Justin Robertson: I try not to look back and live off past glories

As one of the countries longest standing DJs, a genuine pioneer of electronic music, a tireless producer and incredibly in demand jock, Justin Robertson brings with him to the forthcoming Beats of Rage a rich history a wealth of experience and a determination to continue to push forward the sounds of electronic dance music. 

Mike Warburton grabbed five minutes to grill the British legend before his eagerly awaited arrival in Preston this weekend.

Are you looking forward to playing at Beats of Rage sixth Birthday this Friday? With living in Manchester for so many years, did you ever journey up to Preston or will this be your debut!?

Yes very much looking forward to it, I've been to Preston on a number of occasions, I actually used to do Feel at the university in the nineties, its always been a top destination for dance music.

For those of us who haven’t seen one of your sets, how would you describe what you do? Have you anything particular in mind for Beats of Rage?

Ha, I always find it hard to describe my sound! I guess its kind of primitive, dynamic acid house, pretty jacking, but i like to change to mood so its never too linear, I'll chuck in a few psychedelic disco numbers, a fair bit of techno and a lot of acid.

So at the moment, what would you say are your top five favourite tracks?

I can do better than that! Here are ten I dig:

PANAMA DISCO LIGHTS -  THE MOOD I'M IN [RODION NERO DUB]

LOS PASTORES - THANK YOU PORVENIR [LUKE SOLOMON REMIX]

NADIA KSAIBA - VIRTUAL LOVER [ JIMMY EDGAR INST]

REMAIN - NOSES, CLAUDINE AND HORSES

TARJEI NYGARD - HARDKOKT

SANFUENTES - HEATWAVE [ACID DUB]

JUSTIN ROBERTSON'S DEADSTOCK 33S - SUMMON THE PRIMITIVE

LOS MEKANIKOS - SENTIMIENTO

CANYON COSMOS - FEAR OF PLASTIC [PILOOSKI EDIT]

CHEVAL SOMBRE -  COULDN'T DO [ JUSTIN ROBERTSON'S DEADSTOCK 33S REMIX]

Of the many remixes you’ve done in your career, is there one that you still especially enjoy?

Well I try not to look back and live off past glories! I like to push on, so I'm really excited by the new ones. I've just done one for Cheval Sombre, that i'm really happy with, its quite sprawling and Psychedelic. From the olden days i still play Bjork 'Big Time Sensuality' quite a bit.

Bjork - Big Time Sensuality (Justin Robertson Lionrock Wigout Mix)

How do you think the scene has changed since you started out? What in your opinion is the current state of dance music?

It's grown into something massive, a business for some, certainly something we never anticipated when we were all jumping about in sweaty acid houses. I think the music is sooo exciting now, the underground, whatever that means, is strong, there is a wealth of new talent, great tracks everywhere - it's superb. There is of course a lot of balls and bullshit out there, but I just ignore it!

You played all over the country this festival season. What was your summer highlight?

Electric Elephant, Bestival and Festival Number 6 were all amazing, Unknown in Croatia too, I've had a fantastic summer.

How have you enjoyed your work as part Deadstock 33s? Have you had any remixes, productions or collaborations out recently or coming out soon?

I have a new single in November on Gomma called 'The Circular Path', with remixes from Asphodells, Luke Solomun, Dimitri Veimar, an EP for Electrique also in November. And then remixes for Dan Beaumont, Cheval Sombre, Pos, and Cabaret Nocturne all coming up. Myself and Daniel Avery also have a new project that is taking shape... watch this space.

Dream situation time... you can go back to any period in clubland history, and play at any club. Who would you have playing alongside you and what tune would you drop that would define the evening?

I have no idea! I'd rather imagine a future club with something as yet unwritten causing a stir, I have so many good memories, some very fuzzy! Its impossible to pick one out, the list is endless.

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