intheclique

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘ The New Normal...’

CLIQUE talks ' The New Normal...'

2020.

What a hell of a year.

Unimaginable really and that's quite the irony.

The year that seems to be if you can think it, it'll most likely happen.

And if you don't think it'll happen, it most definitely will happen.

Where to start and where to begin...

Whether you've been apart of the scene from the beginning.

To only having just been apart of it.

The Music scene in general is having a very tough time.

The music's stopped.

The dancing is not allowed.

And the unique venues we're all accustomed to have been dancing in simply shut down...

So where are we currently at and what happens now?

Being a somewhat a mid-age raver myself.

I'm very much accustomed to standing side by side with my fellow dancer.

The joy of a sweaty build up to the main headliner.

And generally making new friends, pretty much from all over the country.

From what used to be a sweaty rave, is now either non-existent. Or is it this ‘new normal?’

So, what is this ‘new normal?’

Having been in what was lock-down for up to 5 months.

It seemed to give time to both promoters and DJ’s not only a time to work on music, but more so time to figure out a way to possibly overcome the current issue.

Or as the old-fashioned saying goes.

Improvise, adapt overcome…

So, what have we got?

Well, we’ve seen more then three great events come together.

And successful pulled off.

We had Patrick Topping takeover at the New Virgin Unity Arena at Newcastle Racecourse. A venue which can hold up to 2,500 people. In what looks like mini platforms. Catering up to 5/6 in each. Or some have said like your own mini VIP table with your pals.

We have and continue to have Social Avenue including HausRecords take over in a car park venue for again a socially distanced rave similar to Virgin Unity. With up to 6 per picnic table.

And similar to a We Are The Brave Party down in Southampton, a pop up tent including picnic tables again 5/6 per each for the duration of two sittings, and afternoon and an evening session.

So, what’s been the general feed-back.

Well, in reality it’s been fantastic.

For something to be made inclusive of the rules and regulations laid out, each and every promoter has outdone themselves, and shows in how each shows / gigs themselves have all SOLD-OUT!

It’s what we’ve always been proud of about the scene.

We learn adapt and overcome many a problem that have come our way over the years.

But…

Is it something that should stay?

This is the million-dollar question…

All in all the general consensus is that it’s great ‘ For now,’ it’s lining everyone with a little coin for the promoters, the DJ’s, the venue’s and keeping very much what music we have alive, the scene and more.

But… at what cost?

Many have said it’s proving more costly. Which is only natural with less in attendance and more measures in place.

This means it’s becoming harder for those with a less expendable income to pay or treat themselves to enjoy a gig seeing their favorite artist. And having to more so rely on going in groups to ensure they can go and have a good time.

Another common theme is simply the more we act on this ‘new normal’ it will become ‘the normal’ which is something I and many others simply do not wish to happen.

Festivals, Intimate gigs, or specific set venues just can’t operate like that or even more so big club venues like in IBIZA, Hi, Eden, Privilege, and more never mind just the ones on the door-step.

So is this the ‘new normal?’

For now it is something I think we can all agree is a great idea ‘for now.’

And that’s simply all we can wish for until whenever we can go back to ‘normal.’

I stand proud knowing that scene has learned to adapt to the current conditions as we always have.

But for me?

I’ll simply await my time, as with many of my brothers and sisters.

I’ve already missed out on three festivals this year and we’re all regular to the scene.

So it’s a simple, until we can dance together properly in the middle of the dance floor.

But for now I salute all the promoters and DJ’s finding a way as they always have.

Keep up the amazing work.

CLIQUE

[intheclique]

The 90′s/00′s Music Influence...

PART ONE. - Club Music.

Whether you like it or not, the 90′s and early 00′s music scene stands as one of the most influential of all time.

The age of CD’s | Mini-Disc | Music stores | iPod’s | sell-out arena tours, the industry itself was in a huge tide of change. 

Some would happily say this was the greatest. 

Bold statement I know. 

But hear me out.

In Part One of our continued series, we take a trip down memory lane and revisit what some would consider are some of the most stand-out songs the decade and early cross-over had to offer.

Our editor in chief takes us through them, and explains why they are so highly regarded and still to this day are some of the best dance music hits around.

This is 90′s/00′s music influence Part One - Club Music. 

In no particular order.

Number 1 - FAITHLESS - Insomnia.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8JEm4d6Wu4

With still over 64 million views on YouTube, that alone should be more than enough proof that Insomnia still stands out to this day as an absolute club anthem. 

Insomnia stands a simple track, with a keyboard solo loop, with huge builds around the vocals of Maxi Jazz infamous lyrics ‘ I can’t get no sleep... ‘ it stands as notably the bands most famous song. 

Released in 1995 reaching UK No.1 and selling a whopping 15 million singles +, (unheard of for many dance tracks in the day.) it was later performed again seven years later as they headlined Glastonbury in 2002 making it one of their most memorable performances. 

This track stands out for many big room or headline DJ’s and is still included in many sets to this day. 

Why? 

Because it truly is a Club Anthem. Meaning everyone will get behind it and 100% knows it.

Number 2 - RODGER SANCHEZ - Another Chance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdlvPe959Ck

Another track of the early 00′s and again peaking at No.1 in the UK Charts. 

Is sometimes considered one of the great one hit wonders, yet incidentally isn’t the first track released from Mr Sanchez. 

Another Chance envisioned what truly a 00′s house / dance track was all about. 

Pure simple vocals, catchy house beats, alongside when truly Music Video’s were king. 

At the time it was one of the most requested music video’s. 

Why? 

Because the story tells the tale of how having a big heart can sometimes mean somewhere deep down we’re that little bit too much for others. 

If only we had another chance. 

The track set Mr Sanchez straight into the mainstream and hasn’t looked back since with residency's in Ibiza and America, he continues to produce amazing music. 

Number 3 - DAFT PUNK - One More Time

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGBhQbmPwH8

Considered to be Daft Punk’s GREATEST hit. 

And even though the Music Video was uploaded to YouTube 11 years ago, with the track being actually 19 years old. 

It has over 250,000,000.00 views! Some feat even to this day n age standard.

One More Time tells the tale of the Cresendolls. 

Aliens from a secret solar system. Music producers who make hit after hit. Or for those who know the Album Discovery’s Music was made around the movie Interstella-5555 (Story Secret Solar System.) 

The first ever Anime Musical.

It was Daft Punk’s stand out Album that went on to No1 Worldwide gaining critical acclaim. 

Sent them straight into the mainstream and created one of the most best loved feel good dance tracks. 

Still used as a Club Anthem to this day. 

Why?

Everyone knows it. 

Everyone knows the lyrics. 

And it simple is just feel good. 

Number 4 - STARDUST - Music Sounds Better With You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQlAEiCb8m0

A dance track, that is built from a looped guitar riff sampled from the 1981 Chaka Khan song "Fate". 

Stardust comprised of Thomas Bangalter one half of Daft Punk, DJ Alan Braxe and vocalist Benjamin Diamond; they disbanded after the release and resumed separate careers.

They were meant to go on to create the infamous house album of the decade and even rumors went around stating it was and always has been in the making but I guess it falls down to the we just will never know.

With a music video showing the story of a young boy using both music and glider build hobby's as a way of escapism from the realities of family trouble. 

Not only does this show the importance of the power of music but more just how important the singles and video charts were back in the day.

An absolute house anthem, unquestionable. 

Just a shame we never got any more hits from the band that was Stardust. 

Number 5 - MODJO - Lady Hear Me Tonight. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMfxI3r_LyA

"Lady (Hear Me Tonight)" is the debut single by French house duo Modjo, written and performed by vocalist Yann Destagnol and producer Romain Tranchart.

For the time again this was an absolute house anthem. 

And still to this day is used by many in the clubs. 

Voted many a time as the Ibiza anthem, or the sound of the summer, you can’t help but get lost in the feeling of sometimes you just need to get up, take a few deep breathes and get lost in the moment of feel good. 

No more better explain then in the music video.

Three friends, a few quid, a small car and off they go on a grand adventure. 

So, what did you think of the first five choices? 

We also have two honorable mentions.

The Chemical Brothers - Hey Boy, Hey girl.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpKCqp9CALQ

The Dance Duo’s most iconic hit.

and 

David Morales - Needin’ U.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSwda46cNMg

Thee IBIZA anthem

Check them out Via the link below.

CLIQUE 

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘Olly Vollans’

In this week’s CLIQUE we talk exclusively to yet another north-east up and coming producer, fresh from the scene. ‘Olly Vollans.’

What seems to be a new young breed of up and coming fresh music talent. 

They all certainly have one thing in common. 

They know exactly how to play the game, and give back the musical sounds we’ve all really become accustomed to from our nights out.

Olly Vollans is no exception. Consistently bringing his own particular spin or sound to each track produced.

With a wide range of backgrounds he started music from as young as five, bringing electric sounds through to his acid feels. 

Olly happily gives everyone an intro to what he’s all about.

His current track ‘Freak Me’ (Free Download; Link below.) 

https://soundcloud.com/user-409800016/freak-me 

Not only has a fantastic sound, but ensures his fans get a flavor for what he’s going to bring next. 

His debut EP ‘Movement’ is out next week and will most certainly not disappoint.

Showing signs of strength in all things production, mixing, and DJing; it is a testament to his continued growth and learning.

Olly Vollans shows he is yet another talent to watch out for in the near future.

So, lets get to it…

 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

 Q. First of thanks so much for taking the time out to talk to us this evening.

A. No problem at all, excited to have this opportunity.

Q. How’s your day been?

A. Steady. I’ve been working on some new production techniques and PR mix for my forthcoming debut EP ‘Movement’. I’ve also just received my final university results so I’ve been celebrating a little too.

Q. It’s been pretty weird hasn’t it, the lock-down, festivals cancelled, how you been finding this all?

A. Extremely weird. It’s been wild for me where Corona meant everything shutting down and me finishing university at 3pm in my parents living room haha. All in all, it’s been a pretty crazy period of time and has been very testing for me personally with finishing university, trying to find a job and spend time on music too. I’m extremely grateful to be living at home for sometime and have the facilities to produce music available on my doorstep.

Q. Almost as if the music stopped right? How’ve you been using the time gained for your music?

A. Somewhat yes, however the industry is still alive and kicking with artists and labels continuing to release incredible music and produce exceptional live streams for their followers. The resilience I have seen on social media from the music industry has been great to watch and I cannot wait for everything to get cracking again. have used my time well if I am honest, been spending most of my free time working on new music/mixes really to just continue learning and developing the skill set and sound I want at the moment. This is a marathon and not a sprint so I’m taking my time to create quality music that I know people will enjoy.

Q. Your young 22 and been into production for some time, how did this all come about?

A. I’ve been musical from the age of 5, building a ‘drumkit’ out of used quiche tins for cymbals and wooden footstools for the toms hahaha. My family is very musical, all of us play at least one instrument so music has always been celebrated but my production journey started when I joined a music technology course at college and was in the studio’s recording on Avid Pro Tools for hours on end. It’s spiraled from there ever since.

Q. Talking of making waves, you’ve got a new E.P coming out, tell us a little about it? What’s the story and what’s the vibe?

A. I have and I can’t wait for it to come out on 24th July. Movement is more of a statement than an inspiration, this debut EP is to really show that I’m here to stay and both tracks feature my interpretation of Techno elements I’m listening to most at the moment…Acid! 

There is not ‘story’ as such for this EP, it’s a statement because yes there are complexities in the two tracks I have produced but there isn’t that professional and perfectly mixed and crisp sound because if there was it would not be true to where I am currently as a producer. 

This EP is a statement for me showcasing who I am as a producer and an acknowledgement that there is always progress to be made and opportunity for growth and movement whether it be in developing a skill set or moving forward from a situation. I also wanted to incorporate my musical background by adding prominent synth melodies to capture emotion and become the character of the track Systematic. 

The EP comes with a pounding 140BPM remix of Systematic from Kane Hannay that I think is incredible and cant wait for everyone to hear the whole project. Releasing a debut EP has been a milestone of mine for a few years so this is surreal to be honest.

Q. Your current FREE DOWNLOAD ‘Freak Me’ has a great flow to it and even touches a little acid to it. Is this something you always like to use?

A. Thank you. Producing and listening to tracks with acid element is definitely something I enjoy and just seems to creep into most of the tracks I’ve been producing at the moment haha. You can never go wrong with a little acid in a record.

Q. What other genres are you into, is it always strictly techno?

A. It’s hard to say really, I have a very eclectic music taste as I grew up listening to Rock, Indie and Soul bands/musicians. Now it’s a bit of everything but if I had to name a few it would be Indie, Hip Hop and Dance.

Q. Amazing stuff, so where do you see yourself in 3 years?

A. Difficult question… I want to continue doing my own thing and developing my skill set in music, producing/DJing whilst having a mint time with my pals travelling and going places. I hope I will be playing some incredible venues around the UK (a maybe Europe) but I try not to get ahead of myself and just focus on what is in front of me right now.

Q. Big things, would you say you a specific artist that influences you? And why?

A. I wouldn’t say there’s one specific but off the top of my head what inspires me are artists such like Rudosa who actively engage with next generation of producers and provide constructive feedback from their professional point of view, one that has signed to some of the biggest Techno labels and has plenty of experience.

Q. Who would you love to collab with?

A. It’s hard to say because I would collaborate with anyone really as long as the sound is fresh and exciting, I’m up for anything really.

Q. Beer or Whisky?

A. Beer

Q. Dirty Rave or Big Club Room Vibe?

A. Wouldn’t mind a good rave with all my mates after Corona has passed.

Q. Do you see the scene recovering post CORONA?

A. Of course, music will live through the ages. How fast it will recover? I couldn’t really tell you but there is plenty of resilience and drive to get back up and running from artists and promoters.

Q. Perfect night in?

A. Just chill really. That could be watching a movie or sitting In the studio producing music or practicing on the decks.

Q. Perfect night out?

A. Nonstop party with all my mates in one room just having a mint time. That feeling of Euphoria is like no other.

Q. Best festival and experience?

A. Parklife 2019 was a good one for me, there was about 30+ of us grooving and having the best time watching Denis Sulta. What a talent is Denis Sulta.

Q. Anything else you’d like to add?

A. Just to say thank you to everyone for the constant support and go stream my debut EP ‘Movement’ on 24th July.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Thanks to Olly for another great interview. 

Here’s Links to the socials below.

Olly Vollans 

INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/olly_vollans/

SOUNDCLOUD | https://soundcloud.com/user-409800016/freak-me

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘Life in Lock-down...’

100 days +

What would you do in 100 days.

Read a couple books.

Learn a new skill.

Play those games you never got around to play.

You see; lock-down downs been tough.

It’s been really tough,

It’s sucked almost at times.

But we’re slowly about to see light at the end of the tunnel.

It’s true; it has affected many people from all backgrounds, so we thought we’d put together a small selection of in depth ‘look intos’ how lock-down has affected each and everyone one of us in a small way.

It’s no surprise but we’ve actually been in lock-down for more then 100 days.

Some still self-isolating.

Others working all the way through.

But what has like really been like during lock-down.

Has it really been all sunshine and rainbows.

Has it had a long lasting affect mentally, physically or emotionally.

How hard has lock-down hit you?

You see, everyone’s story is different.

Everyone has a different path to follow and tale to tell.

So this week we caught up with three separate individuals and asked them all the same set of questions.

Let’s see how lock-down life has affected those in different backgrounds.

This week we talked to,

NHS Nurse Sally Dunn who has a family, worked throughout the pandemic, and continues to push on through day-to-day life, all whilst keeping a proud smile, and keeping the family life in motion.

Full time Chemistry Student Matthew Plews, a young man with great ambition, all-round nice guy, who’s not only working full-time part time, he has a passion for baking and music to ease him through the day-to-day life.

Full time Editor in chief (and our friends at Hinton Magazine) Curtis Hinton, magazine editor, football enthusiast, and all round gent who loves a gin or two.

How has lock-down and Covid-19 affected each person, and where do we move forward in the coming months.

Find below our little Q n A.

Answers in order.

CLIQUE

Q. How you been handling lock-down?

Sally - Better than I thought I would. Felt guilt at times that I haven’t been productive like walking enough or home schooling good enough. I’m not great at sitting and relaxing so it’s kind of forced me to do it!

Matthew -  Now that it’s been lifted a little bit, where you can see people I’ve been fine, however at the beginning it was a bit of a struggle as I’m always kept busy, kind of felt lost.

Curtis - I think I’ve been one of the very few people that it hasn’t really affected. A Lot of people that I’ve spoken to have said they have found it tough, they been affected by their mental health during this time. Whereas for me personally I don’t feel like it had affected me.

Q. Did you have to self-isolate?

Sally -  No.

Matthew - No, but I was very weary of going places as my mam and sister are classed as vulnerable.

Curtis -  I did yes, I has symptoms quite early on so I self isolated for 14 days.

Q. What’s your current job?

Sally -  Neonatal nurse

Matthew -  Waiter

Curtis -  I am a business owner

Q. Enjoy it? Or this a stepping stone for something else?

Sally -  Love it. My job for life

Matthew - Not really, I should have been in Ibiza working now, I still don’t want to go back and I’ve been looking for something else

Curtis -  Without a doubt it’s the best job I’ve ever had. There is always something to keep me busy. The business I own, owns a few business including a magazine.

Q. Do you think lock-downs been good for your health?

Sally -  Mental health yes, I’ve been almost forced to make time for me to relax! physical health no, I’ve eaten too much and put too much weight on.

Matthew - Not really, used to going to the gym every day, being out and about to literally doing nothing. Also those zoom quizzes, sat getting drunk with my pals in my room certainly didn’t help my liver lol...

Curtis - Yes, even though I have been very busy, I have still taken time to think about things, Slightly re-evaluate how the future might look and used some spare time to develop some personal skills. 

Q. Have you still been able to work?

Sally -  Yes, I’m a nurse, work carries on regardless for a nurse!

Matthew -   No, however I did have uni work to finish off for a few months. Since that’s been over with I’ve had nothing to do.

Curtis - Thankfully, yes I have. I have set up a home office, so even when I was self-isolating I was managing to work.

If *YES* elaborate.  If *NO* again you could elaborate why not.

Q. How long have you been in lock-down?

Sally -  Since March 16th.

Matthew -  Since BoJo said so, like 105 days maybe?

Curtis - From the moment the government announced it, which I believe was 23rd March, Limiting my visits to shops and going out side of my home.

Q. How has it affected you or your family life?

Sally -  My children miss their friends, their activities such as dancing and swimming. I’ve not been able to see my family - especially my dad, and that’s been awful. My husband’s family is in Birmingham and he hasn’t seen them for months. I couldn’t see my eldest daughter for ages and that was really hard.

Matthew - I live with my mam and sister, we argued a bit at the beginning but gradually got used to it. My mam was even sitting watching Netflix in the car, telling me she was getting shopping for my grandma.

Curtis - I think personally for me this lock-down has been great. It’s given me a lot more time to myself. More time to think about things and to advance some skills and certainly advance something with my business. I went back to the family home for the lock-down so I wasn’t completely alone throughout this time which has been nice. 

Q. Has lock-down affected your relationship? If applicable?

Sally -  We’ve spent more time together so it’s been good.

Matthew - n/a

Curtis - n/a

Q. Do you think there will be a second wave?

Sally -  I think so. I hope not but I think it will.

Matthew -  Not any time soon (hopefully.)

Curtis - Almost certainly, but I don’t think there will be another nationwide lock-down. Although peoples health should always be number one priority – you have to think about the other affects the lock down has, for example on the economy which the fall out from all of this could affect peoples health just as much as the virus. 

Q. Have you learned any new skills in lock-down?

Sally -  Yes! I can now crochet!

Matthew -  I’ve been trying all sorts! Started off learning how to knit, I’ve been growing loads of plants (including and avocado tree), been baking a lot more and cooking for family. I did try hairdressing once I couldn’t cope with the lock-down length anymore, but I don’t recommend going near your hair with clippers when you’re not trained ha ha.

Curtis -  Yes, I have been reading a lot more. Also developing my knowledge in different areas.

Q. What has lock-down taught you? Any lessons?

Sally -  Appreciate the little things. Money is important but time is more precious and what you do with it is special.

Matthew - It has taught me to be grateful for what you have. Like even just seeing friends (not just over facetime) now after like a 3 month it’s been great. Like appreciating like spending time with people because it’s mad how quick everything can just go. It’s also taught me you don’t need to go to the pub every weekend because believe it or not, you CAN actually stay in (all it has taken me to realize was a deadly virus)

Curtis - It’s taught me life is way to short. Don’t be wasting any moments. After speaking to friends I think a lot of people have financially been affected by this lock-down – even with furlough. Hopefully this is a wake up call, people will hopefully see where they are wasting money and invest it in themselves more, whether that be on their education, on their business or even something like travelling. 

Q. Do you think lock-down has been good for everyone?

Sally -  No. My dad has been shielding and he misses us all terribly. Those living alone and those furloughed or have lost jobs have had tough times.

Matthew -   Not really. Personally I’ve been trying to think of positives, like saving money and appreciating people, but from a mental health point of view I feel like it will have a big impact on people.

Curtis - It depends on how each individual views their times in lock-down. I think everyone should take a moment to assess their lock down and to see if they were truly happy with what they have done during their 13/14 weeks at home. If not then they need to make a change ASAP. Chances like this don’t come around often. 

Q. Do you think the Government handle lock-down well?

Sally -  I’m not sure what I’d have done differently, maybe not lifted restrictions so early, but it’s an unprecedented situation and everyone was learning as they went along, including government. Hindsight is a ‘wonderful’ thing. We can all say they should’ve done this, would’ve done that, could’ve done this, but it might not have changed the outcome.

Matthew -   A. Definitely not, fuck the Tories!

Curtis - Yes, They is WAY to much negativity around the ways the government has handled this lock-down. People need to understand compared to the rest of Europe England and the UK are such a different country. The behavior of a small minority in this country are the ones who have failed us. Those who broke lock-down laws those are the ones who have spread it to someone going out once a week to their food shop. I think Boris (even with him getting the virus himself) and his team have done a phenomenal job and if there was another pandemic, I would be more than happy if they were to lead us through it. 

Q. Do you think the population handled lock-down well?

Sally -  Some of us! Some people have been daft and put lives at risk, riots, mass gatherings, ignoring rules. All put lives at risk.

Matthew -  No. Everyone’s just been so angry about everything. I honestly think its brought out the worst in people, especially the “lock-down police” aka those saddos taking pictures of people that have left the house and shaming them on social media. Get a life man.

Curtis -  99.9% Yes, there is a small minority who didn’t listen putting a majority at risk and they should be made to pay.

Q. Highlights of your lock-down?

Sally -  Spending more time with the kids. My 40th birthday has been during lock down and I feel it was made more special.

Matthew -  Weekly quizzes with the crew, low key sad they’ve died out but glad I can see them in real life now.

Curtis -  Self-development.

Q. Do you think there will be many lock-down babies?

Sally -  Not sure, maybe. But maybe not the ones that are result of drunken nights on the town!

Matthew - Can you get pregnant from a social distance?? lol

Curtis -  Maybe, I think many have been affected by mental health and wont bee feeling frisky after the first couple of weeks.

Q. Anything else you’d like to add with your experience of Cv-19?

Sally -  I wish I’d kept a diary since the start of lock-down. COVID19 will be in the history books, we are part of this history.

Matthew -  Ms Rona has taught me to look for the good in bad situations. Everything is out of your control so there’s no point stressing, just play your part and be sensible. And finally, keep stocked up on bog roll so you don’t have to fight Karen for it next time the world comes to an end lol.

Curtis -  I just want to thank everyone is the country who listened to guidelines. The people of Britain is what makes us great, that includes Health workers, all key workers and to the government officials. We are nowhere near through this pandemic yet and no end is in sight. I hope people just stay sensible and stay safe.

Thanks again everyone.

If you wish to make a charitable donation to the NHS find a link below.

CLIQUE.

https://www.nhscharitiestogether.co.uk/

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘The year that was no festivals...’

2020.

It’s odd isn’t it.

Hard to think even.

I mean what makes a British Summer?

Wimbledon. Strawberry’s and Cream. The chill down-pour of our infamous rain, and lets not forget all whilst a small group of lads drink Stella topless. I’m pretty sure there’s a Pit bull in there somewhere.

But actually, when you ‘REALLY’ think about it.  

Odd to even think, but lets be honest.

Us Brit’s know exactly how to throw down a bloody good festival.

And I’m not talking about probably our most famous being, Glastonbury.

We’re bloody good at all genres.

Download Festival.

Creamfields.

Junction2.

ParkLife.

BOOMTOWN.

Kendal Calling.

Reading & Leeds Festival.

And so, so many more…

From yearly sell-outs, to bringing tourists in from all over the world, we really know just how to do them. As us Brits know how to make a proper Pub, a Sunday Roast, Festivals seem to firmly fit into that category.

From terrible tent set-ups, alcoholic stumbles, to making friends with everyone you meet, and praying for sunny days. What seemingly just went wrong this year that made us,

“The year of no festivals? “

It’s no surprise that the main issue that brought a worldwide lock down on all mass gatherings was in fact, something which I like to call now ‘the thing that should not be named’

However, we all know its official name being CORONA VIRUS or simply CV-19.

First, let’s go back to the main date and stage that brought us into lock-down.

‘Boris Johnson first announced lock-down measures way back on March 23rd.’

What did this mean? It meant that no one was allowed out of their household unless for either,

essential amenities,

taking an animal or relative for emergency treatment/care,

providing support to vulnerable adults,

or for an hours own personal exercise.

In short this was kept in place until the increasing line OR rate of deaths began to curve back down with valid data which showed us a valid drop.

In short, this was the major blow for any form of music event.

It’s weird because ironically, we all at some point truly believed that we’d be back in a state of dancing, back being together, normal routines to resume, but it’s proved that simply was not the case.

Once lock-down was in place, it’s true that all many major events companies, festivals, and sporting gatherings were basically placed on permanent ‘hold’ until government guidelines changed or stated otherwise.

I’m sure I speak for many in that we’d hoped lock-down would be lifted sooner but that simply wasn’t the case.

Could it have been done sooner?

Was it a necessity?

Could we have adapted?

From rescheduled sporting events / festivals / concerts, and more… we all literally were winging it to be quite honest and to some extent still are. (A mix in wrong government guidelines given or simply not enough clear information given can be to blame.)

You see, as of writing nightclubs/numerous sports/festivals or form of mass gathering larger then 30+ are still banned.

Which in short brings us to where we are today.

Will we be able to see / hear / and have festivals, concerts, live sporting events again?

I recently placed these questions to you all and below are all the answers in question.

 DID ONE OF YOUR FESTIVALS GET CANCELLED THIS YEAR?

YES 96%

NO 4%

A whopping 96% of you have had a concert affected. More proof that just about everyone in the UK has been affected via lock-down. No festival seem to have been untouched.

DID THEY RESCHEDULE THE CANCELLED CONCERT?

YES 70%

NO 30%

Interesting one this, as unless I was to delve into this further, I’m pleased to see that most concerts were rearranged, given a new date or time for all ticketed customers. I did inquire in regards to the other 30% and it seems no word has been released yet of defining rescheduled dates for those affected.

DID THE SAME FESTIVAL PLACE A VIRTUAL FESTIVAL ON INSTEAD?

YES 35%

NO 65%

This one was interesting as many had placed virtual festivals on including JUNCTION2 (although yet to air) DEFECTED (the most successful) and Glastonbury (with reruns of previous years.)

The idea seems good in mind, but what I think appears to have been the most effective is letting Artists and DJ’s play for their own virtual social, creating a nice following to keep their name high whilst not actually being able to perform.

ARE YOU HAPPY TO WAIT UNTIL NEXT YEAR?

YES 43%

NO 57%

More proof that we all are ready and wearing to go Boris. But a sad reminder that we have to be patient.

DO YOU THINK FESTIVALS WILL EVER BE THE SAME, WILL THERE BE A SUCH THING AS THE ‘NEW NORMAL?’

YES 65%

NO 35%

Close call as many responded in stating festivals have always been and will be what they are and have been. But could they change to make things better?

DO YOU THINK FESTIVALS WILL HAVE TO ADAPT / CHANGE THOUGHT THIS WILL BE NEXT YEAR?

YES 56%

NO 44%

Can they really change a form of mass-gatherings in their 1000’s+ ? Or do this simply mean they need a more awareness of cleanliness and action to help keep germs and contamination at bay?

DO YOU WANT FESTIVALS TO CHANGE?

YES 18%

NO 82%

A major response in that everyone would like to keep festivals kept exactly the way they are, the old saying comes to mind ‘if it isn’t broke why change it?’

WHICH FESTIVALS GOT CANCELLED YOU WANTED TO ATTEND? (MOST POPULAR LISTED)

AWAKENINGS

JUNCTION2

LEWIS CAPALDI

GLASTONBURY

PRIDE FESTIVALS

JUNCTION 2 VIRTUAL FESTIVAL

DOWNLOAD

Again proof that all genres and festivals no matter the background got cancelled or rescheduled. CV-19 claims everyone no matter what.

DO YOU ALREADY FEEL SAFE AT FESTIVALS?

YES 79%

NO 21%

Again another major vote showing us that every single one of us majorly feel safe at festivals. Remember they have to hit targets and set the highest of standards as they will not want to have anything to tarnish or place a black mark on their reputation.

WOULD YOU BE HAPPY TO GO TO A SOCIALLY DISTANT EVENT?

YES 40%

NO 60%

Proof that until it’s ready to go back to normal, some show signs their itching to get back out their no matter the circumstance and the majority saying that they will go back when the times right to where the way things were.

To summarize.

I think its fair to say we can kiss goodbye all mass-gatherings alongside the thought of any concerts festivals and more throughout the duration of the summer. 

The closest we will get to what we had would be minimal Christmas period, judging by Sweden at the moment.

What is nice to see is that.

Festivals have immediately allocated either refunds or immediate transfer to next year of all tickets.

Everyone generally is happy how festivals are currently managed.

Although perhaps some more measures for general hygiene and cleanliness may be in order for moving forward to festival preparation in the future.

Here’s to when we can all two-step, dance, make new friends with strangers.

Very, very soon.

CLIQUE.

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘Kane Hannay’

In the words of Kane Hannay,’

‘Let the fun commence…’

Respected DJ.

Well-oiled producer in music.

And all-round nice guy.

Kane Hannay is no stranger to music production and the scene in Newcastle.

From an un-decisive young career taking him to ventures in photography, and the arts.

Kane Hannay separates himself in knowing exactly what he wants to do.

From hosting RUDOSA apart of his co-created brand ‘Raw Material’ to producing music like, ‘Intermittent Signals’ & his remix of ‘Outlander’ : ‘The Vamp’ he most certainly is making a very mature and well signalled named for himself in not only the North East but throughout the Industry as a whole.

As we sit down on this not so sunny day.

What lies ahead for the future of Kane Hannay?

Let’s find out…

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Hey Kane

First off thanks for taking the time to talk to us this afternoon.

It’s awesome, no problem.

Bit miserable isn’t it?

Yeah, aye its been bleak like.

How’s your day been?

Aye it’s been alright, not too bad. Been at work since 9 so looking forward to making some tunes.

How you been handling lock-down?

It’s been alright.

I haven’t really been anywhere other than work.

Other than that, it’s just been pretty much finishing coursework. Now that that’s all done it leaves me time to produce as much music as I can over the summer holidays.

I’ve actually got a remix I’m working on at the moment for another upcoming artist, ‘Vollans.’

Lee (one half of Acid Enigma) messaged me about producing a track to feature in a various artist compilation for ‘ESCALATE’ so that should be sick! So just being a busy bee…

So, tell us how’d you get into music?

Well… I’ve been into it for years and especially when I was younger, I’m talking like even at nursery age.

I have always been into it for years and especially when I was younger, I’m talking as young as nursery / reception age.

I have always been into music, might not be the same as what I’m into now but I have always been deeply interested in it. I remember being a small bairn dancing at the top of the stairs with my parent’s old hi-fi system and a little disco ball.

At the age of 12 I got my first controller. It was a Numark Mixtrack Pro. The bee’s knee back in the day. 

I think around then I was listening to dubstep. However, over the years it progressed from that to electro house, garage, tech-house, and then finally for the last three years I’ve been glued to techno.

At 14 I got into the production of music. A friend from school was making tunes on his laptop and I was hooked. That’s when it all started. I was coming home every night after school and cooking up a new track.

At 16 after finishing my GCSE’s I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. I wasn’t the best student academically, so 6th form wasn’t an option. I had to visit Newcastle College where I found a music production course for electronic music. I picked up loads of good tips and got to meet some brilliant people there. At 18 I started the 3-year degree course. I’m coming into my last year this September.

Tell us about your latest song ‘Intermitted Signals.’ How did it come about?

So right, it’s funny because it’s; ‘the fastest song I’ve produced’in a while.

3 days max. Including the mastering.

It’s a fast-paced industrial track that consists of hard punchy drums, a trippy rolling lead and a calling vocal. (Link to track.)

It was for a project for college. I was running late, and I had to make an EP. Normally I’d spend days on a loop before eventually arranging it.

I simply must work my best under pressure. *chuckles*

Amazing stuff, so is it just techno you’re into? What else makes you move?

I pretty much listen to techno all the time. I do occasionally listen to jungle, and I love the old school drum and bass. I take some inspiration from it because it consists of heavy sampling which I find is my strength in the production of music.

I still listen to bits of house music as that’s what most of my DJ mates play.

You co created RAW MATERIAL tell us a little about it?

So, I came up with the idea about two years ago of creating an imprint called ‘Raw Material’ for dark industrial techno. It didn’t come to life till about a year ago when a module on our course was based around putting on an event. Me and co-founder Adam. (who I couldn’t have worked without) assembled a team amongst other students on our course. We were given a budget from the college £200 per student. There were seven of us in total. So, we looked at various venues in the toon to put a night on mid-week.

We were close to securing ‘The Cut’ however we had £1400 to put on a night and I wanted to go the extra mile of booking a headline act. I knew exactly who I wanted.

A huge inspirational artist of mine who I have been following since his first release on ‘SUARA’ back in 2018. We went over budget and I spend a grand out of my own pocket to pay for the extra costs.

As this was a side project for me, I wasn’t interested in continuing it after the first event. However, seeing how happy and how hard people were going for it. It felt amazing seeing it and it pushed me to another one in the future.

Although I lost lots of money, seeing how happy people were made up for it to think that we were able to make an event like this happen.

I’m hoping to recruit passionate upcoming techno artists in Newcastle to be a part of future events to support big artist bookings and for ‘Raw Material’ to become the leading event in Newcastle for techno.

Who’s your ideal booking?

Oooooo its always changing. It’s not necessarily who I want to book but more of which bookings can you bring crowds into.

I don’t intend on doing this for-profit bit I need to make sure I can make my money back. My ideal booking would be Glasgow’s finest ‘SLAM’ however there are many different artists like ‘Paula Temple, Rebekah, SHDW & Obscure Shape.’

I’m actually looking after lock-down to get a club booked but honestly, I think Newcastle could do with a booking like ‘SLAM.’

Who’d you like to collab with?

Collaborations I don’t normally think about but if I could at the moment I would choose ‘MRD’ or ‘Blicz.’ I love ‘Kahyia’ and would love to learn how to produce tracks like that.

I love the sounds and vibe in Gate 212 from ‘Blicz.’ Both artists own some amazing gear which I would love to try out.

Favorite Gig?

Since turning 18 I’ve attended a fair number of gigs in the toon. Loads of amazing nights out but if I had to choose one it would be ‘LOOP’ presents ‘Amelie Lens’ at ‘Digital Newcastle.’

It had the strongest line up support from ‘Farrago’ and ‘Milo Spykers.’ The sets were unbelievable. Proper hard and driving techno and it was ‘PACKED.’

Still wish I could revisit that night again.

Favorite Festival?

I’ve never been to a festival *shock* * facepalm* although I will eventually go to one.

Whisky or Beer?

Depends but I like well, quite like ‘Jack Daniels. Whisky it is ha-ha.

Perfect night out?

I’m not really into your typical student nights out in Newcastle. I’m more over a raver ha-ha.

My ideal night out would be like ‘APEX’ or ‘LOOP’. Basically, anything Techno.

Who influences you the most?

Pretty simple, RUDOSA.

I honestly think the stuff that he does like hiss DJ school, his own production style, the music he plays in his set. It’s unbelievable. He’s helping so many producers as well like myself.

I sent him a track and he gave me feedback to work on. He’s doing so much for the scene and that’s why I look up to him.

Honestly if it wasn’t my event he was playing at. I’d be all over the dance floor… ha-ha * true story *

Where do you see yourself in 3 years’ time?

I would like to have a full love set sorted by then. I recently bought a ‘Xone96 mixer’ and it connects to Ableton so hopefully 3 years’ time I can perform a full hour or twos set for a side project.

I’d hope by that point to have actually pulled a finger out and actually send an EP off to a decent size label like ‘SUARA.’ It’s a big label but pushes a harder style of techno as a pose to your Drumcode and WATB.

I’d like to have my tracks played out by bigger artists in the scene. But who knows what the future holds.

Any advice for those starting out?

My advice would be don’t pull a ‘Kane Hannay.’

Actually, watch tutorials on YouTube to learn how to do things because that’s probably the reason it’s taken me so long to get where I am with my production. I can’t watch a video without trying something random on Ableton. However, this has allowed me to be creative with my productions.

If you’re DJing and want to be the next ‘Amelie Lens, SNTS,’ or whatever. You need to produce music. Anyone can DJ but it’s your music that sets us apart from the next Artist.

Don’t sign your tracks to small labels. There’s no point in spending days making a tune to send it off to a label where no one will listen. Aim for larger or medium (well known) labels.

And go into your email and send them demo’s off to DJ’s and producers.

Shy bairns get nowt…

Thanks again Kane. Have an amazing evening.

CLIQUE

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘JUNCTION 2′

‘ As I turn my head a swift 180’ for my eyes to see the roaring trail of a Boeing 747 flying past plain as day across the London skyline, it seemed to be felt every 20 minutes, you couldn’t help but follow the sky trail coincidentally back to the roar of the main stage engulfed in a buzz of sparkle, a huge wall of sound, the smiles upon everyone’s faces as ‘Tale Of Us’ continue to hypnotize the floor, in this moment nothing seemed to be able to go wrong, the world in music just seemed right…’

Welcome to JUNCTION 2. The UK and London’s most admirable techno music festival.

JUNCTION 2 in co-operation with LWE a firm favorite for Adam Beyer’s events, already used for the likes of DRUMCODE Halloween & many more at the infamous Tobacco Docks; has been hailed as the pinnacle of techno music in UK for the past 3 years now.

Although not particularly a huge festival JUNCTION 2 is located under the M4 motorway situated in ‘Boston Manor Park.’ It sets itself above and apart from the rest giving guests the experiences of 5 different stages spread throughout the venue.

Unlike other festivals many want to maximize on the revenue, JUNCTION 2 is perfectly placed together with the ravers in mind.

The lights are synced perfectly.

The sound system is always on point.

And the many stages keep you wanting to explore the grounds to simply see what else is out there.

It should be noted, It’s a shame this years festival can’t take place due to the current global crisis. However as with unlike other festivals charging for online access to video’s, JUNCTION 2 is setting the bar high with a 3-D virtual Festival as a one off to keep everyone who may have had plans to go, can still get their JUNCTION fix. Here’s a link to what V-2 is all about.

( https://www.junction2.london/index )

Back to last year…

The Warehouse (always generously sponsored by RELENTLESS Energy) is basically best imagined like a smaller steel yard structure. Except with this being covered on the outside to look somewhat industrial there is only one entrance in, and one entrance out, meaning you can never see whats going on inside with only the best way to experience it’s dark and bouncing atmosphere is to simply ‘go on in…’

How do we know it’s always a great one? See the faces of those coming out to those of yet to go in.

The Main Stage simply is without a doubt dependent on your opinion the biggest stage, but some consider it the second best stage compared to the bridge. Bringing in a more inclusive sound system and set; think of it as a circular arena made from one floor platforms scattered around the outside. Not only does this create for a fantastic light show. It creates a superb sound system meaning you feel everything no matter where you are.

The Bridge is something that could be said features around like very few other festivals, but the fact is its under an active motorway, not only keeping rain away, a cool shade from the sun, it seems to stretch on for miles it most definitely made you feel like being in an open aired club, my only flaw with the bridge is often at times depending on the DJ performing this means you really will feel tightly knitted together unlike through the day giving you more space to dance.

The Woods on the other hand is a totally unique experience, on walking from one place for example the stretch to the bridge we find ourselves hearing some funky music from what can only be described as an old disused container hidden behind some bushes, once in you’re grooving to some funky disco beats in what literally feels like a secret garden.

The Stretch a small open aired circus roof type structure actually came across as the biggest surprise for many, with many new up and coming artists getting a feel for playing here it most certainly provided us with a base to begin our day and set the mood for what would be left to come.

Security drinks and facilities.

This is what also separated JUNCTION 2 from the rest. With your security pretty much spot on, no major dramas and keeping the positive vibes, you’ll generally find they were only otherwise spotted at the platforms on the main stage to ensure no over capacity.

Drinks at JUNCTION 2 have a great reputation, with an environmentally friendly £2 deposit for your cup kept to keep your basic refills. It’s mainly cider, beer, and 2 basic spirits alongside sponsored energy drinks RELENTLESS.

Facilities were a plenty and ques were again very minimal.

Overall you’ll find that no matter where you look the reviews for JUNCTION 2 separate it from any other techno festival.

It’s well organised

It’s always a good vibe.

The music is always on point.

It’s most a definitely must for all to experience.

‘CLIQUE'

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘Ellen Chetcuti’

In another ‘CLIQUE EXCLUSIVE,’ we sit down with one of the most well-known female influencers on the scene ‘Ellen Chetcuti.’

Not only does she have a passion for the Toon scene, un be-known to many; Ellen has a serious love for music production and often shares her special love and time mixing in private on the decks.

With a history of strong songs releases such as, ‘Collapse, Desolate, The Upset Clown,’ and new tunes like ‘Evil Intentions & The Ferryman’ on her SoundCloud. (Click for link) She shows no sign of slowly down, nor falling out of love with music.

With a hectic work life balance, she proves with the right time management, and utilizing the correct priorities, anything is possible. So long as you don’t ‘push the feeling & you’re enjoy what you’re doing,’. That’s all that matter as long as you pull it off with a smile. It is all that counts.

So…

Let’s cut the talking.

Let’s get to it.

Without further ado, Ellen Chetcuti.

(C) Original image (clink link.) 

Q. Hey, Ellen, first off thanks for taking the time to talk to CLIQUE this morning, how’s things?

A. Things are looking up really; it is looking like things are finally going in the right direction for me at the moment, so got all the time in the world. I always seemed to complain about time I just didn’t seem to have; but now I have the time. It’s weird… *chuckles* I’m just really lucky.

Q. How you been handling lock-down?

A. To be honest it’s been pretty easy, I’ve stuck by the rules, done what’s been asked. I’ve just kept being productive, woke up, and made sure I make the most of my time.

Q. It has been a bit of a mad year hasn’t it?

A. It’s been a crazy year, already doing a teaching course, but I’ve gotten through and I’m at the end, and ready to relax a little bit more now.  Time to prioritize things a bit more.

Q. This year has seen you take up more music, with your new Instagram page, (Click for link.) more regular music, how you finding your music making?

A. I definitely think every track I post is getting better. I’ve got loads to learn and I’m nowhere near I want to be but would love to get to know more of the equipment that’s out there. See, I feel like having the separate music page definitely helps. It’s keeping friends, friends; separate to those who are interested in my platform for music. It makes it so much more better for the journey.

Q. We have followed your sound for a couple of years now and must say every track you make brings its own unique sound. How do you go about it?

A. To be honest, I feel when I sit down and have a plan it won’t make out how I want it to anyways. So, I start with a kick then synths, unlike bass or kick second. Synths to me bring out the vibes and heart of the song. So, the synth takes the track on it’s way. However, I’ve done a very kick & bass track recently literally driven my track currently.

(Image - Duplicated feeling : The Upset Clown : The Devul : Desolate.) 

Q. What makes a good track?

A. For me it’s all about the emotion, it’s all about when you can feel something rather than throwing everything together which can sound pretty basic, I’d like to say I try to tell a story.

Q. You’ve been involved in music for years, you’ve sang, you were a part of the band BERNACCIA, you’re producing music, what’s been your favorite? Or is this all a part of the process?

A. Well I was at Uni and it was such an exciting part of my life; but it wasn’t the best part of my life, the band I joined, however, were the some of the best memories I’ve ever made, but I think in my third year of Uni I felt I was relying on other people and felt I was on the same step without moving forward so I thought it's now or never to self-teach myself watching tutorial after tutorial and just getting on with it. Fast forward to now it’s such a great feeling.

Q. Favorite genre and why?

A. It’s really hard I listen to really atmospheric techno like ‘Afterlife’ and then the other spectrum heavy techno. I’ve found if I’m playing on the decks at home I like to really play the heavy stuff to move and dance.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

A. It’s hard to say, I don’t really think about the future but this year, the first goal is to post some sets online, would love more feedback, a public appearance DJ set would be amazing and even a singular track signed. See, I’m so content with what I’m doing, the speed is great, so let's just see what happens. ‘As long as I’m smiling.

Q. Who’s your top 3 influencers?

A. Fideles, literally just headphones on and it tucks me away. VTSS’s vibe is so unique and slightly heavier. AirRod always listened on Amelie lens label, his tunes are always one to make you bop you can’t not dance to them. They are all the most recent at the moment that I’m totally into.

Q. You certainly like to two-step, tell me one of your all-time favorite festival and memory.

A. English festival was JUCTION2, the group we went with was perfect, sun shining, vibes brilliant, the whole weekend just on cloud 9. Outside UK 100% ADE Amsterdam they have the festivals in the world. Sound systems are unreal, the people are lovely they’re there for the music they’re cool as fuck! It’s always a good vibe and you are always a party guaranteed somewhere. When we went to ADE me and my mate got backstage long story short, my friend was nearly going to get kicked out but when we came back in, this lad who saw us nearly get kicked out got us back in, simply amazing didn’t sleep for three days aha…

Q. Your perfect night out?

A. Perfect night out to me is, hyping yourself up with your friends at pre’s or even just meeting in a bar for me it’s always Tokyo. Going into the club getting a drink then always find your position on the dance floor and stay there all night in the middle never too close to the front, always center of the dance floor.

Q. Perfect night in?

A. Pretty similar, I love to make cocktails, I don’t drink all the time but it is nice to drink in the house to relax, put a set on the tv have a conversation with friends about life and just have happy vibes and let the positive aura float around.

Q. Peroni or Vodka?

A. Peroni! 100% every time every day.

Q. Do you find there is a time limit on making music?

A. That’s a funny one I can’t make tracks dead quick I could make one, like a decent one in a week it just depends on how you’re feeling. I don’t have a plan; it just happens and some days it doesn’t happen at all. If I’m not feeling it I just start afresh and then just start again. But then again sometimes if I’m not feeling it, I just leave it to come back to. I think with me as when you’re hearing the same thing and I may actually love the sound but at the same time I may get sick of it; so I have to remember at one point I y’know I liked it, so it's great to have fresh ears to come back to, so it’s all unpredictable.

Q. If you could survive on a desert island with only three things what would they be and why?

A. I’d want a bloody hat, like a funky hat. Some acid *ha lol* and an iPod with some headphones because probably going to die so may as well go out with a bang…

Q. Which festival are you still wanting to go to?

A. TimeWarp unquestionable wanted to go and still haven’t been able to make it. Coursework and Uni got in the way. It’s been a fine balance. It’s literally is learning to keep a fine balance. Work-life balance. One day…

Q. Tell me about your latest track, ‘Evil Intentions’ & ‘A Portion of Matter...’

A. Well, like I said earlier it’s one end of the spectrum to the other, in the definition of ‘ A Portion of Matter’ made it a long time ago I got a little sick of it, I make that many synths it got a little messy. Erm… so left it a couple of months. Came back and you know what then fixed it and it just happened once I rearranged better. Evil Intentions just happened in two days and boom it happened.

Q. If you could collaborate with anyone who would it be?

A. Oh, this is a good question hmm…. There's a DJ who he’s called Jan Vercauteren, (click for link.) he’s big but he has his own sound and his tracks are class. I remember thinking I wish I could make something that; would love for him to be able to show me how to make some acid leads. His tracks seem to have all these elements that just seem to work.

Q. Any final things you would like to add?

A. No just thank you. Haven’t really talked about my music so nice to talk about my music and where I am.

- - - - - - - - 

Well, we can’t thank you enough Ellen.

Thanks so much for your time.

For all things Ellen Chetcuti find links to her socials below.

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/el_chetcuti_music/

SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/ellenchetcutimusic

[intheclique]

CLIQUE talks ‘Acid Enigma’

We take a break, and have a lock down chat with one of the North Easts most talked about up and coming techno duo. 

(C) CLIQUE

One half ‘Sam Lobley’ (Rudra) the other ‘Lee Humpries’ (Edenic) 

Together have formed a sound that has taken them from humble beginnings playing house parties or perhaps playing for your local, to bold new horizons; winning a prime spot at ‘Terminal V Festival’ to playing ROOM 2 in Newcastle's own DIGITAL. They’ve set their bar high, showing no plan of slowing down. 

With a run of successful monthly events at the likes of 

Tokyo Bar 

The All Seeing Eye &

Masons Gin Bar

The future seems to be bright. With on hold a lot more music in production, events in the pipeline, and ensuring a more active role in making connections; the world in all things Acid Enigma most definitely seem bright... 

So without further ado, 

Let’s go...

(C) CLIQUE

Q: Hey guys thanks for sitting down and taking the time to talk to us this evening. How’s your day been?

A: Its been good sat and had a BBQ, drank a little bit, it’s been really nice.

Q: How you been handling lock down?

A: Made loads of music, been signed to a few labels, and most importantly made contacts. We’ve being able to reach out and talk to a lot more people, making these connections has been the best. You see normally we’d have both been working full-time, with our separate jobs, unlike now we can be on social media, we can go live, we can make connections to others. We can push ourselves that little bit more including more special appearances.

Q: Enjoying the sun?

A: Aye.. I’m loving the sun, I’m very, very much burnt though…

Q: So, the past years been a bit of a whirlwind for you both with the likes of Digital, Terminal V Fest, Columbia radio sets and more. How did it all come about?

A: Digital came about our mate Kane, he put our name forward, alongside with the connections we had through hitting the scene we basically could only put ourselves forward and hope for the best. We’ve especially been making some tunes, as much as possible really. And always take every opportunity that presents itself for us.

Q: Terminals a big festival to play at, how’d you feel?

A: Basically... Ermmmmm…. we actually felt amazing. When we found out we won the competition, I got my grandmother to ring Sam at work to pretend she was Sam’s mam to let him know the good news. So, work would let him take call. We were buzzing.

(C) CLIQUE

Q: Did you have to change your set specifically for the festival?

A: We played pretty much the same style and set which we won us the competition. The builds had to be big, there had to be big tension builds, so it created for greater drops.

Q: How would you describe your sound?

A: In my opinion cosmic and melodic with melting drops. But the thing is as a duo we both want the drop to mean that crowd really feel it, seeing the crowds go wild from our drops really helps push us an artist

Q: What makes a good track?

Lee: I think in my opinion you really need to tension build and then let it just drops into absolute chaos and madness, that’s what makes a good track. It’s about the build, and build, and then when you drop it you lose your head.

Sam: From the start of the track it has to build to the break and emphasis what has happened, the drop can be completely different actually, but as long as the track is building up constant tension, that’s what is key. The drop ‘has to be heavy’ as it will make a lot of difference.

‘Elevated consciousness’ we feel we perfected the build up to the drop which made the track just stand out..

Q: Where do you see yourselves in one years’ time?

Lee: We would like to play a lot more which is more consistent, I just wanna spread what we’re doing , spread it about more.

In the future I see ourselves going overseas and abroad most definitely.

Sam; like I feel like in a years’ time we can definitely play around the UK easily. Produce music on bigger labels. The Labels we currently are on are perfect stepping stones, a base for the bigger ones.

Q: Tell me about your perfect night out?

Lee; My perfect night out is being with all me pals. Pre drinks, with somebody on the decks going mental in the kitchen. Then heading out to Tokyo bar. Sitting on the terrace with a pint of neck oil and cigarette in hand before moving along to Digital or cosmic ballroom to go and listen to some banging tunes and meet some of the north East’s finest.

Sam; exactly what happened at JUNCTION2 stayed up all night drinking, got on a bus, still drank, spent loads of times with our mates, went to the rave, still got drunk, went back to the house with my mates and just repeat, basically going out with my mates having a good time and getting wrecked making memories.

Q: Brown sauce or red?

A: Red sauce can be on anything, although I do rate brown sauce rate highly.

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Q: Tell me your top 3 influences.

A: So our three main influencers are Joyhasuer, Pleasurekraft, the Cosmic Boys.

Q: Tell us about your new tracks? What’s behind their sound.

A: ‘NGC-6946’ it kind if comes from everything we’ve built on before with the cosmic sound, we added a vocal to emphasize on the track, the track should make you feel like it uplifts you. The track itself follows what we believe is the ethos of a perfect track, it builds, there’s tension and then drop. The drop is what nails our influencer which is similar style to Joyhasuer.

Q: Your go to festival or gig?

Lee; Junction2 is the best festival if you are in the UK. I recommend that no one misses it. The line up is always unbelievable the venue is crazy and every person you meet is top class. But outside UK although I’m yet to go I believe ADE is the best festival you could probably go to for vast variation of music.

Sam; Junction2 the experience I had there was nothing I’ve ever had before, the bridge is something else you can’t get that anywhere else under the motorway.

Lee; To add on though gig wise, will always be an Alan Fitz gig. Like at concourse this year it was something else. I remember hugging Sam and telling him this is what raves are about.

Sam; I agree

Q: Perfect festival line up?

Lee; Tales Of Us, Maceo Plex, Joyhauser, Spektre, Enrico

Sam; Paula temple, Rebekah, dax j, kobosil, Nico Moreno, wndrlst

Q: Any final things to say?

A: Stick to it. You want to make music just plough through, if you don’t feel inspired that’s also ok, but it has to just come to you. We remind ourselves though that we are lucky we are a duo which means that we can bounce of each other, but if you aren’t feeling it just don’t worry. Eventually it’ll come across.

But always drink brown ale.…

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Thanks boy and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for you. 

You can buy their newest song ‘Elevated Consciousness’ on No-Match Records Via clicking the link below. 

https://www.beatport.com/release/elevated-consciousness/2943322

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