I get to watch scores of DJ routines, and despite wanting to be enthusiastic about them, the truth is that often they leave me cold – I liken many of them to watching an endless guitar solo or a rock drummer showing off for too long. Yeah, it’s all technically impressive – but often, I end up asking myself: What’s the point?
So when I spotted the routine I’m about to share with you, called Only Love and performed by Sleeper, I was really happy. At first watch, it’s a technically clever video mix, done with a Serato DVS set-up, that might immediately remind you of the stuff DJ Yoda or Earworm have done over the years. But it has a depth to it and a message that makes it very “now”. Take a look…
Why it stands out
For me (and I’m going to get personal now), it is a touching piece of work because this kind of subject matter – of a world in deep trouble, in need of saving – seems oddly suited to the unsettled, almost manic DJ style that Sleeper brings to the routine. It’s glitchy and intense in the way that the work of artists like Kanye West and Bon Iver is.
(Of course, it doesn’t hurt that – from a DJ’s point of view – there’s lots on show here to respect and learn from.)
Sleeper kind of nails it in his own description of what he was trying to achieve: “I’ve always tried to create things that are timeless. When people think about DJing, they think about crazy parties and festivals. With this project, I wanted to make an impact that would last beyond one night. Musically, it’s a blend of genres, but visually, it’s a blend of people, because we’re all one family. I hope it gives you a moment to reflect and be grateful, regardless of what’s going on around us.”
• Find out more over on the video’s official home page.
Did you enjoy this routine? Let us know your thoughts on it in the comments below.
Phil Morse
