Interview
DJ Hockey is a DJ, producer, label operator, and event organizer based in Vancouver B.C. As a DJ and producer, Tanner's sound is technical and psychedelic, as enveloping as it is driving.
As one half of the creative force behind PPRZ Records alongside fellow DJ and producer Adam 2, Tanner oversees events and releases dedicated to uplifting both upcoming and established names in the underground with a sense of diversity and equity informing their decisions.
In the midst of what's been a particularly busy year for Tanner, it's a pleasure to host him and share more.
This mix was recorded live at a PPRZ x Elsewhere collaborative party at The Deli, in Vancouver B.C, opening for Zvrra (Chicago) from 11pm-12:15am. Expect a smokey, paced and slow burning textured journey.
Can you share about your experience operating PPRZ Records?
PPRZ has been a really natural process. When Adam 2 and I discussed starting it, we wanted a way to share and platform our friends music whether that be from Vancouver or beyond. It's been really nice to connect and make new friendships with people who originally inspired us by their music. I think both of us admire the grassroot spirit, authenticity, and talent that North American techno represents and I am really grateful to be able to meet so many lovely people who are obsessed with the same thing I am.
Having a couple releases under your belt this year alone, your Push:Pull EP on Fixed Rhythms, and the Moonglade EP on your own PPRZ Records, I wonder if there are any particular inspirations or processes behind your productions?
For my process, I usually sit down and start jamming until I create a synth line that in my opinion possesses a unique or intriguing quality. If there is something to hook me in as the body of the song I feel motivated to build drums & percussions that fit around it. One of my biggest self critiques when I am producing of what I think is a good song is asking myself if I'd buy it for my own DJ set. I wade through a lot of dance music trying to find something unique (to my ear) to play, and it's taken a long time for me to get to a point where I produce anything close to what I think I'd buy. I still don't get there very often, and many times I jam without having any luck, but luckily sometimes it does work out and I always learn something!
You've been busy this year also with event organizing, particularly with your collaborations between PPRZ and Elsewhere, including your upcoming Pride party August 2nd with Perfect Lovers. What's your experience been with organizing?
I've always wanted to throw parties, but it's much easier and fun with a partner (which can be hard to find!). I've known Vasho for years through raves and festivals, and I think we both share a love for techno and want to showcase that with our event collaborations. What I love about throwing parties is watching our vision come to life, it's fun to share an idea you had in your mind with others!
Having met you in a record store, I'm curious if you give some insight into your process of digging? Are there differences between digging digitally and physically?
Depending on how much time I have at a record store, I comb through first for names and labels I enjoy. If I have lots of time I will dig a little deeper into more unfamiliar realms. For me when I purchase a record it is usually more intentional than something digital. I want to enjoy my records for many years so I try not to buy something I feel is a trend or I will get tired of. Digital digging gives me the opportunity to experiment with less commitment, which I feel pushes my sound into new directions to keep things fresh. I enjoy record shopping as it is less algorithmic than digital shopping, it exposes me to new labels, new artists, and I love discovering older gems.
Searching for music, sharing as a DJ, creating your own music, and events as well, what drives and inspires your engagement with dance music across these various mediums?
When I was growing up I was petrified of anything related to being in front of crowds. I even got my Mom to lie so I didn't have to sing in the Christmas concerts at school. In my adulthood, I found out quick that I loved the feeling of sharing dancefloors with others and the catharsis it can be (especially in queer friendly spaces). When I met my partner of now 6 years he really showed me how to listen to this music with a more critical lense, which is when I eventually decided to teach myself to DJ. I was received with so much support from my friends when I started. Finally I found a medium where I can confidently share something with a group of people, which means a lot to me. My productions, the PPRZ label and events are all additional ways for me to express my passion and vision for dance music. My community of friends, many of which are artists whom I also admire are what inspire me to keep engaging in these mediums.
For more from DJ Hockey and PPRZ Records, check them out here:
Broadcast on Samewave Radio.