house music for your mouf!
Hosts
NATE LAURENCE:
Nate Laurence is the triple threat: veteran DJ since 1995, prolific producer, and event-coordinator. All roles blend to concoct one of THE freshest talents in the new-school underground house music scene today. An undying disciple of EDM for over a decade, Nate has been scorching parties throughout many life-stages (from graduate school and relocations to a detonating resurrection in his home of Minneapolis, MN, USA). This old-school raver, once known as DJ Unity – a patron of former troupe UNIK Communications – still shows support to his fellow Minneapolisian DJ’s by attending “church” as often as possible, dancing up a storm in front of the loudest speaker. A career that developed over the course of a decade – largely behind the scenes – has now become impossible to ignore.
A DJ first: amid immensely contagious energy behind the decks – layered with dexterous turntablism – Nate impresses even the most cynical critics one at a time, leaving “wows” in his wake. In international DJ lists, Nate has continued to inch upwards in impressive fashion with gigs reaching as far as South Africa. In 2009, Nate fulfilled an enduring aspiration – a true privilege – by becoming a new resident DJ at the legendary First Avenue Nightclub in Minneapolis, opened in 1970 and forever known as an iconic location for dance music worldwide.
Knockout production: after living in his second home of Cape Town, South Africa in 2001, Nate focused on production. Since then, his resume has grown at a reputable pace. In 2007, Nate released his first solo EP on Funkfield Recordings – proving his aptitude as a gifted producer – and began work with Chicago based beatmaker Scrubfish (Scott Kammer). Since the dawn of their relationship, Nate and Scrubfish have begun a journey to the top. Whether solo or mutually, EVERY track they have released to date has reached Top100 lists worldwide; they hold one of the best jackin’ tracks of 2008 as voted by Traxsource; caught the attention of DJ Dan in 2009 signing with him; and continue to get play from many of the worlds finest DJs. Each new release continues to outshine subsequent releases.
Event-coordinator: in 2007, Nate rounded the triple threat and joined forces with Minneapolis staple DJs Spur and Jeff Ka$h to create “Sol Funke,” which he left in 2008 to create “HotDish” after partnering with friend DJ J. Matthews. “HotDish” is both a collaborative of DJs and an event crew that has become an illustrious name in Minneapolis – stirring an uproar long awaited by the party people of the frozen north. Nate is a man dedicated to the ethos of dance music – that unity we have all felt on the dance floor. To capture this spirit and make it touchable in the real world is Nate’s goal. Keep your eyes open for this talented and very different househead – who continues to give his all to keep the music fresh and far-reaching. Today, Nate has built an international following and an exhaustible production/DJ schedule that continues to reach one DJ, one fan, and one reputable label at a time.
In his own words: I’m a complex person and have found my calling. I am 100% dedicated to music in its many forms and 100% committed to the fight for social justice as an international activist and educator. I am blessed by my father who recently passed; three sisters (Molly in San Diego, Courtney in Brooklyn NY, Kara here in Minne-snow-ta); my closest friends including Sami, Jones, and Shotty B; my wonderful lab pup “Dio;” my extended South African family; drum circles; laughter; large hazelnut lattes; activists; musicians; artists; punk rock and hip-hop; freedom fighters; graf writers; experiences that have humbled me; thunderstorms; vinyl; and, travel
J. MATTHEWS:
“Growing up with a family that has a love for musical expression has certainly helped me to be a DJ. Plus, being a part of the Midwest dance community has taught me so much about this music, and how rich and diverse it can be. I have been graced with the opportunity to have house as a part of my life, and I will never take it for granted.” – J Matthews
Hailing from Minneapolis, MN, j matthews started to DJ after being introduced to Chicago house music via the Twin Cities’ Radio Depth Probe on REV 105, as well as exposure to internationally recognized artists like Donald Glaude, Gene Farris, and Derrick Carter.
Inspired to make the music he loved personal, j matthews got his start spinning records in the late 90′s at house parties and raves throughout the Twin Cities. For his first club performance, j matthews played for more than 1200 people at First Avenue, a Minneapolis nightlife institution. From that fateful gig on, j matthews knew that records, house music, and making people move were to be a driving force in his life.
j matthews quickly became a Twin Cities favorite at premier clubs and dance events, including the Gay 90′s, Quest Nightclub, and First Avenue’s beatopia, while still making time to perform at underground events throughout the area. During this time, j matthews also formed the popular tag team Midnight Click with friend and fellow Minneapolis talent DJ Clear, allowing them to bring twice the fun and funk to the Cities’ late night parties.
In 2003, j matthews packed up, relocated to Boston, and continued to showcase his talents at high-profile events, including the long-running Bump at the Phoenix Landing in Cambridge, MA. The distinct sounds of the East Coast have further enriched his selection and style, with influences that include Greenskeepers, No Assembly Firm, Troydon, Jason Hodges, and Brett Johnson.
With his return to Minneapolis, 2008 sees j matthews ready to bring his unique vision and considerable skills back to the forefront of the Twin Cities dance community. Get ready for a dose of soul and love that only j matthews can bring!