The track I’ll be opening my next DJ set with
Baby Ford: Westway
Deadly yet effective sophistication from Baby Ford. I like to play something with some atmosphere to reset the room and give myself a little headspace for what’s to come.
The track I always play to rescue a dancefloor
Mount Rushmore: You’d Better (Es Cavallet Mix)
This has been in and out of my record bag since I was at university in the mid-90s. It’s just a vibe – real funky house, storming groove and a wailing diva. What more do you need? Es Cavallet is actually a gay beach in Ibiza.
The track that currently gets the most rewinds
A Band Called Flash: Mother Confessor
This sounds like it could have could have been a lost Paradise Garage gem, but it was only released last year. It’s a total jam.
The track I wish I’d signed to my label
Gypsy: Funk De Fino
When I was 18, I was delivering this magazine door to door for charity, and it was raining so I borrowed my mum’s car. I was getting out, and this came on the radio. It stopped me in my tracks and I listened to the whole 13-and-a-half minutes. Mindbending, psychedelic dance music.
The track that’s been unfairly slept on this year
Wbeeza: Black Moon EP
Well it’s an EP – and it was released last December – but Wbeeza’s last 12-inch for our label Secretsundaze went under the radars of too many people. Both sides are stunning, and he’s way ahead of so many house and techno producers.
The track I’d play to show off my eclectic tastes
Madame X: Jus That Type Of Girl
Amazing track – and a bit of a one-hit wonder. Released in ‘87 and way ahead of the curve.
The track that got me out of bed this morning
James Mason: Sweet Power Your Embrace
I can’t get enough of this, with its raw funk, soaring strings and powerful vocal. It sets you up for the day.
The track I’d play at my auntie’s wedding
Thelma Houston: You Used To Hold Me So Tight
Thelma’s got the funk! This is a party tune but still very classy. I like to keep it classy at all times!
The ideal festival track
Nomad: Devotion
This should do it. Something to unite the masses, with added crowd sounds.
Giles Smith plays Secretsundaze Opening Party, St John At Hackney, E5, Saturday
