So Tom, tell the Habit fans a little about yourself… how would you describe your sound in one sentence?
My name is Tom. I like reading, listening to and collecting music, watching films and visiting and hanging around in new places, long train journeys, the usual things most people are into really. I also present a radio show at Rhubarb Radio in Birmingham every friday evening from 6 till 8 pm called The Beat Parade. I would describe the music I play out as “good party music”.
When and how did you get into djing?
I got into DJing through going out in Birmingham with my friends, there was quite a large saturday night house scene going on in Birmingham at the time and there was a lot of big house records on the more funkier side being released which I liked. I then got into the more deepier, techier side of things from listening to essential mixes and buying records at the late Massive Records. I then bought some decks and started to mix pretty badly for about 6 months until I got offered a set doing a back room for a techno night at the sanctuary.
All time favourite tune?
Probably a record from Miles Davis, Carl Craig or J Dilla if I thought about it. Which I try not to, as it’s such a hard question to answer.
Biggest influence on your music?
Sharing record collections with my friends, long chats in after parties about records, and all that kind of stuff.
What is your pre gig meal?
Guinness
What would be your dream dj gig? What would the line up be and what club?
Slightly egocentric but me playing a very long set from day till late at Cafe Mambo going through my record collection and enjoying the view, being with my buddies and having a few beers.
Who are your favourite dj’s and why?
I am always impressed by DJ’s that play for long sets and dont lose anything throughout. Danny Howells, John Digweed and Ricardo Villalobos always come to mind. I dont mind the odd Mr Scruff all nighter as well. I like listening to DJ’s like David Mancuso, Francois K and Carl Craig play but it’s rare they come to England.
Finally, why do you love playing at Habit?
Habit is a local night with a great outlook on what makes a good party work. I enjoy it as the promoters give me the freedom to play what I want. It’s always nice to close the night off as everyones well up for staying till the end which is a lovely compliment when the lights come on, it always feels like a job done well.
