The Garden Party is back for another weekender across Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th May at Canvas Yard.
The city’s longest running and most essential partythis year unveils an all new third stage and headliners such as Pawsa, Skream, Paul Woolford, LF System, Special Request, Sherelle, Bradley Zero, Todd Terje, Palms Trax and Dr Banana.
Get your tickets for this inner city magic now at https://www.gardenpartyleeds.com and then read an interview with Josh Demello.
Josh is no stranger to life behind the decks and is one of the city’s most assured talents and top DJs. Here we hear about his year, what to expect at The Garden Party his afterparty at Test Bed https://ra.co/events/1699899
How are you, whats good and bad in your world?
It’s all good at the moment thank you. I’ve been away for a few months traveling and a few gigs around Asia. It’s good to be back in Leeds and get stuck into some new projects.
How much of an influence has the Leeds scene been on you over the years?
Leeds has had a massive impact on me as a DJ and as a person. I’ve been a part of the scene since I was 15, going clubbing, DJing, and organizing events here. Even after working in Ibiza for seven seasons and exploring nightlife scenes around the world, I always find myself gravitating back to Leeds.
Leeds has a huge history of amazing brands that influence me such as Back To Basics, Dirty Disco, mono_cult, and Glasshouse, as well as iconic clubs like The Garage, The Warehouse, Mint Club, and Northern Lights, which have been some of the best in the country. All of this has given me a lot of inspiration for what I do now, and I consider myself fortunate to have lived in Leeds and experienced so much of its musical culture.
What will it be like playing on home turf at Garden Party?
It will be class, I’m really looking forward to playing and checking out the new Canvas Yard. I’m excited to have my own brand Ruckus24 host the third stage. My good friends Reeshy, Mitch and Holly Why are joining me on the line up and it’s ace to have Dr Banana joining us too!
Have you attend it as a punter over the years? what makes it so special?
I haven’t, I’ve always been booked elsewhere when it’s been on so i’m buzzing I get to finally play and check it out. It’s one of the biggest events in Leeds so i’m well excited for it.
Tell us about Ruckus24 – whats the vibe, the style, the sound?
Ruckus24 has become more than just a party for a lot of us, it’s become a movement that’s representing the underground scene in Leeds and has created a strong community. When we launched Ruckus24 four years ago, We felt like Leeds was lacking a true party brand that was focused on bringing friends together on the dance floor, and offering high-quality underground music instead of just selling tickets to the masses. This is why we also organise plenty of free parties and afterparties (That don’t seem to end haha). Thanks to our friends who are some of the best selectors in the scene, they’ve been supporting us since day one, and wow we’ve had some class times!. We’re proud to have booked some of the biggest names in the industry, who are now regulars at our events, including Arapu, Priku, Voigtmann, Rossko, Burnski, Kepler, Christian AB, Sugar Free, Subb-an, Tristan Da Cunha etc
I always find describing our sound a bit of a challenge as we have a strong appreciation for a diverse range of underground styles. Whether it’s the minimal grooves of the Romanians, The energetic UK vibes, or the slammin’ sounds of the Berlin scene, We’re drawn to all of it. But one thing we promise is that our parties always go off!
You also A&R for constant sound – what does the role entail?
I’m fortunate to work alongside one of my best mates Burnski with Constant Sound records and the other labels such as INSTINCT, Pilot, Aesthetic and more. I’ve always wanted to learn the ins and outs of how to run a label and he got me on board a few years ago to help out with the social media and spreadsheets that kind of thing. As i’m always naturally seeking out new artists and getting sent a lot of new music from Techno, House, Minimal and Garage I was passing on suitable artists that were fitting to the labels so it was just a natural progression. There’s some incredible releases coming out on the labels this year.. Especially from the gaffer Burnski!
What are the tips for being a good A&R?
Being able to find producers with a signature sound and a strong identity. Recognise potential in artists. Having a deep understanding and appreciation for quality music. Networking, building relationships online and attending events.
What sounds and styles do you hear a lot of now?
I get so much music sent daily, mainly Minimal and UK Garage. I’m hearing a lot of potential from some really young producers, its great to see them inspired by some of the early House, Garage and Breaks releases. It’s exciting to know how much new music there is out there to be discovered.
What are some of the key lessons you have learnt over the years on your way to becoming the DJ you are?
The scene is small so be polite, have time for as many people as you can and respect your fellow DJ’s. Networking is key.. be confident but not annoying. Take the job seriously but always remember to have fun. Don’t feel you have to stick to one style or try and sound too much like your favourite DJ.. There’s no rules, do your thing.
What else have you got coming up?
Straight after The Garden Party event we have a Ruckus24 party starting from 10pm at a brand new warehouse space called TESTBED. Shonky and Arapu are headlining so it’s going to be a huge day and night!