Greek artist and label owner, CJ Jeff, is on the come-up. Having released tracks on Bedrock, Objektivity, Souvenir, Glasgow Underground, Kling Klong, Lapsus, Yoshitoshi, and Bunny Tiger, CJ Jeff is certainly a name to know.

CJ’s own label, Rhythmetic Records, has housed tunes from artist like Maetrik (Maceo Plex’s alter-ego), Nick Curly, and No Artificial Colours since 2005. Carl Cox has been known to drop a couple Rhythmetic tracks during his last season at Space in Ibiza.

Having just finished a mini U.S. tour playing Miami Music Week and gigs in Chicago and Detroit, CJ Jeff has also graced the decks at many top tier clubs worldwide; such as Watergate in Berlin, and D-EDGE and Warung in Brazil.

We’re excited to feature CJ Jeff for our 179th Lovecast. Enjoy!

Learn more about CJ Jeff in the interview below…

Lovecast Episode 179 – CJ Jeff

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Interview with CJ Jeff

How did you first get introduced to underground dance music? What is the most challenging part of becoming a full-time producer and touring artist?
I first got into the dance music world when I was studying sociology at college and at the same time working as the manager of a huge Greek DJ star . I was hooked straight away, and it didn’t take very long before I was behind the decks myself. I think that the trickiest part is finding the time to do everything: trying to be a producer, DJ, traveller and find the balance in your life to fit friends, family and everything else into it can be tough.

What has been the most exciting turning point of your career so far?
When I first started working with my studio partner, Thodoris Triantafilllou, was definitely a big moment in my career. I’ve learnt a lot through him and we’ve done some amazing work together. I think it’s very important to find inspirational people and to work with them whenever you can, as it can lead to great and unexpected things and it means you’re always learning. Similarly, working with Dennis Ferrer I can say raised my game again:. There’s always something to learn from talented, passionate people.

Where is your home base? If someone were visiting there for the first time, what clubs and/or parties and/or restaurants would they want to check out?
Athens, Greece is my base. Definitely if you are visiting Athens you have to come to Dybbuk club: this is my musical home, and where I’ve held a residency every Thursday for 13 years and counting. And if you’re hungry, the restaurant Feedel will give you a modern taste of the traditional Greek cuisine. Music and food: what else do you need?

What advice would you give to an aspiring producer?
Try to make your own unique style: that is the only way to succeed. There is so much music out there already, you need to put your own unique stamp on things to make yourself stand out.

What’s on the horizon for CJ Jeff in 2017?
2016 was a cool year, and it already seems that 2017 will be even better. I’ve signed music to labels like Objektivity, Kling Klong, Incorrect Music, Lapsus and some other interesting collaboration that will be out soon. Plus I have upcoming gigs in Sao Paulo and Ibiza: it’s going to be a big year.

Do you have any hobbies outside of music?
Reading and swimming: they help me find balance in the ‘real’ world!

What are some touristy things you do while playing in a foreign city?
Just drinking coffee in the local cafes, watching people walking. I like to spend at least a little time in the places I visits so I can understand the atmosphere and vibe of a place.

Dream gig…
Sonar Official – it’s going to happen one of these days.

Name one of your go-to tracks…
Can I have two? Lapien ‘Loved Him So’ which is really deep and sexy so good for the warm-up, and Anthony Attalla ‘Paty Starter’, which really will get the party started for sure!

Tell us about your mix…
I’ve gone deep, in my own way – hopefully it’s something you can listen to in various places and at various times – I hope you enjoy!

Drink of choice…
Jager – the only choice there is!

 

CHEERS!

– jams
Jimbo James
Editor-in-Chief
jams@musicis4lovers.com

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