Mermaids: The Wednesday Alternative Mix
A few years ago we were first introduced by chance to Mermaids, a new duo who emerged silently from the depths of the Glaswegian undercurrent to produce music which you might not tend to stereotypically associate with the city. Glasgow is a place which has often been associated with techno but Mermaids have always approached music with a slightly softer edge. Their music stood out amidst the crowded palaces and clubs, danceable yet luxurious and different. Nowadays the pair are split across the country with one half of the duo based in Glasgow and another in London. In recent years their music has gathered support from the likes of Jackmaster and Huntleys & Palmers. We caught up with the duo to talk about the world in which they orbit. Listen to their mix and read the interview below:
Please introduce yourself… Who are you, where are you and what are you? What does your music sound like?
We are a duo formed in Glasgow in 2011 that make strange and colourful music.
What was the original concept behind Mermaids?
We just wanted to make music together… There was a feeling that given our tastes we would be able to do something that we at least would love.
What influence has Glasgow had on the sound?
What’s amazing about Glasgow and the music that comes out of it is the sheer breadth and depth of styles and sound. It is a very easy place to just be yourself. And you’re surrounded by quality, inspiring people all the time, so to get anywhere you have to be good.
Is it easier to produce music whilst based in different cities or does it assist in the process?
I think we make the best of the situation… Having a bit of time pressure on us definitely makes us a little more clinical. Although it would obviously be lovely to get to work together more often.
Where was the mix recorded?
In our wee studio in Glasgow.
What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?
Any time, any where… The music will take you where you need to be.
What should we be wearing?
Your heart on your sleeve.
What would be your dream setting to record a mix: Location, system, format?
Neptune, on a monolithic alien sound system, turntables and a crowd of our galactic brethren.
Which track in the mix is your current favourite?
Really love the Apres Ski track… And the Sasac number is amazing!
What’s your favourite recorded mix of all time?
So many good ones…. Maybe Dave Clarke’s World Service One Techno side as it was the first electronic stuff I was ever moved by.
If you could go back to back with any DJ from throughout history, who would it be and why?
David Mancuso is the first that comes to mind…. Or perhaps Rune LIndbæk during the 90’s… Such exciting approaches to mixing records and styles.
What was your first DJ set up at home and what is it now?
I was pretty lucky! Set of Technics and a vestax mixer.
What’s more important, the track you start on or the track you end on?
Both equally important points in the tale your trying to tell…
What were the first and last records you bought?
Jeez…. Maybe ‘Psyence Fiction’ by Unkle was the first… And the new Max Graef on Apron is the latest.
If this mix was an edible thing, what would it taste like?
Hash cakes.
If it was an animal what would it be?
Snow leopard.
One record in your collection that is impossible to mix into anything?
Any of the weird sludge metal i have!
Upcoming in the world of…
Our track ‘Omega’ is out at the end of the month on Leipzig’s A Friend In Need, alongside M.Ono and Luvless. And we are working on an EP for Huntley’s & Palmers which will appear in 2017. There’s a taster from that in the mix!
Follow Mermaids on Facebook HERE.
