations happening there.

The last time I read a book was…

Last weekend. It’s one of the best things about being on the road so much... that’s when I find time to read.

The last time I missed a flight was…

I’ve got to say that I’m pretty good at catching planes. The last time I missed one was about 5 years ago in NYC. Don’t ask why...

The last time I wished I did a different job was…

Today in the taxi on my way to the airport. There was an interview on the radio with a guy who’s a professional deer caller. He imitates roaring deer and makes a living out of that. Pretty amazing.

The last time I cried was…

It often happens to me after the weekend when I’m flying home, tired and exhausted, watching a movie. Spike Lee’s 25 Hours with Edward Norton really got to me.

The last time I lied was…

Wednesday night at the restaurant. I said everything was great but the French fries were a catastrophe.

The last time I Googled myself was…

I honestly can’t remember.

The last time I bought something expensive was…

Last Autumn. I stumbled over this super nice leather back pack. So glad I bought it, it’s a real game changer because of its smart design.

I use it every day just to transport my laptop but it also works for grocery shopping or as my only luggage when I’m on tour. It’s the miracle back pack.

The last time I had to explain what I do for a living was…

Last week at the US immigrations. Strangely, the officer had never heard about house music.

The last time I listened to something other than techno was…

Today! I rarely listen to techno when I’m home. This morning I’ve listened to this awesome Magik Sunset compilation by Psychemagik.

Brilliant 70s and 80s songs I’ve never heard before. I guess it’s to be filed under cheese wave now.

Tecom club Chameleon – so called as it has a dominating, LED lit Chameleon suspended over the bar – has made a powerful come-back this year with a dramatic u-turn in music policy. We caught up with the club’s management to ask what’s in store

Changing your colours

It’s safe to say Chameleon Club has undergone a revolution in the past few months – what does the club look and feel like if people haven’t been before?

Yes, you could very much say that! Chameleon Club is definitely a venue with ‘wow’ factor. Chameleon Club has a fantastic lighting system and the sound system is one of the best in Dubai.

What reputation do you think the club had previously? And how hard has it been to change that?

Some people believed it was a venue for Arabic music, which may be due to the long-standing and famous Arabic night we host on Wednesdays. I think that with the right music policy, artists, marketing channels and service standards, we have managed to change our perception and are quickly becoming a front-runner for the nightlife scene.

You’ve had some big trance bookings including Aly & Fila and Eddie Halliwell – is that a direction you’ll be going in a lot, is there a gap in the market there?

Trance is a music genre that has historically been under-appreciated in Dubai. The demand is growing and recent bookings of artists such as Gareth Emery and Ferry Corsten proves that a market does exist.

We are hosting Goodgreef’s 15 year anniversary on Thursday 5th May with Jordan Suckley, Richard Durant and many more.

Who are the resident Djs and what do they bring to the club?

We are mixing it up each night of the week. Stu Laurie and Scotty Sheppard are residents for our Sunday Night – Tag Team. Expect uplifting vocal & funky house for that Balearic vibe. Residents Andy McGirr and Mendexx plus guests bring us Projekt M on Monday nights for some top notch techno.

Who does the bookings for the club, and what’s planned for the rest of the season before Ramadan?

The bookings of the club are decided by the management team collectively. We take many factors into account to ensure bookings are right for the renewed brand directive. We have a few surprises in the pipeline for future events.

What are your entry policies and ticket prices for most nights?

We would recommend arriving in mixed groups and couples for easy access. Entrance charges may apply for stags. There is always the option of booking a table to make your night extra special, including one of our two VIP tables right in front of the DJ booth.

5 MINUTES WITH PROJEKT M’S ANDY MCGIRR There are already a few excellent mid-week house and techno nights in the city – what makes Projekt M stand apart?

I agree, the quality is high here in Dubai, which is really good. Most importantly for us, is to be diverse in our music policy; a journey which evolves significantly over the course of the night, from deep and melodic, to dark and hard techno is our main difference to other mid week events.

Who’s booked to play the night?

We have Ministry of Sound London monthly resident Mike Momentum on the 21st, then one half of Dubai’s fantastic Techno event Dysfunktion, Tobie Allen on the 28th. It’s then a residents party on April 4th, with myself and Paul going back to back.

You have a long career in dance music, have you put on nights like these before? What’s the key to starting a new night?

I organise an outdoor boutique festival in Scotland aptly named Techno Fest, in the summer months. We’ve been running the event for several years, with much success, however, it took time to build a loyal crowd. Hard work, persistence and throwing yourself into the local scene is everything.

And how strong is the club scene in Dubai, are you happy with where it is?

My first experience in Dubai was in 2006, I came here for 3 weeks after doing a mini tour with Global DJs in Bahrain and Qatar. There was quite a few large scale events back then I recall, but not the underground scene and sense of community there is now. It feels healthy, and it’s developing at a rate which is hard to comprehend, I like it a lot.

Hit the road, Jack Afrikaans hip hop sensation Jack Parow is back for the House of Afrika crew with more outlandish behavior, whiplash rhymes and that hat. We caught up with him to talk writing a book, meeting Snoop Dogg and how to live through a recession…

Welcome back Mr Parow, how was your first gig in Dubai?

Did you think you’d be asked back?

I had such a cool and crazy time last time, really, it was insane, so when I heard I was coming back I was soooo amped. Dubai is such an amazing cit. When I first arrived there I had no idea what to expect but I can truly say with out a doubt that it is one of my

favourite places to go.

You’re famous for rapping in Afrikaans, have more people followed you since you started doing so, is there a bigger scene now?

I am Afrikaans, so it was just something that came easier to me than writing in English. So I think that also comes across, whether you understand what

I’m saying or not. There is a big scene in South Africa and I’ve been really lucky that my music has gotten attention worldwide and I also get to tour Europe extensively.

Snoop Dogg was your inspiration and your way into rap music – have you had a chance to thank him yet?

Haha, I actually have, I’ve had the honour of sharing a stage with him a few times now!

Last time we spoke to you, you were working on a book for Penguin – did that come to print yet, what’s it about?

Yip, it has. Its called “Die Ou Met Die Snor By Die Bar” or “The Guy With The Mustache At The Bar” in English and it’s pretty much just about my life up till now and how I got where I am and all the trouble I’ve caused, haha. I’m really thankful though, the response has been amazing and it’s been doing really well.

Never in my entire life would I have thought that I would write a book, crazy!

Social media is obviously a big part of being an artist now – how do you use it, how honest are you on there?

It’s a massive part of my business and a massive part of my day to day life. Social is really amazing and such a good and easy way to chat, communicate and connect with your fans. I’m completely honest on there, same as in

my music. I am who I am and people must accept me the way I am, so I stay honest and that way people know what they are getting. That’s important I feel and a lot of music lacks that, but people aren’t stupid, they know what’s real and what’s not.

You’re sponsored by a few cool companies including Playstation – what’s your ultimate brand ambition, who would you love to be sponsored by?

Haha, jeez, I don’t know. I already have such amazing sponsors from Puma, Jagermeister, RVCA, Harley Davidson, Skull Candy, Acer, the list goes on. I’ve really been fortunate with brands believing in me and supporting my vision even if it’s a bit skew sometimes!

There seems to be a world recession coming again, what would be your tips for surviving another financial crisis?

Don’t stress too much, stress leads to more stress and before you know it you have been stressing out so much that you have done nothing about it. Keep calm, stay cool, have a drink and don’t make rash decisions. But what do I know, I’m a rapper, haha!

Jack Parow, Dek on 8, Thursday March 24, free.

ON THE RADAR APRIL 8 GROOVE ON THE GRASS FEAT. HOT CHIP DJ SET

Emirates Golf Course

APRIL 8

BLACK COFFEE

Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE

APRIL 14

APRIL 21

DUBAI WITH ATTITUDE FEAT. LIL JON

The Act

APRIL 22 PLUS MINUS FEAT. DANNY HOWELLS & MATT TOLFREY

Level 41

APRIL 22

BACK2BASICS FEAT. HERNAN CATTANEO

JOURNEY THRU HOUSE FT SEAMUS HAJI

APRIL 15

APRIL 28 PAUL VAN DYK Zero Gravity

Pacha

AUDIO TONIC FEAT. MANUEL DE LA MARE

360

Zero Gravity

For a full list of what’s on, please head to infusion.ae

APRIL 29

EATS EVERYTHING

Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE

APRIL 29

DISCLOSURE & RUDIMENTAL

Dubai Media City Amphitheatre

APRIL 29

PLUS MINUS ARENA FEAT. KINK + MORE

MAY 6

GROOVE ON THE GRASS FEAT. DJ TENNIS

Emirates Golf Course

MAY 13

PLUS MINUS FEAT. SOUL CLAP

Level 41

MAY 20

ARMIN VAN BUUREN

Media One Car Park

Meydan Racecourse

MAY 5 GOODGREEF FEAT. JORDAN SUCKLEY

JOURNEY THRU HOUSE FT FARLEY JACKMASTER FUNK

Chameleon

MAY 20 Zero Gravity

We’ve re-worked our listings – one-off events will appear in the magazine, for everything else please check infusion.ae for our day-to-day listings.

For inclusion, email andy@infusion.ae Pick up a copy from our Infusion Magazine stands at these locations and more across the city Every A+E outlet, Every MMI outlet, Double Decker, Media One, Zero Gravity, 360 club, Casa Latina, Barasti, Pure Sky Lounge, Beatz and Cuts, McGettigans JLT/DWC, Music Room, Nasimi, Story Rooftop, Y Not Lounge, Bliss Lounge, Zinc, Cinnamon - Raddison, La Terrasse, Fashion Lounge, OcactI, The Scene

MONDAY 21 Projekt M feat. Mike Momentum, Chameleon Club Ministry of Sound resident DJ Mike Momentum plays this new weekly deep, melodic house and techno night. 10pm-3am.

TUESDAY 22 Kid Ink, White Dubai Heavily tattoo’d hip hopper (hence the name Kid Ink) brings his swagger and 4 albums worth of music to the UAE for a run of 3 shows. Ladies get a free bar all night.

Sub-Culture feat. Korek, Level 41 The Tuesday night house and techno party moves to its new weekly home at Level 41, with Somalie, HMDN and Korek on DJ duties. 10pm-3am.

WEDNESDAY 23 Kid Ink, Toy Room Toy Room celebrate their 1st birthday with ‘Main Chick’ star Kid Ink playing live.

THURSDAY 24 Adriatique, Nick Curly, LIV at Yas Beach New Yas Island beach club LIV opens with a big house and deep house line up and a 4am closing time. 11pm-4am.

Analog Room feat Rahaan, Eddie Thoneick, Q Underground Chameleon Club Analog Room team up with DUST for a disco excursion with Rahaan returning alongside local DJ James Locksmith. 10pm-3am, AED100.

Bob Sinclar, Cavalli Cavalli night Sprinkle brings over funky French house DJ Bob Sinclar for a dose of ‘Love Generation.’ 9pm-3am.

Boyce Avenue, Emirates Golf Course

Thoneick is a German House DJ that’s remixed for David Guetta and Bob Sinclar and plays alongside DJ Anja. 10pm-3am, AED100.

INFUSION PICK! Karak Beats feat. Mala, Velocity Bass and dubstep don Mala makes his Middle East debut thanks to alternative beats and pieces night Karak Beats.

10pm-3am, AED100.

American rock band and Youtube sensation Boyce Avenue play live, having racked up almost 100 million views online.

7pm, AED200.

INFUSION PICK! Dubai With Attitude feat. DJ Premier, The Act New weekly hip hop night DWA bring over renowned US super-producer and hip hop DJ Premier to drop classic cuts.

10pm-3am.

INFUSION PICK! Jack Parow, Dek On 8 Afrikaan hip hop and pop star Parow brings his larger than life live show back to Dubai for another eagerly anticipated show. 10pm-3am

UB40 & Billy Ocean, Irish Village A big double header, with reggae-pop band UB40 joined by ever-lasting soul pop sensation Billy Ocean. 9pm-late, AED225.

INFUSION PICK! Dubfire, Eden Another big day of techno in the sunshine, as ex Deep Dish star Dubfire is joined by Reboot and Hunter/Game. Middaylate.

FRIDAY 25 Decibel Tech feat. Mark Reeves, Level 41 Decibel turn to Cocoon signing Mark Reeve for a night of pulsing, driving tech-house.

10pm-3am, AED100.

Funk Soul Supper Brunch, The Black Lion Sheikh Zayed Road gastropub launches its late late brunch, with DJ Shero playing a mix of soul, funk and hip hop. 6-10pm, AED335.

House of Afrika, Dek on 8 Charl Chaka, James Justin and Elaoud take control of the popular deep, afro tech house night. 6pm-3am, free.

Nicky Minaj, Autism Rocks Arena (Dubai Outlet Mall)

Sugar Beach feat. Dirty Vegas, Barasti

Rap and pop from one of the most successful female artists at the moment, best known for lurid tracks like ‘Anaconda’ and ‘Super Bass.’ 7pm, tickets from AED350.

Barasti’s big free party returns, with the ‘Days Gone By’ stars playing live, with support from Drum Warrior. 3pm-late, free.

INFUSION PICK! Sven Vath, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE The Cocooon techno don and vinyl purist returns for another hands in the air session at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE. 11am-late.

INFUSION PICK! Sunstroke feat. Joey Negro, 360 House and disco from the record owner, film soundtracker and well known producer, with support from Jack Woodcock and John Spoor. 4pm-3am.

INFUSION PICK! Ummet Ozcan, XL XL turn 5 in style with EDM hard-hitter Ummet Ozcan dropping hi tempo house and electro. 10pm-3am, AED150 in advance.

MONDAY 28 Projekt M feat. Tobie Allen, Chameleon Club Tobie Allen of Ma’ana and Dysfunktion fame takes over with his brand of deep and dark techno. 10pm-3am.

THURSDAY 31 Analog Room feat Voigtmann, Q Undergound

INFUSION PICK! Finnebassen, LIV at Yas Beach The Norwegian Nu-disco and deep house DJ plays at the UAE’s latest beach club. 11pm4am.

INFUSION PICK! Superheroes feat. Roska, Dek on 8 Body battering bass and blocky beats from the UK Funky star at this bass house night. 6pm3am, free.

More cutting edge electronica and techno from Assemble Music’s Voigtmann, with Tristan Girault on support. 10pm-3am, AED100.

INFUSION PICK! Back2Basics feat. Anthony Pappa, Pacha Ibiza Dubai Global Underground bring their world tour to Dubai, with Aussie prog house DJ Anthony Pappa representing.

10pm-3am, ladies free before midnight, AED100.

Deep Crates Cartel meets Channel One Soundsystem, Velocity Dubijad, Lobito and Frezidante drop hip hop, funk, reggae and rhythms all night long. 9pm3am, AED100.

FRIDAY APRIL 1 INFUSION PICK! Audio tonic meets Ma’ana 2 Label Launch, 360 The 2nd Ma’ana album launches at 360, with Andy Buchan, Todd, Rich Showell, Mr Mr and Tobie Allen on DJ duties. 4pm-3am, free.

INFUSION PICK! Avicii, World Trade Centre Peppermint return to the fold with the Swedish superstar DJ behind ‘Levels’ and ‘Hey Brother’ headlining. 9pm-3am.

Tyga & Flo Rida, Autism Rocks Arena (Dubai Outlet Mall) A family day of fun and games followed by urban pop stars Tyga and Flo Rida playing live. 1am, AED50.

INFUSION PICK! Danny Tenaglia, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE New York legend and deep house/techno star Tenaglia makes his Blue Marlin debut, hopefully dropping one of his long and epic sets. 9pm-3am.

HouseBrunch, Story Rooftop Armo and Matt Pike deliver the house soundtrack to brunch, ramping things up for the 4-8pm afterparty. 1pm, AED300.

House of Afrika feat. Ryan Dent, Dek on 8 Cape Town DJ Ryan Dent returns for House of Afrika for more deep, afro house action. 6pm3am, free.

SATURDAY 2 INFUSION PICK! Piknic Electronik feat. Michael Mayer, Montgomerie Golf Course It’s the last Piknic of the season, with Kompakt’s Michael Mayer joined by Ruede Hagelstein and audio tonic residents Mr Mr and Rod Lee. 1-9pm, AED130 advance.

Offshore, Pier 7 Dubai Marina A sunset house boat cruise on a 155ft boat with 3 decks and a mini pool, with Jixo & Danz on DJ duties. 3-7pm, AED200 ladies, AED400 men.

3 - 5 PM | THURSDAY 31ST MARCH

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LISTEN

Music be the food of love, so read on...

• MUSIC NEWS • ALBUMS • SOUNDSTAGE • MAANA • DJ BOOTH

Look and Listen

Music News NEWSUM KEEPS ON TALKING Congratulations to David Newsum – the revitalized house DJ has scored a Top 3 hit in the UK Club Charts with his new track ‘Keep Talking’ made in collaboration with Matt Darey and Molly Bancroft on vocals.

The hot house track comes with typically ace Hollaphonic remix, who themselves are in the news thanks to their new single ‘Turn The Lights Down,’ which features The Act’s Stephon LaMar on vocal duties.

UB BILLY OCEAN

Head down to the Irish Village on Thursday March 24 to hear not one, but two multi-million selling artists in action as UB40 and Billy Ocean take to the stage. UB40 have sold over 40 million records thanks to hits like ‘Red, Red Wine’ and Kingston Town, while Billy Ocean is the biggest black recording star Britian has ever produced.

Tickets for the double header are AED225, with the show starting at 9pm.

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Look and Listen

Album Reviews

KUDOZ RECORDS – WINTER COMPILATION Nu-Disco/House // soundcloud.com/kudozrecords

 In just a short space of time, Abu Dhabi record label Kudoz Records has become a big-hitting label, releasing Beatport Top 100 hits and pulling together a cast of regional and international talent. And this Winter Compilation is a good mix of their styles, with nu-disco, bootlegs and deeper house vibes all on offer.

Cielo’s ace resident DJ Consoul Trainin (pictured) teams up with Michael Karrera for a cheeky nu-disco take on Madonna, while Smooth Criminals drop a smooth slice of escalating nu-disco that will warm up dancefloors just right.

The housier vibes come towards the back end of the compilation, with Van Dope delivering a driving, piano led anthem and DWU’s deeper than deep ‘You Give Me.’ The only thing missing is a track from label main man Moe Turk, but when he’s masterminded an excellent collection like this, you can forgive the omission.

CYCLES – MAX GRAHAM Trance/Techno // soundcloud.com/maxgraham

 As you can probably guess, the Cycles series from Max Graham isn’t exactly new - the latest outing however is markedly different in style from the previous editions, mirroring his production and DJ focus from strictly trance to progressive, techno, and everything in between.

There’s not a single track out of place in the compilation - from the beginning with Guy J’s Equinox, you’re drawn into a slowly building and moving journey, seamlessly moving through different soundscapes and melodies. Rather than hands in the air cheese, Cycles 7 is about the dark side of trance - heads down and hypnotic, with a distinctly gnarly edge, and no track demonstrates this better than than Max’s own gritty after-hours track One Hundred (Raw Mix).

It’s crate digging at its finest - blended together artfully and patiently - and proof that the art of the DJ is very much alive and well.

Matt Zaharias

Soundstage

13 DAZE UNPLUGGED New Tecom bar Lock Stock & Barrel has been a sure fire winner since launch, and that’s partly to do with their new resident band 13 Daze Unplugged. Lead singer Gaz Hanford talks to us about the Lion King, Kurt Cobain and Ricky Martin My first musical influence was… My Mum and Dad gave me a tape of Micheal Jackson’s Thriller when I was about 6, I reckon I listened to that tape for about 10 years.

The last pop star I liked was… II’m not sure there have been any real pop stars since X-factor and Pop Idol started ruining everything so, erm, Ricky Martin, why not!

My sound is best described as...Our first album is shaping up to be a bit like a dirty Foo Fighters. I’m told I sound a bit like Kurt Cobain, which is cool but I don’t see it myself.

Best piece of advice you’ve received?

Be polite, be nice, there’s no reason to be a jerk to people. And never take yourself too seriously.

What’s your musical guilty pleasure?

Neil Sedaka, I’m not even slightly guilty about it.

The best band in Dubai is… I’ve not been here long so haven’t seen much yet. But I have been to some open mic nights. This city has some really talented performers around, it’s great to see people playing original music.

Lamest claim to fame?

I met Dave Grohl and Josh Homme, which is certainly not lame.

But I met them at Lion King the musical. They had taken their kids, I was just there to watch Lion King. So yeah, is that lame? I don’t care, Lion King is awesome!

When I make it, the one thing I want on my rider is…

My own personal sandwich maker. I don’t mean a machine, I mean a human who will meet my every sandwichy demand!

My musical motto is…

This is the first time I’ve ever thought about this. I guess I’d say always give 100%, even the smallest crowd deserves your full effort. So yeah, always give everything you’ve got.

Best gig you’ve played?

I’ve been lucky enough to play some awesome gigs, but nothing will ever beat the feeling I had after my first ever live show. So much adrenaline and sense of achievement. I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.

And the worst?

I did a solo gig once on Christmas day and did loads of Christmas songs. It was dreadful, I was dreadful. So I got got drunk to see if it’d improve things. It did not.

Best lyrics of all time?

“B-b-b-b-b bird bird bird, the bird is the word” A deep message that we can all relate to!

Made in the UAE After its impressive launch last year, the Ma’ana compilation series is back, this time pulling together the UAE’s best house, nudisco and techno producers. Label main man Tobie Forbes gives us the low down on what to expect Congratulations on the 2nd compilation, what marks this one out as different from the first?

This second album is a follow up, not only due to the success of the first album but also the growth in talent in the UAE. It’s been great to sign even more artists from the region, and fantastic that we have signed three artists from Abu Dhabi to add to the already growing list of Dubai producers.

You had dozens of submissions for the first album, how did the selection process work on this?

Due to the great response to the first album I wanted to use a slightly different approach. I invited artists that I had come across over the last six months and could see their quality. The result is there are no licensed tracks but all tracks are produced specifically for the album.

Which tracks/artists are you most happy about signing?

It’s an old cliche I know but I’m really happy with all the tracks.

There’s obviously some I like more than others but the main things is showcasing the region’s talent. Electronic dance music comes in all forms, styles and genres.

What launch party plans have you got?

I am really pleased to have teamed up with the Audio Tonic camp to present the album launch at the legendary 360 venue on April 1st.

Increasingly the money in muisc is in touring, merchandise, the 360 experience – are you looking to grow the Ma’ana album even further from here?

Great question. I am a strong believer in making sure you can walk before you can run. Make sure your core values and what you believe in stay strong. We are hoping to spread the love and move into other parts of the Middle East and to uncover more producers from the region. I also want to release more albums that vary in genre so we cover more music bases as the Ma’ana brand moves into the future.

Anything else to add? Now that Ma’ana Records is operational we will be releasing singles from the summer. We will cater for all forms of house through to techno. We will always listen to submissions.

You can email us at info@bootlegsocialrecords.com.

Audio tonic meets Ma’ana Album Launch, Friday April 1, 360 Jumeirah Beach Hotel, feat. Rich Showell, Andy Buchan, Todd, Tobie Allen & Mr Mr. 4pm-3am, free.

DJ BOOTH: UCH

A relative newcomer to Dubai after several seasons in Ibiza and New York, UCH now calls Cavalli and GQ Bar home One thing you might not know about me is...

I want everyone to be happy!

My worst ever job was… A summer job at 18, cutting grass in a Bronx cemetery. Me, the dead, and the hot summer sun.

My favourite ever record is... Stevie Wonder, ‘Another Star,’ class all the way.

DJing is much like… Painting a picture. I tell a story by juxtaposing many different colours through sound, it’s a terrific journey of art.

Dubai’s clubbing scene is... Very vibrant and diverse, there are so many different places and music to go and hear, I love it.

I’m really proud of... Making Dubai my new home. After growing up in New York and living in Ibiza for several years, I’m loving my time here in the U.A.E. What track could you drop in every set?

Jackson 5, “Where You Are.” Michael was a genius at such a young age, and the song feels like a warm blanket. Love.

My biggest DJ achievement to date is... My song “Give It 2 Me” going to #1 on the Kings of Spins chart. It was released on Todd Terry’s InHouse Records for the Ibiza season in 2015 and debuted at # 1. Seeing me there and the legend David Morales at #2, a fellow New Yorker I’ve long admired, is such a great memory.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Watching hip hop radio interviews on YouTube, haha. They can be so ratchet and low brow but very funny and musically informative. I tend to watch while I’m eating or on my days off.

If I could go back-to-back with any other DJ it would be... Since I can say anyone, I’ll say a 3 DJ back-to-back with me, Frankie Knuckles, and Carl Cox. 2 legends who’ve inspired me so much. The tunes would be a great balance of soul and hard beats with a classic touch. Musical heaven.

I’m not a politician but… It should be mandatory for all of us to befriend someone from another country who doesn’t look or sound like us. We often, as people, classify others and pre-judge based on appearance, but from my years touring the world and living around the globe, I’ve learned that we’re really all the same. We sneeze, we laugh, we cry, and we dance. We’re all the same, and I wish the world was more aware of this beautiful fact. soundcloud.com/djuch

LOOKING

CLOSER Opinions, thoughts and gibberish...

• WEIRD NEWS • THE SPIN • JUST FOR KICKS • ANGRY MONKEY

Looking Closer

Weird News WHEN EYEBROWS GO WRONG A fashion blogger has compiled an online database of some of the most heinous crimes against eyebrows in an attempt to show people how not to do it. Here are some of our favourites from the Miss Fame blog‌

HEADLINE OF THE ISSUE

FAT RAT This is the rather gruesome picture of a 4ft long rat weighing more than 25lbs discovered in London.

The rat is one of the biggest specimens yet found, and lived on a diet of bin trash from the local estate.

THE SPIN MARCH 2016

PAGE 217

ISSUE 39

SPLASH DOWN! POOL PARTIES POP UP ACROSS THE CITY

The city’s clubs and bars took advantage of the 2 day downpour across the city to turn their outdoor spaces into pool bars and man made beach clubs.

With Dubai turned into a massive swimming pool, clubs were quick to capitalize, turning their flooded properties into sold out pool parties. Dubai Municipality were quick to spring into action, declaring the whole city a ‘no heavy petting zone,’ while stocks in beer-can holding lilos and Tropical house compilations rocketed.

The city’s established pool and beach parties weren’t so happy, however. One Zero Gravity insider admitted that ‘their multi-million dirham extension wasn’t a patch on the pop-up parties,’ and went on to grumble that ‘all that money had been spent for nothing.’ *These stories are not true, this is not a real newspaper. This is a parody/fiction/satire/joke. The Spin is not intended, in any way whatsoever, to be taken as factual.

JUST FOR

AND1

Basketball specialists And1 don’t just offer strong, good-looking footwear, they also offer more value than most of the other trainer manufacturers. Take the Typhoon for example, a brand new model that blends a perforated synthetic upper with a strong clashing design that’s only $55. They might not quite have the kudos of a pair of Air Force 1s or some box fresh Yeezys, but if you’re on a budget and want a kick-ass pair of hi-tops with bold colour combinations, And1 is just for you.

Available at all Go Sports outlets. facebook.com/directtradinguae/

Mass tagging To paraphrase from Liam Neeson…

‘I know who you are. I know what you want. I do have are a very particular set of skills, skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. If you stop tagging me and 99 other people in your crappy status updates about your event/new release/bicep curl, that’ll be the end of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue you. But if you don’t, I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you.’

So yeah, mass tagging. Stop now, otherwise I will go Liam Neeson ‘Taken’ on your ass.

Monkey Out...

The Angry Monkeys’ views are his own, and don’t necessarily reflect the views of Infusion Magazine.