We sit down with Groove Armada’s Tom Findlay to quiz him about music, travel and some things in between.
An introduction, please … who are you, where are you, and what pays the bills?
I’m Tom from Groove Armada. I’m a DJ, a producer. My wife pays most of the bills.
Where was the mix recorded, and what is the inspiration behind it?
A little bit on the road tbh, mainly in ableton live – sorry to all you purists out there! I guess this inspiration was a chance to put together the kind of basement vibe mix I rarely get to do in my day job.
Strictly vinyl? Strictly digital? Couldn’t care less?
If it’s good I’ll play it.
Balearic’, seems to be a somewhat overused term these days, but if you had to – and we are asking you to – describe the essence of ‘Balearic’ in one record?
Josephine (La versione Francaise) by Chris Rea. Equally ‘After the love has gone’ by Earth,Wind, and Fire. I appreciate that’s two.
Favourite place you’ve travelled to? And why?
I’ve been lucky to travel to so many great places, honestly can’t pick one. Tokyo massively made an impression, LA I love even if it’s a bit awful, New York for a music lover is heaven. A1 records on East 3rd St (I think) is the best place to buy records. FULL STOP. Sri Lanka for a holiday is ace.
Sunset or Sunrise? And the best place to experience it?
Sunset every time, cold beer. Ibiza please.
The most you’ve ever spent on one record that you’re willing to tell us? Or the best bargain bin finds you’ve digged out over the years, which you’re happy to brag about?
I’ve probably not spent more than £50 on a record. I’ve always been more of a music lover than an obsessive somehow…..
Favourite DJ you’ve heard play out over the years?
Again so many. Francois K is the don. In terms of selection you can’t go wrong with Mancuso. Closer to home Jamie Jones deserves the hype no question.
Anything else we should know about you or what you are up to …
Nope, but here is the track listing for the mix …
Poluc – Johnny D
H4 – M.F.S Observatory
Metropole – Kink, Neville Watson
The Basement is Burning – Marquis Hawkes
It’s the Inside that Counts – Phil Weels
All you Desire – Chris Carrier
Heat – Soul of Hex
No I Don’t – Recloose
Loving – DJ Nature
Massive thanks to Tom for taking the time out to answer these questions.
