Interview
When it comes to polymaths of the Pacific Northwest, few are as prolific on the frontlines as Jason Code. Lighting designer, DJ, producer, and promoter, Jason is a creative force pushing progressive club sounds and immersive dance floor atmospheres.
A primary vessel for this is Data Club, a Seattle party he helped start, known for cutting edge bass and breakbeats. Just this year they’ve hosted K-Lone & Facta, DJ Stingray, Mia Koden, and DJ Sliink, as they also enter the third iteration of the locally focused Impulse campout in collaboration with the Between the Lines Collective.
As a selector, Jason appears regularly behind the decks in Seattle at foundational clubs such as Kremwerk and Massive, proving himself adept in support of Nikki Nair, DJ Tool, and more. He’s found a knack for delivering precision pressure through soundsystems as well through his own productions on Ommaya, Clasico, and Scuffed, to name just a few imprints.
I feel though that it’s as a lighting technician that his brilliant blend of simplicity and detail is most noticeable - from underground to nightclub to festival - Jason has a keen eye, and ear for that matter, for enrapturing dancers.
As a lighting specialist, what do you consider when illuminating a space?
To me, lighting is all about contrast! I like the room to be as dark as possible to really let the fixtures pop when needed. Electronics such as CDJs and even lights on the back of speakers can cast a harsh white or blue light across the dancefloor and take away from the atmosphere.
Where did you first find yourself behind the lighting controls?
When I moved back to Seattle (from Nashville TN) I noticed that at many of these underground shows (and even many of the nightclubs) there weren't any dedicated lighting operators. This lead me to work at a few lighting warehouses in town and also do some operation at Q Nightclub. From these experiences I was able to learn the basics of lighting and also purchase some second hand equipment to get started. After that, the folks at Research were the first people to believe in me and hire me for their shows. I really appreciate Nick and Eileen for giving me a shot and allowing me to grow into where I am today.
Can you tell us about the inception of Data Club? What were your intentions, and how do you feel about where Data Club is now?
In 2022, I convinced a few of my friends I was living with in Nashville to move to Seattle with me. Since we threw shows out there, it was natural that we would do the same here! And thats essentially how it started. I feel like in a lot of ways we are still figuring out how to throw parties. There is always something to improve upon and learn from each show we do. Recently we added two more members- Zarina (N SO) and Juan (ACHAMA). Its been so lovely working with them and combining all of our talents together.
What can you share about your experience stewarding an underground space?
It has been extremely challenging but equally as rewarding! There is so much need here for more underground spaces. The community is very thankful it exists and I am honored to be able to offer what I can. None of this would be possible without the generous labor contributions from folks in our scene and most notably Tyler Morrison- he has spearheaded the whole build out and put in countless time to make this a reality.
How do you feel about the current state of the Seattle scene? What’s working, what do you feel could use change?
I feel like the Seattle scene is incredibly strong, but also fractured. There seems to be fault lines between different groups, and people stay in their lane. I feel like if there were more collaborative efforts between different scenes, we could all flourish.
I’m curious if you can give us a peek into your production process? What’s essential, and where do you feel the magic begins to happen?
A lot of my sound design and ideas start with a Korg Electribe EMX (the little blue guy). I really love that instrument and will likely always use it in some capacity. Its a womp machine.
Heading into year three of Impulse, is there anything you’re particularly excited about this time around?
As this is the third go around, I feel like we are much more organized than in years past- so I am hoping that I can sit back and have more energy to actually enjoy the festival!
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