Tuesday 8 November 2011

“You won’t be able to look around and find a track that sounds the same as mine,” Diavlo said. “Every producer has their own unique sound to their productions.”

The journey for Diavlo hasn’t been easy but after countless underground hits, a Beatport 'must-hear' number one, worldwide gigs and support from huge names it seems a long time since he was mixing records in his friend’s attic.

But unlike others who may have rushed into things, Diavlo’s single ‘Genesis’ came after seven years of hard work and dedication.

“I first got into DJing when I was 17 with my very good friend, DJ & producer Ant Brooks. We started playing hard house in his attic believe it or not, which use to be a great laugh. Soon after that I found that I really enjoyed it and wasn't bad at it either,” he laughed to himself.

“Ant, the other half of H Unit, and I decided after DJing together it was time that we got into the studio. It was then that I realised not only did I want to be a DJ, I also wanted to produce tracks so I could play my music to others.”

The bonus for Diavlo wasn’t having just a number one on the Beatport must-hear house tunes chart, but that he had made an impression on non-other than Michael Woods and was instantly signed to his record label Diffused Music. With huge backing from the likes of David Jones, Gary Beck, Sonny Wharton and Andi Durrant, he was definitely making an impression.

“It really was a great feeling to have huge support from the very beginning, there are many great music producers on the scene and so this was a fantastic achievement. It is amazing when you get the final product out of the studio then see it getting enjoyed and played by some of the head honchos in the industry.”

In recent years, the dubstep genre has taken over and exploded into mainstream phenomenon. As it did, many believed House music would suffer and feel the full effect of this new genre. But Diavlo didn’t take long to quash those rumours.

“Music is always changing with new sub-genres coming out and a new flavour of the month but house music always comes back no matter what,” he said. “If you take a look in the Top 40 now there are more and more 4/4 style tracks creeping in from the likes of David Guetta, Example and Calvin Harris, all doing the damage.”

Obviously the perceived set back failed to stop Diavlo in his quest for House music fame, as world renowned record label Cr2 Records were next to sign the talented producer for his latest release, Changes. Since those days in the attic Diavlo has seen Cr2 as his label of choice.

“They put out some really great music and have great respect in the music industry,” he told me. “It is always important to choose the labels that portrays the right image of you as an artist. You need to establish your identity so that people know what to expect from you when both DJing and producing.”

No one can say the Coventry born producer hasn’t 'been there, done it'. But after years of experience and hardship, he still can’t quite believe what’s happened and is happening.

“The best thing is travelling the world playing my own music to crowds and seeing their reaction. It is such an amazing thing, meeting great people, doing something that you love and the best part is getting paid for it.”

In a world of ever evolving technology, the barriers between musical genres are constantly being eroded by the relentless rise of the digital age. With the latest hardware and software being widely available, it’s normal behaviour for producers to follow the latest trends.

“With the technology available to people I think it is easier to make music,” he said before quickly offering some words of advice for the budding producers out there.

“You can't teach someone to be a producer but you can teach someone how to be an engineer. As a producer you need to have the creativity and the ideas along with the skills to create those ideas and turn it into music.

“Don't set out straight away to make a certain style of music, experiment you might find you are really cut out for something that you didn't intend, which isn't a bad thing. Go with what comes natural to you when making music. Whether that’s a groovy bass-line or a new twist on a genre or style” he said, before revealing one main tip to those already in the process of making music.

“One trick for giving more bounce to your tracks is side-chaining elements, like your bass-lines. Also adding slight delays and reverbs on vocal parts and percussion elements can take a track to the next level.”

In terms of DJing though every gig is different, the Coventry based DJ explained. “You need to be able to read a crowd. I mean the last thing you want to do is turn up to a gig and clear the dance floor, which I have seen done on more than one occasion. Knowing your audience in the club is the biggest advice I can give for aspiring DJs.”

Like many other producers though, progression is as important as ever and the 28-year-old creator has already got some exciting new projects in the pipeline for 2012.

“I am currently working on several new EP's one for MAR186, Matteo DiMarr's Label, a single for Factomania,Wally Lopez's label and the rest are for ammunition for next year’s take over,” he chuckled. “I am also working on an EP with Ant Brooks, which is going to be massive and I’m in the mist of working with Ralph Berr.”

But as he continues to make waves in the House music world, Diavlo still remembers the days spent with Ant at the very beginning of the journey.

“My main influence I would say has got to be Steve Lawler, David Hererro, Wally Lopez and of cause Ant. We are close friends and have worked together several times, with hopefully many more successful tracks to come.”






Exclusive mix for House Bandits by Diavlo

Tracklist:

1) Back to the old skool (Original mix) - Diavlo
2) 007 (Original mix) - Diavlo
3) Gimme some more (Diavlo Re-edit) - Steve Lawler
4) Four4 - Diavlo
5) Massive (Diavlo remix) - DJ PP

One last track

Favourite end of the night anthem - Tori Amos ‘Professional Widow (Armand Van Helden Remix)'
Must have song in your set - Four4 a track from my latest EP on Muzik Xpress
Song that got you into house music - Happy Clappers ‘I Believe’
Favourite song of all time – BK ‘Revolution’. I heard at it Global Gathering in 2002 and it was amazing.

Diavlo's music is available on Beatport now

Thursday 15 September 2011
So with the show off air...for now...Chris has put together a 7 minute package with some of the best bits from this year's newest talent search. He's had a fantastic selection of up and coming DJs, as well as interviews with some phenomenal global stars, not to mention topping it off with a record-breaking 8-hour outside broadcast for his final show.

With a lot of different things still in the pipeline, House Bandits isn't finished for good yet.

Message from Chris

"I would like to thank everyone who was involved with House Bandits, from the initial idea to the final show. It was a great pleasure working with all of you and I wish you all the best of luck in the future. Without your help, your time, your expertise and your enthusiasm the show wouldn't have been anywhere near as successful."


Thursday 4 August 2011
Even without a radio show, Chris is still bringing you some of best in up and coming DJs from across South Yorkshire and it wasn't long before this local lad caught his eye.

Josh Kerr might only be 20 but he's been spotted at some of the biggest clubs in the Steel City, playing everything from grimey dubstep to classic house. He's even been known to create his own beats while sat on a train to Barnsley.

Chris unfortunately never got round to having him on the show but he hasn't slipped by unnoticed.

Kerr has that rare skill of being able to DJ on vinyls. His passion for Sheffield and its music scene can be heard throughout his sets. With his new night, Not Just Noise, touching down soon this kid is definitely one to watch.

Check out his Exclusive Live mix for House Bandits - No gimmicks, just 2 CDJs and mixer.

Exclusive mix for housebandits by NotJustNoise

To mark his appearance on www.thehousebandits.blogspot.com, Kerr has also given you the chance to download 2 of his massive summer productions. Check out the 'Free Download' section on the right and turn up the speakers.
Monday 11 July 2011

Those of us in Sheffield who are switched on to new and exciting things will know all about the latest rumblings in the city, the chatter on the social networks and forums and the hype that is building in our clubland.

Yes... clubbing in Sheffield is about to change forever... or rather, go back to the good old days.
 
On the last weekend of this month (29th & 30th July) the Republica Superclub opens its doors with everything that is missing in Sheffield. It’s a genuine Superclub with three rooms all themed slightly
differently to the last. No expense has been spared on the state of the art sound and light experience. It’s a club that is all about the music, the people, the clubbing lifestyle and it's set in luxurious surroundings. Rumour has it that two interior designers were flown in from Dubai to give it that wow factor decor and relaxed comfy seating. All that blends perfectly with pulsating dance floors and advanced DJ booths and sound systems.

So who should have the honour of setting up on the decks and playing to more than 2000 music lovers on the opening night? House Bandits’ own DJ Ben Cooper.

It’s been a long journey for Ben who started his DJ career playing off a laptop in a corner balanced on a speaker. “I got into DJing through Forge Radio”, Ben says. “I kept hassling the Union ENTs department for a slot anywhere and they gave me Tapton on a Friday night once a fortnight in October 2008. There weren't any decks so I had to arrive early and lug the speakers, mixing desk and amp into the corner of the bar and set it up, before plugging my laptop in and playing music off iTunes.”

Now in less than three weeks time, after three years of hard work, Ben will kick off his biggest gig to date. “I'm absolutely buzzing”, Ben says. “I was gutted when Gatecrasher burnt down a couple of months before I got to University and the city has been crying out ever since for another superclub. One of the guys heading up the new project used to DJ at the old Gatecrasher, so hopefully Republica can rise to the challenge.”

The newest addition to the clubbing circuit is not an overly exclusive venue where you’ll struggle to get in and spend an entire month’s pay on a round of drink.

Dave Henning from Eat My Disco, the venue's consultant company, explains: “We know Sheffield and its people so well because we want what they want - an amazing club that gives the best night in the city, without being too expensive.

“We'll be serving premium drinks from £2.50 on prime nights like Friday and Saturday. Then in the week (Tuesdays & Thursdays) you'll be able to get in, buy a round of drinks for four people and get a taxi home all for about £16.”

That’s not all, Republica holds one of the only genuine VIP rooms in Sheffield. It’s not a gimmick. It’s not a way of cramming people into a different queue or pushing them up against another bar. If you're lucky enough to be offered one of the platinum coloured VIP cards you will never queue, you will never pay to get in and you will be looked after by waiters and waitresses pouring you Grey Goose vodka, Krug Champagne and the best cocktails you've ever tasted.

So what to expect from the opening? “I've been given a rough idea of what to play,” Ben says. “It’s mainly House and Dance. But I'll also drop a couple of classics in as well... Anyone need a miracle?”

Republica opens in Sheffield on the weekend of 29th and 30th July. For a teaser, see the video below:

Monday 4 July 2011
After his success at Glastonbury last week Andi Durrant's clubbing season has officially kicked off.

Chris caught up with the three-time Sony Radio Academy Award winner and Capital FM presenter earlier in the year, to find out how to get into DJing and what's going to be big on the music scene in 2011.

The regular Nocturnal and Electrik Playground DJ also gives us a hint as to where he's jetting off to this summer.


Thursday 26 May 2011
On the 20th May, for Chris' last ever show on Forge Radio, he went all out and extended his broadcast from his regular slot of 2 hours to 8. Not only that but he broadcasted live from inside Space, so you heard every scream, every cheer and all the music as and when it happened.

This is the video of the night with a listen again to follow within the next couple of weeks.


Message from Chris:

"The night was a massive success and I would like to thank everyone involved in making such a wild idea come together. It was a fantastic way to end my time at Forge and I can't thank everyone enough who helped with this evening."

"I would personally like to thank Ben Cooper, Sophie Mitchell, Ross Haymes, Tom Higham, Tommy Lee, Dave Crane, Simon Bell, all the team at Space, Emma Kirk and Mikey Smith. Your help leading up to the event was very much appreciated."
Friday 13 May 2011
House Bandits was named Best Specialist show at this years Forge Awards held at Sheffield Student's Union last Thursday. "It's a fantastic feeling after only being on air for a few months," Chris said. The competition was close with last year's winner Sam Moir coming second.

"I would like to thank Ben Cooper, Sophie Mitchell and all the DJs who have given up their time to help out."

Chris also picked up a bronze award for his interview with Radio1's Andy George.

"Just because the show is finishing in two weeks doesn't mean that's it," Chris said. "There is a lot more we can do with House Bandits."

His final ever show on Forge Radio will be on 20th May where he'll be presenting a House Music Marathon special from 7pm till 3am, ending with a Live Broadcast from Space.
Monday 9 May 2011
It's time for Chris to say goodbye to Forge Radio and he's going to throw one hell of a party to celebrate it.

On Friday 20th May Chris will be hosting his own House Music Marathon right here in Sheffield Student's Union.

From 7pm till 11pm he'll keep you entertained with live guest sessions from some of the DJs who have graced the stage. Already confirmed we have DJ Tom Higham, DJ Dave Crane and a new face to House Bandits Tommy Lee.

He'll also be chatting to Captial FM's Andi Durrant to find out what he things will be the biggest tracks of the summer as well as tips and tricks for aspiring DJs.

Then at 11pm he'll be broadcasting from inside Space, where 1600 party goers will be celebrating the end of the week at Sheffield Student's Union. You'll hear the cheers, the screams and the music as and when it happens from inside The Octagon.

Look out for the link to the stream over the next week and listen in. Chris is going out in style.

Missed a show? Click on the 'Radio' tab.
Wednesday 4 May 2011
This week Chris is taking you through some of the biggest tunes you may have missed while you've been enjoying BBQs, Royal Weddings and Bank Holidays this Easter.

It's 2 hours of non-stop music from the likes of Bingo Players, Sidney Samson, Afrojack and The House Moguls.

He's even got an exclusive first play of Swedish House Mafia's massive new song 'Save the World'!

That's not all, Space DJ and friend Ben Cooper is mixing it up with an Oldskool Trance guest mix.

Tune in on Friday 8th April from 9pm.


Missed a show? Click on the Radio tab.
Tuesday 5 April 2011
This week Chris is joined on the show by Simon Bell. The 27-year-old from Sheffield has been getting recognition for his sets at Liquid and Envy.

He tells all about the life of a DJ, including playing alongside the likes of Example and Roll Deep and working 36 hour shifts.

He also reveals his top 5 tracks of the week, along with an exclusive minimix he put together 'House Bandits.'

This is the last show before Easter so expect it to be big with some massive new tunes and official first plays.

Tune in on Friday 8th April from 9pm.


Missed a show? Click on the Radio tab.
Thursday 31 March 2011
House Bandits will unfortunately have to be cancelled this week because Chris is getting the party started at The Plug for their new night Revolution.

He'll be playing alongside Ministry of Sound's own Joshua Roberts.

It all kicks off at 10.30pm and at just £5 the night proves to help you celebrate the end to another week.

Sneak peek at his set...

Make your move 2011 (Tristan Garner remix)
In the air (Axwell remix)
Alejandro (Dark Intensity remix)
Telephone (Alphabeat remix)
Monday 21 March 2011
This week Chris is joined on the show by DJ Dave Crane. The 28-year-old has been gracing decks up and down the country, even getting the party going in Ibiza.

He tells all about how hard it is to get in the business and reveals his top 5 tracks of the week.

As well as that Chris plays his exclusive minimix and some of Dave's own productions. 
Chris also catches up with House sensation Gina Star. After signing to Toolroom records last year she has been quickly recognised as a force to be reckoned with. Hear what advice she gives if you want to catch a break.

Tune in on Friday 1st April from 9pm.


Missed a show? Click on the Radio tab
Sunday 20 March 2011
Unfortunately last Friday's show had to be cancelled but that doesn't mean Chris isn't bringing you another one of his Exclusive online minimixes.

Doncaster DJ, Glynn Hatton has put together an Exclusive Website-Only minimix for House Bandits.

With 20 years in the House industry, the 40-year-old has been influenced by some of the greats including, Hed Kandi and Armand Van Helden.



Tracklistings:

Hysteric - Ego
Ken Doh – Nagasaki
Mync –Love Parade
Wild Child - Renegade Master
Noferni - I don't want you anymore
Sunday 6 March 2011
This week Chris is joined on the show by DJ Tom Higham. The 22-year-old from Sheffield has been getting recognition from some of the best in the business including Capital FM's Riley and Durrant.

He tells all about the life of a student DJ and reveals his top 5 tracks of the week, along with an exclusive minimix he put together for 'House Bandits' while on a train.

Part 2 of Chris' interview with Radio 1's Andy George will also be on the show and if you're an aspiring DJ it's definitely worth tuning in to as he gives some of his best tips for DJs out there to make it big.


Tune in on Friday 11th March from 9pm.



Missed a show? Click on the Radio tab
Sunday 27 February 2011
After the launch show last week Chris is getting straight into it and inviting former Space DJ and Sheffield student David Venn down to the studio to help co-host.

He tells all about his life as a DJ as well as revealing his top 5 tracks of the week and an exclusive new minimix.

Chris also catches up with Radio 1's Andy George for a great in depth chat about Moda, INMWT and DJing in general - hear the first part of that interview this week.


Tune in from 9pm on Friday 4th for more of the freshest tunes around!





Missed a show? Check out the Radio tab.
Like with everything new, House Bandits has been given a welcoming gift from former Sheffield University student and now Space resident DJ Ben Cooper aka Cocker.

An exclusive website-only minimix just for you lucky people.


Tracklisting:

Rhythm is Rhythm - Shaft
Bonkers - Dizzee Rascal
Don't Go (Original Mix) - Richard Murray & Paul Deighton Feat. Lindsay
In And Out Of My Life (ATFC Original Mix) - Onephatdeeva
Ghosts 'n' Stuff - deadmau5 Feat. Rob Swire
Dreamer '09 (TV Rock Remix) - Veerus & Maxie Devine Feat. Janice Robinson
Sunday 20 February 2011
Chris is kicking off strong with 6 minimixes from some of his favourite DJs that have graced the Forge Radio studio's in the last 6 months.
Including:

Rotherham's own DJ Simon Bell (left)- who appeared on the show after a mammoth 36 hour shift at his second job.

He'll also have a guest mix from co-founder and resident DJ of Filthy Audio Tom Harrington aka TDJ (right).

And David Crane steps up to the plate with a mix based on his favourite DJ and producer, Joris Voorn.



But that's not all....

Chris also catches up with super Swedish producer and DJ, Tim Berg/Avicii after his successful chart topping hit 'Bromance,' to find out what he's got in store for the next 12 months and what it felt like to be the first confirmed act at TomorrowLand 2011.

He also puts together a 5 minute master piece to show why he's been dubbed the next big thing for House Music.

Tune in from 9pm on Friday 4th for more of the freshest tunes around.