In the second of our interviews with the two talented duos behind today’s release, ‘Guillotine’, we posed a few questions to Stephen Garret from Ireland’s fast rising techno stars Miniminds. Together with production partner Gary Dickenson, they have been lighting up dancefloors with their DJ sets and killer tunes. Now they bring that cutting edge instinct to GU with a stunning debut release...
Spektre tell us (read our interview with them too) you all had a real meeting of minds before deciding to make ‘Guillotine’?
Yes, Spektre were over playing in Belfast last year where we met up with the guys and quickly found we were all on the same wave length, so we asked them if they would be up for doing a collaboration. They agreed and a matter of a few months later the track was complete.
What does it mean to you to be recording for the Global Underground label?
Around the time we were first introduced to electronic music, we frequently went to see GU artists play and their compilations were always great. It is an honour to be part of a brand/label with such a big reputation and high quality standard.
What is your earliest GU memory then?
My first memory was seeing Dave Seaman play Lush 5th Birthday Party in Portrush which was recorded Live for the Radio 1 Essential Mix that night. The crazy thing was we were able to listen to the set again on the way home from the club as the Essential Mix started at 2am just as the club finished! After that night I had to check out other GU artists and many CD compilations were purchased.
What kind of sound do you hope to bring to the label?
We plan to bring fresh new age techno, always keeping a focus on the dancefloor. We are focusing on sounds which have not been used before and always keeping a good groove to the track. We also like tracks that evolve and keep people interested.
Listen to both mixes and buy from the player:
How do you stay on top of all things digital, from downloads to DJ equipment? Do you enjoy how quickly it is constantly changing?
I think the digital age is the way forward, music is more accessible and it opens up a more creative side to DJ sets. For example, Gary uses CDs and I use Traktor Scratch Pro (CD Controlled) for effects and loops on a 3rd virtual deck. It means it always keeps things interesting and sets can be customised. In the past it would be one track mixed into another, now you can have 3 or 4 elements at once. I am behind the digital era all the way!
Where can we hear you play in the coming weeks?
We are residents at Shine and The Stiff Kitten in Belfast, so if you are in town you can catch us there. Next gig is headlining The Stiff Kitten this Saturday 11th June. Should be a great night.
Which other dates are you particularly looking forward to any why?
We are really looking forward to our next European gig in Extramadura, Spain at Sol Festival 27th - 29th August. Can't beat a good rave in the sun.
Buy ‘Guillotine’ from Beatport now