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DJ OF THE MONTH! Moleman

For December’s DJ of the month we have Albuquerque native Moleman, a regular contributor and member of SEK here to answer a few questions. Make sure to check out his top 10 picks for this year in our ‘Molemans Reviews’ section. Moleman is a serious crate digger who always brings an eclectic set to the decks, lets find out a little more;

1. What got you started DJing?
I always have loved music but my break into Djaying came in the Fall of 2002 when I signed up to host a show on the NMSU student run radio station KRUX 91.5 FM. At the time the station had recently changed formats from an all country station back to an indie rock/punk format and the powers that where gave me a slot on Fridays from 4-7 PM and I had to play stuff like Guided by Voices and the Melvins but I really, really wanted to play Soul/Funk & HipHop music and almost quit because I couldnt do so. Having lived in Albuquerque, NM for the summer I had met several people who where involved in the HipHop scene there and got the opportunity to sit in on KUNM 89.9FMs Street Beat program and wanted to bring something similar to the airwaves in Las Cruces but at the time there was no outlet for me to do so. Things changed when I met my friend Lecroy Rhynes who had the same passion as I did for Soul & Funk and HipHop music and together we lobbied the stations management for a show and eventually they gave us a 2 hour slot which four years later when I graduated turned into about 8 hours of Funk/Soul/HipHop & Electronica every Friday night.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?
I really like to consider myself the theme music provider to whatever else is going on the otherside of the speakers. I love to people watch so naturally I like to see people moving their bodies when I play and Ive seen everything from the head nod to the “Im exercising the demons” dance. I really like to read the crowd and then determine where I want to take them be it slow or fast or high or low. To me thats the best part about being a music programmer, taking someone on a magical musical journey where they can lose themselves.

3. First gig?
my first gig was with DJ Nico at one of his infamous Foundation parties which where held at dive bar in Las Cruces, NM called The Club. At the time I had records but had never had played them on a DJ rig before & had to have Nico give me a crash course on how to use his Pioneer 600 mixer. I played soul/electronica & HipHop tunes and remember that I would put out the record cover in front of the coffin so that people had an idea of what I was playing. It was alot of fun and I was always bugging Nico to let me play again after that because I was hooked.

4. Best gig?
Im not sure because nothing makes me more happy then sharing music with everyone so to me they have all been special.

5. Top 5 records at the moment?
1. Madlib Medicine Show Series
2. Blackstar – Fix Up
3. Submotion Orchestra – Finest Hour
4. DJ Cam – Seven
5. Oddisee – Rock Creek Park

6. Shout outs, affiliations?
Im going to use this space to implore you to come out to Pub Club on Dec. 21st at Hurricane Alley in Las Cruces, NM for the Super Ugly Sweater Party! wear your most unfunky sweater and PLEASE!! bring a new or gently used one for donation to charity! DJ TRiST & myself will be behind the wheels all night long!

7. Does your DJ name have a meaning?
Hehe, I get this one alot. I plead the 5th…

8. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds?

http://soundcloud.com/lord-moleman

9. Future Plans? I hope to have my HipHop EP done before Im 80…stay tuned…

DJ of the Month November 2011 – IZZY 

For November we have another Cruces DJ to scope out. DJ Izzy has been making that hustle, providing some dope progressive and trance sets at local spots getting some hype for his fresh mixes.We wanted to shout out to this hardworking DJ and have a few questions with him.

1. What got you started DJing?

What got me started in dj ing was..I was at a jr high dance and the Dj who played had awsome sound effects and mixed song like roxanne roxxane, egyptian lover and it was mind blowing. That day I knew I wanted to dj.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

My style or aproch to dj is the music has to be energetic and i have to like the song I just dont play it cause its on the radio it has to have meaning to me. So far that approch has been good to me.

3. First gig?

My first gig was a live internet radio show from anubis radio.com out of El Paso tx. In the first half hour I had 10000 listeners and by the end of the 2 hour show i had 13000 listeners the most the station has ever had.

4. Best gig?

My best gig so far was my first ever club show at Hurricane alley I had played my heart out., putting the hardest energetic electro and proggressive house music, I had people yelling out my name , people came at me after the show giving me high fives and great compliments, it was an exciting feelining.

5. Shout outs, affiliations?

I want to give shout out to all the people who gave me the oppurtunity to spin Justin (Dj trist), Bobby Torres, Steven Mackmiller, Steven Angel. To those WHo back me up and are my greatest fans My girlfriend Irma borunda, my cousin Ernie Hernandez, My siter donna and bro in law Joe Aldaz, My kids Issac, Ivan ,Isaiah And especially to Anubis Radio.com. Thanks Everyone.

6. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds

Some of my mixes are on sound cloud.com under izzystyle.

7. Future Plans?

My plans so far is to find more gigs but first finish school and get my bachelors in geology.

DJ of the Month October 2011 Young & Infected

For this month we wanted to spotlight another rising star in the Las Cruces Scene. DJ Marcbaca AKA Young & Infected has been bringing the seriously real dubstep to southern New Mexico with that true sub bass and real aesthetic that comes from the UK where Dubstep originates from. With a keen ear for intricate productions and pristine mixes this is one DJ to watch out for as he rises. Also mixing and DJing for the Faceless crew, this DJ has no signs of stopping or slowing down. Here is a few questions:

1. What got you started DJing?

ive always wanted to be a dj or at least own a set up even when i was a kid. Ive always pictures myself owning a pair of turntables and a mixer. I knew thats what i wanted to do. Plus i had alot of influence from close friends. Eventually i actually owned my own set up.
2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

My style is very deep and emotional. I love playing songs that dont just make you dance but also make you sit and wonder. I try to approach djing as if it has never been invented before. Like if im inventing the rules as i go along, so i dont have to follow anyones styles. Or at least try.

3. First gig?

 My first club/bar gig was actually in el paso, tx. My good buddy joey santos had an open spot on a wednesday night a couple years back at diggs tavern. It was nice! i played all my records.

4. Best gig?

I would have to say my best gigs are usually house parties. My best gig would have to be one my buddy josh ziehl put me on. That night was hudge! I enjoyed it alot.

5. Top 5 records at the moment?

Top 5 Records: 1.Subscape-Universal 2. Salva-Complex Housing 3. Eskmo-Cloudlight 4. Benga Diary of an Afro Warrior 5. Mount Kimbie-Crooks & Lovers

6. Shout outs, affiliations?

 I have to shout out FACELESS! Cruces Locals! Nadir, Amalgam, KillThings, Alphabet, Woar, Moke…I want to shout out to my girlfriend cherish for putting up with me!! Supporting me in all i do!!  I gotta shout out to Dj Trist for throwing dope ass wednesday nights at hurricane alley! Ed! Blase! Mada! EchoBoomer! My old band mates andrew, ej, eric, eli and nick!!

7. Does your DJ name have a meaning?

I have a couple names i like to go by but it confuses people. My production name is yound and infect because i always felt smart at a young age and it affected me on ho with approach music. I like to go by djmarcbaca for djing cause i always wanted to use my actual name so i kind of just cut my first name and last name in half

8. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds

You can hear my productions and recent mixs at www.soundcloud.com/djmarcbaca

9. Future Plans?

 Right now my plans consist of keeping on working on television so i can maintain and have a successful career after i graduate college. i want to dj as a passion and hobby i dont want to see it as work. ei want to go at my own pace. i feel when it comes to djing and producing you cant rush. im just going to keep playing parties and clubs and see where it takes me.

DJ of the month Sept 2011 BassPilot

For September we welcome BassPilot as DJ of the month! Putting it down in Las Cruces, throwing some great new parties getting a scene going is no small task. BassPilot has brought some interesting new ideas to the table. Generating attention on underground beats, his sets rock with a distinctive style that energizes the dance floor – here is a few questions.

1. What got you started DJing?

Was influenced late 2009 by dj hosie into the arts of music manipulation.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

Very freestylish take on djing allways feeding off the crowd to see what there feeling but @ the same time throwing my own style and funk to it
3. First gig?

First club gig was @ manhattan night club as a warm up dj.

4. Best gig?

Blackout lazer party
5. Top 5 records at the moment?

too many to think of at the moment lol

6. Shout outs, affiliations?

Shout out to my girlfriend leeya and all my friends and fans for all the support. Big ups to Las Cruces Sound and Lighting and focused fitness for stepping up with ziehl inc to provide quality edm events in las cruces. Big ups to my bro micah and his wife amy for all the help and support.

7. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds

SOundcloud.com/basspilot
8. Future Plans?

working on a four track ep to be released late 2011 to early 2012, also teaming up with some local promoters to brng headliner events to the las cruces area.

 

 

DJ of the month August 2011 Phil Michaels

Its time to spotlight another incredible local DJ and for August we have the amazing Phil Michaels who is currently dominating the scene with his potent mix of energetic beats and sublime skills behind the decks.  Phil has been ripping it up wherever he goes – opening for headliners like Dmitry KO, playing at Rehab Sundays Pool party and even throwing events with Lunar Meltdown; Phil is one with the hustle and drive to make dreams come true.  So sit back, hit play on his most recent mix and enjoy a few questions with the man himself!

Live at Dark Nights & Bright Lights by Phil Michaels

1. What got you started DJing?

I was always amazed how one
person can control pretty much every move you make, whether its at a house
party or on a dancefloor. I used to DJ elementary school functions for my
class! It wasn’t mixing but I liked the feeling of being in front of everyone
and having them let loose thru music! Never got an up close feel of mixing
until I met a good friend of mine, Dozer aka Rick Leyba. When I became more and more interested I asked him to teach me how to blend music together. So he gave me two house vinyl records, showed me how to speed up and slow it down with the pitch control, and then he walked away!! And from that point, I never stopped…

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

My style varies as to what kind of event it is, to what time I’ll be scheduled to play at, even depends on my mood that I’m feeling around that time. Being a Trance DJ, I am able to keep a wide selection of music with me no matter where I go. Catch me at an early time; I’ll set your mood for the night. If I’m on at a later time, I’ll bust out some heavy bangers to keep you dancing the whole time.

3. First gig?

Oh man… Forgive my memory, but Foundation at The Club back in 2004 sometime. (I think that was the name of it!)

4. Best gig?

Adventures In Wunderground- Aug. 2010, Ft. Worth, TX
Old school warehouse party with over 1000 bodies dancing their asses off in the Texas humidity till 6 am!

5. Top 5 records at the moment?

Andain – Promises (Myon & Shane 54 Summer of Love Mix)
Orjan Nilsen – The Mule
Markus Schulz pr. Dakota – Tears
Klauss Goulart – Turbulence
Above & Beyond – Sun & Moon

6. Shout outs, affiliations?

Lunar Meltdown-El Paso,TX. Shoutouts to EVERYONE who has ever given me words of encouragement along this journey!!

7. Does your DJ name have a meaning?

My first DJ name did, Uneek. I never wanted to limit myself to one style of Trance music. I wanted to have a unique sound in my sets that has a blend of everything.  Fast-forward to today, not many people can say my last name. So I use my middle name and shortened up my first name too. Still original!!

8. Where can we find out more and listen to your sounds?

You can add me on Facebook to see what im up to!! https://www.facebook.com/djphilmichaels

Or check my soundcloud to see what mood I’m in. I realease a monthly mix called Uneeknvisons that varies in style! A Unique Envision of Trance, Progressive, or Electro Music!!

http://soundcloud.com/phil-michaels

9. Future Plans?

Heading down the road of Production. A DJ separates himself from another by his production skills, so hopefully the skills I gain will allow more and more people to get to know me!!

 

DJ of the Month July 2011 – CHE

For the hot summer month of July we are proud to present a rising star in the El Paso underground EDM scene- Che. With an unassuming nature and forward thinking aesthetic Che has cemented himself a solid spot in the El Paso / Southwest scene with some of the freshest sets ranging from deep tech house to big room techno bass blasts. Playing at all the dope spots like Darkroom Saturdays, SOHO and opening for the likes Appendix Shuffle and Thee-o; Che has made himself a DJ to watch, pushing new mixes and generally being an awesome guy- here are some questions!

1. What got you started DJing?

My love of music of course is one reason, I was always intrigued by what went on behind the dj booth at parties i would go to. Also I wasn’t hearing the specific sound I wanted to listen to, so I got myself a used pair of Pioneer 200 cdjs, started collecting music and here I am.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to Djing?

Well I play variations of TechHouse,Deep House, and Indie/Disco House. My approach to music is to play a very intelligent well thought out compilation of nothing but sophisticated house beats.

3. First Gig?

My first gig was in 2009 in the now extinct 33 Beats Club, which I ended up staying as resident Dj because of that gig.

4. Best gig?

Wow! I’ve had too many, but if i had to choose it would probably be doing opening set for Thee-O, played along side Dj Spy and Laffit Rivas. The vibes were there i was feeling the music and the crowd was amazing.

5.Top 5 records at the moment?

“The Drawing Board” by Art Department, “Where The Freaks Have No Name” by Benoit and Sergio, “Geografia Privada”(Vinyl) by Blanali and Robert Pedrini, “Penguin EP” by DoP, “DJ Kicks (unmixed)” by Wolf and Lamb vs. Soul Clap

6.Shout outs, affiliations?

Mmmm ok here it goes, big shout outs to my very supportive family, my bosses which have been very lenient and supportive as well, everybody at SoHo Cocktail Lounge(Vinne, Big Drew, Joe) My collective “Always Moving People”(AMP) DJ Spy for being tough on me with my mixing, Ryan Reveles because of him I know how to beat match and converted me to vinyl, and just everyone out there that has been there for me. I’m part of the growing “Always Moving People” (AMP) Kollectiva

7. Does your DJ name have a meaning?

mmm well Che has no meaning, but it does have a story to it. I was wearing a “Chepillin’ shirt a popular Mexican clown mixed with Ernesto “Che” Guevara and my boss one day started calling me Che and it stuck.

8. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds?

I have a bi weekly residence at SoHo Cocktail Lounge on Thursdays, and you can catch me doing warm up or opening sets for headliners TBA. Anyone is welcome to visit my soundcloud page and show some love www.soundcloud.com/deepche

9. Future Plans?

My future plans are too continue djing of course, you can never learn too much. Start producing full time, establish a solid underground scene here in El Paso, and later travel the world sharing my taste in music to everyone.

 

 

DJ of the month June 2011 Ed Chalace

 

For this month we wanted to feature one of our own DJs with 2550. Eddie Chalace has been a part of the Sound Evolution Krew since 2003 and has been a prominent supporter and DJ of the scene in El Paso for over 10 years strong with no signs of ever stopping! So how about a few questions…

1. What got you started DJing?

My first decision was to purchase some hardware, but after realizing how costly it is I would be limited. Turntables seemed ideal enabling me to get a good feel for the music.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

House and Techno seemed to be what could incorporate all styles and sounds that fit my taste. Ranging from certain old 45s of disco and funk to broken 4 to the floor midtempo tunes, the taste grew. Hip hop, r&b, edm and an assortment of bands consume me. The first few years developed into an ongoing quest to catch the attention of those who don’t normally appreciate House music.

3.First gig?

Back in ’99 as an opening slot for a guest dj from Albuquerque, in a large type of dance hall off Montana by the police station.

4. Best gig?

Cannot really say as there has been too many with only more to come. Have had the opportunity to open for M A N I K, Brett Johnson, Mark Farina, Jeff Craven, and Miles Maeda’s birthday party. Casa Verde was ridiculously fun, and there havea large bundle of events in the El Paso/Las Cruces area. Ranging from friendly house parties or open mic series to the club scene, it doesn’t stop there. Warehouse and desert events have come around and continue with all edm enthusiasts out there.

5.Top Five records at the moment?

1. Daniel Sanchez remix of Osaka
2. Nicolas Jaar’s Time For Us
3. Manuel Tur’s Fianchetto
4. Jesper Dahlback’s Interpersonal Relationship
   5.   Omid 16b’s 3 AM

6. Shout outs? Affiliations?

Shout outs to the old heads of people who reach people and afterlife kids in chuco town. Those I still remain in touch with who inspire me to always keep the creative juices flowing: Eric Andrew, Benny Huerta, Trist, SEK and2550. Miguel Ibarra, Raydub, System A. and the rest of the maintain coalition. Spy, Deftech and the rest of blacklight project. The PD crew, Hardpop, Joe and LNSC. The Las Cruces, Albuquerque and El Paso underground scenes. Promoters, throwers and event holders. Most importantly my family, friends, loved ones, producers and djs. Could not do it without you. Affiliated with Maintain, 2550, SEK.

7. Is there a meaning behind your DJ name?

Defined as a cup or pipe which is symbolic to me, we like to pronounce it in a french sounding manner.

8.Where can we find out more/ listen to your sounds?

main-tain.com, 2550.com, mixcrate.com/edchalacy, mixcloud.com/trist, soundcloud.com/edchalace.

9. Future Plans?

Keep it moving as we envolve. Upcoming bookings include the anticipated annual outdoor music gathering in the outskirts of El Paso

 

DJ of the Month May – SPY

For the month of May we bring you DJ Spy – this hard working, dedicated, underground soldier has been bringing some of the most interesting and unique talent to El Paso with his AMP crew.  He serves as a fixture in the scene, always supporting other local DJs and killing the decks any chance he gets with that amazing tech house flavor. Here’ s a few questions with DJ Spy…

1. What got you started DJing?

What got me into becoming a DJ, well for one the influences around me when i was growing up, always focusing on the beat of a song or track. I was influenced alot by my Childhood Friend Art Licon aka DeepVibe, I recall first ever listening to the Prodigy, then John Digweed, Paul Oakenfold, all the Global Underground releases from Tony Devit to Danny Tenaglia, even Future Sound of London..leading to Mark Farina, Miguel Miggs, Heather, Halo, Plastikman, and more, .at age 18 is when i truelly began to Dj, partnered up with Andrew Wright aka Deftech with TownHouseBeats jaaja, ever since i’ve been hooked…and the Beat just wont stop. These are some of the things that influenced me to DJ, the one thing that keeps me Djing is the Soul of the Beat, and the Music, and by far the Movement.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

My approach to DJing is Deep Unconscious Therapy, that is i love to play my emotions and be able to connect to the crowd in a such a way, through sound, when the bass lines hit, and timbells hit, man its such rush to be one with hundreds sometimes thousands of people. Simply incredible. DeepTechHouse

3. First gig?

First gig ever, CASA VERDE with my boy SolB, I was in the Patio the last Two Months of the legendary spot. Great times unforgettable

4. Best gig?

Best gig every, MARK FARINA March 14 2007, my view was 1300 people to start, i played for 3 hours to open up for one of my biggest influences Mark Farina…it was my first big Gig, at the end of the night we hit 2000 people, it was a night to always remember.

5. Top 5 records at the moment?

Another Day(org mix)-Marcelo Nassi
Back into the Deep(org mix)-Frivolous
Almerina(Dragosh remix)-Steve Lawler,Dragosh
Beyond the Trip(main mix)-Yohan Esprada
Tripiando Los Colores(org mix)-Daniel Stefanik

6. Shout outs, affiliations?

Shou outs: HAUS, AMP kolectiva, DUSTCITY MUSIC, LNSC, PASTILLA DIGITAL, MBAR, 2550, BLACKLIGHTPROJECT, SYNTHTEK, CLASE 420, ECB MAG, LIAISON, WEPLAYMINIMAL, LISTEN:REACT, APT ENT, AND EVERYONE WHO KEEPS IT UNDERGROUND.
Affiliations: AMP kolectiva, SPYent, Blacklightproject, HAUS, DUSTCITY MUSIC

7. Does your DJ name have a meaning?

My DJ name has a meaning, many think is just Spy, or some other nonsense, but its not. It stands for SIMPLY. PROVE. YOURSELF=S.P.Y, simply prove myself to some out there that i can achieve many prosperous thing by DJing ONLY underground dance music, and never selling out.

8. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds?

here are some links:
http://www.blacklightproject.com/artists/spy.php
http://soundcloud.com/s-p-y
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/house-of-amp

9. Future Plans?

My future plans is keep doing what i do best. More shows, Dj gigs, and more traveling and going to start getting into production. Gotta keep on going!

April 2011 J Bowra

For April we have a look at NM’s very own techno ambassador, playing pretty much all the big shows that come through Albuquerque and always rocking it with a proper smile – this is John Bowra.  His sets are known to inspire frenzy on the dancefloor and the potent selection of bass heavy funk, tech and house always leaves a crowd beyond satisfied. We wanted to give him a spot which is well deserved for all the hard work, while he satisfies our curiosities by answering a few questions!

1. What got you started DJing?
Well I used to be heavy into hip hop and all the elements related to it, I wanted be the guy scratching up a strom and blowing minds away with crazy juggles and turntablism but around the same time I bought my first set up I discovered house music and right away everything changed. It was sooo different to me at the time and I just wanted to learn everything about it.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?
The style of music I play at a gig always depends on the crowd,vibe and energy sometimes it can be real funky and tribal other times its bangin bouncy and a little weird but most importantly it has to be FUN and FRESH! But the last year has has been a challenge with everything and mostly everyone in America just being soo into electro and dub-step that I have made it a point to not follow those trends and prove that time and time again that all styles of Techno and House continue to rock crowds of all types. Alot of Djs in my opinion are too quick to turn down gigs/shows because “its too commercial” or “the crowd is too young” thats just backwards thinking its all about educating the youth on something different otherwise your letting the mainstream win. Its not what you play its how you play

3. First gig?
My first time playing out wouldn’t really call it a gig was in 2001 at a place called The Light Club. It was a all local show and I think I was the 3rd Dj to play that night there was about 20-30 people I had one friend there supporting me I was a little nervous not extremely because I had practiced this set like 50 times,it probably still sucked
but I remember being soo damn stoked I did it

Best gig?
Its really hard to say just one but all the Tech-Know Theory shows have been lots of fun, some of the big outdoor events Albuquerque has every Summer is something Im always really excited to be a apart of. But if I had to choose 1 it would be Party In The Park its a more then just a gig its special to me there’s no money to be made off of it its simply about the music and people I’ve seen it grow from 15 heads to now 500 I can honestly say that some the best moments I’ve had behind the decks have been at Roosevelt Park and if that’s the only event I was able to play at id be content

5. Top 5 records at the moment?

1.Marco Carola—Play it Loud
I love Carola such an inspiration

2.Julio Bashmore—Battle for middle
Without a doubt one of the best producers around right now and this this track is all about soul and bass

3.Munnibrothers—Moon Choon Chayoh
New guys off Dirtybird cant wait to see what they do next FUN MUSIC

4.Boysnoise, Housemeister—Shizzo
Big party banger nuff said

5.Max Bett—Pool Party
Tech Funk at its finest

6. Shout outs, affiliations?
This could be a long list if I wanted to shout out everyone I got love for but at the risk of leaving someone out ill keep it simple and say BIG UPS to all the hard working Djs/producers and promoters in New Mexico the ones who bust there ass to put on events for the state and sometimes loose money doing soo there is no party without them

7. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds

RA DJ Page residentadvisor.net/dj/johnbowra
soundcloud.com/j-bowra
twitter.com/Bowra
facebook.com/John Bowra
myspace.com/djbowra…..LOL

8. Future Plans?
Focusing more on my own productions, promoting/Djing SMG Events(New Mexico,El Paso) Putting together some more Tech-Know Theory shows, bringing some good day time vibes to the park all Summer long, laying on the beach drinking Tequila and maybe rocking a mohawk

Dr. Lo- DJ of the Month March 2011

For this month’s DJ we wanted to bring out a true inspiration – Dr. Lo. The good Dr. has been a fixture in the Southwest EDM scene for longer than most have known what real house music is.  Hailing from Columbia, this passionate DJ spins some of the most soulful sets around, opening for some of the best DJs in the world, rolling through and always rocking an incredible set! Here is a few Qs to get familiar with Dr. Lo -

DJ of the Month February 2011: Rob Bass

New Mix from Rob Bass for 2550!

So this month we wanted to shout out one of El Paso’s favorite bass music DJs – Rob Bass.  Mr. Bass has been seen driving dancefloors into pure bliss playing the ‘must go to’ events like La Parada and Darkroom Saturdays plus moving the bass scene forward in exponential proportions.  This super hard working DJ puts on a wicked set of diverse beats and bass bombs with a style and panache like no other.  We caught up with Rob Bass for a moment to ask a few questions and find out how he stays so fresh!

1. What got you started DJing?

I got into djing by friends. David Martinez was the first guy I knew mixing.

2.Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

I like playing really dancey stuff. Stuff you can move to. I love play records with vocals, remixes or not.

3. First gig?

My first gig was a house party in Pheonix. Does that count? After that, the first place I played at was the Om Lounge(rip)

4. Best gig?

My favorite place to play has been La Parada. Best people. They are just so into it.

5. Is there an explanation / meaning behind your DJ name?

My name is actually just something my boys Alftron, Alby and I were joking around with. We were all playing the Cinci bars a few years ago and it was when all that electro, bloghouse stuff was around and we were just goofing with a name for the 3 of us. We came up with Color Me Rad! It was so funny to me back then. Then it was like your Rob Bass, im Alby Sure, and you can be the Ace Of Bass. Really corny stuff haha but we were just goofin and somehow that one stuck to me.

6. Top 5 records at the moment?

Its hard to pick a top 5 nowadays because so much good stuff keeps coming but here are a few from the past 6 months..

1. DJ Fresh “Lassitude” Dillon Francis remix
2. Pendulum “Watercolour” Emalkay remix
3. Encode “The Police” dub version
4. Skepta vs. N Dub “So Alive” Shock One Dub Mix
5. Nas and Damian Marley “Patience” Hulk remix

7. Shout outs, affiliations?

La Parada/Rainmaker I wanna give love out to the Orishas for giving me light, to Roxy for always having my back, all my eastside crew, the La Parada family, EPCultureBeat.com, System.A, ManOnAMission.com, Zeke and the Dustcity family, all the Las Cruces fam Chalacy, DLS, Trist and the 2550 blog and to SMG, LNSC and all the people doing work to make El Paso cooler.

8. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds?

http://soundcloud.com/rob-bass

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/djrobbass

January 2011 DJ of the month: Mittens

 

Starting off 2011 correct we have badman supreme Mittens joining us for our featured DJ of January.  Mittens’ meteoric rise in the Albuquerque / Southwest Bass music scene is one well documented from his spotlights all over the map playing events like Sub Culture, Atomic Bass Takeover, Dub Rockers and his own groundbreaking night: Influx.  He is one who stands firm repping that true bass – charged with emotion and soaked in rumbling percussion, unconstrained by genres.  Here are a few questions we had for him as well as an exclusive set to get the new year started with a bang!

1. What got you started DJing?

I started DJing when a friend of mine asked me if I would like to buy his turntables. He had bought brand new Technics when we were in high school, but he just wanted to scratch, and he lost interest in it after a few years. So around ’02 or ’03, I paid him $700 for 2 decks, a pioneer djm 300, two ortofon needles, and a half-crate of records, mostly battle records and hip hop. The catalyst that made me want to buy them is that I was getting into MF Doom at the time, and there was all this hype about how he was being sued by Marvel for using Fantastic Four images on his album covers… the albums all had to be re-issued with different art. I had found an original copy of Operation Doomsday on vinyl, and I wanted to play it at my own house. There wasn’t much more to it than that, really… I mean obviously I admired guys like Q-Bert and Shadow and Krush, but I wasn’t really even aspiring to be a “DJ” when I first got my decks…. it wasn’t until I went to Coachella in 2005 that I really began to understand the power of being a selekta. It was also the first time I acknowledged the possibility that maybe I liked electronic dance music.

2. Can you describe your style or approach to DJing?

My style or approach to DJing could be described as an effort to bring people together and open their minds through good music, regardless of genre. I tend to go for the deeper, more soulful side of sound, but I love to lace heaters in when they are deserved. When I’m choosing tunes for a show, I think about what the people will like, and also what I want to show them. Sometimes my tastes are different than theirs- I’m not always out to please the crowd and just play the tunes they know and expect… I like to push people out of their comfort zone a little, but I try to get them to trust me first. I think the best DJ sets are a balance of familiarity and the unknown. I also think that DJ’s have a responsibility to disseminate the best music available to their community. That means using your ears and your heart, not your peers and the chart.

3. First gig?

My first paying gig was a weekly at Gulp, the bar attached to Graze, both now defunct… I got $100 bucks to play from 9-11 every Saturday! Wish I still had that gig….

4. Best gig?

My best gig… hmmmm. Well I was really honored to play at Family 12 Year, that’s probably the biggest sound I have ever played on. I’ve really enjoyed playing for Focus both times I’ve had the pleasure. But I would have to say that my best gig was tagging with Saiz at Atomic Bass… played there several times and it’s always so fun but there was one night that me and him just merked that place. I can honestly say that we played better than I’ve heard lots of professionals play, and all my friends were there… My homie asked me if I was rolling when the show was over because I was so on one, but I was dead sober- just completely elated.

5. Is there an explanation / meaning behind your DJ name?

My DJ name is pretty silly. I wasn’t calling myself anything until I got that gig at Gulp- they were the ones that asked me for a name. I wasn’t really into house at the time, so I didn’t want to just go by my real name… I thought Mittens was a funny word. It rhymes with kittens, which I am fond of… I just wanted to avoid the whole ego/machismo trap that so many artists fall into with their name and image. I wanted my name to let people know that I’m not competing with anyone, and I’m not trying to get famous. I figured if I played good music, then people would associate my name with good music. A rose is a rose, after all.

6. Top 5 records at the moment?

Top 5 records at the moment- Coki- Urban Ethics. Truth- Stranger Than Fiction EP. Matty G- Watching You/ The Realness. Pinch- Croydon House/ Element. TMSV- Cold/Signal.

7. Shout outs, affiliations?

Big shouts to everyone supporting bass music worldwide. Maximum respect to the producers and DJs that provide inspiration, especially Mala, Skream, Distance, Ramadanman, and Joe Nice. Love and blessings to my local crew, Chocobo, Sebby Frescoe, Vent, Ill Kid, P-Trick Uno, Kyzer Sayso, Ferwerdatron, Halien, Justin O’ Brien, Reverend Mitton, Tempo, Proton, Philos, Moleman, and everyone else who contributes to having musical fun in the 505.

8. Where can we find out more and listen to some of your sounds?

You can find my mixes at www.soundcloud.com/mittens

‘Ephew aka Brian PD’ Dec 2010

For our next featured DJ we look at a super hard working DJ whom we really admire. Brian Ephew, a local techno mainstay who gets nasty on the decks regularly, caught up with us for a sec to let us find out how this ‘master of disaster’ has managed to stay on top of the El Paso/ Juarez/ Southwest techno scene along with his legendary crew Pastilla Digital.   Here’s a few questions…

‘DUNE’ DJ of the Month Nov 2010

We would like to introduce this local flavor maker DUNE as our start off with FEATURED DJs, we wanted to get to know a little more about this creative force and share with you all…So here is a few questions:

1. How long have you been a DJ for?

10 years(with my fare share of ups & downs)

2. What got you started?

In a huge way, Yo Mtv Raps & California radio stations got my attention at a very young age, 13 i believe. I would catch different sounding songs that would incorporate wierd scratchy noises & cool sounding mixes. Those noises & mixes always stayed in the back of my head. Even as i enjoyed my Sega Genesis Master System with the Volume Control & Sonic 1 i wondered how these sounds and mixes were even made…

3. First gig?

My first gig was being invited to be a part of a Radio Show @KRUX 91.5Fm, by my great friend B.Welsh (Aka DjDislexican). It blew me away that we had that much control over the radiowaves for a short period once a week!

4. Best gig?

The Farm…Definitely THE FARM! Dj Uncle Pervee & I were invited to open up @THEFARM once upon a time when it still existed. Mike & I did some crowd pleasing cut n drumming routine that blew LC away for a few minutes that seemed to last forever..The funniest part was that we had not even practiced it, EVER. We… just did it. People gave us the respect we deserved that night, it was a blessing.

5. Can you explain your DJ name?

I used to go by a couple different names in the past, up until now i finally settled on what will remain my insignia for good. Dune. Not DjDune, Dj9%3* or something else, but DUNE. The sands of knowledge congregate and shift thru the times but never forget they’re foundation

6. Top 5 records you love to play

Pharcyde-Labcabincalifornia
Mark Farina-Mushroom Jazz
Jaydilla-Donuts
People Under The Stairs-We’ll Be There
Pink Floyd-The Wall

7. Where can we find out more / listen to mixes / production?

http://pdrecords.mfs-skateboards.com/
PERCUSSION DISCUSSION RECORDS :: Music For Your Mind
pdrecords.mfs-skateboards.com
Music For Your Mind

AND THE REGULAR LINEUP:

Here is a few DJs local to us that we have associated with which we feel truly represent an underground, intelligent, well developed craft.  Please feel free to leave comments, post your own mixes, or write to us if you want to be featured here!! DLS aka Joey Santos

Eddie Chálace Ed med three by EdChálace

TRiST

System Addict

RayDub

Bionik Blis

DJ Eldon

Sebby Frescoe

MoleMan Soundchamber project by Lord Moleman