|
 DJ, producer, promoter, co-founder of TCA (now Balance Promote Group) and the tour de force behind the progressive house scene in America, Jimmy Van M, talks to hkclubbing about his tour plans, CD launch and event in Hong Kong.
Nilly: You have been pivotal in the development of the progressive dance music scene in the US through the ex-TCA, Balance Promote Group. What got you into the music scene in the first place to import it to the US and how easy or difficult was it to market and promote in the US?
JVM: In the beginning, somewhat difficult, however when you have talented friends, and a strong drive to make something work it comes much easier. Nilly: Who were some of the leading artists you paved the way for in the early nineties?
JVM: I don’t think paving the way is the right concept, we all enjoyed the music and it happened Nilly: Understandably you have been passionate about progressive music for you to turn to DJ-ing. a. Did you promote and DJ at the same time?
JVM: I was known for after hours house parties the rest happened from that.
b. When did you start DJ-ing?
JVM: 1991
c. Are you still involved in promoting?
JVM: No I think those days are over Nilly: You were noted to have held crazy Sunday parties from your house in Florida. a. When did you first DJ at an organized event?
JVM: 1993 at the Oz (Orlando)
b. When did you have your first solo party?
JVM: 1993 was the first party… Nilly: Many DJs have customized their equipment to create special sounds and ease at mixing. Do you have any special gadgets?
JVM: None for music I think from hearing the album you will find this album is about Selection of great songs, not gadgets or tricks in production of it… Nilly: You disappeared from the music scene for a few years and have made a come back with “Balance 10”. a. Have you been working on some new project ideas?
JVM: Yes, have new concepts in mind but am not letting the cat out of the bag. b. Can we expect to see you in the circuit more now?
JVM: I have been on the circuit since the bedrock album, B10 is first compilation since then. Taking a break is good, I wanted people to want a new Jimmy Van M album; EQ gave me that chance with Balance 10 to do something special. Nilly: Tell us a little about “Balance 10”. What is the concept behind it? JVM: The music fits the concept, the 1st disc starts at 60bpm and ends at 100bpm, the 2nd disc starts at 100bpm and end 125bpm, the 3rd disc stays around 124bpm. I picked the music that I felt were best suited for the tempo range and sound I was looking for. You will hear a diverse sound and a mixture of bands and tracks, im very proud of it. Nilly: Where will you have the major launch party? JVM: In Melbourne Australia where EQ / STOMP is located, party was Oct 14th, club Famous, 3000 people, it was fantastic. Nilly: Many progressive DJs are putting together three disk mixes. It seems to be a new trend these days. Why three disk? What do you think is the future of such mixed productions?
JVM: I did 3 discs because I could not go from 60bpm to 125 with all the music had smoothly in 2 discs. Regarding the future, I really don’t like to speculate on the future. Nilly: Are you excited about your tour? You have an extensive line up. Is there anywhere that you have NOT yet been to and will be DJ-ing at for the first time?
JVM: I am Djing in Bali for the 1st time, and looking forward to that. Hong Kong will be a lot of fun also. Nilly: What is one tune that can be heard at all your parties in your tour?
JVM: Pak & Vak “Vampire Eyes” is one you can count on hearing. Nilly: What is one tune that always stays in your record bag?
JVM: The tune that stays in my bag is LSG “Firefly” Interview By : Nilly Chaudhuri
Catch Jimmy Van M on the 8th of November, venue to be announced
Balance 10 was released on the 9th of October, 2006 across Asia (see www.hkclubbing.com review)
|
