It’s the 150th episode of Lost and Sound and I’m joined by the legendary DJ and producer Laurent Garnier, who this week releases his epic Fabric Presents Mix, celebrating 25 years of the London superclub.
Garnier famously checks out 400+ tracks a day, and we discuss how he sustains his passion for music amidst an avalanche of daily releases. He underscores the relentless pursuit of musical treasures, maintaining that even in a saturated market, gems persist. Garnier also reflects on the evolution of DJ culture and music trends, highlighting the significance of resisting nostalgia and embracing fresh tracks while acknowledging the challenges posed by technological advances in music distribution.
Our conversation also touches on the nuances of today's techno scene, where commercial and underground elements often blur, not always in the best way. Garnier's approach shifts towards intimate venues that prioritize artistic expression over mainstream success. Lastly, we celebrate Fabric's 25th anniversary with Garnier's contribution: a mix for each of Fabric's rooms and a special "fourth room" mix for home listeners.
Garnier is also a keen cook, and we draw on the parralels between clubs and restaurants, and how good resident DJs fulfull the same need for the culture as good chefs do. I loved hearing his insights into maintaining a successful DJ career, understanding crowd dynamics, and the intricacies of performing for different audiences.
If you like what I’m doing with Lost and Sound, please like, rate, review or subscribe to the show on your podcast app of choice – it really does help.
fabric presents Laurent Garnier: celebrating 25 years of fabric. Initial deluxe vinyl and CD release: 29th November. Pre-order here.
Follow me on Instagram at Paulhanford
Lost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-Technica
My BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.
My book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more.
Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins