The Pondering Blonde

Double Trouble Productions Interview with Alex Kenji

Where and how did the music career of Alex Kenji begin?
The first time I met electronic music was somewhere between 1992 and 1994. I was discovering dance music with Snap, Corona, Haddaway, Digital Boy and a lot of heroes I used to support by going to see their shows in a nearby discothèque here in Pisa. Then in High School I started to make rock music but in 1996 I became tired of rock, metal, death metal and bands. I chose to quit performing with bands (I was a drummer and synthesizer player) and began wanting to start to understand how to make electronic music, I did this by listening to Drum’N'Bass, Big Beat and Acid Jazz.

What have you been up to so far in 2009?
Well, so far I have played all over Europe in countries such as Tunisia, Germany, Ukraine, Spain Cyprus and Brazil. Last year I produced a lot of tracks, but for this year I’m feeling I need to spend more time over the studio to make something new.

What is it about the Electronic Dance Music Culture that keeps you transfixed?
Pure and simply House Music; I can never get enough.

You’ve released and produced music under many guises, Combo, Green Sugar, Orange Love, to name a few. Do you feel this gives you more freedom to be experimental with your sound?
Well when you produce some tracks have just got something, you can’t explain it and some you just don’t feel it; that’s why I use to make a bunch of tracks, doing a selection to ‘filter’ into the several project names I run as well.

Although you like to jump genres, your music has a definite ‘Alex Kenji’ sound to it- how would you bottle and sell it in a few words?
Tricky question: let me think….positive, bouncy, house music with something rhythmical inside; it could be Latin, even Flamenco, classical house, vocal, a bit of tribal… All of those give me nice vibes though!

How has growing up in Italy influenced the sound and emotion you put into your music?
Italy was a big part of my musical foundations growing up. There was a very good ‘underground’ sound covering all genres, starting from rock to house and progressive and this is still the case here today.

What is the party scene like in Italy?
Well I must answer ‘I don’t know’ because my life goes around my house and my studio; I don’t go out especially to a club and I never used to get many gigs here in Italy. But I think in the main cities like Milan, Rome and Northern Italy there is a good clubbing scene but nowadays I hear about Puglia (South East) cities like Taranto, Bari etc, they seem to have a vibrant scene.

Tell us about you track Adelante- it did incredibly well on the charts and on beatport download.
Firstly thanks for your kind words. Well, Adelante it’s the rawest tribal track; it features an uplifting flamenco guitar solo, and of course ‘the soul’ of the track is the solos; don’t know how to describe it but it’s simply my favorite. Also, tracks like it, A Lot Of, Volviendo Loco, UP sold very well on beatport: all these singles reached +25,000 downloads totally and the latest ones are still doing great.

You travel around the world on a monthly basis- which are you favourite countries to play in and what is it about the scene and culture you enjoy?
To play: Europe because it’s close to my studio and I can get to any European country quickly as opposed to going to America or similar. To enjoy and play: Brazil, I think is the place where I live my dream. I love it.

What boxes do you still want to check- what festivals and events would you like to play at?
I love to play everywhere! I would like to play over in Japan or even Australia, South Africa or Northern Europe as well.

Do you have to have quite a stamina to keep up with this industry? The new music, the new artists etc… and how do you balance it with the normality’s of life?
Haha! Honestly I simply do not balance; I see my life as kinda boring: I wake up and I start to listen to music, then make music, then hang out with my dog and most of the time nothing else except Music! Except the summer then I love go to the beach.

Any chances of you releasing an artist album soon?
Maybe. I already thought about it. I got some ideas I still need to work on…very ‘daft punk’ style; anyway it would be my 3rd album though (1st ‘Supersensationaldisco’, 2nd ‘Cyborg’ both on 9records)

What is in store for the rest of the year- what are you plans for Euro summer domination?
This summer, I plan to make some tours over South America, Australia, and Europe. Musically talking, a bunch of remixes are coming: starting from my remix of the new Chris Lake single, a remix for Alex Gaudino, a remix for James Brown, Dj Pierre, Giorgio Giordano, Presslaboys; an original mix is coming as well called ‘DOWN’ and new one will come soon!

Lastly, how do you say, “I want you tech house sex’ in Italian?
Ahahahaha… Voglio fare sesso tech house… or something like that!

Rhythmatic Presents… The Next Level with Alex Kenji

It’s time to have the bash of all bashes, to celebrate everything worth celebrating and do it in pure rhythm divine style! Rhythmatic and OXFAM fuse forces for one incredible night to bring you; Rhythmatic “The Next Level’ at Egg nightclub, London on the 14^th April 2009! Rhythmatic events aim to provide the beat loving audience with a familiar house party atmosphere, cutting edge music and that little extra something special to make it a night to be revelled with, and this spectacular night promises to deliver just that- covered in a whole bunch of feel-goodness!

We doubt you need to hear more than ‘Lets Party for Poverty’ to inspire some seriously document-it style dance moves but here goes: Rhythmatic have it’s finger for the freshest underground talent and so pulled all the stops to bring you a crème-del-a-crème selection of riveting music from some of the globes most talented electronic musos! We’re too excited to announce our special headlining guest; Beatports No 1 chart-topping golden boy- Alex Kenji! Also special guesting is fellow Italioso, Luke Dzierzek, currently blowing up dancefloors around the world, and of course- Rhythmatics finest residents guiding you to the extreme end of revel with a cause!

Rhythmatic events are famed for their dash of why-the-hell-not over the topness and so other exciting antics set to blow up all around the venue include the grand launch of OKO recordings, Rhythmatic resident Betoko’s long awaited record label come up for air! The bad boys of Double Trouble themselves, Kiri and Kostas birthday celebration- come down a little early for wino and snacks with the team! A full frontal fashion show- yes, we have a beavy of beauts lined up and ready to rock some serious party frocks! As well as a visit from a very special wireless toy- hmmm! Now there’s a little teaser to twist your mind with! Best you come on down to see all the cavorting for yourself!

So, in the spirit of all things that glitter not being gold- we’re talking about the beautiful and simple little- and big- things that make our lives extraordinary- let’s spend an evening of giving back! Proceeds of the night go to OXFAM- they’re fighting for the right to be heard, and you have a right to hear great music! Now there’s a good reason to party hard! The Next Level begins here…

PARTY FROM THE HEART

OXFAM

OXFAM has long established itself in the UK as a purveyor of goodwill and positive energy as it fights the good global fight for poverty. Oxfam jams a foot in despondent doors around the world, providing health, food, education, crisis relief aid and most importantly; hope, to those who need it most. Their annual music event OXJAM receives a legendary response from the music loving youth culture as they haul out top entertainers to ‘let the music do the talking’ by performing, and connecting and communicating the important global issues we face today. OXFAM saves lives, campaigns for change and the right to be heard! And as you know, it’s the little difference that makes it!

YOUR MUSO’S IN THE MIX:

ALEX KENJI

Alex Kenji, aka Combo aka Orange Love aka Green Sugar aka Yoshie Chandler aka Itchy Bit- whatever you want to call him, the man of many names- and sounds- is a electronic music force to be reckoned with! Alex has been producing, dj’ing and for 10 years and regularly performs in Spain, Brazil, Mexico, The UK, Russia, Ukraine, Portugal and Switzerland. Alex has honed his craft to an impeccable degree, mixing up a fresh and edgy selection of house, tech, electro and techno, sparing no change-too much for the deserving feet that find his dancefloor. His tracks often feature in Pete Tong’s essential selection on BBC1 and his labels 303Lovers and Hotfingers have sold over 50 000 units since their launch in 2007.

LUKE DZIERZEK

Luke’s incandescent electronic sound has made massive impact on the Dance scene the past two years. He came out with his big basslines, groovy-as-hell rhythms and soon counted the likes of James Zabiela, John Digweed and Nic Fanciulli as fans; dropping his tunes at clubs all over the world. His forward thinking productions have pinned him as one of the finest up-and-arrived talents of the decade! Not taking his foot off the pedal, he’s remixed UNKLE, Minilogue, Spencer Parker and Chris Lake among them and banged a new gong in dance history when he became the first artist to have 5 tracks in the DJ Download Top 10 at the same time. Luke’s also proven he can rock the box at top clubs all over the world and launched his first label and club night, FLING in 2007

RECORD LABEL LAUNCH

OKO RECORDINGS

After a series of successful productions released on Toolroom, Eukatech and Wow! Records. Betoko launches his own sound-child, OKO recordings. OKO is already set as a force to be reckoned with; focusing on taking genres of house, techno and everything in between to new depths of underground. The first release on the label; a collaboration between Betoko and Spanish producers Ivan Escura and Toni Varga, is already breaking decibels in some of London’s darkest pulsating rooms. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Betoko moved to London in 2002 and his productions have earned playlist respect from the likes M.A.N.D.Y, Gregor Tresher, Martinez and featured on albums by Sven Vath and Steve Lawler. Mexican Tech House has arrived- spread the word!

Double Trouble Productions Interview with Stathis Lazarides

What is it about Dance music that has captured your heart and soul?
Dance Music has progressed from being a celebration of freedom and individuality- back in the 80’s, for a small croup of party animals- to a pure form of positive communication for millions of people from all walks of life at the dawn of the 21st century.

Tell us something about the party scene in Greece that nobody knows?
Well, we invented orgies! And the concept of hedonism is something that dates back to the classical ancient Greek times, so I’d say knowing how to party hard is in our genes!

Are people still calling Greece the ‘New Ibiza’ and has that in any way changed or influenced the party scene there?
I am fortunate to have lived through the evolution of this scene, going back to the beginning of the 90’s, and I have to say that its purity has receded over the years. Money talks more today than any other time in the past; there is no space for spontaneity and more or less, everything is regulated. With the big sponsors and money, people have somewhat invaded our house party.

How has the music you play evolved as you’ve grown in the industry?
The principles of the music I play have always remained the same; deep, dark, sexy and groovy house music.

You’ve held a 10 year residency Dj’ing at Cavo Paradiso in Mykonos, Greece. That’s pretty impressive! What would you say are key elements to maintaining and sustaining a career as a Dj?
Being an intelligent human being always helps! Learning from ones mistakes, reading and directing smoothly the mood on the dancefloor, not copying what others do- but influencing your own way from watching others… That’s only half the story though, having good social skills and being at the right place at the right time is as important!!

You’ve played with the likes of house and techno legends such as Carl Cox, Danny Tenaglia, John Digweed, Laurent Garnier, and Felix Da Housecat; who is on the line-up of your ultimate gig?
My ultimate gig will start with a live set from Jean Michel Jarr, followed by Leftfield and finished off with Richie Hawtin. Pure heaven!!

What inspires your productions and what is notably ‘Stathis Lazaridis’ about your sound?
For me, the concept of sitting down to compose in my studio without a specific plan is the building block of my productions. I suppose my sound is trying to be as deep and groovy as possible, with an underground ethos in mind.

Tell us about your latest releases…
The latest project to come out of my studio is a release for my label, Refrazed Music. The original music is from a very talented Dj in Greece, David Kassi. I am on remix duty on both original tracks- the release is out as a digital download on the 24th of November.

You’ve travelled all over Europe, and even to India, how does it feel taking your sound and motivating audiences in foreign countries?
The buzz you get from traveling abroad to perform is second to none! I know very few artists who prefer their studio to a live audience. For me, performing live is the most powerful addiction there is!

What do you think this Dance Music Movement says about modern society?
We’d need a few hours to analyze this question as it’s a big subject but if I have to say something in a nutshell, one thing springs in my mind: Human beings have always liked to see what’s on the other side. Being stuck in a routine is a prison for us, especially in this day and age, and dance music helps us to see things from a different perspective. And this is what gives us hope.

Tell us about how you became involved with Amnesia?
The involvement with this amazing club started last spring when Rhythmatic hosted a party- part of the official Amnesia World Tour in London. I can tell you that it was a great party and I am really looking forward for the next one at 27 of December at the Egg in London!

What are you’re impressions of the dance scene in London and do you enjoy playing to the London audience?
The scene in London’s had its ups and downs lately but it still remains a prestigious and fun place to perform. I’ve been out hundreds of times either clubbing or dj’ing and have amazing memories to share with my grandchildren!

If you could add one more ingredient to a traditional Greek Salad what would it be?
Fresh dill. I am very fond of herbs.

Double Trouble Productions Presents Amnesia World Tour

If there’s one thing about Amnesia you just can’t forget; it’s that it stands as one of the most powerful nightclub brands in the world! Over the decades of its life on the White Isle, Amnesia has lured hundreds of thousands of soul submitting revellers to seek dance music enlightenment inside its walls. The beat box on the main dancefloor has housed some of the most prolific and passion possessed mix masters in the industry; Sven Väth, Paul Van Dyk, Dj Tiësto, Danny Tenaglia, Laurent Garnier and Carl Cox have all flipped the switches, and so, forever tainted, imprinted and influenced the future of our nocturnal creed. Amnesia’s respect and repute comes from its’ super-exceeding in setting the standard in sound quality, music selection and audience ambiance.

Double Trouble Productions, fast becoming synonymous with exceptional nights out in clubs throughout Europe, with their events and sub-brands, Rhythmatic and Talk Is Cheap, recently celebrated their first birthday with a spectacular production, which marked their presence in the International Dance scene. They now wish to share the original, hedonistic Amnesia experience with London, and so present to you; The Amnesia World Tour! To mark and celebrate the ending of another successful year of nightlife indulgence and forgetting everything but the party, Double Trouble Productions, for a second time, brings Amnesia and all its blazing Ibizan glory to Egg nightclub in London, for one incredible night only!

Headlining this massive 3 dancefloor event on 27 of December 2008 is Amnesia Resident and owner of Wow! Recordings, Mar-T. Mar-T is an intrinsic part of the clubbing powerhouse that is Amnesia, responsible for producing the incredible Amnesia Underground compilations and touring with the brand on its international escapades. Complimenting his eclectic deep, dark and sexy sound is Stathis Lazarides (Refrazed, Cavo Paradiso, Rhythmatic), 10 year resident at the renowned Cavo Paradiso in Greece; Stathis has been keeping dance floor playmates on their toes for many brilliant beat-infused years! Stathis has witnessed and been very much part of, the idyllic waves of cultural growth and societal change that have encompassed, encouraged and evolved the Dance scene the globe over!

Betoko (Wow Recordings, Rhythmatic), is one of the latest minimal manufacturers to make a stir with his always melodic and seemingly sun-soaked cuts. He recently featured in DJ Mag’s Fantastic Four with his track “Congratulations” which was selected and used on Madonna’s Sticky and Sweet 2008 World Tour. Also in the mix; Silky (Seminal Grooves, Rhythmatic), Low & Murphy (Filthy Habit, Rhythmatic) and Filth & Splendour (Itch, Pure Pacha London), all of whom have earned their deck space in the Big Smoke, and internationally, as quality house music performers who cross the dance music divide and bring like minded clubbers together.

This is exactly the mission Double Trouble Productions sets out to achieve, and along with an all-out array of Amnesia décor, visuals, give-aways and make-up artists, expect this spectacular dance event to perfectly cap your 2008 as an absolute audio and visual affair!

Double Trouble Productions wants you to lose all inhibitions,

lose your minds, and… Blame it on Amnesia!

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Nu-ravers

BPM Magazine 2009

I like to think I’m not a romantic; that I could give any marketer a run for their moneys-worth and that I would all but revolt before joining the i-pod generation- simply because I enjoy being fickle towards popular culture. However, a series of events; a black cab ride from Heathrow Airport to the most perfectly quaint red-doored house, a perfectly soggy weathered pub lunch and amble down Oxford Street- and a perfectly proper ‘avin it large’ night on the town, and London had me; heart and sold and on the i-train to ‘innut bruv’dom.

It’s possible I’m still just flushed, The Big Smoke and I are more than likely still in the Honeymoon phase of our journey, but this is one sexy little city! Scratch that… Huge-ass mother fucking city! Don’t gasp, the Chavs made me do it!

London really is everything everyone tells you it is; silently miffed Englishmen and women, reading the paper on the tube; excessively graffiti’d walls- well, any flat surface really! Stodgy as hell food- they love their smokey bbq’d bacon, mash and peas- and I hate peas! ‘Heathrow Injection’ is not a myth; it’s a freak of friggen nature I’m evading like the plague! The sky is always a different shade of grey, everyone wears black and bad sneakers to work, the Polish have officially taken over and you really do have to mind the gap between the train and the platform. But it’s art if I ever saw any! This is thee most diverse and cutting edge place in the world… The culture, lifestyle; extravert people and pace of living in a first world city are enough to woo any hardened sunshine lover!

And all this before I’ve even mentioned what we’re all here for: The variety of music to see, hear and shake your ass to is unimaginable! There is so much music in London I have seriously considered pitching for a national sponsorship to fund me to live the EDM lovers dream! Hey, I strongly believe someone should try listen and dance to it all- why can’t it be me? If The Queen reads this; “Lady, I hear you have a very big stone of ours in the royal jewelry box- its time to show some Saffa love!”

Seriously, the Nightlife here is beyond incredible. The chaos-inducing mix of Guy Richie meets Irvine Welsh for an all-weekend boogie binge could be an apt description of the situation. There are enough loyal lovers of every music genre to fill up the Wembly Stadium. From the faux-classy but nasty Chav culture bopping to Speed Garage and Nu Ravers who take Hard Dance to a whole new level in fluffy boots and swatches of Neon lycra- to the Drum and Bass massive, Psy-trancers, Techno-logists and the Punk Rockers of Camden Town- there is a beat to suit your mood every night of the week!

Queues to get into nightclubs snake around the block and some guest lists are 500 names long! Bouncers discreetly- or not so- watch over the proceedings and keep the walkways flowing- you have to take the safety of 5000 people in a big dark room seriously, and so, don’t think twice about riddancing with a vengeance any unsociable beer-breed behavior. And the beer- for you connoisseurs- comes in 65 varieties- and the boys from the Bokyard still drink Amstel!

Fabric, took everything I thought I knew about clubbing, threw it on the dancefloor (which has speakers imbedded underneath), moshed it to the sound of the Scratch Perverts remixing ‘Jump’ and made me enjoy it. This Club Capital of London goes 4 floors underground, has a vending machine that pops out Minimal Techno albums- have you ever?- and is famed for it’s casual line-ups of the worlds top artists and performers. Did I mention I’m looking to marry a nice Pom so I can stay here forever?

The Big Smoke was recently put out however, when Mister Brown- the Queens trusty sidekick- declared no smoking in all restaurants and clubs. Whilst I’m happy to go home without my hair smelling like Camel breath- Patrons now have to collect their jackets from the dedicated coat checks before stealing a quick puff in the icy night air and returning to thaw-out with a few excessively priced Tequila’s! This is the reason people hit the bottle before hitting the clubs- drinking in public is legal! Good thing no-one is driving ye?

A good night-out doesn’t end until the sunrise session- if only because waiting for the tubes to start around 6.30 will save you 50 Quid on a cab home! Or you can march on to ‘breakfast shots’ at The Egg or The End- and commence another beginning- Sunday clubbing is huge! Somewhere in the middle, I might have stopped and wondered if I’d lost the plot- but then my favourite track came on and I realised, in London, I may have just found it! Have your next cup of tea on me!