DJ
Blasterjaxx
BLASTERJAXX Since 2013, this talented DJ-producer duo have been doing their thing all over the globe, and have cemented themselves in the top tier of the DJ Mag Top 100 list. As impressive as that is in such a short time, they remain humble in their approach to their art: “To be honest, we find it unbelievable that we’re really doing this, making our living by doing what we love more than anything,” says Thom Jongkind. We dig a little deeper, chatting music, studios, and giant speakers. “Touring is great, but it has his pros and cons, something a lot of people underestimate,” Thom Jongkind reminds Headliner. “And no kidding, but we really do love all the venues and all the crowds. Each one tends to have its own unique charm.” Blasterjaxx describe their sound as powerful, melodic rave music – and when they’re not out on the road, they meet up every morning around 10am in the studio, to begin work. And there’s us thinking all these big DJs sleep in until mid afternoon...
16 Headliner
“[smiles] Yep, we meet each other in the morning, and either start something from scratch, or continue working on existing material. It’s just the two of us in our ‘workplace’, breathing music until 5pm! Back in the day, we did a lot of night sessions, but we feel more confident with a more normal work routine. “On the road, it mostly starts with a quick room service breakfast, re-packing of the suitcase, a drive to the airport, a quick bite at the airport, take a plane, drive to the hotel,
“The Genelec 1234s are so powerful, and crystal clear...” eat again, work out, nap, prepare for the set, play the show, head back to the hotel... [takes a breath] And the next day we do it all over again! [laughs]” I ask Jongkind what he feels their live shows offer that stands them out from the crowd, so to speak. “The shock effect!” is the quick response. Do divulge. “We try to give the crowd tracks they would never expect us to play, or even hear at a dance festival. Take Daddy Yankee - Gasolina, Eminem - Lose Yourself, Edward Maya - Stereo