Swamp gas

>> A long-distance creep-out with the guy who works Beck's decks

by SCOTT C

Adding to a long line of competent DJs from California, DJ Swamp first made a name for himself on the battle circuit and later joined the extensive world tour of neo-rock superstar Beck. His mix of on-deck destruction, record-smashing and non-traditional turntablist theatrics make people crowd around like Star Trek nerds in line for an autograph. This interesting conversation took place on the phone.

Mirror: What made you bring this rock 'n' roll attitude to turntablism?

Swamp: What makes you think it's a rock 'n' roll attitude? It's just the way that I do things. It's not like I'm trying to be weird up there. That's just the way I am.

M: How many of those neverending break records have you made? You know, the ones with the locked grooves?

S: I've made enough for now, but I may do a few more. I haven't decided yet. Where did you say you're calling from again?

M: Yeah, Montreal. You're playing here next week.

S: Yeah, but how did you get this number?

M: Is this Swamp? For real? I got your number from Joe.

S: Yeah it's me. I just get some strange people calling me in the middle of the night sometimes. I usually give a few numbers so it's not so easy to get a hold of me. The people who are working on a deadline will call every number. The weirdos give up after one or two.

M: This is the first number I called. The only number I had. Didn't Joe tell you I was calling?

S: Honestly, I don't even know who Joe is. Never heard of him. Listen, can I call you back?

M: What do you mean you don't know who Joe is? Didn't he set up the show for you in Montreal?

S: Ohhhh, Joe! Sorry, man, I just blanked on his name for a minute.

M: This isn't really Swamp, is it? I must have dialed the wrong number because you're really not making any sense. What night are you playing in Montreal?

S: It's next week, I know, but I don't have my agenda in front of me so I can't tell you exactly.

M: What exactly do you have planned for Montreal?

S: I'm gonna bring that rock 'n' roll attitude you talked about. Total annihilation. :

At Tokyo on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 11pm, $10