This episode features the first half of my discussion with Douvet & Swee. We discuss their introduction to dance music and DJing, how they met one another, and The Room V1.
Eddie Yang, aka Swee, a Chinese expat based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has carved a niche for himself in Halifax and Toronto music scene. As a DJ, record shop owner, and promoter of the monthly underground dance music event Rhythm & Colour, he consistently attracts hundreds of attendees, showcasing his unique taste and passion for music. His shop, Swee Records, is recognized in the crate-digging community as a treasure trove of exceptional finds. Recently, the shop underwent a transformation and reopened as ROOMS COFFEE | LISTEN, a Japanese Jazz Kissa-inspired Hi-Fi listening coffee shop that has quickly become a beloved spot for Halifax’s music and coffee enthusiasts. Swee’s DJ sets are a vibrant tapestry of influences, seamlessly blending rare groove, boogie, hip-hop, and underground dance music, reflecting his extensive and eclectic musical journey.
Brandon Tolliver, aka DJ Douvet, is a key player in Halifax's rave scene, making significant contributions as a DJ, promoter and educator. He played a role in bringing notable artists to Halifax, like Waajeed, Jon Dixon, and DJ Swisha. As the director of The Room, a short-lived but memorable rave venue, he has hosted many unforgettable events in collaboration with other promoters and supporters.
Douvet is best-known for longstanding events such as Discotheque and Rhythm & Colour, which he co-runs with Century Samuel and Swee, respectively. Discotheque is both an image and a modest attempt to continue the spirit of legendary events and spaces such as the Paradise Garage and The Loft. Discotheque events always strike that balance between popular disco funk and soul hits and rarities. Rhythm and Colour is an unapologetically deep exploration of electronic dance music genres, such as house and techno, punctuated by hifi sound and a minimalist aesthetic.
In addition to his work promoting and performing, Douvet is dedicated to mentoring emerging talent through his DJ school, sharing his experiences to help the next generation of DJs. With a strong passion for electronic music and community, DJ Douvet continues to shape Halifax's vibrant music culture.
Tracks
References
Gay Black Men Helped Create EDM. Why Do Straight White Men Dominate It? Katie Bain (June 14, 2018). Billboard.
Black Gay Men of the AIDS Generation Invented Your Party. Johnnie Ray Kornegay III (June 20, 2016). The Reckoning Mag.
decolonizing techno: notes from a brooklyn dance floor. DeForrest Brown (April 17, 2019). Afropunk.
Opinion: Berlin Didn't Invent Techno. So Why No Mention of Detroit in the UNESCO Honour? Tajh Morris (March 25, 2024). Resident Advisor.
David Mancuso's art of parties. Tim Lawrence (Nov. 2016). The Wire.
Still Saving The Day: The Most Influential Dance Party In History. Piotr Orlov (Feb. 19, 2020). NPR.
Platter is written, recorded, and edited by Taylor Mooney.
Platter’s theme is from the track Vernacular by Echolurch, a producer based in Halifax.
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