From Pitch to Decks: The Journey of Quiet Husband
The Spark of Passion
DJing for Quiet Husband was not just a hobby; it was a profound exploration of his identity shaped by his experiences, aspirations, and disappointments. Initially, football seemed to be his calling, but as he moved on from his stint with Hull City and a brief time at Doncaster Rovers, he realized that his dreams of becoming a professional footballer were slipping away. This enforced shift in direction opened up an avenue for his long-standing passion for music, particularly DJing, which had begun to blossom at the tender age of thirteen.
Receiving turntables as a Christmas gift ignited his love for the craft. The allure wasn’t simply about playing music; it was the entire ecosystem surrounding DJing that captivated him — the record shops, the friendships, and a relentless quest for sounds that sparked joy within him. This passion was deep-rooted; his childhood memories of local fairgrounds and their vibrant atmosphere helped shape his artistic sensibility, creating a unique fusion of nostalgia and exploration when he began his journey as a DJ.
The First Real Gig
The pivotal moment came not in a grand club but in an intimate setting — his friend Jamie’s transformed bedroom, which he affectionately coined “Hectic Rooms.” For Quiet Husband and his friends, this was the birthplace of their love for dance music culture. Playing for a small group of friends may seem trivial now, but to the young DJ, it was monumental. It was a sacred space where he not only spun records but began to shape his own identity as a creator. These early performances held a depth of importance that transcended the number of attendees; they were a vital part of his artistic evolution. The memory of Jamie, who would later pass away, infuses these moments with a bittersweet significance. Each set Quiet Husband played in those formative days was also a tribute to his friend, intertwining their shared love for music with an enduring bond.
Inspirations in Music
Quiet Husband draws inspiration from a diverse array of contemporary DJs and producers pushing the boundaries of techno. Artists like Woody92, Spekki Webu, Floid, Archypness, Medlock and Feral captivate him not only with their technical prowess but also with their fearless exploration of the genre. Their work reflects a constant evolution, challenging norms and expanding the lexicon of techno, and in doing so, they inspire Quiet Husband to forge his own sonic path defined by curiosity and creativity.
The Impact of Place
As a DJ whose journey spans multiple cities, Quiet Husband has never felt confined to a singular community. His life has been a tapestry woven from experiences in Hull, London, and Middlesbrough, with performances in prominent European hubs like Berlin. This geographical diversity has enriched his musical perspective but has also led to a significant turning point when he moved to Leeds. Seeking a way to support his love for music, he found work in retail, where unlikely intersections with the nightlife culture began to shape his outlook.
In the vibrant atmosphere of fashion retail, Quiet Husband discovered a parallel culture to clubbing. The uniform allowance allowed him to express his artistic identity through fashion, while the shared networks in retail opened doors to the nightlife and music scenes. This unexpected turn connected him more deeply to the creative community he aspired to be part of, illustrating how various facets of life can converge in unexpected ways.
Artistry Beyond Boundaries
For Quiet Husband, the lines between visual art and music are blurred. He perceives each discipline — whether it be painting, photography, or DJing — as different manifestations of a singular creative impulse. This philosophy allows him to engage in a holistic approach to artistry, where each form enriches the other. In a landscape that increasingly favors multidisciplinary artists, he embraces the idea that one should be capable of designing their promotional materials, performing, and visually documenting their journey.
Years ago, a piece of advice from Jamie’s cousin still resonates with him: “Be the kind of artist who can design the flyer, play the show, DJ the afterparty, take the photographs and create the cover artwork.” This ethos underscores his belief in the interconnectedness of all forms of artistic expression.
Memorable Moments on Stage
Reflecting on his most memorable performances, two stand out. The first was his debut at Berghain, a venue that carries a weight of cultural significance in the electronic music world. Beyond simply playing a set, it represented a personal triumph, a transformation of ambition. For Quiet Husband, it was akin to the feeling a footballer must experience when stepping onto the field before a roaring crowd, a culmination of his journey in music.
The second moment occurred on the Waltzers during Hull Fair, where he played as part of Unthinkable Festival. Here, the convergence of funfair nostalgia and contemporary techno created a uniquely immersive experience, blending the thrill of childhood memories with his passion for music.
Trends in DJing
In the ever-evolving landscape of DJ culture, one trend that Quiet Husband believes needs to fade is the tendency of older DJs to criticize newcomers. This kind of gatekeeping stifles creativity and discourages fresh perspectives that are crucial for the evolution of the genre. Embracing new talent and ideas is vital for the health of the music community.
A Sonorous Exploration
Quiet Husband’s mix for The FADER is an auditory journey that delves into the fringes of contemporary techno. While many DJs may label their work as a journey, he approaches it with an intent to explore disorientation and the immersive experience of sound. The mix is characterized by a rapid tempo that pushes the boundaries of traditional dancefloor functionality, inviting listeners into a dreamlike soundscape that evokes both movement and contemplation. It’s a testament to his artistic venture, blending creativity and exploration in the realm of electronic music.
