It's a case of 'mi casa es su casa' when famed Spanish house DJ David Penn lands in Australia next week for an Australian tour.
One of Spain's best-known DJs and house music producers, David has maintained an active international presence since the early 2000s, adding his name and flavour to an honour roll of high-calibre productions and remixes.With one finger on the decks and another squarely on the pulse of what's happening in the global house music scene, David is well-positioned as an influential tastemaker for modern electronic music.
Ahead of his Australian tour, David tells us about his latest album release, his predictions for the future of house music, life as a touring DJ and more.
Tell us a bit about your new release 'House Masters' on Defected; it's a 2-CD release of unmixed tracks highlighting some of your favourite dance-floor essentials, right?
It's a compilation of part of my discography from the last 20 years, songs that were really special to me which new generations may not know.
As we move into the '20s, where do you see house music in general transitioning to?
Actually, I feel like we're undergoing a kind of rebirth of house music. There's a new generation who perhaps don't know the less familiar tracks of the last 20 years, so I can play old tracks and new ones without any problem.
One album you can’t live without?
Stevie Wonder – 'Songs In The Key Of Life'.
Is there one particular song or artist that inspired you to become a DJ/ producer?
Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire, Michael Jackson; the list goes on.
Where is the coolest (or weirdest, your choice) place you’ve ever played a show?
Last year I played at For Forest in Austria where a forest was planted inside a stadium. The organisers wanted to highlight a criticism of the system by showing that we don't take care of the planet; the forests symbolised something extraordinary to see how a football game can be, something really beautiful and original.
And the weirdest was many years ago playing in a festival that nobody came to; it was fun in the end because all DJs who had to play were looking at the door to see if anybody had turned up, hahahaha!
How will you be contributing to the party atmosphere during your sets?
My music reflects happiness, especially vocal music that makes you feel good, from now and from the past, and I love to make my own edits.
What has Australia been like for you as a touring destination? Do you feel a strong connection with audiences here?
Every time I play in Australia I really feel the people close to me, I love the energy of the crowd, it's one of my favourite destinations.
A song that without fail, always makes you get up and boogie?
My track with Ramona Renea: 'Stand Up'.
You know you’ve played a great show when?
When I feel connected with the crowd, when the people understand my style and believe in me to make their day special.
A few non-music questions. . . Zombie attack! What’s your weapon of choice?
An axe! It's obvious, isn't it?
Three essential, non-musical items you never leave home without when you go on tour?
Ear filters, more t-shirts that I need and healthy snacks.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us (or order in)?
I love to cook, so I think Spanish Paella or Asian food.
My favourite app at the moment is?
Netflix, because I spend many hours on planes and in airports, and the time flies.
Who is your La Liga team (and are you passionate football fan)?
I am not so much of a football fan, but to name one maybe Real Madrid.
Any other plans for 2020 you can share with us?
I am doing collaborations with Mat.Joe, Ferreck Dawn, Dope Earth Alien and my plan is to make an album. Touring-wise, I'll be at many Defected parties and festivals as part of my busy schedule.
David Penn 2020 Tour Dates
Sat 29 Feb - Fat Controller (Adelaide)Sun 1 Mar - Ocean Reef Sports Club (Perth)
Fri 6 Mar - Prohibition Brisbane
Sat 7 Mar - Asylum (Gold Coast)
Sun 8 Mar - Pool Club (Sydney) - 3pm set
Sun 8 Mar - The Albion Rooftop (Melbourne) - 11pm set
