PUBLISHED October 15th, 2015 04:00 pm | UPDATED August 19th, 2024 02:40 am
Anyone familiar with the electronic music scene in Singapore will know a thing or two about record label Midnight Shift, which specialises churning out Techno and House music from both emerging and established producers. They have also been organising parties at venues such as Helipad, Velvet Underground, and now, Kyo, since 2009.
In this edition of City Nomads Radio, we speak to Kavan Spruyt, the man behind Midnight Shift about his new project with partner Debbie Chia, the future goals of the record label, of course, and how it all started.
City Nomads Radio #04: Lily’s Rose by Citynomadsradio on Mixcloud
Hey Kavan, how was it like when you first started Midnight Shift?
I remember when we first started out and came up with the anonymous guest concept – a party where the guest DJ is not reveals until at the party itself – not many believed in us save one sponsor, whose name was David (from an alcohol company), and we had to pretty much self fund the rest of the event. The event turned out well but the earnings weren’t enough, and I lost my life savings. But it was worth it; we soon obtained sponsorship with ease and Zouk gave us a quarterly residency, which helped to make Midnight Shift what it is today.
Midnight Shift may only be three years old but its releases have been charted by artists such as The Black Dog, Josh Wink, Nick Höppner and Palms Trax. Are you happy at where it’s at now?
We had a few teething problems in the beginning with distribution, but have now found a partner (WAS) with whom we are very happy with. So we’re looking at more regular releases in the year ahead with two distinct paths, one more melodic (the white label series) and one more techno (the X series). We also have a good lineup of artists coming up in 2016, so it’s exciting times ahead!
What are the goals for Midnight Shift in the near future?
To consolidate and expand our label, stay true to the roots yet reach out in new ways. Basically, organic growth.
On another note, we know Debbie and yourself have started a new project, Lily’s Rose. What’s this project about, and how did it come about?
Lily’s Rose is an ode to my grandmother (whose name is Lily), and the music is quite simply about love. She was one who was loved by everyone she met.
So, how would you describe the sound of Lily’s Rose?
It’s more raw, analogue, and emotional, not as digital as most of the productions today.
Will we be seeing more of Lily’s Rose?
We certainly hope so. We are currently making arrangements to play in some regional gigs that are to be confirmed.
Lastly, being the brainchild of the house and techno label, do you have any advice for the budding artists and promoters in Singapore?
Never rush into a gigs without a proper plan and strategy; never just promote yourself because the main aim is to grow the community here in Singapore which is already relatively small. The main goal should always be music, and not yourself.
About City Nomads Radio
City Nomads Radio features mixtapes curated by Singapore-based DJs, a community that deserves a whole lot more love from us.