WHILE much
of the town was living it up at Oban Live last Friday, Cuan Mor hosted a more
intimate affair.
Local music producers
Kevin Burton and Aaron Fortson, known as Disposable Frequencies and Global Beat
Initiative respectively, played extended sets at what organisers called ‘the
first electronic music showcase in years.’
The event,
organised by Alt Option Promotions and Omnibeat Music Group, is intended to be
the first of many electronic showcases.
‘In the 90s
we had a DJ scene in this town that was bouncing,’ says Kevin, who also
co-organised the event. ‘The talent is definitely still out there.
‘There are
plenty of people kicking about who have just been sitting in their rooms making
music for nobody. We believe it takes a few people to show that it can be done
for people to step out and do it themselves.’
Although
regular club nights run in Oban, live performances by electronic producers
playing their own music are rare. Kevin’s Disposable Frequencies’ set was entirely
composed of his own material, drawing from old-school techno and early 90s rave
sounds.
‘When I start a track I don’t have a
destination in mind,’ says Kevin. ‘I just see where the music takes me. My
stuff is generally upbeat and messes with the listener – I just try and play
the crowd.
‘Another
great thing about electronic music is that with all the new technology and kit that’s
available, it’s so easy to get into.
‘I use a mix
of hardware and software now, but I initially managed to do a lot just on a
Korg electric keyboard.’
Like Kevin, Aaron
has been producing electronic music in different forms for many years now.
Under the Global Beat Initiative moniker he predominantly samples soulful
vocals and creates obscure loops, making for a surreal atmospheric sound.
Also a
gifted hip hop emcee, Aaron particularly takes inspiration from the different music
hubs he’s lived in: Seattle, Chicago and California.
‘I cut up a
whole bunch of styles as Global Beat Initiative,’ says Aaron. ‘These styles are
really a reflection of the different places and cultures I’ve grown up.
‘I’ve moved
around a lot but this is the first time I’ve ever played at, let alone seen, an
entire night devoted to electronic music here in Oban.’
As the event
clashed with Oban Live, which Kevin admits was a ‘brave move’, the turnout proved
disappointing for organisers. However, the organisers are determined to throw more
showcases in the near future.
‘We hoped
for more spill over at this particular event, but come hell or high water, I
intend to play a part in helping an electronic scene develop in this town,’
says Kevin.
Aaron added:
‘I think there’s a huge hole in Oban. Young people often tell me that they’d
love to go to raves or electronic nights because it means they wouldn’t have to
go down to Glasgow to enjoy it. This was a learning experience and something
we’ll definitely do again.’
-
First Printed in Oban Times on May 19 2016
No comments:
Post a Comment