Mixing it up in the city

Today, the Capital will get a chance to dance to the tunes of DJ Gareth Emery. The popular British DJ is known for playing a unique style of music — a fusion of trance, house and progressive. He’s one of the highest ranked British DJ, according to the DJ Magazine.
HT City speaks to Emery about his music and his performance in Delhi.

How would you define yourself?
I’m an electronic music artist. However, my background was in traditional music — first classical piano training and later playing guitar in bands.

From all the places you have been to, how does Delhi stand apart?

I’ve only played in Delhi twice before, so it’s difficult for me to give a great representation of the place, as they were both very short trips. The last time was during the run-up to the Commonwealth Games (2010) and the city looked absolutely beautiful!

Your music is like a culmination of genres and styles rather than one in particular. Why?

Yes, that’s right. The scene where I first made my name was trance, but I’ve always played any record as long as I liked it — be it house, trance, progressive, techno or whatever. I prefer not to pigeonhole myself in a certain style.

What are your expectations of the Delhi night scene?

The show I played at here in 2010 was great. Every time I tour India, the clubs get better, with better sound systems and organisation and better crowd. I’m eager to see how it has changed in the last two years.

What will you be playing today?

Fun music that doesn’t take itself too seriously and makes you want to dance; across a broad range of styles.

What’s your favourite thing about your career?

Not having to get up in the morning.

What has influenced your music?

I think every piece of music you ever hear influences you in some way. And, the life you have growing up influences you as an adult. Growing up in Southampton, a town in the south of England, going and becoming a musician or a DJ wasn’t considered a career choice. So. I’ve always been influenced by my decision to go against all of that.

Which place do you love to play at, and travel to?
There are many amazing places to play, in very different ways, so I can’t compare them. For travelling, I like to visit the US, and India for its food.

Fact File
What: Gareth Emery Live
When: Friday, April 6
Timings: 10.30 pm onwards
Where: Kitty Su, The Lalit, Barakhamba Road
Entry: Couple - R2,000
Stag male - R2,000
Stag female - R1,000