Interview: DJ Boats
Ever wondered why they invented the sentence your favourite DJ’s favourite DJ? DJ Boats has been a stellar selector in Antwerp, respected by many because of his no nonsense approach on how to play music. As he is closing Klub Dramatik in a few weeks, we visited his apartment in Antwerp where he guided us through his records.
For many, you're no stranger, but could you introduce yourself anyway? Who is DJ Boats?
Arno: Hi, I'm Arno, a sailor on the Scheldt, and that's why my DJ name is Boats. Lil Lawaw initially came up with this name, and it stuck. I've been in the scene for about 12 years now, but my love for music goes back much further. When I turned 9, I received a CD player as a birthday gift, and ever since, searching for music and getting lost in it has been a passion of mine. At 11, I played my first DJ set at my parents' party using two CD players, a Lenco turntable, and a JB Systems mixer. Although it's a vague memory, I remember loving every moment of it. Over the years, I've evolved my sound, starting from playing with my parents' CD and record collection to becoming one of the residents at Vice City alongside Lil Lawaw, Juicy The DJ, and Arno Lemons.
How would you describe your sound?
Arno: I enjoy exploring various genres and mixing electronic and organic music together, as well as playing with different tempos. House has always been my foundation, but I also incorporate disco, soul, boogie, jazz, and other genres into my sets.
What is the appeal of vinyl for you? Do you still enjoy searching for records, and if so, where do you typically go?
Arno: The act of flipping through a record crate while DJing is more enjoyable to me than searching on a CDJ. In Antwerp, I often visit Wally's Groove World to dig through second-hand '80s records. Occasionally, I stumble upon cheap gems there, and their selection of new records is always on point. When traveling, I always try to visit record stores, which are also great places to discover hidden gems and ask for recommendations in an unfamiliar city.
Why did you choose a Rane mixer, and where did you get one?
Arno: The first time I played on a rotary mixer, I knew it suited me better than Pioneer or Allen & Heath mixers. With fewer knobs and no effects (I still don't quite understand how effects work on a Pioneer), the Rane mixer I have at home was relatively cheap on eBay. Plus, a 19” mixer just looks sexy, and aesthetics matter.
Who are your idols or mentors?
Arno: Boss DJ Theo Parrish is someone I greatly admire, although he rarely performs in Europe anymore. Every time I've seen him play, I've been blown away.
Arno: In terms of quantity in my collection, it's definitely Sound Signature, Theo Parrish's label. I also frequently play releases from Stilove4music, which puts out great edits, although the downside is that all their labels are black, so I always have to listen to make sure I've put on the right record.
Let’s go back in time. Do you remember your first experience at Klub Dramatik?
Arno: I attended the first edition of Klub Dramatik and even then, I felt it had the potential to become something great. What's great about it is the contrast between international acts and local talent. I think for many Antwerp DJs, Klub Dramatik was their first festival stage.Throught the years, what's a moment at Klub Dramatik that has stuck with you the most?
Arno: It's hard to pick just one, but in 2019, opening for Funkineven and Omar-S alongside Juicy with our buddies Hill Men on the same stage was definitely a highlight.
You’re closing down Klub Dramatik this year on Saturday. How do you prepare for such a set as DJ Boats?
Arno: I'm usually pretty quick with preparation. I go through my collection and pick out what I think will work for the setting. Sometimes, I'll listen to things again, but I definitely don't plan out the entire set in advance. I always have a rough idea and a track to open with, but the rest is open.
What’s your secret weapon? A track that's always in your bag?
Arno: "East 17 Division - String Works" has been a staple in my bag for later sets—epic strings and a solid bassline. I first heard it at Red Light Records while digging with a hangover, and I immediately threw down a bunch of cash for it without thinking. "Kat Mandu - The Break (Remix)" is another one that often accompanies me—a thick instrumental disco track that switches gears halfway through with a break before coming back full force.
On Sunday you're teaming up with DTM Funk. Do you have any other dream B2Bs in mind?
Arno: While turning 3 Chairs (Theo Parrish, Marcellus Pitmann, Rick Wilhite, Moodymann) into 4 Chairs would be incredible, I think I'd be too stressed for that, so I'll stick to B2Bs with my friends like DTM Funk, Juicy the DJ, Hill Men, DJ Schwarzkopf, and Luccatoni. They all have great taste in music, and we always have a blast behind the decks together.
The line-up is complete, and it looks exciting. Who are you looking forward to this year?
Arno: I'm definitely looking forward to Alexander Nut's three-hour set on Sunday. I warmed up for him once at an Abondance party at Het Bos, and it was a fantastic night. Of course, I'm also curious to see what bangers DTM Funk brings for our B2B set on Sunday.
A question that can’t go unanswered. What’s your favorite dish to cook?
Arno: Like a proper Belgian, it’s Stoverij.
