The insulting riches of Bangkok’s party scene exist thanks in no small part to the army of DJs who organize, promote and rock the living hell out of the city’s nightlife. In “Hang the DJ,” Coconuts gives you a chance to get acquainted with some of the capital’s better beatsmiths.
How did you get into DJing?
The basic catalyst for inspiring me to DJ was that I had become bored with the music that was being played in the clubs and on the radio at the time. I decided to start buying vinyl and building my own collection of dance music. From here I went on to create my first mixtape, made on a boom-box and using the pause/play/record buttons to “mix” which was the original old school way of making mixes if one didn’t have turntables and a mixer. I then managed to pass it on to a club owner with the same passion and interest in electronic music as myself. He appreciated my enthusiasm and ear for music and gave me my first residency. It was at this point I knew I had found my passion in life and I have been hooked on J’ing and sharing music with others ever since.
Describe the music you play in five words.
Warm. Intelligent. Deep. Upfront. Underground.
What’s the most fun you’ve ever had at a gig? Give us all the ugly details.
I would have to say the AAHZ “old school” events I do in my hometown of Orlando, Florida are my favorite. It always gives me a chance to reconnect with fans and friends who grew up with me so to speak during the early House music years.
What’s your favorite venue to play in Bangkok? Why?
I feel at the present time that would have to be Glow Nightclub. The crowd there tends to be more about the underground sound and movement. In my opinion, smaller more intimate venues like Glow allow DJs to create more of a bond with the crowd through the music. This is turn builds a trust between the two allowing the DJs more freedom to push the music forward.
Which track are you most excited about right now?
Just about anything from Butch. I really like the more “organic” sound in his work and he isn’t shy to cross genres of house. Maceo Plex and Hot Since ‘82 are also very high up on my list of producers/artists as well.
Trap music: yea or nay?
I would have to say nay.
“ ______ always packs the dance floor.”
Breach – “Jack”
What’s one song you will never, ever play?
Unequivocally and without hesitation the answer is “Gangnam Style” or for that matter any other novelty type pop electronic music.
What’s the best way for someone to get you to play their request?
Making a request for a track that would fit well into the type of set a DJ is playing is a nice start, but I tend to come from the school of thought where ideally the crowd supports and trust the DJ and allows him/her to do their thing.
What shows/residencies do you have lined up?
Wednesdays on the Terrace at QBar, Saturdays at BASH and a residency with Champion Sound/SixSix for their DJ events. I’ll also be announcing a new club residency this summer.
