The first in a new series featuring top picks and Q&A’s with DJ’s - Max, J.P., and Diego from Inner Circle Montréal talk about starting a techno collective, discuss the MTL scene, and share some groovy top picks, including a track they would play for their Valentine’s boo.
What’s behind the name, Inner Circle?
Other members may have a different interpretation, but I always felt that it seemed at once inclusive and exclusive, the best of both worlds. On one hand, we focus on booking artists we’re truly passionate about, rather than just trending big names. On the other hand, we’re very friendly and community-focused, so once you’re partying with us, you’re part of the circle.
You describe yourselves as explorers of high quality techno, with a community focus. How did the collective form and what do you represent?
Max: It’s funny but I can’t even really pinpoint where or how Inner Circle was born. I remember our first party of course, but I think the formation of the collective itself was very gradual and natural. We were a group of friends with a similar vision of what made for a good party, fresh faces to the scene with something to say. Our first party with D&D (talented local DJ-producers/Stereo residents) was a bit of a trial run, but it went well so we just kept going.
Diego: I remember that we wanted to do parties where we could feature different music than what we were able to play at the nights we had done previously at bars, with all of us sharing techno as a common interest. We did our first party and it went really well, and from there we just kept going. We’ve all made some amazing friends at nights and some of my best memories are at parties, so I think doing our events are a way of continuing to offer these types of opportunities for connection between guests and us as well.
Who are your members and how would you describe your different styles?
We are Diego, Pablo Cabezas (aka Pabzcabz/Pabloc), J.P. Metis, and myself, Max Mira. Diego lived in the UK for a while and has brought back lots of ravey, left-field tunes from over there. Pablo is our resident minimal and micro-master but can also turn a room inside out with his pumping techno. JP is very strong on the old school selections. His sets are extremely diverse and artful, and always filled with lots of nice surprises. As for myself, I’m mostly partial to groovy techno and deep house, with more minimal and darker flavors occasionally thrown in as well. I could add some detail but you’ll just have to see for yourself on Thursday ;)
Your most recent party, Aucun Signal, with Claire at NOMAD Life captured the spirit of dancing until the sun comes up with an eclectic soundtrack of minimal techno, breakbeat, and house. The visuals, candelabras on the DJ booth, and intimate atmosphere established a sense of camaraderie among the crowd. How would you describe the underground electronic music scene in Montreal? Any upcoming gigs you’re excited about?
We’re very glad you felt that way! It’s definitely what we strive for in terms of the vibe at our parties. The electronic music scene in Montreal, particularly the underground electronic music scene, has always been strong, but as with most cultural phenomenon, it comes and goes in waves. Right now, I have the feeling that we’re riding a strong upwards current, and . I’m seeing new linkages being built between different scenes and crews, which is a very positive sign I think. We may not be quite as ‘central’ as cities like Berlin or London, but I know so many amazingly talented young DJs and producers that will be making their mark internationally soon enough.
We’re super excited to be playing the pre-event party for Reflection, a warehouse event that will be Stephanie Sykes’ North American debut. She’s a crazy artist and the venue is amazing, so we’re feeling very honored to be able to set the vibe for the night!
Deep Digs: Inner Circle Montréal’s Top Picks
The track that most embodies your collective’s values
Max: Good question, that’s a hard one to answer. I’d have to say Head High’s Rave (Dirt Mix). It’s a track that that blends an old school sound palette with sophisticated production, hitting hard yet giving off positive vibes. That’s kind of what we go for too, I think!
Diego: I chose this song because I think the lyrics speak to my early experiences going to parties and feeling something new that I hadn’t experienced ever before. The song feels true to the spiritual value in creating positive dance-floor spaces that can be meaningful to those who attend. That’s something that I believe we stand for.
The track that you are most excited to play for your next set
JP: Thursday night at Graphite’s The Lonely Hearts Club, this may be an adequate Valentine vibe.
Max: Borrowed Identity’s Feel Like Makin’ Love. It’s a deep, bumping track with some very sexy vocal samples and a highly effective bassline, so I think it should go over pretty well!
Diego: Lush deep house with a bite that would help set the tone early in the night. Feeling it for sure.
The perfect set opener
Max: New World by Attaboy. This is an insanely smooth and vibey track that is sure to set the mood for either an upbeat house set or a more loungey feel. Of course it depends on the context, but this one’s got both melody and fullness, making it a reliable first choice.
Track that you’ve listened to the most recently
Diego: Veryy frosty and crisp atmosphere, perfect for Winter.
Track that can make any party come to life
Max: Full Intention’s ‘88 remix’ of Kevin Saunderson/Inner City’s seminal house banger, Big Fun. It’s so addictively groovy and energetic, and if the second build up can’t off a party, then it ain’t a proper party!
Track that you put on to start your day / end your night
JP
Max: Abrac Preafericitul by Hysagi, and up-and-coming Romanian producer that’s definitely worth keeping an eye on. It’s an incredibly lush and peaceful track, perfect for an introspective morning or afterparty sunrise (just don’t ask me to pronounce the title).
A track that you consider to be under-appreciated
Diego: Some high energy techno from Gunjack, who produces juke now in Chile.
Max: 62 Batt Park Rd by Alffie (and everything else by him!). Super talented microhouse producer, with lots of underrated top-quality releases..The tight production of this one is matched only by its lovely grooves.
Since it’s Valentine’s Day, a track that you would play for your boo
Max: Suki by Black Loops. My initial impulse would have been something with sexy or romantic lyrics, but sometimes the purest feelings are best expressed with few words. Black Loops has been releasing some amazing house music that I think does a great job communicating beauty, intimacy, and the complexity of life.
Diego: Very funky 2-step flip of a classic Shola Ama track, perfect for dancing and talking about the relationship at the same time.
Click here to check out the Inner Circle SoundCloud
