Bontan Interview

Northerner Bontan join Coyu's Suara party this Friday with the wiggling acid bass of his lastest release 'Control', put out by ElRow Music, still ringing in our ears. Having had a run of form that's seen him grace MadTech, Under No Illusion and 20/20 Editions, as well as remix Roger Sanchez, he arrives with a USB stuffed full of forthcoming releases.

Ahead of the party, which also features Bastian Bux, we chatted with Bontan about roots, collaborations and his own Bontan’s Basement parties...

Can you tell us how you started off in music and who inspired you in the early days of your career?

It was people like Masters At Work, Kerri Chandler and Dennis Ferrer who got me into house music. There was something about the really deep, soulful side of house music that grabbed my attention.

What got you into DJing and producing?

I got a set of belt drive turntables for my 15th birthday and just started messing around with my parents’ old disco and soul vinyl that they had in the loft. There was no defining moment that made me want to start DJing. I just really loved the idea of manipulating music. I played piano from a very early age and I never used to like playing pieces of music, I would always go off on a tangent and start making my own melodies. I guess it stemmed from there. After I got to grips with DJing, I then didn’t want to just manipulate records, I wanted to make my own.

You’re very much a rising star in the scene. What's your definition of the house sound in 2016 ?

I would say house music is becoming so much less restricted by sub genres and categories in 2016. I play right across the board from house to techno in my DJ sets and that’s what I love. There isn’t purist criticising. Everyone is just there for a good time!

Who has influenced your productions and DJ sets ?

Yousef has always been an influence on me as a DJ. He's one of the best DJs live. He puts so much energy and creativity into his sets and it’s a real joy to watch. Production wise I would say Dennis Ferrer. He constantly adapts and pushes boundaries in every single record he makes.

You travel extensively as a DJ on the circuit now, what have been your stand out gigs at home and abroad this year ?

Sankeys in Ibiza has been great this year and I played for them six times this summer and every single gig was awesome. Also my Bontan’s Basement parties in the UK have started off so well.

You've worked on many collaborations, can you enlighten us on the highlights and what makes them interesting ?

I'm not working on so many collaborations at the minute as I’m really focusing on all my solo material. I have worked with Josh Butler and Yousef over the past year or so. I like the fact in collaborations there are aspects and elements in the records that you would never consider doing in a solo record. Collaborations are only successful when you and the other person are totally open to direction and ideas, then the creative juices can really flow.

What is your relationship with Josh Butler ?

I've been friends with Josh for many years now. We decided to make some music together after a couple of years knowing each other. I think it works so well because we were friends before producing together, so now in the studio we can be brutally honest without offending one another. We actually have a new record coming out early 2017.

What current crop of up and coming producers and artists do you rate ?

My friend called Blehrin is bubbling well at the minute. He has some good stuff coming up. Also the guys from Liverpool are all making amazing music: Lauren Lo Sung, David Glass and Kydus.

What hobbies do you have outside of DJing and producing ?

If you can count watching movies as a hobby, I’m obsessed! I’m making my way through the IMDb 250 greatest movies of all time. I have about 50 to go. I love everything about film.

How was it touring with Nile Rodgers and Chic ?

It was completely mind blowing. Spending the week with Nile and the band was really special. He's such a down to earth guy also. It was certainly a week I’ll never forget.

What does the future hold for you in terms of recording and other projects

I have a new single out on Suara called 'What You Want' and then a new remix for Sabb & Serge Devant coming on Circus in December. There’s also a single release 'Cest Moi' coming out on Circus in January. Me and Josh have a new record coming also, so keep an eye out for that!

It's good to have you back at Egg London playing alongside Coyu and Bastian Bux for Suara. What makes playing in London so special for artists ?

London has been the home to so many amazing venues, I feel like the rest of Europe look to London as one of the shining beacons of house music.

Before we go, what should we be listening to as we head out the door to the Suara event at Egg London?

If it was me, I would put on a really old Kerri Chandler set to get me in the mood!

Bontan headlines Suara alongside Coyu and Bastian Bux this Friday November 18th at Egg London. All info at egglondon.co.uk

Words: Hans Hess