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We are staying in Seattle this week as we pay a visit to Twitch hero, DJ K-Zar for a catch up and chat!

Where are you from and where are you living now?

I currently live in Seattle, WA, but being in a military family growing up, I’ve lived in Bremerton, Japan, Alameda, and San Diego.

How did you come up with your DJ name?

My real name is actually Kazar(“Kay-zar”). When I was trying to think of a DJ name, one of my closest friends and old school Seattle DJ legend, Whistler asked why don’t I use my actual name since it’s pretty unique, and that’s how it ended up panning out.  Funny thing is I added the hyphen (K-Zar) to make sure people pronounce it correctly, but even to this day, people pronounce it Kuh-zar all the time, so I’m used to it at this point 🙂

What’s your equipment list?

2 x XDJ-1000’s digital turntables

2 x Technics 1200 MK5’s for vinyl

2 x Ortofon Qbert concordes stylus

1 x Pioneer DJM-750 mixer

1 x Pioneer DDJ-SX controller (as a back up)

Where did your musical journey begin?

Growing up in the 1990’s, some of the best R&B, Hip Hop, Pop and Rock came out during that time. It wasn’t until I moved to Seattle in the early 2000’s that the group of friends I had (and still do) introduced me to raves and electronic music.  I found my first love in Trance, but as I went to more shows and listened to more music, my love and appreciation for all other genres grew from there.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

Back then, DJing was an expensive hobby to get into. A good pair of industry standard technics, needles, and a mixer was way out of my price range, but I still collected vinyls when I could afford it (imagine paying $15+ for one track!).  Luckily one of my DJ friends was in the process of upgrading his gear, and he was willing to pass down his old set up to me for a good price(entry level stantons and a 2-channel denon mixer). I remember playing the only 4 vinyls I had for hours every day just learning how to beat match, and from there it became an addiction I’m still not tired of 15+ years later.

Side note for anyone at all interested in learning to DJ, a Pioneer DDJ-400 is a super affordable controller(that will require a PC) that will teach you all the basics, and also be very functional if you decide to stream!

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

Just as the pandemic started ramping up two years ago and no one could see each other in person, a bunch of my DJ friends started throwing virtual shows on Twitch, and fellow Team Brisk member SpinSpinSuper (SK) invited me to play one called commUNITY playground. Before then, Twitch in my mind was this foreign, scary place only hardcore gamers or those with dedicated onlilne followings would frequent. But being locked down and bored, I agreed to play, and I’m so glad I did. I found the Twitch community the most welcoming of any I had ever been exposed to, the artistic/tech-y part of me loved fixing up my stream and making custom emotes, and I got to play music I loved but never had an opportunity to play during any of my live gigs!

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I just want to strive to be happy, to make my wife and our two corgis happy, and strive to be a positive influence to all those around me. Social media and the internet has given everyone a venue to spread misinformation and hate, and if there’s one thing I want anyone to take away from knowing me is that you are loved, you do matter, and we all belong.

Oh, and traveling and eating everything around the world! I love eating 🙂

Who are some of your favourite streamers?

I’ve loved DJ Brisk and all the Team Brisk members streams that I’ve had the pleasure of listening in on. Everyone has their own unique style, rapport with their chat, and banging tunes so you should follow ALL of them!! 

But Jimnicricket hands down has the best hour long show on Twitch called ‘Hardcore HodgePodge’. Her community votes on a theme before every show, and she tailors her set/emotes/music/graphics around that theme. It really is amazing how much effort and love goes into each one.

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

I’ve been playing Hands Up/Hard Dance for most of my 15+ years DJing, and it’ll always be at the top of my list, but one of the best parts of Twitch is that I’ve been able to expand my musical horizons as a DJ in so many different directions.  I now love and play all kinds of House, Liquid DnB, and Trance.  My current favorite of the latter I’ve dubbed ‘brunch house’ which is uplifting, chill, piano heavy house you could listen to while sipping on mimosas to get rid of that hangover at brunch! 

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

Every single person that’s on Team Brisk has been a genuinely good person to hang out with at its core. There’s not one member’s stream I’ve hopped in on and not felt welcome.  Then you add all the awesome music, over the top showmanship, crazy tech, and you have this gathering of amazing talent that I’m thankful to be a part of.

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

Hands down it’s chatting and connecting with so many awesome people and playing music I’ve hoarded for years, but never had an opportunity to play at a show.  Live gigs are great, and they have their own sense of satisfaction, but depending on the booking, you’re locked in to playing a certain type of genre, a certain energy level, a certain vibe depending on the crowd. For a majority of my 15+ years Djing, I played predominantly Hands Up/Hard Dance because that’s what I was booked for. 

DJjing on Twitch has given me the opportunity to play anything and everything I’ve ever wanted, and have an audience for it! I now play all different types of House, liquid DnB, Trance and I feel I’m only scratching the surface of what else I can dive into.

It also can’t be overstated how awesome it is to chat with your audience.  You’d never be able to throw down a crazy mash up of Daft Punk x Dua Lipa or a House version of Above and Beyond’s Satellite, and then turn to your chat and see them go wild along with you! Being able to talk and interact with your community is something you can’t reproduce anywhere else, and I love it!

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

It’s hard not to look at stats. It’s such a sobering fact when you think you’ve played an amazing set, played a bunch of new tracks you found and loved, or thought of an amazing theme that got everyone chatting and engaged, but the numbers say otherwise.  I have to remind myself that the reason I’m doing this is that I am having fun, I’m connecting with people in a way I would never be able to at a live show, and the moment that isn’t the case is the moment I quit.  It’s been over 2 years later, so that must mean something!

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Seattle Sunday Streams and Team Brisk Moist Monday!  We started SSS at the beginning of the pandemic as a way for all of our friends to have a virtual safe space to hang out, chat about life, and play tunes together; friends playing music for friends.  Through it, we’ve made so many amazing connections, met so many awesome people, and we’ve really built a family I’m happy to spend every Sunday with. Over two years later, and it’s still a day people can rely on for great tunes, great chat, and just a place to come vibe.  Come say hi!

Moist Monday is my other stream day along with a bunch of other Team Brisk members, where I tend to play my faster music like hands up, liquid dnb, hard dance, higher bpm trance, etc. Also come say hi 🙂

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

I have to thank the man himself DJ Brisk and all the awesome Team Brisk members for making this one amazing ride, my better half DJ J-Note for really embracing this whole experience with me, and all the friends, new and old, we’ve made along the way.  Whether it’s 1 or 100 of you in chat, talking and connecting with you has really revitalized my love for music and djing to such a personal level, I can’t imagine my life without it now. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Give us your links!

Everything is right here: https://linktr.ee/dj_kzar
And our weekly Seattle Sunday Streams line up is here: https://linktr.ee/SeattleSundayStream

We are heading to Seattle, US this week for our featured Team Brisk member as we drop in to see Jimni Cricket for a catch up!

Where are you from and where are you living now?

I am from Seattle Washington, USA.

How did you come up with your DJ name?

I was given the rave name Cricket due to lecturing a raver about drug safety a Jiminy Cricket joke was made and it stuck.

What’s your equipment list?

2 x XDJ-700 digital decks
2 x Technic 1200 vinyl turntables
1 x Pioneer DJM800 mixer
Sony Alpha A6000 camera

Where did your musical journey begin?

My brother used to play Drum & Bass in the late 1990s under the DJ Nam era. So for Dance music my first exposure was him giving me mixed tapes and I still remember for Christmas in 1997 he gifted me New Forms by Roni Size & Reprazent and I started to become pretty interested in Rave music and Drum & Bass.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

My room mates came home with vinyl turntables but would not allow me to try out mixing records unless I purchased my own records. I really wanted to try my hand at mixing and so I began buying records and the rest is history!

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?
I am very interested in art, sewing and also collect EGL and Japanese fashion

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

Seven years ago I was still working with Happyhardcore.com and they would multicast my streams to various locations, Twitch being one of them. So whilst having a Twitch presence I did not stream on the platform until the pandemic.

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I just want to continue to enjoy every day and make fun things I am proud of. Being a creative makes me very happy!

Who are some of your favourite streamers?

Grym aka ‘Death Himself’ for doing a show with a pretty amazing ongoing and continuing storyline. His production and ideas are great with ever evolving costumes and scene changes.

Four Color Zack – The technical aspects of his show and his personality are just 10/10, plus he is an award winning deejay with one of the highest technical levels on twitch. He is putting constant upkeep into his stream.

I love DJ Spree and Inside The Robot. Spree plays Happy Hardcore with a green screen, while the lovely Inside The Robot paints a fun land scape around in VR with chat requests.

I also love Amber D, Kazar, Nutty, Char, Kutski, d_e_c_i_p_h_e_r, SpinScott, El Hornet. “KJ” Sawka

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

Happy hardcore because it is the best! I also enjoy programming ‘mashup’ sets with Pop music but it is
very time consuming and not so practical for Twitch.

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

I like all my ‘Hardcore Hodgepodge’ adventure shows equally. These are themed shows that my fans and followers get to vote for each week and pick the storyline.

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

I like seeing how each streamer has unique skills. It is nice to have some help with networking and people helping each other. Having Brisk keep an eagle eye out for the fun new people joining twitch is really helpful.

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

I like that I can incorporate a theatrical element and also use my traditional art skills and story telling. It is
a pretty open opportunity to have a tv show without any rules or the need for funding. This pushes me to create or find tech every week. Also because the chat picks the theme I am learning about new
fandoms, which is really fun.

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

Ignoring what is good for my stats and ability to make partner to follow my artistic vision. Spending 5-10 hours in preparation for each adventure show and still having people complain can be frustrating. I also receive comments about being female and my gender being an advantage in helping to achieve bigger viewers on Twitch, which is obnoxious. I work as hard as anyone to achieve my goals and my gender is irrelevant. 💀

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Every Tuesday I run ‘Hardcore Hodgepodge’, which is an interactive adventure stream where the chat picks a theme. I build a physical set out of trash and play a DJ set of music while we play some kind of game I make up. It’s always a lot of fun!

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

My mods, Luna (always and forever), Brady, Digi and also Amber D, Kazar, J Note, Ian K, Faith In The Glitch, Kid Daboom, SK and everyone on Team Brisk (of course!).

Give us your links!
Everything is right here: https://linktr.ee/jimnicricket

Hey gang! This week we are heading to Tampa, Florida to catch up with the Drum & Bass maestro that is Catch22

Where are you from and where are you living now (if different)

I was born in Columbus, Ohio and moved around the Midwest. I lived in Indianapolis, Indiana till I was 27 before moving down to Tampa, Florida to be my Mother’s full time caretaker for her early onset of Alzheimer’s.

How did you come up with your DJ name?

Catch22 was given to me by my friends from the wonderful way life treats me some weeks! The phrase means, “Stuck between a rock and a hard place.” People around me always joked that I had the worst luck in the world. I use to the think the same until I walked away from a car accident that should have killed me. Now I realize how lucky and fortunate I am, each and every day.

What’s your equipment list?

2 x Technics 1200M3D
1 Technics 1210M3D
Tonar Bananas needles,
Pioneer DJM-900NSX2,
Pioneer XP-1,
Pioneer HDJ-X10-K headphones,
MonoPrice Stage Right 8″ Studio Monitors w/ Stage Right Sub.
Elgato Stream Deck
Rode NT1
Sony A5100 with 7.5mm
Gopro 8, 2x Gopro 7, Gopro 4
Custom built turntable stand and record shelves

Where did your musical journey begin?

I started playing my Mom’s 1970’s records at a young age, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, were a few. Then I my Mom would take me to flea markets, so I could find some records for myself. Then sitting in the front seat singing songs with her. I still have all of those records, still today.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

I worked as a graphic designer for a company that primarily did mass runs of Rave flyers for the U.S. The owner of the company was a Rave promoter from the early 1990s. At the office we had turntables setup and I would attempt to mix his records on my lunch break. Then one day, I stuck a mix and the rest was history.

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?

This question brings a quote to my mind every time people ask me it. “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” My hobby, I would say is learning new things. I love to weld, work on cars, remodel houses, build or fix things that people say can’t be fixed, restore old pinball machines. Anything that I find challenging, I like to see if I can overcome that challenge, but like the quote, I am far from a master of one.

When did you start DJing on Twitch?

After my accident, I wasn’t really able to do much. I lost the feeling in my hands, and I couldn’t walk very well, so I never thought I would be able to dj again. I had always gamed with some friends from my home town and jokingly they gave me a hard time and said that I should stream as I couldn’t do much else. Challenge accepted! My first gaming stream was on April 6th 2018. One day, I was bored, and I was scrolling through Twitch, and all the way to the bottom and low and behold I saw a DNB streamer, the next day found a few more and joined a Discord and started asking for help, and then on August 31st, 2019 I delivered my first Dj Stream. It was an uphill battle to teach myself how to dj without feeling in my hands, and not being able to stand for that long. Being able to push myself more and more each week really helped me and I owe that push all to my supportive wife and Twitch community.

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

To be honest, I have everything in my life, except for health! I just want to be healthy! With lots of Physical therapy and training I know I will achieve this one day!! Plus, I want to start and press a record under 1134.

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

Too many to list, but I’ll shout out a couple:

Forgive_1134 Killer mixture of styles and sounds.
Cryptoshell for his energy and skill of mixing.
Guddah for his love of the community and his wild digital mixing style
Dj_B_Style for his friendship and knowledge of the classics.
Spinscott for his wicked live performances on twitch.
916Junglist with his show Djs Not Djing and how it helps out the community.
GoldenChildNYC for knowing every sample ever used.
The_Boiler_Kitchen for being the first DJ stream I watched on twitch!
Tmocs for his help starting out on twitch.

What is your favorite genre to play? Why?

Intelligent Jungle, it reminds me of the long drive home from raves, with the windows down, sun coming up, reflecting on the wonderful night that you had. This style of was dubbed “future music” and imo still could be considered this. I love to be able to show people this style of music and still search records labels and discogs to show people this side of music!

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

Guddah’s ‘Make a Change’ raid or his ‘No Shave November’ and me using a straight razor to shave off my chops to a stunned chatroom. The Cheap Vinyl Challenge that DJ Bstyle and I put on. But my all time favorite thing to do is being sneaky and doing a pop up, and raiding into someone for their Birthday! The look on their face just really warms up the soul.

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

A wonderful collective of some of the best artistes in the world (not just this platform) with extremely talented people outside of djing as well! Just a wealth of knowledge and some top notch people! A huge bigups to Brisk for coming up with ideas, just like this!

What’s your favorite thing about DJing on Twitch?

What I have dubbed Boomer mixing!!! When you blend two tunes together for an extended amount of time to create a whole tune, and if you nail it just right it gives you goose bumps. When this happens, everything in the world just melts away, the pain, the troubles of the day, or with work, it all just fades away. Nothing can ever replace that feeling. Also, Meeting so many new friends, and hearing new Jungle tunes. Plus, the instant feedback and love the community has shared with me, time and time again. And last but not least, trying to see how many things I can while streaming, Multi tasking is a fun way to push yourself!

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

Trying to not have resting bitch face when I am mixing LOL. Sticking to a schedule was a uphill battle, but it really has paid off, not just for Twitch, but it has helped me in life as well. The toughest part about Twitch is attempting to support all the awesome new streamers that stepped in during the pandemic! There is just not enough time for all these amazing new dj’s and viewers that I have met, and hopefully many more to come.

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Syrup Spundayz 11am EST to 4pm EST Intelligent Pretty Jungle on Vinyl. Old School Jungle and Choppage on Thursday 4pm EST to 8pm EST. Also working on putting out a vinyl under 1134.

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

The whole community, the awesome partners like Brisk that have not only formed epic teams but have continued to help community members and elevate the whole scene!

Give us your links!
Twitch
Everything else HERE

This week we are heading to Hull, UK for a snapshot of the one, the only, Steve Disco Newsome!

Where are you from and where are you living now?

I originally dropped from the gusset of my Mother many moons ago. I was raised in the North of England, but soon realised I’d had enough of the place and moved somewhere even more shit, HULL. (For those of you not from the UK, look at your hand and imagine its the UK. Well, I’m where your first finger meets your thumb (If you were looking at your right hand). If you weren’t looking at your right hand, then you should have been cos I have no idea where I live on your left hand. NEXT QUESTION!

How did you come up with your DJ name?

I used to live with a guy called Matty Henshaw. Matty liked Disco so I started calling him ‘Disco Matt’. In return he thought it was funny to call me ‘Disco Steve’. Unfortunately mine stuck and since that day I’ve been Steve “Disco” Newsome. Originally it was just ‘Disco’ but it didn’t work on flyers, so the longer version was born.

What’s your equipment list?

I run two different set ups. I travel with a Pioneer DJ SX3 controller. I love this because its easy for shifting between venues (not all venues in the UK supply equipment).

As for my home studio, I run a Serato S11 mixer alongside 2 x Technics 1210s including DVS. I use the old school Shure SM58 microphone in both situations. I run my music from a MacBook pro. I’ve tried rocking up to gigs with USB sticks but have had a shit success rate and there’s nowt worse than that things not working on the night!

Where did your musical journey begin?

Back in the 1980s and late 1970s. I started at an early age, like many DJs of my age (get fucked Brisk I know you’ll have something funny to say about my age!), mixing tapes together and figuring out how to make cassettes for people without the ability of turntables. My first paid gig happened when I was about 15 and I played the local community centre, my wage was just £2 (true story). They got pissed off with me though because I used to turn up with a guest list, hahahaha WHAT? The kids disco soon turned into an adult get together and they didn’t know what hit them. I stayed for about a year and then found nightclubs. Luckily my uncle was a doorman at the local club so I could get in. Looking back I must have looked mental Dan in a nightclub at 15 but it was the 1980s and no one really cared.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

The idea of massive orgies, swimming in piles of cash like Scrooge McDuck and all the Pot Noodle you can eat. Only joking, it’s good for morale! The truth is I didn’t decide to become a DJ, I was already one. I decided to go professional when I realised I could make a career out of it in 1996. I won a DJ comp that I wasn’t officially taking part in. I was warming the room up for the competitors.

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?

Underground fight club marbles. It’s awesome. You play marbles and if you lose, you wrestle your opponent to the ground, belt him and grab your marbles back. First rule of underground marble fight club is no bongies or skatz. Erm but seriously, I have no spare time to have fun. DJing is what I do. It’s work, but it’s also my hobby.

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

A couple of years ago now. In the first week of Covid 19 lockdown in the UK, I started streaming on Facebook every day, but was getting shut down faster than Boris Johnson after party due to their music algorithm. Eventually Facebook banned me for 6months. I shoved my finger up at the platform and jumped to Twitch. My first ever stream was my playing Gears of War, badly. I did some followers though and my brain went DING! (This was either a good idea or I’d stood to close to the microwave door as it opened.) Either way, I jumped on Twitch and the rest is history.

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

Nah not really, I’m happy as I am. If good things happen (which they do as we both know) then so be it. I grind daily at everything I do (well except grinding because no one is ready for this jelly) and sometimes things stick and go on to be a success and the things that don’t, get dropped. When you get to my age you’re happy your eyes opened in the morning. Grumpy fucker aren’t I, hahaha 🙂

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

Does this mean I have to say you? FFS BRISK…. (Ok let go of my arm I’ll say it…. Put the pen down and what’s with the Jack Russel and ziplock bag…. I’LL SAY IT!)
Of course you’re one of my favourites. I can’t mention everyone though because I’d be here all day. I will tell you though, who my absolute favourite to watch is……………. Paul? Where you go Paul? What’s that buzzing? PAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUL!

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

I can’t narrow it down to one genre and there are too many styles these days. I love stuff that has a jack to it. A nice crispy jack. Mmmmmmmmm crisps…… what was the question again?

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

Hands down the times I played on Sunday Mass for David Morales, but on a self stream accomplishment level, It’s gotta be the charity stream I did for Alzheimers. IRL wise, there’s a ton, but warming up for Sandy Rivera was very memorable. I also warmed up for the Cheeky Girls (also memorable). CHEEKY, CHEEKY!

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

Team Brisk was my first step into a team on Twitch, so it means the world to me. It was my first “LOOK WHAT I DID MUM!” Moments on the platform. Unfortunately it means I now have you (Brisk) as a mate, but it’s a small price to pay to be in such an awesome team.

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

FREEDOM! Twitch has allowed me to be the DJ (and comedian) I think I am. If IRL was like twitch it would be sick! Twitch folk understand. I love the community on Twitch.

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

Challenging? Hmmmmmm, I don’t think I ever found anything challenging. This might be a pain in the F A*** but not challenging. If you want an answer though. Building Twitch was a challenge in the beginning and the grind is still challenging. Getting to the bathroom without trapping my nuts in the carpet grips is challenging, but Dj wise I’ll have to think about that one.

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Not really, I’m constantly doing stuff but I’d be here all day. I’m thinking about doing a charity stream when I hit 10k followers on Twitch. Maybe a 10k run and a 10 hour stream for the local hospital I raised money for before, but I’ve not put the wheels in motion yet. There’s a rumour on the underground marble fight club vine that I’m getting interviewed by Lenny Fontana on True House Heroes and I can confirm this it the truth but not set a date yet. Follow Lenny to find out Twitch.tv/lennyfontanaofficial

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

My mum because without her, none of this would be possible. And you (Brisk), of course for this glorious interview xxx

Give us your links!

Twitch
Mixcloud
Instagram
Discoandbriskdodallas.org

This week we are heading to Las Vegas, USA as we drop in to see our friend, the legendary DJ Mondo!

Where are you from and where are you living now?
I am from Tampa Florida, and now I live in Las Vegas Nevada USA.

How did you come up with your DJ name?

Well, my real name is Armando, and short for Armando is “Mando” but as people didn’t pronounce it like I wanted them too. I then eventually changed the “a” to “o” and settled on DJ Mondo.
 
What’s your equipment list?
 
Not much, I have an Pioneer RX3 controller and two Technics 1200 turntables ( I still have my first pair of 1200s I bought in 1997).
 
Where did your musical journey begin?

I would say, December 8th , 1980, the day John Lennon got shot in NYC. It was on the news and my grand mother started crying. I asked her why she was crying and she said “They Killed John Lennon”. I replied who is John Lennon? ‘The Beatles!!!!’  she told me. So she began pulling Beatles albums and playing the records for me. That is my fist memory of music really.
 

What made you decide to take up DJing?

I was always messing in my room with music. Had a cheap mixer and I would record tapes for me and my friends. While i was in college at the University of South Florida. I had a room mate who was in a Fraternity and  they had lots of parties at local clubs. So one night the DJ they hired for a party did not show up. So my roommate called me and told me to fill in. I did, it was an amazing experience and a great night. So then the owner of the club asked me if I wanted to dj every week. I said YES.

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?

Before my son was born, I enjoyed building models of circuses. Im from a circus family and yeah that’s how that hobby came about. BUT more recently my passion is being a Father to my 3 year old son AJ.
 

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

I started streaming on Twitch and affiliated exactly 2 years ago this July.
 

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I just want to be a good person, make some tunes people enjoy. Making some people dance. Being a good Dad to my Son. I kinda just go with the flow and see where life takes me. But I guess a goal is just to be “Happy”

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

That’s a tough question, because I enjoy a lot of djs on Twitch but I would have to say the ones that stimulate me “musically” I love hearing good music that is new and undiscovered. But I also enjoy those djs with fun outgoing personalities. Im there to have fun and be entertained a bit.  
 

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

Here is another tough question: for me, I LIKE  IT ALL really. I like almost every form or genre of electronic dance music. But If I had to throw out some genres I would say: House, Electro House, Big Room, Breaks, and even some Trap.
 

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

Gosh there are so many, 20 years worth of countless memorable events. And now with streams added. I don’t know where to start really. I have to say my residencies here in Las Vegas at Omnia, Hakkasan, Wet Republic, leave me with great memories that I will never forget. BUT as the saying goes, “what happens in vegas, stays in vegas” . Yeah that’s all I can say. 😊
 

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

One word, TEAM!

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

Just being accessible to share music with viewers all over the world at any given moment. Its Great
 

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

As a DJ: just keeping up with the times. You have to evolve and embrace change. If you don’t evolve you get left behind.
As a Streamer: Same thing. my challenge is trying to keep my streams fresh. With music and visuals. You have to always keep evolving and trying new things.
 

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Yeah July 22nd 2022 I have a new tune coming out with Dance Stash. Track called Fade Away. It will be available everywhere. Please check it out – Fade Away (Dj Mondo remix) – Dance Stash
Also I will be having a 2 year Twitch anniversary stream soon and also a 4000 Followers celebration stream. I am currently about 10 follows away from 4000 as we speak.

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

Yes. I would like to give a shout out to all my Twitch MODS. Thanks for helping me Do what I do. You all are amazing! And Also all you viewers out there,  thanks for the positive energy and support!

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We are heading to Washington State, US this week as we take as take an inside look into the realms of virtual worlds in which the amazing Nephtanica reigns supreme!

Where are you from and where are you living now?

Washington State, USA

How did you come up with your DJ name?

My Name came from the term the term Nephilai, which is a mythological water fairy, but I later found it was easier and more fitting to describe me as a Nephilim. This made more sense due to the term meaning basically hybrid, between two species so the name is a hybrid between the term Nephilim and a comic book called Satanika.

What’s your equipment list?

Motherboard: ROG STRIX B550-F GAMING
Cpu: Ryzen 7 5800x 8 Core 3800Mhz
Ram: Corsair Vengance x4 16gb (64gb) 3400mhz
Graphics: Asus TUF RTX 3090 factory overclocked
PSU: Be Quiet 80+ platinum 1000 watt
Monitor: AOC 1920×1080 144hz
HD: Seagate 4tb GreenLabel, M.2 SSD: 1tb Samsung pro

Where did your musical journey begin?

When I was born my Dad was massively into music and although we do not see eye to eye, he is a professional musician who primarily plays the guitar, so I’ve been around music my whole life as a result.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

I originally wanted to be in a Metal band, but I didn’t necessarily want to follow my fathers footsteps, and I got introduced to the EDM Scene in Virtual Reality Chat and a few of my friends (who I met that day) were all EDM producers and DJs. I witnessed one of my first Virtual DJ events and I didn’t think I would’ve wanted to be a DJ, but I surprised myself just last year and bought my first DJ controller (a Pioneer DDJ 400). I was only shown how to DJ once and just barley one year later, here I am one of the best DJ’s on VR Chat as well as one of the heaviest. And funnily enough it was a fellow Team Brisk member who helped me to set it up, my friend – Itslumivr!

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?

3D modelling and playing first person shooters and multiplayer online role-playing games.

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

I started streaming back in 2015, it’s been an amazing journey so far!

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I want to become a music producer and go from being just a DJ to being one of the best Tearout/Horror EDM producers as well as becoming more successful on Twitch.

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

Roflgator, DJBrisk, Jouffa, Gap_Gap and many, many more. But in all honesty, when I became a full time streamer myself, I have stopped watching streams as much due to time constraints.

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

Tearout, because most people assume I play the music I do because I’m angry, and maybe at times that’s true, but the main reason is because a huge heavy Tearout Dubstep drop is one of the few things in music thats ever made me actually feel happy and smile! I’ve always related a lot better to depressive heavy post Hardcore Metal and I’d never have known what it was like to feel happy when listening to a music style until well last year when i heard the artist Marauda, a Tearout Dubstep artist. From there I’ve just gotten more and more into it and now I’m inspired to make the music too, or at the very least, try my best.

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

Well it was a VR Chat community called ‘Kawaii Till Die’, and what made it so memorable was the fact when I started playing, the world went from 20 to almost 80 people in the lobby and I had the entire audience up front head banging their legs up on the DJ booth, vibing hard! Hearing everyone screaming made me realise I’ve never felt so much energy in my life! It kinda made me realise that I’d found another way to do music. It was a life changing experience and one I will never forget.

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

Everything Team Brisk has been the most accepting most amazing and loving community. I’ve been through a lot in my life, from feeling extremely low feeling and no one really caring (this was prior to streaming). I’ve never felt such a strong sense of ‘family’ in my life, even though I still feel I’m extremely ‘out there’. To have Brisk be accepting of me and the style I play, dude there is no one i look up to more than the man himself. Brisk seriously thank you for letting me be apart of you family and apart of something so positive!

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

The people who love it and seeing everyone hype in the chat, the feeling of making people’s sorrows dissapear and seeing us as ‘one people’ and not all the negative things in life.

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

Back in 2015 people made fun of me, a lot, due to my voice and the raspy nature of it. Being female I also got called alot of things, but that aside, the hardest thing was learning how to DJ without being able to see my controller due to wearing a VR headset on my head!

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Well I would like to try and do a Team Brisk event in VR Chat and I also run a monthly event called ‘Soulfest’ in VR Chat, which is a ‘head bangers ball’, with basically all the heaviest and best DJs I can find play for my Virtual Club ‘Soul Well’.

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

DJBrisk
Char_DJ
Roflgator
Gap_Gap
Itslumivr
S0ra
Castle
Tukitorch
Darklordkris
Jouffa

Links? (add your socials etc here):

Twitch
Twitter
Instagram

Introducing our very own Cornish Pasty, DJ Brady!

Where are you from and where are you living now? 

I was born in a city called Truro which is located in Cornwall, UK, but I grew up in a area called Pool with my Mum, sister & brother but to moved to Camborne, where I still reside. 

How did you come up with your DJ name? 

All throughout my school & college years a lot of my friends have always called me by my family name, which is Brady and I was thinking to myself I might as well use this isn’t stuck with me since I was 18! I nearly went by the name of ‘DJ Blaze’ based on the character from the classic Sega Megadrive game, ‘Streets of Rage’ but had second thoughts and stuck with ‘Brady’.  

What’s your equipment list? 

DJ Equipment:
Pioneer XDJ-RX2 
Headphones:
Pioneer HDJ-X5-K 
Speakers:
2x Pioneer S-DJ50X 
Cameras:
Logitech Pro C920 Full HD Webcam
Logitech C270 HD Webcam 
DJ Software:
Rekordbox

Where did your musical journey begin?

My journey began when in 1997 when I was was 7 years old. My sister would play music loud and told me to listen to dance tracks such as Snap! – Rhythm Is A Dancer, Culture Beat – “Mr. Vain”, 2 Unlimited – “No Limit”, Technotronic – “Pump Up The Jam and Sash! – “Ecuador”, but their are so many to list we could be here all day listing classic dance anthems from the late 1990s. Fast forward a years later and Bonkers, Hardcore Heaven, Hard House Euphoria, Clubland and various Ministry of Sound albums were released, which grabbed my attention. Since a young age i’ve been listening to all sorts of dance genres including Hardcore, Drum & Bass, Trance, Hard House, Hardstyle, Techno and House music.      

What made you decide to take up DJing?

Since the age of 7 when I knew dance music was the number one genre that made me just fall in love. The energy in the tracks just just gives you that happy feeling to just get up and dance, I knew right then it would stick with me for the rest of my life. To this day I still have a huge passion for the music I enjoyed back in the late 1990s and early 2000s.  

What are some of your interests, hobbies, passions outside of streaming/DJing?

I really love playing Pool and Snooker and I’ve been in Pool teams playing in the pub leagues in previous years. I also used to work out at the gym, which I really need to get back into and find the motivation to start training again, but I’m finding it difficult to find the time. I used to enjoy Badminton and Football with my friend back in my school years, but my main hobby now is music production on a part time basis. 

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

I started streaming on Twitch about just over two years ago it was just when the Covid 19 pandemic hit the world around February 2020. My first stream was on my own Twitch channel after maybe two months streaming on the platform, I received a message from Brisk asking me if I would be interested in joining the guys on Team Brisk.

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I’ve played DJ gigs locally around Cornwall and other parts of the UK, but I would love to play in different countries such as America, Australia, Japan, Germany, Holland and more. I am playing in Seattle, Washington thanks to Dulcedeejay has very kindly set up a event called ‘Under The Sea’ dedicated to me! I’ll have the opportunity to play alongside my friends and fellow Team Brisk members, Discobento, Turbolicious, Hazel Zen, J-Note and K-zar and other local Seattle artists, so I’m really excited about that!    

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

Oh wow! There are so many to mention here and my list would be huge, but I’m really enjoying sets from DJ Brisk, Char, Amber D, Kzar, J-Note, Mr Relax, DJ Skittlez, DJ Fireblade, Hazel Zen, Rave Anywhere (DJ C), Omega, Spin Spin Super, Jimnicricket, Faithintheglitch, Yogurtbazooka, DJ Bouncy, DJ Sakebomb, Joey Riot, Kidkaboom, Evalynnmusic, Rallendj, Turbolicious, Discobento, Sojuhero, Soughboy, DJ Soulr, Ian K, Daghardcore, No Left Turn, Violit TV, DJ Risque, Andy DJ34m Hiams, DJ Tatts, bored Ravers, Krystal Ravegirl, Lyzz-E, Dummy, DJ Magic Mike, Kitsune DJ, DJ Wheelz, DJ Check6, Alaguan, DJ Pepperjack, Scartat, Psymill, Gregorledahl, DJ Shorty K, Hartshorn, DJ Danny C, Viperstar, ItsDJBooters, Kutski, Elhornet. I could go on and on as I have so many favourites and it’s really hard to choose because they all have their own unique skills they bring to the table. 

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

UK Hardcore is the specific music style will stay in my heart forever. I first started first listening to that genre back in 2007 and I’ve been playing it in venues since I was 18 years old. I just love the energy it brings and it just puts you in a happy and uplifting mood. I also love playing Trance, Hard Dance and Drum and Bass. I love the crowd pleasing melodies in Trance and Hard Dance that just makes you come alive more and Drum and Bass is just so fun to mix.  

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

I would pick playing at Boxed Bar music venue in Leicester, UK where I represented a music label called ‘Eternally Hardcore’ and it was just a fun night to play alongside great DJs such as Alex Prospect. I’ve also delivered a lot of online stream events, mostly being on Facebook and Twitch, with the most memorable ones having been the Team Brisk raid trains featuring the S3rl & Brisk back to back DJ sessions.  

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

I would say my favourite thing about Team Brisk is how well everyone supports each and the community outside of Team Brisk is just mind blowing as well! I love how everyone works together in the team and helps each other to reach their goals. I’ve been on Team Brisk for two years now and I I’m one of the earlier members to join, but ever since joining it’s just been an awesome experience and I will always be thankful to the team and Brisk himself and will always be there to help out much as i can. 

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

I would say the community for sure as per the previous question. The support is just awesome sometimes I am overwhelmed! I always love how you can play out so many music genres outside of your own comfort zone and people will always be there for you with support, even it’s not their personal preference with music that they would not usually listen to.  

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

Sometimes internet issues get in the way for streaming, but I understand that is a common thing that can happen to all streamers in general. Once again, the community still stick around and wait for you once you have the problems fixed. I’m happy in someways when it happens because you learn more about the technical side of things and you learn how to make your streams better from it and grow your knowledge base. 

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

I’m mainly focusing growing my Twitch channel and producing more music, but unfortunately, I can only produce music on a part time basis as I don’t always have much available free time. I can see myself streaming on Twitch as a long term proposition as love it so much and it can get very addictive! As I mentioned before, I’m headlining a event in Seattle, Washington which I’m very excited about. My sense of humour gets a little naughty at times, but I still have a heart and just love everyone.   

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

I would like to thank all the Team Brisk members for their incredible support and Briskrisk himself for inviting me on the team. If it was not for Brisk then I would not be where I am today. I would also like to thank the Twitch community as a while and I’ve met some awesome viewers and DJs that have now become my friends. Hopefully in the future we will party together in real life! I would also like to thank CUNextTuezdae, she is one of the people on Twitch that took me on for lots of her online events.     

Links:

Twitch
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
MixCloud
SoundCloud

Introducing our latest Team Brisk Streamer Of The Week, as we head to Wales to meet Craig Fudge!

Where are you from and where are you living now?

Hi I am from Swansea, Wales, UK. Have never lived anywhere else, kinda sheltered I guess ha ha!

How did you come up with your DJ name?

My DJ name Fudgee comes from a love of Cadbury’s Fudge bars. Fudge is my nickname and even my parents and other family members call me it!

What’s your equipment list?|

PC wise I run two laptops, an Asus Fuf gaming laptop for the DJ software (plus OBS) and an Acer laptop that I use for screen mirroring OBS and inputting text.
I use a Behringer UCA222 audio interface with a Pioneer DDJ SB3 controller.
My cameras are a multiple cam setup using the in built camera on the Acer, a Logitech c922 and a Razer Kuyo.

Where did your musical journey begin?

My parents have always been lovers of all things music, so I was introduced to it at quite a young age. My love for all Electronic Music came when I made the move to comprehensive school and during woodwork lessons we were allowed to bring cassette tapes to listen to. I first heard Carl Cox at Fantazia there and was hooked from that day forwards.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

So even though I was a massive fan of listening to dj’s play Hardcore I never really thought I could be a DJ. It was only when at the age of 15, a local community music project came to my area where they taught such skills as beat matching and music production did I realise I had a skill set that would allow me to unlock the potential to entertain others.

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?

I love Formula One, I am a massive fan of most things motorsport really and also love to go sim racing at a local place we have from time to time. I also enjoy cycling when I can be bothered to get out on the bike! I also do like to do some carpentry when the need arises (usually when Mrs Fudge nags me to do so!)

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

I started streaming on the 30th of June 2020.

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I am currently about to undertake a massive project to build my studio at the bottom of the garden. It’s the biggest project I’ve undertaken and I do have some trepidation about doing so.

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

I love DJ Amber D, Char, and of course DJ Brisk! Why? Well mainly it’s that all three have shown me the importance of making your audience feel like family. We all have one thing in common and that’s the love of the music. It binds us all and breaks down the barrier of distance using the power of the internet.
I can honestly say if it wasn’t for DJ Brisk I would 100% not be streaming in the way I do now. I have learned so much from watching this man play and give his all for his craft.

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

It’s probably the nostalgia of it all for me but I absolutely love to play 95-97 Bouncy Techno.
It’s unapologetically happy, it’s hard, plus it always puts a massive smile on my face which always translates to viewers thanking me for playing it which is a win in my eyes!

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

I think the two that stand out for me are the first gig I ever played in 1997 at the Bubba Club, Swansea at the age of 16 (I was so nervous), where pure adrenaline got me through it, and also the Team Brisk raid trains I’ve been a part of. Every single one of those events holds a special place in my heart especially DJ Brisk’s Birthday train where I played a special History of the Brisk Selection Hardcore set!

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

Team Brisk means one major thing to me and that is family. Every single team member feels like a brother or sister. The greetings I get when I enter a fellow members chat and they welcome me with such love can only be compared to what a family member does.

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

It’s the interaction you get with your audience no matter where they are in the world. This cannot be replicated by playing a set in a club. Location doesn’t ever need to come into it like it does with a club set. This is a massive thing twitch brings to the party.

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

I’d say for me it’s not having somewhere dedicated to have my stream permanently set up. The time taken to set up and pack away for a 2 hour Twitch stream really takes me away from my family plus my audience. That’s why I have to get myself a studio made.

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

The only special project I have on at the moment is this studio I keep harping on about! I’m not clever enough to produce music so you’ll see me around on Twitch and I am 100% bound to be on the next Team Brisk event, so keep an eye open for me then!

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

Besides DJ Brisk who is the reason I got into this, the only other two people I’d like to thank is my fab wife Susan for supporting and nurturing my hobby, allowing it to become so much more, I love you hun!

Also a huge thanks to my Twitch brother Ken Jones. We became friends through Brisk’s Facebook streams back in the day and there isn’t a day that goes by where he hasn’t given me technical and emotional support. The work he’s done on mine and others streams unconditionally means he is one of the greatest things to happen to Twitch.

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