Twenty Questions

The Kleptones

2005-05-03T16:17:00.000+08:00

Just for the record, why "The Kleptones", since there's already a band with the same name?

Well, there's actually been two other artistes with that name, & also there was also a record label co-run by Vicki Bennett from People Like Us - not that we knew about any of them when we adopted the name four or five years ago - it started as a side project from something else I was involved in (it was derived from the name of one of the tunes we did), & blossomed from there. We checked the name on a couple of band registers & it came up blank, so we used it.

We were boggled to find the other Kleptones, but nobody seems to be getting us confused (apart from a couple of people on GYBO), so that's cool. In these enlightened, google-enhanced days, we're a lot more careful about checking out names & stuff now.

What are you up to these days?

At the moment, assembling stuff for the next two albums - there's probably going to be a Detroit To J.A. Part Two, & then the one after that, but I'm not saying anything yet - it's far too soon!

So what are the tunes that have been bangin' in your head lately?

Apart from ours? All sorts of stuff as usual - Kaiser Chiefs' album is a blast, looking forward to seeing them next week. Loving "$10" off the M.I.A. album, The Boy Least Likely To album, Aphex's "Analord" singles, the new Out Hud album, Optimo's How To Kill The DJ mix album, the new NIN single (dunno about the album though), Gruff Rhys's album. And Amerie's "1 Thing" - tune of the summer by a mile. Tons of stuff.

Can you list out five of your all-time favourite albums?

I always refuse to answer these - it's bloody impossible. Off the top of the head, then, here's my favourite five classic (almost) forgotten 80's albums:

It's Immaterial - Life's Hard & Then You Die
Thomas Dolby - The Golden Age Of Wireless
Propaganda - A Secret Wish
Wolfgang Press - Birdwood Cage
Dexy's Midnight Runners - Don't Stand Me Down

Bugger, should really include Talk Talk's Spirit Of Eden in there too...see how impossible this is?

When was the first time you bought a record that was utter brilliance? Where did you buy it?

David Bowie's "Space Oddity". It was the first record I bought, from the record department of the Co-op on Dover High Street. I remember being with my Mum & pointing up to the singles rack, going "that one, please!!". "Bohemian Rhapsody" followed soon after, so you could say I was off to a good start...

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be?

Bill Hicks (not now, obviously).

Can you recall what are some of the most bizarre or embarrassing moments that you have encountered? Give us the juicy details!!!

Most are too disgusting or embarrassing to recall, but the first time I ever mustered up the courage to DJ at a party, someone was so appalled at my ineptitude (or it might have been my choice of tunes) that they flung a huge cut glass ashtray at me that bounced off the deck, just missed my head, then smashed through the window behind me. Even the people throwing the party were pissing themselves laughing. It took quite a few months of courage-building before I tried it again... Some would say I haven't improved much!

What is the most outrageous rumour you've heard that is said about you?

That I'm Norman Cook in disguise.

The Last of The Kleptones:

Last film that gave you the creeps = The original Japanese Ring. Don't watch many creepy films though...

Last encounter with the opposite sex that involved a music album = A couple of days ago. And yes, it was one of our albums. And no, I'm not saying any more.

Last book or mag you read that gave you wood = Kembrew McLeod's Freedom Of Expression.

Last concert you went to that was awesome = Dead Can Dance @ The Forum in London t'other week.

Last mash-up you heard that made you go "Damn! Why didn't I think of that?!!" = DJ Zebra's "Are You Gonna Be My Motherf**ker". Been playing it out loads - chopped & re-edited it up with more Jet bits, though.

In your opinion, where do you think the whole bootlegging scene is heading?

To hell in a handcart, & no-one's driving. Which is the way we like it.

How about the concept of bootleggin' an entire album? You seem to have mashed-up quite a fair amount of albums yourself. What is the allure of doing an album?

You get to hold people's attention for longer. We like the idea of having a concept, or a thread, to tie things together - it makes it easer to smuggle in opinions & comments, & to get people listening to things they never would have picked out of a download list. Maybe it's also something to do with all the prog rock I was exposed to at an early age too. We want to take people on a journey, maan.

Have you received any legal warnings or praises from the people involved with the albums you booted?

Not directly, no, although Waxy, who was linking to mirrors of A Night At The Hip-Hopera got a cease & desist threat from Disney, who own Queen's catalogue in the States through their Hollywood Records subsidiary. But it faded away quickly, thank zod. Ironic really as we were poking fun at EMI on the album, not realising that they didn't own the Queen catalogue outside of Europe. Doubly ironic given that Z-Trip is signed to Hollywood Records too - no wonder he had such a hard time trying to do his mix album.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Aldi.

Has the involvement with bootlegging changed the way you listen to music nowadays?

Not really. I've always been a sample-head, so I always listen to everything with the mental scissors primed, just in case there's something worth appropriating. Can't help it.

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

The Heptones = Fatty Fatty.
Dragon Attack = Blessed Brian.
Loo & Placido = 80.75 BPM in the key of A.
Bastard = Motorhead before Motorhead.
Mercury Rev = They hold the sun in their hands.
GYBO = At it's worst, a million monkeys with typewriters. At it's best, a hotbed of inspiration & creativity. Usually, it's a hotbed of a million monkeys.
Acid Pro = A wall on which to throw shit.
MOJO = Mine's working.
Jennifer Aniston = Irrelevant.
Starbucks = Waste of money.

Which genre of music do you consider the most "under-used" in bootlegs? Why?

Ambient. A while ago someone (can't remenber who, sorry) did a few excellent boots that used things like Autechre, Global Communication etc... I thought they were excellent. Maybe we should do some...

What do you remember about the following years:

1984 = Sexcrimes
1987 = Pointy boots
1993 = 101s, 303s & 909s
1997 = Choppin' breaks
2004 = Sorry, short-term memory is totally shot. Who are you again?

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

Queen - "Don't Stop Me Now"

And your Sunday morning one?

David Bowie - "Station To Station"

So what can we expect from The Kleptones in the near future?

See above. And more blogging. And more gigging - Off to the States soon, so we'll see how that goes.

Complete the following sentences:

I describe me as...one of the good guys.

Music changed me by...giving me a medium in which to express myself.

When it comes to vices...I'm your man.

The last time I cried was...Dead Can Dance gig last week. Heartbreakingly beautiful. First time I've cried at a concert since I saw Brian Wilson sing "You Still Believe In Me" for the first time.

My most treasured possession is..."I can't tell you but I know that it's mine..."

The way to heaven is...self-realisation.

If I have any regrets...they don't affect the way I live.

Lastly, I'd like to be remembered as...the best great-great-great-great grandfather that ever lived.

You can check out The Kleptones' website here or visit their "Downloads" page directly here.

DJ Paul V

2005-04-19T17:27:00.000+08:00

First of all, how the devil are you & what are you up to these days?

I'm really happy, excited, & doing great! Still doing all my club events (DJ-ing & VJ-ing), & writing my bi-monthly music reviews. The biggest news has been getting my mash picks & my 30-minute "Smash Mix" on Indie 103.1 radio here in LA. That heaps on some extra pressure to come up with a "smashing" new mix every week, but I ain't complaining! It's a dream come true. Indie 103.1 is just an amazing radio station to be a part of.

So what are the tunes that have been ringing in your head lately?

I have to admit I'm a sucker for the new "new wave" bands. I was around for the original wave (Gang Of Four is one of my all-time fave bands) & I played all those bands in the clubs in the early '80s. I'm really digging Futureheads, Bloc Party, Kaiser Chiefs et al. (XTC deserves some royalties, baby) And man, the new LCD Soundsystem is mind-blowingly great.

Can you list out five of your all-time favourite albums?

Yikes...that's like asking me what was my favourite breath was. But ok, I'll go for it:

The The - Soul Mining
One of most tuneful, poignant, brilliant records ever made.

Jane's Addiction - Nothing's Shocking
Pure adrenaline, & a real moment in time for me.

Prince - Dirty Mind
This helped me add funk & grooves to my rock fandom.

The Pretenders - Pretenders
A coming of age record for me. Chrissie = genius.

U2 - Boy
See Pretenders. These songs hold up completely. Another amazing debut.

When was the last time you bought a record that was groundbreaking? Where did you buy it?

I'll tell ya - these days that is SO rare. Just give me anything by Patti Smith, Public Enemy, Roxy Music, or LCD Soundsystem (which I just bought at my local mom & pop shop).

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be?

Pablo Picasso. Because he wasn't an asshole. And he was Italian too - and Italians rule, baby. Capiche? By the way, the "V." stands for a beautiful Italian last name that everyone butchers when trying to pronounce it. And no, I won't tell you what it is...But...it means "long life" in English.

Can you recall any embarrassing or bizarre moments during your entire DJ-ing career? Give us the juicy details!!!

This will always be etched in my mind: My first DJ gig, at an 18+ dance/rock club in Boston. These kids were i-n-s-a-n-e...& horny. I can't tell you how many girls I saw getting boned on the pinball machine in the dark corner outside the DJ booth! And of course, any time some drunk shithead slams into the booth & skips your tune - or drops his/her drink on your equipment. I've actually stopped the music & gone on the mic to say: "Well, there was another asshole skipping my record!"

It's a well-known fact that you DJ in drag. What do you think is the greatest convenience being in drag?

You're kidding, right? I only DJ in drag because it's attached to what we created with that one particular club (Dragstrip 66). Since our mantra for our patrons has always been "Come dressed in drag for the theme!" - me & my club partner do it EVERY month to participate & set the example. But if there was a convenience, it's being able to grab a guy's crotch or ass without any tension. Of course, they forget *I* have a dick at that moment too...

In your opinion, what is the most misunderstood fact about drag queens?

That they somehow ruin the "masculine gay man's" image or cruising experience. In reality, that freedom of expression only heightens any party, because it assures a sense of humor & camaraderie & makes it all less SERIOUS. Plus - lest ANYONE forget that it was drag queens who stood up to the homophobia & police harrassment in NYC in 1969, thus starting the modern gay rights movement. Rock on, sisters!

What is the most ridiculous rumour you've heard about you?

That I'm a Republican who doesn't believe George W. Bush is a murderer, a thief, & the most dangerous man alive on the planet right now. All I can say is: Where's Lee Harvey Oswald when you really need him?

The First of DJ Paul V:

First film that gave you the creeps = Jaws
First sexual encounter that involved a music album = Totally drawing a blank here
First book you read that set you tripping = And I Don't Want To Live This Life (The Nancy Spungeon Story)
First concert you went to that was life-changing = David Cassidy, then KISS
First mash-up you heard that turned you on to the whole bootleg bizzness = Like just about everyone else - Freelance Hellraiser's - "A Stroke Of Genie-Us"

Interestingly, you've mentioned that you used to work with Porno For Pyros. Care to share with us some of the wildest tales? Humour us please...

I wish there was more humour in the story! While I love Perry with all my heart, at the time, he (& every person involved with PFP) were completely gacked on drugs - hard, harsh drugs. Only Steve Perkins (drummer) basically just got stoned - he was always easy to deal with. Worst story is Perry missing his LA-to-NYC flight to play Woodstock '94. He somehow ended up in San Francisco with his insane girlfriend (crackhead), & had to charter his own flight to NYC, arriving within hours of us having to leave for the gig. We were all freaking out over it.

What is the greatest pain as well as the biggest joy running a radio show that champions mash-ups?

The biggest joy is the joy we all share - that moment when someone hears that brilliant vision of putting music together so creatively. There really isn't a pain - except when you try to explain what a mashup is to someone who hasn't heard one yet. It's sort of like trying to explain what an orgasm feels like to a virgin?

In your opinion, what are the factors that make a good mash-up?

Obviously, they gotta be technically smooth (timing/tuning etc.), but I think the best ones are where the mixer heard how similar chords matched, or structure, & I always gravitate towards the mashes that f**k with each genre's audience (without resorting to a damn rap vocal). GHP's "Ray Of Gob" is one of the zeniths on that level.

Describe your ultimate bootleg fantasy involving RuPaul, Dsico, David Hasselhoff & Cartel Mike. C'mon, give it your best shot...

Cartel Mike samples Dsico's groans from his date with RuPaul & her strap-on, & makes a jazz-fusion techno loop out of the sounds of David Hasselhoff burning his pubic hairs.

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

Frenchbloke = Extremely broad & diverse tastes in the left of center stuff. Love it!
Carmen Electra = Very sweet, actually. And went from being a joke to a star.
Divine = Fearless. A legend. An original. An inspiration.
BitTorrent = I haven't a clue...
Billy Corgan = Some great songs & melodies - usually drowning in that whiny voice.
The Arcade Fire = Completely warranted hype.
Soundhog = See Divine. He's someone I'd love to meet.
Flip The Switch = Um...& the light goes on?
Jesus = The most exploited fictional character ever used to rationalize killing & oppression.
Madonna = Unstoppable...even when she kinda sucks.

Which genre of music do you consider the most "under-used" in bootlegs? Why?

Probably Nuggets-era garage rock, or 60's/70's rock in general, 'cuz those live drummers were most likely high & their timing can be a bitch.

What do you remember about the following years:

1983 = Meeting Stevie Nicks & Robert Plant - she's tiny, he's a giant!
1987 = My DJ career hitting amazing heights in Boston, thus being hired by Warner Records.
1994 = Quitting Warner, managing bands, buying my house, a big earthquake, & the OJ trial
1999 = Thrilled that the rightwing zealots couldn't take down Clinton.
2002 = Discovering 2 things: Mashups (great!), the Bush administration Jihad (very bad!)...

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

Dandy Warhols - "Bohemian Like You". The only people not dancing to this are either on the toilet taking a dump, passed out, or 6-feet-under.

And your Sunday morning one?

Groove Armada - Vertigo

Complete the following sentences:

I describe myself as...honest, hard-working, polite to a fault, yet 100% bullheaded Taurus.

Music changed me by...keeping me young with the joy of daily discovery. And making me realize that everyone is touched by music, with no labels attached.

When it comes to vices...mine is smoking. I never hit the booze or drugs hard. I'm in the middle of quitting cigs as we speak, actually.

The last time I cried was...the end of a recent relationship. And when my mom passed [away].

My most treasured possession is...my imagination, & my dog Lulu.

If I have any regrets...it's not doing remixes or putting my ear/talents to even better use at a much younger age. And not making my OWN mashes yet! They're on the way tho...

When we die...our souls leave a beautiful impact, but that's it. End of the ride, folks.

Lastly, I'd like to be remembered as...a huge fan of music who was lucky enough to stumble into a career where I can give joy to people with the POWER of all kinds of music. And being a gay guy who refused to accept the dreck & shit music that most gay clubs play, so I created my own places to entertain people - gay & straight - who felt the same way. And I will brag a little: my club Dragstrip 66 is the longest running underground event in LA (maybe anyplace?). All word of mouth & no advertising for 12+ years now. And next year is my 25th anniversary of DJ-ing. I'll be the first to admit I'm blessed by all this.

You can download DJ Paul V's Smash Mix series here (the mixes are also available via Culture Deluxe here), or visit his site here. Meanwhile, you can also check out Indie 103.1FM here.

Prank Monkey

2005-03-30T10:01:00.000+08:00

Starring Nick Foster, Richie Deluxe & Pheugoo

Just for the record, what's the story behind the name 'Prank Monkey'?

Nick Foster: From The Simpsons episode - "Homer vs. Dignity". Not one of the best, but the Malibu Stacy musical bit in it is inspired.

Richie Deluxe: Pretty much what he said. I wanted to call the label "Clarence".

Pheugoo: Is called Prank Monkey?!

So what're the "monkeys" up to these days?

Nick: We've got our first release Cowboy Boots coming out on the 4th April. It's a 12" EP & eleven-track virtual album combo (the virtual album is only available if you buy the 12") & should be available from most record emporiums.

Richie: After that we have the vinyl release of an infamous bootleg album.

Pheugoo: Uhm...do "the monkeys" still exist? I thought they broke up ages ago!

And what 'choons' are currently ringing in the office?

Nick: Dunno 'bout Richie or Pheugoo, but at the moment I'm listening to a version of "Ain't No Sunshine" by Eva Cassidy - not by choice I may add.

Richie: At the moment I'm listening to the Wedding Present & These Animal Men.

Pheugoo: I'm listening to "Una Paloma Blanca (2005)" over & over again. Don't ask me why.

If push comes to shove, can you list out five of the greatest monkey-related songs?

Nick: Eerrrr..."Funky Gibbon" by The Goodies (sorry Richie, I had to have this one)...the theme from Monkey the TV series..."Daydream Believer" by The Monkees...ummm...George Michael did one but it was shit...eemmm...the theme from King Kong...no, that's it I'm spent.

Richie: Well, since he's nicked the "Funky Gibbon" right from under me..."Luther The Anthropod" by the Jimmy Castor Bunch, "Monkey Magic" by Shaft, "Work Mi Body" by Monkey Mafia, "I Wanna Be Like You" from The Jungle Book & er..."Randy Scouse Git" by the Monkees - purely cos it's the least likely song title for a manufactured American band.

Pheugoo: Manu Negra - "King Kong Five", Millencolin - "Monkey Boogie", The Kinks -"Apeman", Wobbie Williams - "Me & My Monkey" & any song from Wacko Jacko.

When was the last time any of you bought a record that made you go totally ballistic? Where did you buy it?

Nick: Not brought a record for a long time, been spending most of my time transfering my CD collection onto my iPod. Last album I brought was Eels - Daisies Of The Galaxy, which I downloaded off iTunes.

Richie: I liked the Chromeo album a lot, although the last one to make me go mental was probably the Datsuns first one!

Pheugoo: The last record I bought... hmm tough question. I can tell you what the last record I should have bought: Little Barrie - We Are Little Barrie.

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you guys ever wanted to be?

Nick: Syd Barrett, Arthur Lee...my god the list is endless.

Richie: Bill Drummond, Adamski, Mike Nolan.

Pheugoo: David Carson, Roy Liechtenstein, & some musicians as well

The First of Prank Monkey:

First record you ever bought =

Nick: Slade - "Merry Xmas Everybody" 7" single for 50p

Richie: The Greatest Hits Of Shakin Stevens in 1984!

Pheugoo: Hollands Hakkuh 2

First sexual encounter that made you go bananas =

Nick: Err...

Richie: Discrete fumbling many years ago

Pheugoo: Actually with my current missus 7 years ago (or something)

First prank you played that went overboard =

Nick: Em...

Richie: I once gave Rod Hull the wrong directions to the local theatre

Pheugoo: Don't know where I have to start

First movie that gave you wood =

Nick: Oh...

Richie: Teen Wolf when that lady takes off her bra

Pheugoo: Karate Kid IV! Wrauw!

First outrageous rumour you heard about Prank Monkey =

Nick: That we're corporate whores who are only in it for the money - not actually a rumour as yet, but give it time...

Richie: That we release any old shit

Pheugoo: That I'm in it

Could you tell us a slight history on how Prank Monkey Records came about?

Nick: Started [out] as a drunk conversation with Richie D in Harrow.

Richie : I thought it was actually a hungover conversation in Rickmansworth? But the Harrow legend is better - it's been retold in song you know, but you'd need to get hold of our virtual CD to hear it.

Pheugoo: In Trier Nick asked me if I wanted to help him out with some dark underground project he was launching, by accident I said yess.

Of all the genres, why a release on country-themed mash-ups?

Nick: It was originally only going to be a virtual album release of C&W boots as a bit of fun, but due to our next release being quite an undertaking, we decided to put out a limited release of four tracks from the collection that seem to fit together the best. This is meant to be a sort of "test" release, so we could get everything together (distribution, artwork etc) for our next "major" release. Still valid tho & I personally love it. A lot of fun.

Richie: It's because Nick has an unhealthy obsession with country, & it was the theme that most tenuously linked our stuff together.

Pheugoo: Country is the new Pop!

Most of the tracks were all previously released on GYBO. What chances of success are you guys expecting with the vinyl release of Country Boots?

Nick: It is hard to tell with vinyl, but we are not just aiming for people who reside on GYBO/CDX/Mutantpop etc. This is one of the reasons that we had to get distribution, so apart from the forums there will also be a chance of people buying it on impulse from a record shop.

Richie: Getting into the likes of HMV allow us to reach people who don't spend all day browsing cliquey web forums.

Pheugoo: Coz we are pigheaded!

Could you tell us a little about the secret track that can be downloaded only with the password obtained by buying the vinyl?

Nick: No, but there will be a couple of exclusives.

Richie: It's the worst thing ever made, & the best thing.

Pheugoo: Sshhhtt!

What do you think is the 'secret ingredient' behind a Prank Monkey release?

Nick: No secret ingredient. I think because of the first release & the Richie connection, people will mistakenly believe that we will just be releasing "fun" boots/mash ups. Our second release should put a stop to that...but then our third will probably put us back to square one again! There will be bonus tracks etc available online with each release.

Richie: Not entirely sure what the Richie connection is, but we're buzzing with ideas, we have bootlegging's greatest graphic artist on board & we're always gonna give you something interesting. Yes, sometimes the ideas are a little silly, but they're timeless - what would you prefer? Something you'll pick up & smile at in years to come, or some faceless breaks track that sounds dated a month later?

Pheugoo: Bananas! Tons of bananas!

In your opinion, what are the factors that make a good mash-up?

Nick: I am a sucker for a good ol fashion A+B, after all it's what got me interested in the scene in the first place, but I must admit that I prefer very odd, imaginative pairings over technical perfection.

Richie: You've heard it before, you'll hear it again. The smile factor. If you aren't smiling 20 seconds into the song then it's going off.

Pheugoo: Yeah, I love A vs B bootlegs with genre clash. I like 'em catchy as hell with as little rap as possible.

Describe your ultimate bootleg fantasy involving Garth Brooks, King Kong, Shania Twain, Dunproofin' & Pheugoo. Humour us please...

Nick: Garth & Andy mount an expedition to Skull Island (in the Netherlands) to capture the legendary King Kong. However, their path is blocked by Pheugoo Man.They managed to distract Pheugoo Man with some fun paper & felt pens & carry on their journey, only to discover it is not King Kong that the natives are worshipping but Shania Twain & her huge bosom.

Richie: Dunproofin' & Pheugoo are drinking 9% beer in an Amsterdam cafe & somehow land roles in the new Peter Jackson movie of King Kong as SWAT team members. However, Dunproofin' is forced to wear pyjamas & a big moustache for the part. Garth Brooks & Shania Twain are used as stunt doubles for the shooting of Kong, but neither is given body armour. Dunproofin' later remarks that he does not know how Pheugoo got into his pyjamas. Then I wake up & have some coffee.

Pheugoo: Hmm...for me it isn't even a fantasy: I'm disturbing Dunproofin' each 5 mins... no it was 3...or...NO!...no it wasn't Dunproofin' I'm disturbing King Kong each 7 mins...or was it daily?...anyway, I was disturbng him with my new Shania Twain mash-up...or was it...yess it was...yeah now I'm sure...it was a Garth Brooks mash-up!!...anyway I'm really lousy at telling jokes!

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

Ian Brown =

Nick: Monkey Man

Richie: Hammy Wizard

Pheugoo: Who?

GYBO =

Nick: Kill Toby

Richie: Secret

Pheugoo: Became way to complicated for me

Weiser =

Nick: The rowboat song

Richie: Over-rated

Pheugoo: Bud!

Dolly Parton =

Nick: Bosom's

Richie: Tits

Pheugoo: Hooties

Mojo Jojo =

Nick: Not as good as Fuzzy Lumpkins & 'jo

Richie: Helper Monkey

Pheugoo: Townsville

Richie Deluxe =

Nick: Thinks he's a superhero & runs around Aberdeen with his pants over his jeans trying to fight crime. He is pants man.

Richie: Ha ha ha ha...he's lying. I don't wear pants.

Pheugoo: Are you wearing your kilt again?

Tatooine =

Nick: Should never have gone back the second time.

Richie: Tattoos? I don't have any.

Pheugoo: Hmm dunno. Let's google it!

Basement Jaxx =

Nick: Where's their head at ???

Richie: Fashion design students.

Pheugoo: Isn't that the new kid?

Johnny Cash =

Nick: A Boy Called Sue

Richie: Change from the condom machine.

Pheugoo: The Man Who Comes Around

Bathing Ape =

Nick: Isn't that Bush's mate, Ben???

Richie: T-shirts - not as good as Silas

Pheugoo: Has never made it through the Dutch border

Which genre of music do you consider it to be the next 'big' thing?

Nick: Skiffle! Overdue a comeback!

Richie: C86-style jingle-jangle indie - just you watch.

Pheugoo: Like I said before - Country is the new Pop.

What do you remember about the following years:

1988 =

Nick: Drugs, sex & rock n' roll.

Richie: Football, milkshakes, Tiffany.

Pheugoo: Mama...Papa...

1995 =

Nick: Married with child; no more drugs, sex & rock n' roll; occasional night out.

Richie: Drugs, sex & rock n' roll & serious disco dancing.

Pheugoo: Started to study arts. And it was the first time I visited a festival (Pinkpop).

1999 =

Nick: Better job; married with two children; no more drugs, sex & rock n' roll.Very occasional night out.

Richie: Moved to Perth - became a hermit.

Pheugoo: Met my lovely girlfriend.

2001 =

Nick:Promoted again:Married with two children : No more drugs, sex & rock n' roll. Hey, who needs night's out.

Richie: Wrote Culture Deluxe - although then it was known as Excalibur Music Store. Discovered bootlegs with Frenchbloke & Son.

Pheugoo: First time I went to Rock Werchter & saw 2 Many DJs (I've been told) .

2004 =

Nick: Prank Monkey takes shape.

Richie: Released London Booted & was violently sick in London.

Pheugoo: Started to do mash-ups myself, & brought Pheugoo to life.

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

Nick: Depends...

Richie: I said Vitalic's "La Rock" last time...this time I'm gonna say "Kung Fu" by Ash.

Pheugoo: NOFX - Punk In Drubic

And your Sunday morning one?

Nick: Depends...

Richie: The Virgin Suicides by Air.

Pheugoo: Zero 7 - When It Falls

Complete the following sentences...

Music changed my life...

Nick: I could have been a doctor, a lawyer...but no...

Richie: It hasn't yet, unfortunately.

Pheugoo: Coz it faded away my social life.

When it comes to vices...

Nick: Everyone should have at least one.

Richie: Miami, every time.

Pheugoo: Yess please...

The one thing that pisses me off major is...

Nick: Heart F**king FM.

Richie: Driving, drivers, cars...I can't even enjoy the dodgems now.

Pheugoo: People who misspell my name or pronounce it incorrectly.

Everybody got something to hide except...

Nick: Me & my...

Richie: Rik Waller.

Pheugoo: Clark Kent.

Paris Hilton is one...

Nick: Skanky Ho.

Richie: Off the wrist.

Pheugoo: On my to do list.

Culture Deluxe rocks because...

Nick: It's doing it for the kids.

Richie: It gives me something else to do when I'm supposed to be working.

Pheugoo: It uses pink in it's design.

When we die...

Nick: We die.

Richie: Another schmuck takes our place.

Pheugoo: Someone else has to pay the bills.

Lastly, Prank Monkey Records would wanna be remembered as...

Nick: A record label of ill repute.

Richie: The thing that finally killed bootlegs forever.

Pheugoo: The label that bought Sony & EMI.

You can visit the website of Prank Monkey Records here

Marty Batfreak

2005-03-20T14:00:00.000+08:00

First of all, how the devil are you & what are you up to these days?

I'm super, thanks for asking, G. We've just enjoyed a 2-for-1 Royal Tour of Australia, the Royal Easter Show is on again, & I'm doing a royal job on these questions.

Every day online for me is now dedicated to B'N'R Forum, in some way, & my Sydney radio show Pitch Shift - which turns one on April Fools' - has been incorporated into that same process. A win-win for all. Also, come April 10th, aka Day 100 of 2005, I'll release One Hundred Boots into the cyber-air, as a 100 minute mix, so that's taking some time to finish (thankfully, my Dynamic Duo partner in crime, DJ HDD will help me master it, so look forward to quality). Then, on Anzac Day, I'm playing yet again at the outdoor bush party (we call them 'doofs') called Elixir; these are so suitable for the Aussie climate... or is it the other way around? Either way, a lot of hippies, happy vibes, but too much psy-trance (the new annoying 'pop' to me & the Doc), so I'll be at the Funky Chicken stage dishing out boots n electro.

All in all, a busy little Bat.

What's the story behind the name "Marty Batfreak"?

Well, I'll let you guys catch up by visiting the SFMC story here, but put simply...I was Marty B, until another Marty B(utler) appeared on the Sydney DJ scene. I was playing less hip hop & more techno by then, so I went 'feral', as we say. For half my life now, Batman was easily, & by sheer chance, the first character I ever seriously collected in comic books (For Sale: issues #400-500 incl. spinoffs => 50% proceeds to Architects Without Frontiers). Rather than just take the name 'Batman' (I respect the DC character too much to be a clone), the Bat animus or motif suits me, & my poor eyesight, latenight tendencies to jump around flapping to strange sounds, with pointy teeth, make the choice more real.

Good sense of 'ear', too.

So what are the tunes that have been ringing in your head lately?

For starters, this month I've been extra lucky to be herding the boots for our next project, BootLegend. You can read more at the forum, but basically, hats off once again to RikkiRok for a fine job, hang tight for the release, gang.

Then, it's really a case of YAY DJ FOOD HAS DONE IT PROPER. That's right, the redux of "Raiding The 21st Century" has not left my immediate playlist since [its] release earlier this year. Top shelf style & meaning for all.

Dublxero, obviously like myself also a fan of the ICP, was my choice for an edition of DJ HDD's "Boots N All" mid March, & every one of 00's individual edits stand out as gold for anyone's portable player, I reckon - 'tis smile-making stuff.

I'd also like to mention Aggro1 & Audio Shrapnel as purveyors of fine boots, so fine I'm unable to list them all here. But they've been 'wringing' my head - hehe.

Oh, & MC Pitman... y'get me?

Can you list out five of your all-time favourite albums?

Walter Carlos - A Clockwork Orange soundtrack
My earliest memories include asking for this to be played to me (the infant) over & over & over. There's just something about the moog that 'gels' with me & my ears. Yes, eventually, I was allowed to inherit the original CBS audio cassette, & when I finally saw ACO up on the big screen (all visitors to Sydney MUST consider a visit to the Valhalla Theatre), all the hairs on my body stood up... wow, what a sound.

Carl Orff - Carmina Burana (Berlin Opera & Orchestra)
If Beelzebub really DOES listen to classical, then this is it. Banned for its content, this has to be one of the most powerful compositions for eternity. Buy it, listen to the WHOLE thing....then again. And again.

Public Enemy - Fear Of A Black Planet
This was the concrete in the fandom for me & only a handful of others at school. The catalog of PE got better at Uni, too...

Mike Oldfield - Tubular Bells
The first 'A-Side+B-side' album I ever bought on CD, & I didn't stop playing it for about 3 weeks (first yr Uni). It is the epitome of what one individual can achieve, ironically balanced by the sheer brutal nature of the music industry (Richard Branson made his FIRST million from this album, while Mike saw practically bugger all of it).

Fatboy Slim - Better Living Through Chemistry
(Ha! Didn't see THAT coming, did ya?)When this album came out, I knew there was hope for electronic-finksters after all...Ah, trip hop. Ah, big beat. Ah...just ah, for everything Norman has ever done & will do. Screw the purists, this is Skint.

When was the first time you bought a record that was shite? Where did you buy it?
This is a really tough question. Buying shite isn't easy, sometimes it can take months to find the shite you want. They don't have many shite bins in stores anymore, not like the old 'oh-wow-have-you-heard-about-these-new-CDJ-players' days...

Actually, I won't bother naming it, but someone around here has been writing 'shite' of late, so I won't be buying his album, despite my deep sense of loyalty to the local smatterings of talent.

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be?

Mike Oldfield (see above). Well, him, or his French equivalent, Jean-Michel Jarre - both giants in my electronic world. I mean, who else gets the chance to play the Millenium NYE at the Pyramids of Giza, & is permitted to install lasers on them? Class. Every album a winner, from both of them.

Can you recall any embarrassing or bizarre moments during your entire DJ-ing career? Give us the juicy details!!!

Ignoring the jocks' 20 or 30 requests for Pearl Jam at a college gig (yes, my college), & thus-ly being dragged out to the oval, & tied to the goal posts for about half an hour. (Don't worry, the Bat never forgets...they still wonder who it was not too long after, that kept removing the circuit fuses for the fridges in their common rooms) That was embarassing.

Bizarre was discovering (somewhere else entirely) that 3 DJs CAN play at the same time, without talking to each other, & still sound co-ordinated (yay for the Lazy Sunday posse).

You are part of the team behind the B'N'R Forum. What do you think is the greatest pains & biggest joys at maintaining a board like that?

Ok, pains first. Most of these now exist beyond the parameters of B'N'R, but really, it's been the all-too-quick criticism of efforts made with good intentions, just because certain 'critics' (haha) feel that it is their right/duty to dump on people. I'm reminded of Jay & Silent Bob, visiting their 'h8rs' one by one, & how much I will, one day, enjoy talking to these tossers face to face. Count on it... you know who you are. Sour grapes are just that - sour, so go drop off the vine & rot.

Now, the Joys. SO MANY JOYS, like making new friends for life, making a difference, & making pop so bastardly, that I almost guarantee I will be jailed. And loving it. C Boast was smart enough to grab as the driving force for its creation (hehe, don't mind if i do!), & with mods like
Spiny to assist, we cannot fail in our quest for even more experimentation & artistry. And yes, Dsico, it is art, & it brings us & others joy to do so. We ask people to register before posting, because that's what brings the 'village' atmosphere together - it works.

The ULTIMATE joys are the boot albums & mini challenges we are always up to. BootLegend is out 05.05.05 - make a note in your diary to visit B'N'R for more info.

What is the most outrageous rumour you've heard about you?

I was dead (you'd think someone would ring to check, but no...). Reasons varied, but generally they had some pretty mental pictures to accompany the goss. (Oh, & two booters thawt I was Luke Dsico with a mask on. I'd like to point out that he does NOT, in any way, reflect the true state of bootlegging in Sydney. Nope. Not a chance. I mean, well done on Spasticated, but the rest of us are digging our heels in. Please visit the WARNING: DO NOT READ THIS THREAD thread at B'N'R to learn who I am, & am, & am...)

The Last of Marty Batfreak:

Last film that gave you wood = ...that I didn't download?... ummm...I saw something on SBS TV last year... I'll get back to you on that...

Last sexual encounter that involved a music album = ...I'll just dig up my fave makeout CD here, FSOL's Lifeforms - try to cue one CD after the other without gap.

Last book or mag you read that gave you the creeps = How To Win Friends & Influence People

Last concert you went to that was awesome = Big Day Out 2005 - ho yes, Beasties up in this!!!

Last mash-up you heard that made you go "Damn! I should've done that!" = "I Love Celine", 'tis fkjing funny but nope, 'snot me... some have asked, but ihni... ask the Capn at B'N'R.

Interestingly, you've mentioned that you're from Australia. What are the things you love about your country?

Sun, sunsets, sunrises, sand, surf, sex, sheilas, spas, shmoko, speed, spices, sauces, summer, seclusion, stand-up, skins, swingers, slammers, schooners, strikes, shows, stars, Scenius, Severed Heads, sevcom, & sharing spirit...but NOT sports.

What is Australia's reaction like when it comes to mash-ups?

Check the previous 20Q's from my fellow antipodeans, Bangers & Mash & Dsico; that's mainly to help me pad out my answer here... hehe.

In 2005 (if at all), it's still 'heard' as some crazy post-DJ thing. Most online punters here wouldn't necessarily leave the safety of a typical 'dance music' forum. Also, & this is much more obvious, the power of the awe factor has still yet to be truly broken on dancefloors around this
country. Why's that? Dunno...let it grow, I guess...rave music did.

And yet, after style names come & go, over the years of private DJ gigs for me, & DJ HDD also around town somewhere, we're wondering how all of a sudden, Ministry of Sound is able to claim any cred for 'discovering' mashups? With one of our potentially decent 'bastard' DJs at the helm? Hmmm...

In your opinion, what are the factors that make a good mash-up?

A clever mash-up uses the titles/themes to create something new, from what is primarily just a bit punny. A good mash-up is one that even the artistes involved would smile at. A GREAT mash-up gets released through the proper channels & sold, preferably here, cos I've always loved finding white label gems in shops around town.

Describe your ultimate bootleg fantasy involving you, AC/DC, Kylie Minogue, Spiny Norman & DJ C Boast. Humour us please...

It's 2012. C Boast, his real name now by deed poll, graduates with Honours in Music from the esteemed Oxford-on-Mash College, & spends his whirlwind DJ career fortune on flying him, a dozen family & friends, & a few Aussie booters over to California. Home of Club Le Mont Blanc, where Kylie is playing her 24th & final live gig, & celebrating the release of her 'KY/DC' Gold DVD Mashography, with the few remaining members of the Acca still playing 'chair guitar' support to her. The Manager, Emily Norman, keeps everyone well entertained, 'cos of course, she's unlikely to get Spiny off the decks... ever... even when Kylie IS playing.

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

Bruce Wayne = Marty Wells
DJ No No = Yes yes
Primal Scream = Thank you for introducing the Dust Brothers to me again (but WHICH Dust Brothers was it?)
Majick = the forum: well done on Janet; the creator: 2slow; C.H.A.O.S. Prod (on the other hand) fine booter
CartelMike = Moby
Durex = different colors
McSleazy = anti-christ
Eva Longoria = woof woof
Judas = whistleblower
Soulseek = watching paint dry

Which genre of music do you consider the most "under-used" in bootlegs?

Classic rave & warehouse chooons. Apart from the great Lumpy, no one has really taken this head on. Yet. Oh, & expect more classy jazz from Scenius (also an Aussie), the cat's got style.

What do you remember about the following years:

1989 = Two VIPartiesWithoutParents

i) Grafton, no one from my school, but it was my first EVER DJ gig, almost impromptu. After bringing about 40 audio cassettes of music (mostly self-made compilations), I discovered that both decks could be played at the same time on the mini hi-fi. Enter the Deejay...& I've never looked back.

ii) South Grafton, my side of town. Got laid. Well, sort of...downstairs laundry floor, too...what, too graphic?

1995 = Mid week 2RSR radio show 'Pitch Control' turns two. Joined Clan Analogue, Australia's true electronic collective, which would lead me into playing at Itche & Scratche's Farewell gig at the Metro, & also at the following year's Big Day Out. Drove a white VW bug.

1997 = Batfreak was 'born', & started a series of successful collaborations; WombleThump (Pipes On Sunday), The Flow (Chai.4.2 Assemblage Records), Random Bullshit (FBi Radio)

2001 = A weird one. Highlights incl. presenting JJJ's MixUp for 8 hrs at a time AT the Gigs! The ONLY Mardi Gras ever broadcast, NYE @ Bondi (interviewed Erick Morillo), GateCrasher, Transmission, & wrapping it up with 6 days in a row of presenting the Christmas Breakfast Shows.

2004 = Boots, glorious boooots! After ringing the Doc (Boots N All) & reintroducing ourselves (yes, we were both on 2RSR 10 yrs prior!), Pitch Shift was born on 2MBSfm, thankyou Doc, & thankyou CMC, who have been there for 25 years now, with about 50+ presenters over that time...& they say the graveyard shift isn't fun.... HA. (102.5, sydney siders, & the 150km radius or so). B'N'R is born, my hobbies begin anew.

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

Gat Decor - "Passion" (old ravers never die, they just appreciate house music).

And your Sunday morning one?

The Orb - "Little Fluffy Clouds" (especially Adam Freeland's mix)

Usually, Sunday is a special B'N'Radio catchup day, or even a bong mix or mwude too, both from b00mb0x.

Complete the following sentences:

I describe myself as... eclectic. And I love good radio.

Music changed me by... becoming my life.

When it comes to vices... just don't smoke. Too much.

The last time I cried was... when I stubbed my little toe for the umpteenth time. See, we wear thongs on our feet, but that's not always a good thing.

My most treasured possession is... my hearing. I've often affirmed that I'd rather go blind.

If I have any regrets... je ne regrette rieeennnnnnnn

When we die... finally, some decent sleep!....ahhhh.

Lastly, I'd like to be remembered as... (for my headstone): 'Well, that was a lot of fun, & we all had a jolly good laugh.'

This interview is dedicated to Marty's mum, without whom, there is no DJ Batfreak.

Check out Marty Batfreak's exclusive boot below:

Blog Roggin' Beats

You can also check out B'N'R@dio's site here

Frenchbloke

2005-02-22T12:03:00.000+08:00

Just for the record, why the name "Frenchbloke" when you're obviously not French?

There's actually no real reason. I was maintaining the Optimo website & was challenged to get more site traffic. Uploaded a Britney / Mount Florida thing & the name Frenchbloke was
born (primarily in case everyone hated it & sent out a lynch mob armed with big pointy sticks).

What are you up to these days?

I'm off (real) work with a collapsed arch on my foot, so plenty of time playing with software that makes noises. Also being prepared for the imminent arrival of our fourth child.

So what are the tunes that have been ringing in your head lately?

Lately? Err...the all singing & dancing Dsico's You Fight Like A Girl, Munk's Apertivo album, YMO's Technopolis & Renaldo & The Loaf's Bearded Cats.

If push comes to shove, what are the five of your all-time favourite albums?

Throbbing Gristle - D.O.A.
Kraftwerk - Autobahn
The Silicon Teens - Music For Parties
The Human League - Reproduction
Liaisons Dangereuses - Liaisons Dangereuses

Can you recall the first time you bought a record that was utter shite? Where did you buy it?

I've been blessed with the "Can you let me hear a bit of this?" attitude in shops. If they didn't, I didn't buy it.

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be?

GG Allin or Tom Jones

So what happened to the working relationship of Frenchbloke & Son? Give us the full, uncut story please!!!

Basically, there was a lack of communication from all three parties. It wasn't till January 2004 that I found out what happened with the Bowie mixes I did (sadly "Laughing Gnome" wasn't available). My lack of interest in DJ-ing - I'd been knocking back things since 2001 - I am not a DJ. My past experience with the music industry as a whole makes me very wary. I'd been shafted in the past and wasn't going to let it happen again. The reason I handed in my notice in December 2003 was that I'd promised myself that if I heard the excuse of 'coming down here to make a go of things' once more that'd be it. And that was it.

I had a very nice eight months off. There is a cracker of a clause in the management contract that F&S had with Avalon stating that all the music must be original & does not breach the copyright of any third party or something. I neglected to mention that at the time of signing & was holding onto that in case it all went pear-shaped. I reclaimed the name...well...it was my name. I made it up. Nothing had happened with the name to warrant me not reclaiming it.

You've also seemed to have "retired" from doing mash-ups these days. What do you think about the direction bootlegs are heading these days?

Who said I'd retired? They seem to be going backwards instead of going forward. Back to the old school or something. The Linkin Park & Jay-Z [thing] isn't where they should be going.

If you were asked to do a greatest hits album for Frenchbloke, which 15 tracks would you choose to represent your entire bootlegging career?

"Right Behind", "Ich Habe Meine Bizkit", "Kraftwerk's Waltz", "Children's TV Theme No.1", "Destiny's Kennedys", & lots of bits & bobs that only ever cropped up in the mixes.

The Last of Frenchbloke:

Last blog that you visited that was brilliant = I can't say that I have.

Last encounter with the opposite sex that involved bootlegs = Seriously? Bastard 9 where the creepy woman was heckling us.

Last album you heard that gave you the creeps = Mamas & Papas Greatest Hits. Or anything by Wet Wet Wet.

Last concert you went to that was awesome = Kraftwerk, Glasgow, 1991. Or the Sahkö evening at Sonora, Glasgow in 1994 where Ø, Panasonic & Jimi Tenor played all evening. Fantastic.

Last mash-up you heard that made you wanna reconsider your "retirement" from bootlegs = But you still haven't answered my question: who said I had retired?

What is the most misunderstood thing about you that you would like to clear up here once & for all?

I'm not as scary as folks make me out to be.

There were some misunderstanding between you & IDC regarding a track of his appearing in your blog. What really happened?

I was demonstrating that the IDC mix of [Soundhog's] "Curdler", as compared with the Soundhog mix of [IDC's] "Scratch", was actually piss poor. Shite. Pish. A waste of hard drive space & time. But then, I'm no fan of IDC's work. I don't 'get it' must be a North-South thing.

In your opinion, should music be made free?

No. But once you buy it, it's then yours to do what you want. Make an ashtray, scratch the heck out of it...

If Michael Jackson asked you to do a boot to bring his credibility back, would you do it? What would your terms be? Humour us please...

That I'd be in total control. And that if no Jacko actually appeared on the track....& can my chair in the studio be against the wall please.

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

IDC = Too big for his own ego. Totally over-rated. Sonically, a mess.
Eddy Temple Morris = A big kid let loose in a studio (in a good way).
Fad Gadget = R.I.P. Always two years ahead of Depeche Mode. Sorely missed.
Nick Kilroy = R.I.P. The man, or one of the men behind Gabba.net. He really liked music.
Rainbow = Twangers...
DJ Zebra = Who?
Fini Tribe = Or Finitribe, depending on which record. The rosicrucian for fish, apparently. Showbiz chums, if you can call them that of mine.
GHP = Frankie Detorri. Over-rated. Totally.
Essex = The only place where I saw a handgun waved about in a car.
GYBO V4 = The new black.

Which genre of music do you consider the most "under-used" in bootlegs?

Opera, Gamelan, 'Early Music', Exotica, Steel-Drum band, & I dare say a lot more that'll spring to mind later.

What do you remember about the following years:

1979 = I was 11.
1983 = Saw Depeche Mode live for the first time.
1994 = My son was born.
1999 = Wasn't the end of the world.
2004 = Back With A Big F**k You.

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

Whatever I feel like listening to on a Saturday night.

And your Sunday morning one?

Whatever I feel like listening to on a Sunday morning.

Complete the following sentences:

I describe myself as... devastatingly handsome*

Music changed me by...it just did.

When it comes to vices...[it's] coffee & cake.

The last time I cried was... [when] my daughter was born.

My most treasured possession is...Liaisons Dangereuses "Los Niños Del Parque" 12" autographed. A present from Beate Bartel to celebrate the birth of my daughter Connie.

If I have any regrets...I'll regret them at that time.

When we die...we die.

Lastly, I'd like to be remembered as...devastatingly handsome*

Listen & Learn: A Frenchbloke Anthology Vol.1:
[All tracks are OFFLINE now]

01) Easy Charlie

02) Geetar Freak On

03) Destiny's Kennedys (By Frenchbloke & Son)

04) Hands Around My Cock

05) I Like Leather

06) Ich Habe Meine Bizkit (By Frenchbloke & Son)

07) Ugly Electric

08) Right Behind (By Frenchbloke & Son)

09) Dream House

10) Walk The Thong

11) Depeche Minogue

12) Sunshine Again

13) Walkable Balloon

And for a limited time only, click on the link below to grab Frenchbloke's latest mix:

Everything You Do Is Wrong

You can visit Frenchbloke's blog & read his ramblings here.

PS: Congrats on the 'latest addition' to your clan...

Dsico: That No-Talent Hack

2005-02-22T10:14:00.000+08:00

Just for the record, what's with the "That No-Talent Hack" tag? Any wonderful story behind it?

I was joking around with some friends years ago about the absurdity of tag lines on an artiste's name, mostly talking about DJ Spooky "That Subliminal Kid" & so I thought yeah...I'm goin' to get me one of them. There you go.

What are you up to these days?

The new album, You Fight Like A Girl, has just come out this month, so I've mostly been sorting that out, trying to find a distributor for it. Reverberation Records is doing Australia (which is great) but I haven't managed to hook anything up in Europe or the US (which sucks). Also lately writing some new shit for another release later in the year that may include a whole bunch of remixes of You Fight Like A Girl.

So what are the tunes that have been ringing in your head lately?

The Emperor Machine. F**k I love that new album Aimee Tallulah Is Hypnotised. I can't quite put my finger on why. It is so close to muzak or incidental 70s science show soundtrack but then it's not. [Others include] Sonic Youth's Sonic Nurse, rediscovering Sebadoh, Pavement & that slacker sound. I listened to III (by Sebadoh) constantly last week at work.

Can you list out five of your all-time favourite albums?

In no particular order:

Leonard Cohen - Songs Of Love & Hate
I had a copy on vinyl that I picked up at Glebe market. I was in first year Uni & listened to it constantly, much to the distaste of my girlfriend at the time as she absolutely hated it.

Sonic Youth - Daydream Nation
The opener. The whole album just fits together so perfectly. Even the little interlude with the vocal playback from tape.

Beastie Boys - Paul's Boutique
Their (& the Dust Brothers) finest album ever. Sampledelic party album like no other.

LB - Pop Artificelle
Atom (TM) / Atom Heart / Uwe Schmidt's electronica styled 70s cover album. It just blew me away when I first heard it. Uwe Schmidt was such an inspiration to me when I was starting to get into & start writing electronic music in the 90s. Micro edits, wacky synths, & more "funk" than you can poke a stick at.

Luomo - Vocal City
Embodied the clicks & cuts, error-inspired era of the time & yet was a really lush & enveloping listening experience. I never really like house much until I heard that album.

Mouse on Mars, oh that's 6! All their early stuff. I've gone off the new sound a bit though.

When was the last time you bought a record that was utter brilliance? Where did you buy it?

The Emperor Machine's Aimee Tallulah Is Hypnotised late last year online through Juno.

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be?

Uwe Schmidt must have been the most influential electronic artiste for me. His rate of output is phenomenal. I've always wanted to know just how he get some of those sounds & manage to do so much.

Can you recall what are some of the most bizarre or embarrassing moments during your entire DJ-ing career?

Moscow must have been the most bizarre, being flown all the way to Moscow to DJ for an hour or so in this little club right near Red Square. And then I got really trashed as well. So I supposed it was both bizarre & embarassing. MTV was even there. I have a vague recollection of trying to act sober while they were interviewing me.

What is the most outrageous rumour you've heard that is said about you?

In High School this guy Michael used to tell people that I was a professional Ten-Pin Bowler. What a bastard. I shoud have kicked his arse, but he was a mate, so what can you do?

The Last of Dsico:

Last film that gave you wood = There was a film the other night. Can't recall what it was called, cute french girl wandering around half naked in most of it.

Last encounter with the opposite sex that involved a music album = I don't think I've ever had one.

Last book or mag you read that gave you the creeps = The Lovely Bones, I guess, by Alice Sebold was pretty creepy in parts.

Last concert you went to that was boring = I saw David Bowie a while ago & it wasn't that great. I think you get too accustomed to small gigs, where you can see the beads of sweat on the performer's face. So when you are stuck in a seat in the Sydney Entertainment Centre, Bowie standing way way down there & all the songs sound like stadium rock anthems, it's just not fun.

Last mash-up you heard that made you wanna shout "Yeah!" = It's been so long, I can't really remember...

Interestingly, you've mentioned that you're kinda done with mash-ups. Where do you think the whole bootlegging scene is heading?

I don't think it's heading anywhere. It's just going around in circles, chasing its own tail these days. The commercial players have stepped into it but they are killing what was good about some of the early ones. The early stuff used good songs as the basis. Now they just mashup any shit.

How about cover versions? You've done a fair amount of quirky tributes yourself. What is the allure of covering someone else's tunes?

I did go through a bit of a phase of doing cover versions. I think I'm almost out of the woods. I haven't been doing nearly so many lately. There are different reasons. Some are just a straight tribute to the original authors & others have less flattering purposes. Sometimes it is just for a laugh...just for the absurdity of it all. They are however good for developing your programming abilities, coming to grips with a new piece of gear or learning how to use a piece of software without having to be too creative yourself. The "song" already exists, the chord pattern, vocals, melody...you just have to work on the instrumentation & play around. They can be quite quick to put together & instantly satisfying, & you spend more time on the production & programming which will help with getting the sound you want in your original work.

What are some of the most "interesting" comments you've received so far regarding You Fight Like A Girl?

Well, it's just been out for a few weeks so is only just starting to get around. So far everyone has been really into it. Radio in Australia is starting to pick it up. Russell from Reverberation thought it sounded very Human League, which was odd as I'm not that familiar with their work.

In your opinion, what are the factors that make a good song?

I have no idea really. You know it when you hear it. When a song just grabs you by the balls until you can't think of anything else.

Describe your ultimate bootleg fantasy involving Soundhog, Nicole Kidman, Starsky & Hutch & Frenchbloke. Humour us please...

I fool Soundhog & Frenchbloke into thinking that they ARE Starsky & Hutch, & I get Nicole Kidman all to myself. Eh eh?

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

DJ Small Cock = Plate glass & face wounds
Ministry Of Sound = Wankers
INXS = Original Sin
Vegemite = Occasionally for breakfast
Hi-5 = The childrens show?
Bangers & Mash = I am a bit hungry. This pub in Bondi Junction used to do a great Bangers & Mash.
Brown-Eyed Mullet = Huh?
Hillsong = Christian fools
Belinda Chappel = Who?
GYBO V3 = Much the same as the old one. If only they'd ditch those annoying bloody animated gif avatars.

Which genre of music do you consider the most "under-used" in bootlegs?

I have no idea. I suppose there aren't a lot of country & western mashups but that may be a good thing.

What do you remember about the following years:

1980 = I was 5. I think I've seen some photos...
1985 = Primary school, my BMX was the shit.
1991 = High School year 10, girls, school, parties...discovering beer.
1998 = My first release. I had a track on a compilation called Freaky Loops 98.
2003 = Europe, kicking around Berlin, Hamburg, London. Killer year, too much fun.

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

I used to have a flatmate, Joss, we lived over in this huge rundown old terrace house & whenever we were goin' out he'd put on "Meet Me At The Love Parade" by Da Hool. It's terrible, cheesy, awful, but it reminds me of good times.

And your Sunday morning one?

Leonard Cohen's "Everybody Knows".

Complete the following sentences:

I describe myself as...a drunkard.

Music changed me by...giving me a hobby other than skateboarding.

When it comes to vices...I may have a problem.

The last time I cried was...during some terrible cheesy heartwarming film.

My most treasured possession is...it's all pretty replaceable, it would just be a pain in the arse.

If I have any regrets...they are too many to mention.

When we die...we rot.

Lastly, I'd like to be remembered as...myself.

Some cool Dsico's boots & mashes:

1) Too Drunk To F**k [OFFLINE]
(An exclusive Dead Kennedys cover)

2) Love Will Freak Us Apart [OFFLINE]
(Joy Division vs Missy Elliott)

3) Smells Like Electro [OFFLINE]
(An electro version of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit")

You can also download a bunch of Dsico's back catalogue at the Hearing Double site here

As for Dsico's brilliant You Fight Like A Girl album, you can buy it here, or you can visit his website here.

andrewherring

2005-01-09T17:33:00.000+08:00

Just for the record, is 'Andrew Herring' your real name?

My name's Angus but for some reason people always get the name wrong, so Andrew Herring it is.

What are you up to these days?

I've spent the last 2 months making the most wonderfully cheesy mashes for MTV - which has been fruitless, but enjoyable. One of them's at Strangely Familiar ("It Only Takes Two Tribes", another's here ("Ace Of Maroon") & I'll be putting all of them plus more into a longer mix for Adam Court at Bridge FM. Also on the Magick forum's Janet Jackson tribute, Re-Design Of A Decade, is my megatabulous tune, "Nasty Subway".

What music are you currently grooving to?

Oh I don't know - 2/3's cheese, 1/3 funky stuff. "Matchstick Men & Matchstick Cats & Dogs" by Brian & Michael has been featured heavily recently. Loving Pheugoo & DJ Scenius's stuff lately. Baby Ford again. The Best Christmas Album Ever. You know...

What, in your opinion, is the cheesiest album of all time?

My criteria is - Christmas albums, particularly any Rap/R&B Christmas Album & specifically Christmas albums by a sole artist. I've never listened to them but logically the Destiny's Child, Ashanti, Christina Aguilera, or Mariah Carey Christmas albums fall neatly into that.

When was the last time you bought a record that was so "bad", it is good? Where did you buy it?

Most of me & Mrs Herring's albums come into that genre. Most of the world didn't go for Adam Watkiss's album (Winner of ITV's "This Is The Moment" presented by Mel B) but we like it. It was in the easy listening section in HMV in Norwich.

Which artiste, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be?

When I was little I wanted to be Robert Smith but now I'd love to be William Shatner.

Can you recall the most embarrassing & bizarre thing that has ever happened to you?

I find the time I was hitchhiking & got told to f**k off by Billy Connolly the most embarrassing, & the thing I don't want to talk about ever.

The Last of andrewherring:

Last time you snogged a member of the opposite sex = I snogged Phoebe recently
Last movie that made you cry = True Romance
Last person you punched = Phoebe probably
Last album you heard that gave you wood = Anything by Baby Ford
Last mash-up you heard that made you went "Damn! Why didn't I think of that?!!" = Pheugoo's "Smokey & The Yeah"

What are your worst fears?

I fear panic & losing control. Fear is the mindkiller after all.

What are the greatest joy as well as the biggest pain being andrewherring?

The biggest pain is that people will assume it's not a pseudonym, but it's nice when andrewherring gets recognition, even if sometimes it's a bit over the top for what it is.

In your opinion, which GYBO-er deserves a kick in the gonads?

I dislike arrogant, whining, negative people - so if a tune is bad or a post is stupid then I don't mind taking the mick subtly but some people last year have made it into a sport. I don't like rude or impolite people either but they don't need a kicking.

Compared to many, you have a very distinctive style. What do you think is the secret ingredient behind the trademark "andrewherring" sound?

I do? I usually only do boots & mashes that come up in my head. That seems to involve strong good vocals & a backing track from the past when music was more tuneless than it is today...or at least funkier. I like ascending filter sweeps & thats starting to be a bit of a cliche in my tunes.

In your opinion, what are the factors that make a good mash-up?

The juxtaposition of old & new, preferably being able to sing & dance to it, & funny, even if it's serious.

Describe your ultimate bootleg fantasy involving Weiser, Cliff Richard, Girls Aloud & Richie Deluxe. Humour us please...

Cliff would give Weiser some advice about being humble & not spamming too much, just accepting the breaks that God gives you & working hard but not striving. Richie meanwhile tries it on with Girls Aloud but they can't understand his accent & diss him horribly. Cliff converts them & they become so cloying they immediately only start releasing christmas number ones.

Let's play word association. We mention a name & you give us your thoughts...

Pampers = Don't like children.
Andrew Ridgeley = Straight, Nose Job, Racing Driver.
ABBA = Swedish, better than Ace of Base, amazing disco stuff.
.ogg = Betamax, eg. better than standard but not got the clout.
Massive Attack = Local but dull.
John Holmes = Reservoir Dogs.
Korg = Not as good as Yamaha.
Culture Deluxe = The Wurzels.
Lucifer = Seductive but evil.
Brian May = Bad hair. Buckingham Palace roof.

Which genre of music do you consider the most "under-explored" by bootleggers? Why?

I was glad when E-Jitz & Pheugoo did some dancey folky things recently, as there's so many good folky, country dance tunes out there & they're not used.

What do you remember about the following years:

1984 = The Top by the Cure
1988 = Went to university, "I'm The DJ, He's The Rapper" by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, "There's No Love Between Us" by Pop Will Eat Itself, "Oochy Koochy" by Baby Ford
1992 = Left university, moved to England, "Void Dweller" by Eon, Check Your Head by the Beastie Boys
2001 = Got married. Moved to Cromer - 'Jewel of the North Norfolk coast'.
2003 = Started making boots.

What's your favourite Saturday night record?

Whigfield's good. Didn't like De La Soul's one.

And your Sunday morning one?

I've always had a soft spot for "...over the mountains & the sea..." by Martin Smith. (Ed's note: the track is "I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever" by Delirious?)

Do you still see yourself churning out bootlegs in ten years time?

I never "churn", I trickle. Maybe, it's fun & nothing short of boredom's going to stop me.

What do you think the future for bootlegs / mash-ups / remixes would be like, given that being a home musician is so easy these days?

I think it'll stay the same - it's not so different to any other genre of music. The cream will still rise to the top & everyone else will still keep making them for fun. If a song's good & mainstream enough it'll be picked up & promoted. There's enough people outside of GYBO listening.

Lastly, what do you wanna be least remembered for?

I don't fancy being the bloke that did that Bryan Adams mash up, but I fear it's already too late...

Some andrewherring boots:

1) Ace Of Maroon [OFFLINE]

2) Nasty Subway

3) It Only Takes Two Tribes [OFFLINE]

You can also visit andrewherring's website here.