DotDotDot

I believe every person no matter how talented he/she is or how rich/famous his/she is or on whatever he/she is doing in life has to be low-profiled and humble.

My opinion is that people who have their feet down to earth, keeping their mind clear and knowing what they really want are the ones who did mathematically succeeded on anything they did in life. Just because they really love what they are doing they made it to the top – not caring about the glory or the money they are gaining for their actions.

This is a man which I know he’ll take his career way up to the top and I’m sure that one day he will make us all MORE proud for him and his work than we are now already. The secret is of course his low-profiled life, and most importantly he is a humble and a “down to earth” person.
He is very talented but keeps his feet down on the ground.

A role model DJ in terms of personality and attitude.
Ladies and Gentlemen:  DJ & Producer Mario Chris.

• Welcome Mario! You are one of the most respected DJ’s / producers in Cyprus! You have done so much in the music industry so far and you are so…so young! Tell me about how the Djing “thing” has begun in your life?

Nice to be here, and thanks for the good words, I started playing music back when I was in high school at a small local radio station in Nicosia, It has been always something that I love doing.

• How did u teach yourself to beat mix?

I was practicing a lot of hours in my bedroom every time I had the chance to do it.

• You are also a great producer! Your mixes are always welcome to the crowd and your tracks are also broadcasted on the radios,  played and supported by so many well known DJs and hosted on some of the biggest online music shops  on the internet.  How did you started writing songs and is there someone who helped you or guided you through the area of production?

Production started when i decided to study music technology and also that was a time when i had stopped Djing for awhile, Christian Cambas was a tutor at the college so i was asking him everything i wanted to know and I was also giving him all of my Productions to hear, On the last year of my studies i gave Christian two tracks ”Color Dots”  and ”Flash” (at this time Christian was starting his Record Label ”Devilock”). So  he signed me on Devilock for my first release.

• Are you still signed on Devilock label?

Yes, most of my tracks and remixes were out from Devilock, Though, I just started my own record label ”Elektrify”,  I’m still releasing some of my tracks on Devilock.

• Which labels are you currently signed up besides Devilock?

Oryx music (Italy), JDDS (Gr) and of course Elektrify, i also had some remixes out from Only Records and High - Light .

• How many tracks, LPs and collections/ remixes have you released so far?

I have released 5 Ep’s, 1 album, 10 remixes, and 2 singles. Some of the remixes and tracks were also on some compilations or albums.

• What’s your exact style in music both in production and when you djing?

I used to play and produce a lot of electro house, but nowdays i play mostly  Progressive house and Techno also my last Productions are mostly Progressive house. Anyway you know today’s music is a mix of everything.

• Now off topic..DJs and clubbers tend to think that cyprus electronic dance music scene goes through a major crysis as when it comes to the local djs and producers. Some of our local talents are feeling much underestimated by the club owners/ promoters and clubbers.  Do you feel something is wrong with our scene here in cyprus ? Have you felt the same thing from time to time?

The truth is that the scene in Cyprus is ok as long as we have international DJs coming over, I think most of the local djs and producers are feeling underestimated from time to time for a bunch of reasons, The good think is that there are few people out there that DO show their appreciation of what you do.

• Who are the DJs you admire the most for their skills and productions - local and international?

The local producer that i admire the most even if i’m not a big fan of Trance is Michael Angelo, his Productions are always on the top dj’s playlists, From the internationals are : Eric Prydz, Jerome isma Ae, Sebastien Leger, Trentemoller, Justice,

• Do you have any influences? Do you listen to anything else besides electronic music?

Most of the music i listen is the electronic one and sometimes i listen to rock music .

• Which venue/party you played gave you the best experience as a DJ?

That will be Cavo Paradiso last summer, it was amazing, Also at a festival in france last December (Transmusicales festival) which was a unigue experience because there were rock bands and djs.

• Do you hold a residency in Club Versus? Because I see you are performing a lot at the current club…

I play there almost once a month, Now i play every sunday at Times music bar in Larnaka and i’ll be playing at Club Babylon in Ayia Napa on Friday’s mostly doing the opening sets with MrStyles for the guest Dj’s.

• What do you think about DJ’ing in North Cyprus? It seems everyone holds a different opinion about this subject. Have you ever performed there and if in the future someone invites you to play in the North Site will you accept his/her invitation?

I don’t really mind about DJs playing there, even if they are cypriots, But if i ever have an invitation to play there its going to be a very tough decision, I haven’t visited North Cyprus yet.

• Do you consider yourself as an international DJ?

No, i don’t!  I only had 2-3 gigs out of Cyprus.

• But your releases are internationally applied………

I believe “releases” have nothing to do with “if you are an international DJ or not”. “Releases” are just productions released. Its not Djing. If people think I am an international DJ because I have performed oversears 2 or 3 times then that’s a good think. Although I believe an international DJ is the one who is internationally regognised.  Nothing more, nothing less.

• You’ve been also in Radio Production as well. Energy radio is where you started broadcasting your show. Is it true that radio production is a great school as when it comes to the experience you are able to get? What have you gained so far by working in a station as big as Energy FM?

A radio show is always a good way to promote yourself as a DJ and a Producer, You can play your tracks  so people can listen what you actually do and what you play and of course gaining some regularly listeners, Working at a radio station helps you to see a lot of  how radio truly works and all the ”behind scenes” of something before going on air. The experience i had working on Energy was really big, Especially the exprerience I gained from working on the Production Dept, doing radio ads and jingles, Something that i always liked.

• So i guess you are pleased with the way your carreer has progressed so far?

I don’t have any complains at the moment, I do what i love to do.

• Do you feel you owe a special thanks to someone for helping you/ guiding you or supporting you all these years ?

A big one to those who supported me and still do.

• Are you currently working on something new right now? A new track/remix, an LP or even a compilation?

I have just finished a remix and i am also working on a remake. I have some tracks ready for the summer. Some of them will be out from Devilock and some from Elektrify, Probably 2 ep’s and a single. Plus I am waiting for a remix from Squash 84  a.k.a Komytea on one of my tracks.

• Give me your top5 tracks of the moment…

5. The Bad Bankers - We Fucked you up (Mario Chris Remix),
4. J.Foster, Chris sol - every me, every you (Mic Niewman remix),
3. Riga nights (Tomcraft remix),
2. D-unity - Afrika (Tribal mix),
1. Pryda - Reeperbalm

• And last question : “Trend makes you a DJ or a DJ makes the trend?”

I Think a Dj always makes the trend!

Filed under: Uncategorized by miss misti
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I was interviewing this man for about 4 hours. I tried to pull out anything i could get from his mind. His thoughts, opinions and little secrets…
Many people say he is the no.1 DJ Island wide. Some say he is one of the best trance DJs and producers worldwide. I can assure you he has amazing mixing skills and he is an artist in all forms; both as a musician and a producer besides DJ’ing. He has been on production and on stage for about 13 years.
He shared his booth with an endless list of DJs; locals and internationals. He is signed up in many international labels, last year he released a single with a major success and support from great names of the dance music industry. He interacts with the crowd; and stands like a pro either he plays at a private party or in an arena with 600.000 people. I could go on introducing him forever so I’ll let you judge him by yourself.  Haris C and the story goes like this….:

Misti: Hello Haris, welcome. How many years are you counting now on the electronic dance music scene?

Haris C: Hi Misti…Well from what I can remember almost 13 since 1996…Yeah I am getting old!

Misti: What do you think about the dance music scene of Cyprus?  Do you think it is worth trying to proof or make something on this island after all the years?

Haris C: Hmm well to be honest things were way better back in 2002 - 2005 in Cyprus but now things are not so good due to many promoters and events. You see people tend to forget the Cypriot DJs or better underestimate them and they show more ‘respect’ to the international DJs; so for me it is one of the many reasons why the scene has gone bad. Back on the old days some Cypriot DJs had more than 400 clubbers per party. Now because every week we have international DJs…Cypriot DJs are about to vanish.

I don’t have to prove anything to anyone but I also don’t forget all the people who have supported me through out the years. Their support was one of the reasons that I am standing here strong.

You see some people DON’T want Cypriot artists to proceed due to jealousy or other reasons. I was speaking to some DJs friends of mine 2 days ago about this matter and from what they said to me is that clubbers and friends were giving their support to DJ MAG Poll etc… Think then what will never happen in CY.
Don’t ask y but I am 100% sure of this.

We have talents and we have producers that are way way way better than many international DJs and producers but unfortunately they can’t get out due to many reasons. Don’t tell me Cyprus is a small country blah blah blah …it’s not!

Misti: Which are the local DJs/ producers in your opinion which are better than the international ones? Would you mind naming some?

Haris C: I don’t want to go through names but there are some real talents out there.

Misti: So you actually believe that local people do not appreciate the local DJs; or not? Do you have any responses or feedback from the people here? Do you get the same response from overseas?

Haris C : Yes there are people that do not appreciate or better say underestimate locals; but there are a lot of people that do show their appreciation. Yes i am talking with people during an event, and I am getting emails and feedback. I have played overseas and the only difference from here is that people go to the clubs and dance their asses off either is Armin playing or my grandmamma and this is because they respect both the dj and music. Their motto is: Go out and Have fun. While here some people go out only when Armin and PVD visit the island. How can this be happening? I remember 3 years before; when PVD came here, the club was packed with 5000 people. .hmmmm all of them like EDM??? Too fake to believe…

Misti: By far you’ve done so much in production. You have about 27 releases including remixes and singles, and you are into about 7 compilations. Starting from your latest release of My angel feat. Anthya; and from your experience why do you believe the track made such a big success?

Haris C: Yeah and thats not all! The success from this song was the chemistry between me and Anthya and the lyrics. I wrote that song 2 years ago after the birth of my daughter.  If you listen carefully to the lyrics you will understand what the song is all about but the strongest point is the way she sings the breakdown and the lyrics of it.

Misti: What is the story behind My Angel?

Haris C: Hmm its kind of personal and i don’t want to expand on this subject.
The only thing I can say is that is dedicated to my daughter Cybil.

Misti: I guess when you started producing you knew nothing about the studio?
Did anyone helped you or still does? Do you know any techniques of sound engineering and if you do how you did learn?

Haris C: hahaha exactly. I didn’t knew anything at all but thanks to the internet everything is possible. Well Yiannis from Kuffdam & Plant helped me in the beginning with some basics steps on production. You see production has no limits and when you practice more you will get more results. Some young people ask me on msn daily about production and I give them all the help they need; but I always say to them to keep practicing and the results will come.
Of course it takes a lot of time and energy but it worth every single minute of it.

On the Techniques of sound engineering I didn’t knew anything again but I bought a book around 300 pages which helped me on improving my sound and how to combine different elements. I really suck on mastering so I am sending my tracks to Germany for that reason.

Misti: Last year you performed in France for the Techno Parade.. Tell me more about this experience you had.

Haris C: Wow one of my best shows ever; if not the best. I still can’t believe that 600.000 people were dancing in the streets from 12:00!!!! You see now we come again to the question about our Dance Scene in Cyprus. At TP we were 21 trailers playing from House to trance, psy to Hip Hop and hardstyle but the biggest point is that 600.000 people were dancing! What really surprised me was the organization of the event and I mean the French government, municipality of Paris, all the embassies and police.
Don’t ask me if we can do that here. In 100 years from now maybe yes.
Over all it was a massive experience and I was very very lucky to attend to that specific festival!

Misti: I still don’t get it though. It is named “Techno Parade” but it hosts so many different genres….. Although you played in Techno Parade; you don’t play any techno… Or do you?

Haris C: hahaha well it was the first question to ask the promoter when I landed there. She said to me that Techno Parade started in 1998 and was named Techno Parade due to the style of the 90’s. Techno for them is considered to be a word not a style of the EDM scene. Just like the 70’s and 80’s with disco although some tracks had pop and house in it.
No I don’t play techno; not that I don’t like it but it’s not my type of music.

Misti: Do you have any influences besides electronic music?

Haris C: My biggest influence is my daily life just like when i composed ‘My Angel”. I listen to everything, i respect all genres of music.. But life is my biggest influence.

Misti:  Who are the DJs you admire the most for their skills and productions?

Haris C: I like but I don’t admire anyone. For me DJs & producers such as Ferry Corsten, Rank1, Matt Darey, Solarstone to name a few are truly a jewel for the industry and that’s why they are who they are today.  I had the chance to sit in the studio with Rich (Solarstone) for 2 days and I have learned a lot from him so its not by accident that he is where he is today. And here is a small secret for you…My Next single is collaboration with Solarstone and its going to be out before summer!

Misti: Thanks a lot for sharing your secret with me! Now, you are also hosting a radio show on Mix Fm Cyprus. There is a lot of whispering about Mix Fm always booking international DJs who support your tracks or supported you in the past. What do you have to say about this gossip?

Haris C: That’s not true…M.I.K.E,RANK1,MATT DAREY,PVD,OAKENFOLD….to name a few never never never supported my tracks before… so if the gossip was true then MIX FM wouldn’t  book them.

To the specific person that said that and of course I know who he is…The answer to this is very simple.
I said to this guy “If you believe that the DJs you suggest me of booking will fill the club or get more than 300 people then I will book him/her”. And his answer was “I don’t know”!!!! So I said to him “Why spending money to something that will not work?” and he didn’t have an answer to that.
I also said to him that if we book Androulou for 10000 + tickets +hotel +++++++ and she is not known to the Cyprus EDM who will pay the damages???? I’m saying this because the specific guy wanted to play with the specific DJs he suggested.
I said to him if you have the money to book him then come on in and take the risk with the station!!!!! So the gossip its not valid…its only being said just to be said. For other reasons maybe!!!

Misti: This whispering wasn’t said by one person only; i heard it from many people both DJs and clubbers. Anyway…This was only a question … just to solve this issue out…
Is Mix Fm planning to book any DJs for performing in Cyprus anytime soon?

Haris C: No problem on that. It’s easy to make up things and talk with others but in order to have a good idea on the specific subject is by asking the other side too. Yeah I know who they are and like I said there are some other reasons why the whispering goes on. If those people want to see or to suggest specific DJs then tell them to give me a call… Yes Mix Fm has booked 3 DJs for 2009 and the First one is Ferry Corsten; then Matt Darey on the 25th of April (peoples demand and club owner) not because he supports me! The third one will be announced soon.

Misti: You’ve performed in a lot of parties at Bling club. Do you consider that place a proper club for the big DJ names to perform in it? Bling is not into electronic music at all.

Haris C: Ok; then name me one?

Misti: I am not here to express my opinion. I just ask the questions…  But if you really want me to name one I’d say Klub d is…

Haris C: (Laughs) well if we had a proper and healthy EDM scene then club Treno would have been open. Versus wouldn’t have been closed for 4-5 years…so the only solution was Bling. As for Klub D I haven’t been there before but from what I’ve heard it’s only for minimal music.
As for Bling; it’s a good club although it’s an RnB club but it’s good because it’s big and can host bigger events.

Misti: But Club Treno is open under the name The Escape club and it hosts only electronic music. Versus is now open and it is going well and Klub d it’s only for minimal music which is an electronic music genre. Do you suggest Klub d, Versus and The Escape clubs are not dance clubs?  I am quoting an answer you gave in an interview  “Unfortunately the Dance Scene is dying rapidly day after day and if you can believe what I am going to tell you is that in Nicosia the capital where I live there isn’t 1 single dance club any more!!! “…

Haris C: Regarding the quoting which you have mentioned: that specific interview was done last year on which Versus was purely commercial Club and Club Escape was only for psy! Klub D was closed back then…..so Bling was the only solution.

Misti: What is your opinion on minimal and psy genres?

Haris C: They are part of the EDM family and I respect their DJs, producers and fans but its not my type of music.

Misti: Do you consider yourself as an international DJ?

Haris C: Well, I have 27 remixes & releases. Both supported by big DJs, signed to many international labels, played in IBIZA, France, UK. I have a huge database of international fans, so I think I am.

Misti: “how would you describe your DJ career in 5 words?”

Haris C: Passionate, Amazing, Hard, Lovely, Experienced

Misti: Why on facebook your name appears as Haris Haris C Christodoulou?

Haris C: because i can’t change it

Misti: What is your opinion about the local DJS who play in the occupied areas? Do you think performing there is a good idea? I mean the whole situation is a bit risky if we consider the majority of Cypriot people still have taboos on it.

Haris C: haha nice one! Well we have to learn that they are humans too. I don’t understand the big fuzz around this matter but in my personal opinion it’s not bad. I totally understand the situation but for Christ sake it’s been 35 years ago. If we all; including them, don’t help each other then no solution will take place in this island. People are trying to find a solution on this matter so the last thing we need is the line. My wife has a house in the occupied areas so the last thing we need is the line; which on this case she will never go back. By helping each other I think this matter will be solved. But the solution will not be easy either for us or them. Only time will help. People need to get over this ASAP!

Misti: What is your opinion about Judge Jules and Above and Beyond?

Haris C: Judge Jules=Good show man and a legend in the UK..
Above & Beyond=Over estimated
We had Jules before and maybe in the future again but regarding A&B you can ask their manager…

Misti: Why do I have to ask their manager? Have you already asked them and they refused?

Haris C: No they didn’t refuse…Like wisely their radio manager wants TATW (Trance Around The World) to be hosted to our station but the biggest problem is their manager with the way he answer emails. When someone is rude and answers like ‘Yes’ “No’ then for me he is banned.

Misti: What do you think about their radio show ‘Trance around The World’?

Haris C: Good show for Anjuna fans.

Misti: Now about Trance. Many listeners and DJs think Trance on 140bpm is exceeding and tens to disappear. As a producer of this music have you started to fear this situation?

Haris C: Who are those?

Misti: People around the world. You can find them in forums discussing about it if you want to check it by yourself…

Haris C: Well, I heard Trance was dead in 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09…isnt it???
Then why Armin, Tiesto, Ferry, PVd are still filling up stadiums?
Of course its up to people to decide whether 140 is good for them or not. If a track has a 140 bpm is good and people like it then fine… and if a track has 130 bpm and people like it then its fine too. I think its time to stop this motto of: Trance is dead.
The main reason behind this thing is that now with the internet lots of labels have come up to the surface and the majority of the music isn’t as good like it was before…but its still here!

Misti: Where was the best party you ever had or been to? The best venue and the best country (on people response). ?

Haris C: I had played in too many parties but if I had to choose then I will say the Techno Parade and last Saturday @ VS. The Best Venue that i have played: EDEN IBIZA.

Misti: I see you are not performing this much anymore. Do you mind explaining why?

Haris C: Not at all. I had some family issues; plus I needed a break so I can focus on my productions and I wanted to spend my nights at home with my newborn baby. So now that she is bigger I will return back from April and onwards @ Club VS as a guest once a month.

Misti: Have you ever been in a local party with local DJs and you left amazed or surprised with a talent? If yes do you mind telling me who that person was?

Haris C: Yeah especially @ TP with Konstandinos. He has grown up musically and I was pretty amazed with him…selection wise and mixing skills!
Also with Aleka and you my dear in Ayia Napa 2 years ago…and its pitty not to see you both perform.

Misti: Well thanks a lot and i bet all the names you mentioned above are thanking you too for your kind words. What do you see in a DJ so you can consider him/her as a professional one?

Haris C: Pleasure! For me or better say my personal opinion is all about the interaction that a DJ has with the crowd. When a DJ is booked to play is booked to play for the people not for him/her self. A pro DJ is the one who interacts and reads people during a set.

Misti: Are you preparing something new in the studio right now besides the little secret about solarstone?

Haris C: Yeah I am currently working with Anthya for our new Single which will be a follow up of ‘My Angel’ the collab with Rich and 3 remixes.

Misti: Do you have any upcoming international gigs booked?

Haris C: I have a request for Lebanon during June and another request for Holland in August so I hope that both events will take place and we close the deal.

Misti: Where do you see your self in 10 years from now?

Haris C: Home watching TV loosing hair and growing a belly. hahahha ! Don’t know to be honest only time will tell.

Misti: Give me your top5 tracks of the moment…

Haris C:
1.    Ferry Corsten-Made of Love (Original MIx)
2.    Sean Tyas-Melbourne (David Newsum Mix)
3.    Dash Berlin -Man on the Run (Original Mix)
4.    Store N Forward-Computer Music (Haris C Mix)
5.    Hodel & Hornblad-Hydrogen (Ferry Tayle Mix)

Misti: And last question… as I always ask on this blog.
“Trend makes you a DJ or a DJ makes the trend?”

Haris C: Personally I think:  Dj makes the Trend.

Misti: Thanks a lot Harris . I wish you all the best

Haris C: Thank you too Misti!

www.harisc.com

Filed under: Uncategorized by miss misti
Tags: « cyprus clubbing - dotdotdot - harisc - trance »
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There is so many things to say about the DJ I am featuring in this interview that can’t fit in a small introduction.
He shared his booth with some of the biggest DJ names on the globe.
He is been up in the EDM scene since 2002, radio broadcasting, producing and gigging some of the greatest shows, remixes and original tracks.

His name is Gomez and he is only 23.

Misti: Welcome Gomez! Anestis Seferiades is your real name. Do you mind telling me what’s behind the nickname Gomez?

Gomez: To cut a long story short, I went to a private elementary school and since my real name is not that usual and my school had very few students, I was unable to write my name in places without getting caught. I just had to come up with a name that they wouldn’t recognize me and therefore not get into any trouble with the faculty. Gomez was just a random pick.

Misti: What’s your exact style in music both in production and your gigging?

Gomez: I think that nowadays, labeling a DJ’s music is a bad move. This new house genre that emerged with the minimal elements, moving around a techno spectrum, has broadened the styles of music a so-called house DJ is playing. It might be safe to say that I’m still playing house and I just focus on the kicks and the groove - if deep house sounds cool and get’s me going, then I’m on.

Misti: What music were you playing at the very beginning of your career as a DJ?

Gomez: I have been always playing around in the house cluster. At the beginning (around 2002), progressive was the greatest nominator of house music. I used to love it, I still appreciate it but music has evolved and one has to go with the flow while still keeping some loyalty to his own preferred music. That is, not to go with the flow just for the trend, but to evolve as a musician, DJ, producer etc.

Misti: You’ve been born in Greece, grown up in Cyprus but your current location is in San Francisco now. How much difference do you see in performing overseas compared to Cyprus?

Gomez: I was born and raised in Greece, and I’ve lived around 5 years in Cyprus. For the past 2 years I’m a San Francisco resident and I’m loving it. Thing is that, it’s not fair comparing Cyprus to a country like the US and even worse comparing Nicosia, Limassol etc, to cities like San Francisco, New York etc. People are just way too open minded which sometimes is almost overwhelming.

People in the Bay Area are really open to new sounds, and not only sound, but everything that has to do with edginess and controversy. San Francisco has become one of the best Techno capitals of the world, parading along side Berlin and other leading cities. The difference playing overseas compared to Cyprus is undoubtedly vast.

Misti: Which venue/party you played at in the US gave you the best experience as a DJ?

Gomez: I’ve played to some really cool venues in the US, but my favorite spot is Otis in San Francisco, where Werd. , my crew along Nick Williams & Brandon Wade, throws weekly and it’s the primmest Sunday night out in the city. Some great names have visited the place and played with us such as Lee Burridge, Lee Curtiss, M.A.N.D.Y, Paco Osuna and more. It’s an intimate 50-people-capacity venue. Great!

Misti: How different is the crowd abroad compared to Cyprus? (Atmosphere, respect, dress code etc)?

Gomez: If you had asked me the same question prior to my appearance at Klub D in Nicosia earlier in January, I would have said that nothing in Cyprus is even close to places abroad, in all terms. In the US, the respect is overwhelming! People treat DJ’s like real musicians and that’s the way it should be. Atmosphere, dress code and stuff like that are upon to the club mainly and the crowd it attracts.

Misti: I must say I appreciate your honesty a lot! Do you mind telling me about the “Werd” thing going on? What’s the philosophy behind It.?

Gomez: Werd is a concept that Nick Williams and Brandon Wade started way before i joined them in 2007. I think what have brought is in the techno map of SF is that we are all about partying without intervening to anyone’s steps. Also, we have a Sunday night residency which is all about friends; meaning, that most of the people coming every Sunday are friends and friends of our friends. This family feeling that we bring as Werd. Is our main concept as well as the trademark grooveness music we all at Werd play.

Misti: Are there differences regarding the fees promoters are willing to pay you between in Cyprus and San Francisco?

Gomez: San Francisco pays less. It’s a well known thing, even big shot DJ’s are willing to play for less money in SF ‘cause they know it’d be fun; anyhow, money is not what this is all about. It’s just the cherry.

Misti: In Cyprus. Ever got in the situation when a promoter refused to pay you even though you had a deal?

Gomez: Yes, countless times. Of course, I cut doing business with them shortly after.

Misti: With 3 words describe each of the following venues: Guaba, Klubd, Versus, Treno (back when it was open).

Gomez:
Guaba: Humid, laid back & wet
Klub D: Spacey, Vibe-ous, Quality
Versus: Notorious, Red & Loud
Treno: Intimate, Dirty, Empty

Misti: You’ve been also in Radio Production as well. Mix FM, Frisky Radio, Energy. Why’d you left from Mix Fm? How did that move affect your career?

Gomez: I owe a lot to the people at Mix Fm for letting me join their station and I always look after them since then. I was & still am a house DJ, but Mix FM was always more into Trance music. My leaving was wise, since after that i started playing the music i wanted with people that were organizing such events.
Energy was fun cause i was also doing broadcasting and voice overs and i had a great connection with the listeners while playing.
Frisky radio was just as a guest appearance, and i always had great feedback. I’ve been doing guest mixes for radio stations all over the world and radio is what helped me the most to grow as a DJ

Misti: So actually Mix Fm tried to affect your style in music or not let you play the actual genre you represented back then?

Gomez: Mix FM didn’t try to affect my style, not at all. They just had a different target group and i just didn’t fit. Nothing more.

Misti: You’ve shared your booth with some of the biggest DJ names on the globe such as Paolo Mojo, Audio Jack, Jonathan Lisle, Chris Fortier, James Zabiela, Pako & Frederic, Lee Burridge and many many more… What have you learned alongside these great people of music industry?

Gomez: Sharing the booth with great DJ’s is always nice. I was lucky enough to play with that many DJ’s that have all been really cool to me, and shared information, comments, advices and such.

Misti: Do you have any influences? Do you listen to anything else besides electronic music?

Gomez: I only listen to different things, mainly rock music. My ipod doesn’t have a single electronic oriented song.

Misti: Do you mind naming few artists…?

Gomez: Mainly 80’s & 90’s artists and bands. Joy Division, Pulp, The Only Ones, Dodgy, Ride, Echo & the Bunnymen, Fibonaccis, Cure & the list goes on but I have a strong background from my childhood, listening to 70’s rock from my dad’s collection. Deep Purple, Uriah Heep, America, Chicago. I listen to alot of stuff and i stay away from electronic music in my spare time.

Misti: Off topic but since you have a strong opinion about music. What do you think about trance in 2009? What’s your opinion on Cypriot trance productions?

Gomez: I don’t think anything about trance, it never did anything to me, never liked it and probably ill never will. Trance in 2009 will be the same or worse than last year.
Michaelangelo has been a really successful artist. He’s such a good guy and has amazing skills, every time I listen something from him, i can see the depth of his skills. Despite my detest towards that genre, I can safely say that i can recognize the one-eye man in a crowd of blinds.

Misti: Which labels are you currently signed up?

Gomez: Piston, 19 Box, Underground Lessons, Caps Lock, Vise Versa, Reticent and soon on Fade, Looq, Unfokused and some other projects.

Misti: Are you currently doing any production?

Gomez: I’m working on many tracks and remixes, always busy in the studio.

Misti: For which achievement are you feeling proudest about?

Gomez: Getting into a good university in the US.

Misti: Do you consider yourself successful?

Gomez: Success is a Calvinistic term in my opinion.  Success is also defined differently I guess, but we can go forever debating about it. I can just say that I’m happy with what I’ve done by now and looking forward doing more in the future.

Misti: What do you think about DJ’ing in North Cyprus? Do you feel like it’s a good idea?

Gomez: I don’t mind it. There are people. I’d play music anywhere in the world. I don’t see it as a problem. Music brings unity and that’s what is it all about.

Misti: Since you have played and talked about it do you think it affected your career?

Gomez: I don’t know how it would be if i hadn’t played

Misti: From the point of view of the DJ, how different is it on the other side of the island?

Gomez: I’ve played there once or twice. It’s not great but people are nice

Misti: Give me you top5 tracks at the moment…

Gomez:
Jeff Bennett - InSpite (Florian Kruse Mix)
Peter Raeburn-Celebrare(Layo & Bushwacka Dub)
Ampathy - True Meaning Of A Sell Out
David K - Jaffa Night
Basti Grub - Wenn Ich An Die Kosten Denke

Misti: And Last question:  “Trend makes you a DJ or a DJ makes the trend?”

Gomez: It’s a circular question but this one ain’t tricky. The DJ sets the trend.

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People who rise above the simple act of playing records to create something magical are what I call Quality DJS. People who are born to play to a crowd, to heighten the senses and inspire reaction and emotion in both clubbers and their peers are the origin DJS. People that create a palpable sense of anticipation when they take to the decks because the crowd knows they are in for a ride are the DJS who set up the trends. People that balance the atmosphere on a knife edge… and then drop you off, pull you back up and throw your senses to all points of the emotional compass are what I call “superhero” DJs.

I am presenting you an interview of a man that represents all those things together in one body.

Paolo Mojo: a DJ since 1991 who had a hand in nearly all aspects of the dance music business.

Misti: Welcome Paolo.
You’ve had quite an illustrious career thus far. When did it all begin?

Paolo Mojo:
I used to DJ from a really early age.. i was always the kid selecting the music at house parties for the family making tapes off the radio etc. i played the piano as a kid… it just grew from there. i only started taking it seriously about seven years ago though.

Misti: Did you teach yourself how to beat mix?

Paolo Mojo:
Yes I did

Misti: How did you do it? You bought decks?  Or decks found the way towards you?

Paolo Mojo:
I had a car accident actually when I was 13. I didn’t have any serious injuries but I got a payment from the court, but I couldn’t touch it till I was 18. I bought my first equipment with that money

Misti: About what time did you go into production as well?

Paolo Mojo:
That came later, I did my first things in 2003.

Misti: When you started out, you knew nothing about the studio…?

Paolo Mojo:
(Laughs) Who knows anything when they start?

Misti: Paolo, you’ve been around a while in the industry now, touring, DJ’ing, producing and remixing. What was the high point of your career so far and how much further do you think you can take your career?

Paolo Mojo: I don’t really think in terms of a high point… always looking forward to what is happening today and tomorrow. That’s what keeps me going on really

Misti : You’ve been up to quite a bit over the past year. In the past months you have performed at some of the world’s most prestigious venues all over the world. Have you noticed any changes in the clubbing scene worldwide?

Paolo Mojo:
I think certain areas are always strong; places like Japan and South America for me personally are always highlights. Then there is always new places cropping up as well. It’s really pretty universal these days. It’s getting harder to find new countries I haven’t been too, but there are still some I’m yet to see. I’d like to see more of Africa I guess

Misti: “I’m paranoid that one day it might all end,” so says DJ Sasha (Alexander Coe).
Do you get all paranoid as Sasha does about the end of your career?

Paolo Mojo:
Yeah I think that’s a valid point of view actually. I think you have to keep yourself relevant… mainly by putting out music that people relate too. If you’re not doing that you might have a problem these days

Misti: How do you keep up and at the same time keep things fresh not only for yourself but for those who buy and listen to your music?

Paolo Mojo:
Well half my mind is always in the studio when I’m in the club… And half my mind is in the club when I’m in the studio. I guess that’s a pretty good way of describing it. I dont see the two as separate things.

Misti: Do you have any influences? Do you listen to anything else besides electronic music?

Paolo Mojo:
Sure. I listen to a lot of things… baroque classical string music…ambient earth and water plops stuff… classic thrash metal 80s funk and soul, Prince, cheesy 80s pop, pretentious 70s rock, jangly 60s rhythm and blues jazz, late 70s early 80s new wave (particularly fond of this) grunge. I could go on but often i find influences in just general terms, hearing something on the street or a sound on the TV or something.

Misti: “Ron hardy said” was a big success. Eric Prytz’s remix was also awesome. What’s your review about the current track?

Paolo Mojo:
Don’t quite understand this one?

Misti: Why do you believe it made such a big success in the electronic music industry? I believe it does not include any “commercial” sound and it’s a bit different from your other productions…

Paolo Mojo:
I don’t really see it being different to other things I have written really. Maybe it uses a sample? I’m not sure… That’s for others to decide really.

Misti: Give me you top5 tracks at the moment…

Paolo Mojo:
1.    Paul Ritch - split
2.    The mind frame of mind - Frogs with potato and sour cream (jayy remix)
3.    Dustin Zahn - From above
4.    Dzi - Unleash (joel mull remix)
5.    Kabal und Liebe - Childs play

Misti: What artists lately have surprised you with their productions and who stands out for you or who do you think we should look out for?

Paolo Mojo:
Martin Landsky, Dustin Zahn, Joel Mull, Felipe Venegas, Michael ho, Kolijah and Oliver Deutschmannm, Marco carola, Tobias, Paul Ritch, Sasse, Aeroplane, the list could go on and on….

Misti: With the thousands of Producers and DJ’s out there, what in your opinion would it take to make a successful Producer and/or DJ in nowadays?

Paolo Mojo: Just make atmospheric music that people identify with and be able to play it in a club with some presence and skill.

Misti: Where to from here for Paolo Mojo and any surprises or future plans you’re willing to let us in on?

Paolo Mojo: I’m probably going to have a bath soon

Misti: Any music surprises or plans?

Paolo Mojo: Can’t really think of anything. I’m pretty boring really.

Misti: What is a typical day like for Paolo Mojo?

Paolo Mojo:
Get up around 7, drive to the studio, stop at star bucks pick up coffee, work there for a few hours… come home… make a list of all the things I have to do that day…. don’t do anything on the list and forget I wrote it the next day… Go to the gym late afternoon… stop by at Waitrose pick up something for dinner… come home cook it; Then I am around on the internet a lot, interspersed with trips to the airport and stuff like that, bug the mikes from deep dish about working with tractor, send random emails to my management …

Misti: So, Do you consider your self as a “normal” person?  I mean with the whole gigging, producing, touring, fans and stuff…

Paolo Mojo:
Normal person, hmm…does what I wrote sound normal do you think?

Misti: Nope. It was an “ironic” question actually…Would you trade the “publicity” for the “normality”?

Paolo Mojo:
Ah excellent! I’m abnormal then. Well it’s not like I’m Freddie Mercury or anything (I mean apart from the fact he’s dead bless him). I don’t walk into the supermarket and get mobbed by crazy fans; at least not EVERYDAY.
Tell you what I do get.
Miserable old cows with no manners who clearly haven’t been f*cked this side of 1970 who try to barge past you with their shopping trolleys saying things like wakey wakey… get out of the way. I swear this happened today. I said “I beg your pardon”,
She said “I beg your pardon? What sort of language is that do you work in a bank?”.
I said “is there a problem? She said “not with me!”

Misti: Well, I’m sorry about the “lady’s” manners. Anyways, I just believe a public figure cannot be normal. Even if you want to, let’s say most of the times you can’t be….
Paolo Mojo:
I said to her “it must be hard for you”. She said “hard to do what”?
I said “be as rude as you are ugly, but you’re managing quite well love. Merry Christmas!”, and walked off. That felt good.

Misti: Patience is a characteristic of yours?

Paolo Mojo:
No, not really to be honest.

Misti: Have you ever fallen in love with a fan, Paolo?

Paolo Mojo:
I just fell in love with a journalist, does that count?

Misti: Yes it does actually. How many interviews are you giving at the moment?

Paolo Mojo:
Only one today

Misti: Back on the subject! I strongly believe some genres of the electronic music tent to go over a crisis. I believe house music is one of these genres. Do you feel like it also?

Paolo Mojo:
Do you mean house music can survive a crisis?

Misti: First of all, do you believe house music goes through a crisis?

Paolo Mojo: Well it just keeps reinventing itself really; which is nice.

Misti: I am quoting you over a blog “… Plus a lot of DJs get stuck in the rut on playing a sound that works and before they know it, they’ve been left behind. You’ve always got to keep seeking out those edgy records, push yourself and take risks with your music.”
At this point I want to ask you a question which I will ask all DJs.

“Trend makes you a DJ or a DJ makes the trend?”

Paolo Mojo:
Well yeah, I believe that’s true definitely.. What I said in the first part; and I think a little of both applies to the latter.

Misti: Did you like Cyprus when you came here?

Paolo Mojo:
Yes. Guaba beach, right? In the summer. I had fun.

Misti: What do you remember from your gig at Guaba?

Paolo Mojo:
I remember thinking this is really cool because the gigs over and I can go and have dinner and relax haha, rather than the other way around usually!

Misti: What do you think about 100 DJ LIST POLL?

Paolo Mojo:
Well, I never get in it so I don’t think too much about it . J

Misti: AND LAST QUESTION but not LEAST!

Paolo Mojo:
woah woah

Misti: Did you like this interview Paolo ????????

Paolo Mojo:
Yes, I had a lovely time in this interview Miss Stephanie. Come round with your troop of Japanese dancers any day for tea and conversation.
I am feverish with anticipation. It was a pleasure.

Misti: My pleasure. Thanks a lot for this great conversation!

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First of all, I would like to welcome you to my blog on cluboholic.com.
I didn’t take much thought on starting this; it was something I wanted and please don’t forget that “FREE expression” is everyone’s undeniable right.

This article basically concerns the DJS, the club owners and the promoters of this country.
Consider although that I am writing as a clubber as well as a DJ.

I noticed something anyway which really pissed me off and I will let it out in public (once more)…Things have to be told and discussed.
Maybe I’m wrong maybe I’m not…time will definitely tell… Either ways this is strictly my own opinion and I am not representing anybody else.

So…
Clubs are opening, clubs closing….clubs stayed as they were…
I saw great DJs visiting Cyprus, great producers come along…
Then I saw many locals DJS stay or forced at the background (history repeating), giving their places to the “trend djs”.

Below you will understand what I mean with the term “trend” DJ…

First of all I asked my self why on earth bother go to a club and watch a local DJ perform…?

Well personally when I visit a club I go strictly for the music. I go to listen and not demonstrate (my shoes, my hair, if I consume any drugs or alcohol); on the other hand demonstration is also everyone’s right, but since the subject here is music then “quality does it for me and not quantity”.

What is most important to you in the club entertainment anyway? Music, interior Design, Fashion style; drugs or alcohol?

A good environment plays a large role but its is not a basic part on having fun since we all have seen parties made in the worst places like warehouses. Music is the X factor which delivers the good mood and not the lightning or the owner of the club.
So actually the x factor in a club is the DJ/DJS and everything else is secondary.

Well, I used to see Minimal events, house events, techno, trance, progressive house events, disco house, tribal house etc and now?
Minimal and Psychedelic and from now and then some trance events… all made by the same and same and same artists.

So where is the variety of DJS..?? Well I guess they must be “stack” in the raw as Schwab says…

Please don’t bother answering we haven’t got any Djs who deliver these kind of shows.
Please….because it will be a freaking Joke. We all know them; we all have seen them before.
And please don’t answer, “This is what people want”.

Have clubs owners and promoters created a “copy paste mixture” of local djs playing over and over the same genre, promoting the same style serving the high-class image of a DJ which fits the interior design?
And if they did what would have been the point?
Or did local djs become a “copy paste” kind playing the same or similar style because they fear they will be forced or stay at the margin as I saw happening to many and many Djs (this year especially).

Why are you trying to make the scene look smaller; There are so many artists new and old?

Expand it………..

Anyway where is the diversity in the clubs?

At this point I think you all understood why I named this article “Trend makes a DJ or a DJ makes the trend?”

From the time I started gigging my philosophy was “be different, be your self and most of all BE GOOD at it”. And I thought this was the philosophy of many of you, AND MANY OF YOU followed and still follow this philosophy; that’s why I think the majority of you don’t play anymore.

Because facts show that it isn’t about be good and perform great shows.
Facts actually show that you’ve got to be in some sort of people’s circle so you can get the opportunity to play anymore.

For god sake I’m not saying we should stay the same and keep our eyes and mind closed.  Everything changes and we should develop our selves and styles but not sell our ideals so we can fit on the red carpet and the wallpaper of a place……………

I saw the same “unknown” DJs and “known DJS” doing the openings of the international ones and I can count them in one hand; over and over again.

OK dear Mr. club Owner and promoter; what it takes to give the guys a chance back again? What exactly do you want from the rest of the DJs? Be in your gang so they can play or respect them and give everyone a chance equally? Do you underestimate the rest genres of electronic music other than the ones you prefer and listen?
And dear Ladies & Gentlemen DJS of this country have you stopped trying and washed your hands OFF the scene?

I am quoting a friend:

“Quality Djs make the trend (which acts as their own style signature) which everyone follows while the quantity DJs follow the trend of others and that’s when everyone else gets fed up”

I dare to ask this question and answer it either here or answer it to your self…

Have we sacrificed music for the sake of “Life and Style” in Cyprus?

Over the past year I kept watching Local Dance Music Scene from aside for some personal issues which have nothing to do with the club scene. It had only to do with music and so on…It was my personal decision and still is. I needed a break from performing and it did only good to me. This article has nothing to do with this state I am into.

Sincerely,

Miss Misti Lambel

Ps: Comments are always welcome.

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