Audio-file

spotlight! the art of the mix: the DJ redefined...

By Michael Weitz
mweitz@mscd.edu

Is a DJ just someone who plays records? Or is it possible they create something new, something greater than the sum of its parts? Richie Hawtin, also known as Plastikman, is one of the world's premier DJs and his work certainly falls into the latter category.

His sets are among some of the best, and it's not just because of the records he plays. Not content with just mixing back and forth between two records, Hawtin's sets have, over time, become increasingly complex. This progression is evident in the DE9 (decks, effects and 909) releases which, despite being products of the studio, are heavily influenced by Hawtin's live performances. Utilizing drum machines, effects boxes and a variety of software, Hawtin weaves together an intricate web of sounds to create pieces that are constantly evolving.

Transitions, the latest DE9 release, takes full advantage of current technology--not only in the studio but also in the finished product. In addition to the CD, which contains a 74-minute mix, there is a DVD with extended versions of the mix in mp3, uncompressed stereo and 5.1 surround formats.

Also incorporated on the DVD is a variety of video material, including an interview, music videos and excerpts from a live performance. As an added bonus, the DVD version plays track titles on the TV screen, fading in and out in time with the music as they enter and leave the mix. It's a neat feature that illustrates the complexity of Hawtin's technique.

It is surprising to know that at any given moment there are between two and eight different songs playing simultaneously. This could make for a dense, even muddled listening experience, but, if anything it's quite the opposite. Each sound in the mix occupies its own niche in the audio spectrum, so transitions actually sound sparse at times, with only a simple drum pattern and a muffled bass line carrying an occasional synth noise or vocal snippet.

Even when the mix does become somewhat dense, there is a relaxed, laid-back vibe that rewards repeated listening. The entire mix flows like any good dance mix should and new tracks are added so frequently it never gets monotonous.

With Transitions, Hawtin has once again produced a mix that pushes the limits of music and technology, and redefined what it means to be a DJ.