In the mix with Brent “Maestro B”

February 25 2007

Category: Mixsets

Things have been busy here. Last week I did a set in the R18 zone at an event featuring DJ Slipmatt. It was a big night. DJ Slipmatt (otherwise known as “The Godfather of Rave”) called in to Christchurch city for an exclusive set during his tour of Australia. The event was open to all ages, but included an R18 zone for people needing a few alcoholic refreshments. My set was 1:30am to 3am, which meant I also got to see Slipmatt in the main zone.

Next Friday night I’m doing a set at the next “House Warning” night. This time its at the Capitol Barlounge here in Christchurch city. This will be the second “House Warning” night, and will hopefully lay the groundwork for many more. There is no covercharge for “House Warning”, so if you live in Christchurch check it out.

On a technical note…I’ve been researching harmonic mixing. This is something that I usually do by ear, but I’m wanting to perfect the skill by understanding the theory behind it. When a mix is harmonic the tracks are in complimentary keys. For example, if I am playing a track that has been produced in the key of D Flat minor, then it will sound really nice if I mix in a track that is in the key of B major or A Flat minor (or, of course, D Flat minor). These keys work well together and provide a nice progression. You know how sometimes you hear a mix where the two tracks really clash and sound horrible together. That is because the keys of the tracks are not compatible. I try to avoid such clashes, but sometimes it happens by accident. My goal is to keep my mixes sounding nice and harmonic as this adds a certain quality to the experience.

Right, technical jargon out of the way. Enjoy this mix…

Brent Silby (2007)

“Something better” - Brent “Maestro B” (running time 58 minutes)
Play now (to download: right click, Save Target As)

In the mix with DJ Manureva

February 19 2007

Category: Mixsets

Click to stream the mix
Two brand new sets from DJ Manureva. These are part of his fruity soul series and in his normal tradition, Manureva gives us a stable dance beat with lots of nice vocals. The bassline often borders on the disco-house type sound, which adds an extra depth to the music.

The mixing is technically good with song choices that run nicely together–always important for a good set. These mixsets would be perfect listening on a Saturday night pre-club drinks–or on a Saturday afternoon BBQ. Nice.

Stream fruity soul 44 This MP3 should stream in your browser. To Download the mix right click, “Save Target As”
Stream fruity soul 45 This MP3 should stream in your browser. To Download the mix right click, “Save Target As”

Brent Silby (2007)

DJ Tutor

February 10 2007

Category: General

Pictured here is Ellaskins, the DJ Tutor.

I am often asked for advice and lessons on how to DJ. Its great to know that so many people want to learn this skill, and I’m always happy to offer whatever help I can. Recently I have been pointing people to the “DJ Tutor” on YouTube. The DJ Tutor (aka Ellaskins) offers video tutorials on all the basic techniques involved in the art of DJ’ing. He provides tips on everything from basic beatmatching to eq manipulation. He’s very good at what he does, and he has a quirky sense of humor.

So, if you are a new DJ looking for advice, tips, and tricks, then try out the Ellaskins the “DJ Tutor” (pictured above) on his YouTube page or his recently established website, djtutor.com.

Brent Silby (2007)