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Previous issue

clubscene

The Angel Interview: Paolo Mojo

How would you describe your new Renaissance Digital?
It’s a mix compilation that effectively shows what I do as a DJ at the moment... in so much as any 80 minute mix can do that. It’s the first ever compilation made exclusively for tunes, so it’s breaking some new ground, and sits very well with how I think about music technology, progress, etc. Musically it moves from deep to techy and -- dare I say it? – minimal, full-on progressive house bangers. There’s also some techno and lots of melody too. In a nutshell: It’s a mix of pretty much what I do live.

What do you think of HK as a place for DJ-ing?
I’ve played here twice before and enjoyed it very much both times. I think it’s a vibrant city with a very interesting cross of cultures that is reflected in the nightlife too. I’m looking forward to coming back soon.

What made you start DJ-ing?
I’ve always been a dreamer and like to inspire feelings in people that I feel myself. I quickly found by playing music at house parties, for my family and at school discos, that I could do that. From there I was hooked, everything else since then has been just details!

What was one of the most memorable DJ moments you’ve had since you started?
I remember very fondly the summer of 1999, when I DJ-ed in and around London and the south coast for the first time really at a series of parties. Also, the occasion on which I DJ-ed at the Notting Hill Carnival, my first real club gig on Hastings Pier (standing in for Danny Howells) and playing boat parties on the River Thames. They were fun times. I was a lot younger and it was all very fresh to me then.

Who are some DJs who’ve inspired you over the years? How?
Anyone who takes control of a room has my respect and to be honest, if you put aside musical taste, then most DJs with global experience can do this to a greater or lesser degree. People who really float my boat though are the ones that mix it up musically too. Laurent Garnier and Danny Tenaglia have always been favourites of mine as has Sasha. Then there’s Danny Howells who is infectious and has the perfect personality for a DJ. Also, Dubfire impresses me lately with his new militant minimal haha. Additionally, I always have a lot of time for my friends like Desyn Masiello and Nic Fanciulli.

What was the first record you ever bought?
Agadoo by Black Lace, I think; something atrocious like that on 7 inch single when I was about 8 years old!

And the most recent?
The set of stuff I downloaded from Beatport this morning in the airport. Something from Gregor Tresher and Dennis Ferrer were among them I think.

For those who haven’t experienced your DJing, what should they expect from you?
Most people enjoy what I do. I don’t tend to go too obvious too quickly so a bit of patience is always a virtue. However I never usually have these issues in Hong Kong as the crowds here are always very aware of what’s going on.

What is the “must have” record, mix tape or song of the 2007 summer and why?
My new single JMJ of course! (It’ll be shortly available on Oosh Records at Beatport.)

What’s your favourite place to DJ? Why?

Tokyo and Brazil currently tie for first place.

What the best thing about being a DJ?
Being able to inspire people.

What was the most unusual venue you’ve played at?
The Exit Festival – that’s set in a 17th century fortress in Serbia – is a pretty gob- smacking place to play!

Who is the most inspiring person you’ve played with, and why was that?
Back in the day, Sasha had that “X” factor that other DJs didn’t seem to have. I haven’t played with him for a long time but, more recently, I get the same feelings from people like Locodice whose work really makes me jump up and down.

What’s the next big thing you’re looking forward to?
A good sleep, thank you!

Anything else you’d like to add?
Not at the moment but thanks for asking!


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