In Session @ Futurednb #009 DJ: J.Cross - Drum & Bass Selection Music Genre: Drum'n'Bass

Interview with DJ: J.Cross

How long have you been mixing?: Since 1996, strictly drum & bass!

What first got you into music and mixing?: There was soooo much good music coming out when I started mixing. Drum & bass was really starting to take form. Labels such as Metalheadz, Reinforced, V, and Good Looking were pushing this new sound forward; we haven't looked back since.

What equipment do you use?: 2 Technics MK2, 2 Gemini CDJ, Numark mixer, Sony sound.

What is the significance of your DJ name, How did you get that name?: It's my birth name. Thanks mom!

Who or what are your influences in music?: Bailey and Andy C, DJ-wise. There's no one better at smashing up a club than "The Executioner," and Bailey's show on BBC 1xtra is my version of church. Every Wednesday night, he's locked and loaded with the freshest cuts and amusing banter.

What do you look for in a beat?: Variation. We're WAY past dnb only being a bit of two-step and a squelchy bassline. No one should be bored listening to this music; there's so much going on and so many different styles, I feel they should all be showcased. As long as the tunes are quality and they make you wanna dance, it's on.

What was the last vinyl / CD you bought?: I'm always buying both vinyl and digital. Last vinyl was "Favela" by S.P.Y. on Metalheadz. Sick tune. Last digital was All Theives "Star (Zero T Remix)" on Footprints. Such a deep track. It sends shivers down my spine.

What is your favorite vinyl / CD of the month and also of all time?: Fave CD of the month is "Sick Music 2" on Hospital. Some of those producers on their are reinventing the sound and taking it to the next level. Lots of variation on that album, from dancefloor to vocal cuts to good, quality minimal grimey business. All time... "Platinum Breaks" on Metalheadz. I'll play that album for the grandkids one day.

Do you produce your own music?: Lightly, but I prefer DJing.

Do you host any regular events?: Every week @ Cafe Lura (3184 Milwaukee Ave) in beautiful Chicago. Just moved to Tuesday nights; Chicago's ONLY weekly drum and bass. My crew, MIA (www.MIACHICAGO.com) host a monthly at the best damn club for REAL dance music in the US of A, SMARTBAR (www.smartbarchicago.com)

What other DJ or producer do you rate at the moment if any?: Locally... Stunna is sick. He does so much for Chicago's scene and makes/plays/promotes only the finest music. Dave Owen in Indianapolis is making it big. Deep, deep cuts. Globally, S.P.Y. can NOT make a bad tune, it seems... I'm broke because I buy every release of his on sight, and he just keeps cranking them out.

What plans do you have in the future for yourself?: More DJing, more drum and bass, make the Chicago scene HUGE.

Anything else you would like to add -: Being part of the dual spotlight for IN SESSION #7 was nice, but this time I want my own!