The biggest house music event in the city is being held at Peterborough Arena on September 5. ESP’s Anna Ruggiero caught up with local DJ Dan Clare from Mixology to find out more…
It was about time ESP caught up with Dan Clare, co-organiser of Mixology, DJ, producer and now one of the organisers of an epic music event to hit Peterborough, Mixology Warehouse, described in their words as ‘12 hours, 24 DJs and 2000 people!’
Mixology Warehouse looks to impress house music fans for more than one reason. It’s one of the biggest dance events to grace Peterborough and for me, it’s going to be great to see music legends, such as Darius Syrossian and Route 94 playing alongside home grown talents.
So read my chat with Dan about DJing (obviously), producing tracks, vinyl versus controllers and why Peterborough house heads should be excited, very excited about Mixology Warehouse.
Anna – How did it all start for you on the music scene?
Dan – “I started playing drum and bass on vinyl as a bedroom DJ many years ago and then things really started to take off for me when two disco tracks I remixed got signed by Hed Kandi when I was just 21.
“I also studied a degree in sound engineering which taught me the technical side of music such as how to record in a studio.”
You have an army of fans on social media and a big following, what do you think makes a good DJ?
“For me, I always have the best nights when the DJ is really enjoying themselves and gives a good show to fans, this gets the crowd going. But it’s a personal thing.”
During your career you have played alongside some of the greats, who has been your favourite?
“That’s a tough one, there have been lots but I would say Danny Daze at Mixology was amazing, dropping tunes from Madonna which the crowd loved.”
Okay so now on to Mixology Warehouse – THE house event of the year! Is it the biggest event you have played at and how much work goes into organising a 12 hour party like this?
“Yes it’s the biggest event I’ve played at and I can’t wait!
“There’s been a tremendous amount of work gone into the event; the first meeting to discuss it took place last November!
“Peterborough Arena has been massively supportive and it’s great to see them pushing more music events in the city. The Red Room at Edwards almost seems like it was made for Mixology and we’re hoping Mixology Warehouse will be just as memorable and the start of great warehouse nights in the city.”
So are you happy where you are now in terms of your music and what does the Mixology Warehouse event mean to you?
“I’m progressing really well music wise. I’m happy to be playing alongside top DJs, getting my music signed and organising events such as Mixology Warehouse are a great stepping stone for future projects.
“This is also going to be a great opportunity for local DJs and nights such as House Proud and Tech Noir to get together and smash it on the terrace so this is extra special – local DJs playing alongside legends such as Darius Syrossian.”
Tell me about the interest in the event so far?
“The first four releases have sold out and we have sold over 1, 000 tickets. The venue holds 2, 000 so we’re on the right track!”
Who are you most excited to see play at the event?
“Honestly, I’m really excited about everyone’s sets but I have seen Darius play a few times in the past year and every time he has absolutely smashed it. I also think the way that we have scheduled the DJ sets, the night will flow perfectly.”
If you had a musical magic wand, who would you most like to DJ with?
“It would have to be one of the legends such as Luciano, Seth Troxler, Jamie Jones!”
Controller Vs Vinyl?
“We are in a new age of software now and although I learnt on vinyl and got the respect for that, I don’t think using controllers is a bad thing. It’s just an easier way to do it but still gives the crowd a great night of music either way!”
What are your thoughts on the music scene in Peterborough at the moment?
“The music scene in Peterborough is doing really well and it’s getting even better for music fans, as Mixology join forces with nights such as Tech Noir which reassures us we must be doing something right!”
I hear you also play under an alias, tell me more!
“I have collaborated with Dylan May to form Maur and our debut EP, Dossa has been signed by the legendary Will Bailey which is massively exciting, and had support across the BBC radio 6 Music, Capital, Kiss etc.
“It’s climbing high in the Beatport Charts and there is a real buzz around the track so watch this space.”
For tickets to Mixology Warehouse at Peterborough Arena on Saturday September 5 visit
Photos of Dan Clare: Mitch Brewster
Comentários