The techno wizard names DJ Pierre and King Tubby among his all-time favourites, then explains why he considers ‘Born Slippy’ a ‘cunt anthem’.
What’s the first record you ever bought?
I’ve got a feeling it was Adam and The Ants’ ‘Stand And Deliver’. It’s difficult to remember, actually. I know for sure that the first record I ever owned was ‘Ben’ by Michael Jackson. Pretty obvious I guess. My nan bought it for me.
The first time you remember hearing electronic music?
I was aware of synth pop in the early 80s. I liked some of it but the first stuff that really made an impression was electro. Kids used to breakdance over in the park to Street Sounds compilations blasting on boom boxes, so the tracks that I heard were things like ‘Planet Rock’, ‘Clear’ and ‘Pack Jam’. It was all futuristic, space-themed ‘proper’ electro and that got me hooked.
Your favourite ever record?
Difficult question as I’ve been collecting so long and have so many favourites. To be honest I’d have a hard time naming a top 100, so I’ll just choose my favourite one of today. DJ Pierre – ‘Box Energy’. I was having an acid house moment this morning and they don’t come much finer or rawer than this mofo.
The record everyone loves but you hate?
I’m a passionate hater of ‘Born Slippy’. Can’t fucking stand it. I’ve lost count of the amount of times a resident DJ has thought it was appropriate to play that before I start. So annoying. Cunt anthem.
Obviously if I wrote it I’d be laughing all the way to the bank, but I didn’t, so I’m not.