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The Rhythmic Pulse of Temple Step: An In-Depth Look at DJ Benjamin Last

Getting a crowd to move as one is a craft that requires more than just good beats; it’s an art form that DJ and producer Temple Step (real name Benjamin Last) has mastered over three decades. Hailing from the vibrant city of Melbourne, Australia, Last has not only toured globally but has also become a well-respected name within the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. Known for his dynamic sets that blend live percussion, synthesizers, and vocals, he delivers a unique experience that captivates audiences everywhere.

While his musical foundation is firmly rooted in electronic dance music, Last draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of global cultures. His work is sprinkled with influences from Middle Eastern, African, Brazilian, and Latin traditions, setting him apart in a crowded field. As the co-founder of Motiv Music and Motiv Records, Last has produced more than 100 original tracks, showcasing his technical expertise and exceptional stage presence.

With a proven track record, Last has graced the stages of numerous renowned festivals including Texas Eclipse, High Vibe, Sonic Bloom, Beloved, Rainbow Serpent, Woodford Folk Festival, and Transcendence Festival. For those curious about his insider perspective, the Festival Fodder interview delves into his thoughts on what draws him to festivals, how he crafts a compelling set, and more.

The Allure of Festivals

What usually draws you to say yes to playing a festival?

Temple Step: “I’m always on the lookout for festivals that resonate with my artistic vision. For example, the upcoming Transcendence Festival in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico ticked all the boxes. With themes centered around personal growth and community transformation, it mirrors the same ethos that I strive to embody in my music. It’s not merely an event, but a movement—a universe of connection and transformation.”

Crafting the Vibe

How do you define the vibe or energy of a great festival experience?

“A festival transforms into something extraordinary when the curators weave a narrative that connects music, workshops, and stage layouts. This cohesive tapestry needs to encapsulate the essence of transformation. It serves not only as entertainment but as a growth experience for attendees. Just like a compelling DJ set, the order of musical acts plays a crucial role in maintaining energy and attention throughout the festival.”

Global Unity Through Music

How do you see your act’s sound contributing to the festival atmosphere?

“The Temple Step Project offers a vibrant mix of multicultural influences, enhancing themes of global unity, peace, and oneness. Each track explores different cultural roots and collectively showcases a panorama of beats that celebrate diversity. As the audience dances through these varied sounds, they experience a journey towards achieving a shared sense of unity.”

Festival Themes and Aesthetics

Are there specific themes or aesthetics you love seeing at festivals?

“Absolutely. I appreciate festivals that prioritize indigenous cultural inclusion, wellness, and mutual respect. At events like Transcendence, rituals and performances by Ancient Mayan ceremonists added another layer to the experience, making it feel profound and enriching.”

Unique Festival Dynamics

How does your approach to a festival set differ from a club or headlining show?

“In a festival setting like Transcendence, I have the flexibility to explore various musical genres. Club sets typically require adherence to a specific genre arc because they follow one after another. Conversely, festivals often allow for breaks between sets for workshops, enabling me to construct a unique journey in my performance. I can seamlessly transition through Bass, House, Drum n’ Bass, and Downtempo, catering to a broader audience.”

Delivering a Strong Performance

What do you consider the most important factor in delivering a strong set at a festival?

“The love and energy I demonstrate while performing is essential. The crowd looks to the DJ for cues on how to respond, so when I’m engaged and vibing, they naturally follow suit. My facial expressions and dance convey my passion, creating a feedback loop of energy that elevates the entire experience.”

Pre-Performance Rituals

What’s your routine for getting into the right headspace before a festival performance?

“I engage in two core rituals: meditation and energy connection. Meditation clears my mind, keeping distractions at bay, while visualization connects my energy with my DJ gear and the stage. I imagine an energetic current flowing through my equipment so that it becomes an extension of myself during the performance.”

The Joy of Collaboration

What’s it like sharing the stage or lineup with artists you look up to?

“Meeting artists I admire backstage is always a highlight. It humanizes them in a way and emphasizes that everyone shares a journey. These social interactions often spark creative partnerships, leading to collaborations that transcend cultural barriers.”

Engaging with Other Performers

Do you make time to watch other sets while at a festival, or do you stay behind the scenes?

“I love taking the time to see my favorite artists perform. Observing them deepens my understanding of stage presence and performance dynamics. However, I also value time spent backstage to maintain focus before my own performance begins.”

Amplifying the Experience

How do you use visuals, lighting, or other elements to enhance your festival performance?

“I often share the stage with Madhu Honey, a live vocalist and performance artist. Her presence amplifies the energy, adding a visual and vocal dynamic that makes each set feel unique. Together, we create a transformative experience characterized by a beautiful synergy of energy.”

The Peak Moment

What’s your favorite kind of moment to create during a festival performance?

“The climax of the set is always my favorite—an exhilarating peak that rises from the earlier energy buildup. When executed well, it has the most rewarding payoff, making the audience go wild. This requires careful planning of track order to ensure that the energy naturally escalates.”

Building Long-Term Engagement

Have festivals helped you gain long-term fans, press, or opportunities?

“Absolutely! Capturing performance photos during festivals is paramount for promoting future gigs. High-quality shots from behind the DJ booth, facing an enthusiastic crowd, showcase the connection and draw of my performance, making it easier to secure further opportunities.”

Curation Dreams

Would you ever want to curate your own stage, showcase, or mini-festival?

“Yes! I find the idea of curating my own stage or mini-festival incredibly exciting. My partner runs the Ecstatic Dance in Melbourne, and we have discussed launching a mini-festival soon. Crafting a lineup is very much like DJing—it requires a keen sense of flow to maintain audience engagement throughout the event.”