Dan Hillier – UK’s Drum & Bass maestro is about to
bounce back.
Q. So, Dan, you’re back! Where have you been these past two
years?
A. Yeah, I know! It’s been a long time! I’ve really missed
this ‘wonderful’ (sarcastic) weather back here in England. I’ve spent the last
two years going anywhere and everywhere. Some nice areas, and some not so nice
areas, it’s good to be back in familiar places. I mean everywhere aswell; you
name a place, I’ve almost certainly been there! Australia, Mexico, USA, France,
Italy, Romania and even Japan! The list is endless...
Q. Wow, that’s a lot of travelling. What have you been doing
in all those places? Partying, having fun, living it large?
A. Haha I wish! The only partying I’ve done is on my own in
a hotel room with my iPod. I’ve been out trying to make a name for myself,
playing in some of the world’s best clubs, and getting some inspiration for my
new stuff. It’s been work, work, work.
Q. New stuff? Might there be a new album in the works? The
hype around this will be crazy if this is the case!
A. Yep, there sure is! I was quite disappointed with the
reception my last album got so hopefully this one will be a lot better. This
time I’m back and I’m gonna be bigger than ever, nobody can stop me now!
Q. Cool, I’m looking forward to it. Now, lets find out a
little bit more about you and what sort of stuff you’re into. First of all,
what do your parents think about the music you make?
A. Ok, cool, I’m up for that! Ah my parents... I can’t
really say that they love drum and bass to be quite honest. I think they’re
more into that music you get at those family birthday parties. But they’ve
always been supportive of whatever I do, even when it doesn’t really work.
Yeah, they’re cool I guess.
Q. Ok. First of all, what was the first record you bought?
A. To be honest it was nothing special. My mum got me Now 57
or Now 58. I can’t really remember, it wasn’t too good though. Once I’d started
earning my own money, I think the first album I got was ‘The Fat of The Land’
by The Prodigy. Now that is one great album!
Q. What’s with the name? Not very inventive is it?
A. That’s the point. I want people to know me, not a persona
that everyone else comes up with. I find all that stuff a bit cheesy. It’s my
music, my name.
Q. Do you think you can be the one to give drum and bass a
name and bring it into the mainstream?
A. I sure do! That was the point of the two years out,
making a name for myself, It’s all part of the plan to revive drum and bass and
bring it back into the spotlight where it belongs.
Q. What was the first gig you went to?
A. It wasn’t really a gig but back in the 90s my mate took
me to see this drum and bass event at some club in London. Don’t ask me where,
I have no idea. I wasn’t too keen to go so just went along to keep him company
really. This turned out to be the place where I found my love for drum and
bass. If my mate hadn’t persuaded me to go I guess I wouldn’t be in the
position I’m in right now. Guess I owe him!
Q. What music would we find on your iPod?
A. Wow, a whole variety of stuff. I’m into everything
really. Bit of Oasis, Two Door Cinema Club, Kanye West, Gorillaz, Tinie Tempah.
Oh and all the other stuff you’d expect me to have; Nero, Chase & Status,
Netsky, Sub Focus, Pendulum etc. You might even find a bit of Frank Sinatra on
there!
Q. Wow! With all that great music you must have a tasty
sound system at home, right?
A. Haha you would think so wouldn’t you! All I have is this
shitty little dock from Tesco. It hardly even works!
Q. And what would you say is your favourite album of all
time?
A. Of all time!? That’s a big question, but thinking about
it it has to be Chase & Status – No More Idols. Pure Class!
Q. Finally, what would you say to someone reading this
interview who hasn’t heard of you before?
A. Get on the internet, search my name, listen to my music,
spread the word!
Q. Cool, thanks for your time!
A. No problem, and remember, spread the word!
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