I've only ever heard good things about the Dubai audience: DJ Max Chapman

UK Tech House act Max Chapman admits to being "really excited" about playing Zero Gravity in Dubai on Saturday, February 11. "I've never been to Dubai, let alone Zero Gravity, so it will be interesting to see how the crowd react to me playing. I've only ever heard good things about the Dubai audience so hopefully it'll be a good show," says Max, who exploded onto the underground house scene in 2011 aged just 23, and is scheduled to release his EP with Toolroom Records tomorrow.
The Essex based DJ and producer, whose debut album Catch Me If You Can was given a 9/10 from Mixmag and DJ Mag, and also hit number 10 on the Beatport chart, chatted with City Times ahead of his Dubai gig.

You have had a busy 2016. What was the best part of last year for you?
2016 was amazing, definitely one of the most exciting years of my career so far. A highlight that always springs to mind is playing my first Boiler Room set at Lost Beach in Ecuador. From arriving to getting the flight home, the experience was amazing, the setting was great and the people were lovely, I'll hopefully be able to play there again soon. I got a Beatport #1 with Body Jack which was a really big achievement for me, as well as playing at Fabric in Barcelona for Elrow on New Year's Day, not quite 2016, but it's definitely a favourite moment.

In these troubled times for the world, do you believe music helps in uniting people?
I think both music and music festivals are a great way to escape from what's going on. Not just in the world but personal problems too!
Who is the number one DJ in the world according to you? Name one who has been your inspiration.
That's a tough question. At the moment I'd have to say The Martinez Brothers. I love their style, both musically and culturally. They also have an amazing presence behind the decks, loads of energy going on there.

Is there anyone from the music industry you would love to collaborate with in the future?
Another tricky question. I'd have to say Cuartero, his music is so much fun, but there is also a maturity to it that I like. It would be great to get in the studio with him.
ADVICE FOR ASPIRING DJs
I don't see myself as fully established yet! I've got a long way to go. But, the only thing I can say is, make sure you put a lot of time into the studio. It's all about mastering your craft and getting as much music out as possible. Show people what you can do.
SHORT TAKES
What's on your turntable/playlist right now?
Cuartero - Nosey Neighbours
The Golden Boy - Egyptian Lover (Latmun Remix)
My upcoming Toolroom EP - Zulu - really excited for you all to hear it tomorrow, just a day before I play Dubai.

If you weren't a DJ you'd be...
A plumber! It's the only other thing I know how to do.

Favourite record of all time.
Nathan Fake - The Sky Was Pink (James Holden remix).

Most overrated record of all time.
Martin Garrix - Animals.
enid@khaleejtimes.com