Aquarius Heaven Talks

Ahead of his appearance at You Are We this bank holiday weekend we caught up with Aquarius Heaven to talk everything from the way his uncles influenced on his sounds to how he goes about his live perfomances and the much awaited festival season.

When was ‘Aquarius Heaven’ born, and where does the name come from? I read that it was pure chance that has lead you to the electronic world of music. Can you tell us about your journey? 

Well, my astrological sign is Aquarius along with two of my closest mates who are also aquarius… It was right after the production of universe that me and Damien (DOP member) decided to go along with the name aquarius heaven also having the same birthday with Clement (DOP member) just confirmed the idea

Can you tell us a little bit about working with DOP? What would your usual day in the studio entail? Also tell us a little bit more about after work adventures in Paris?

Well it sure was chance that got me on the electronic ride and my uncles DOP had a very big role to play in that chance after meeting the crew on my arrival in paris a few years ago our long session of hip-hop and dancehall turned into strictly electronic. Its like something that was meant to happen. Lets just say it was a long ride getting here! I am more than proud to say that this trio (DOP) is one of the most productive and talented producers in this electronic scene. We used to go into the studio which was in a basement in paris and would usually spend all day all night there. We’d often would go for a drink at our favorite bar afterwards called the Zero Zero and catch up with friends. This is just the music part the rest of the story will be in my book which I sure plan to publish.

What was the music of your teenage rebellion?

Hip-Hop, Slam, Reggae & Dancehall

What were your first and last records bought? 

Lord Watch Over Our Shoulders (1994) Greensleeves and the last was Lee Foss The edge

Are you a kick drum, hi hat or a snare? And why?

I am a kick drum, hi hat and snare and a lil vocals here and there cause music should be a fun thing

What are you obsessed with at the moment?

Making new shit!

Do you art direct your self and your videos? With an image and style all your own, how will this creativity extend to your set on the night?

My live performances are as said live. No preparing or planning. I go with the flow and thats for the visual part, anything could affect my appearance on stage as for the music part I stick to my script! But sometimes I give a littl extra freestyle when the emotions are good. In any case, good visuals are just like a cherry on a good cake!  

On the subject of adventures, you’ve had a few. From Dancehall Singer to Dance Floor Filler. As well as your links to  DOP what other influences made for such a dramatic musical switch? 

Well, I am a show guy. I love interacting with the crowd and sharing the emotions! Not only did my uncles (DOP) teach me the composition of electronic music they also showed me the club scene and damn I love that energy. I wouldn’t say that I’m a DJ but more of a producer and entertainer. My uncles SEUIL and NOZE sure had some part to play in this switch. 

Your journey has been accelerated through the online world of blogging & digital media. You Cant Buy Love was featured everywhere well before its release date. Do you have an opinion on how the online world can shape, make or break an artist? How did you use this sudden limelight to your advantage?

The media is very important for an artist. If youre doing something good everyone will know at the same time and if youre doing something bad everyone will know! It goes both ways. I think it all depends on how we use the online media and for me this was a big help in sharing what I do with the world.

Complete the sentence: I’m proper techno because..

I like what I do and I put my heart into it.

If your sound was a visual thing, what would it look like?

It would look like the paintings of Jackson Pollock.

Your recent podcast for Circus Company in celebration of your new EP was beautifully crafted. I’m sure a lot of thought goes into a mix but how do you approach your sets? Are they pre meditated and planned or do you just go with the flow?

I’m happy to hear that you liked it! Every mix I do I already have a picture of what I want it to look like, thats why I always isolate myself to do a podcast as it often reflects my mood 

The first vinyl record I bought was Musical Youth’s “Pass the Dutchie” back in “82. What was the first record you remember buying? (No one’s judging) 

One of my first was garnet silk. One of Jamaica’s golden voice’s unfortunately died too early…

Being from the Caribbean and now living in Berlin must be quite a lifestyle change, can you tell us what you miss from back home and what you couldn’t live without in Berlin?

I am not from the Caribbean! I left texas at an early age and was introduced to the Caribbean. Like a tourist, I spent a few years there and loved everything I learnt on that trip, sure I miss all that but there is still so much to see! What I miss the most is my mum who is from the Caribbean. For me home is where you live at the moment, dont get it twisted!

Whats your take on the festival scene? With so many on offer around the world which would you say was your personal highlight to play at as an artist? Are there any you have not but would really like to?

BPM Festival on the Beach in Mexico with the Torch of Class Crew was definitely the highlight for me. I would love to do Burning man if time permits!

What’s your thoughts on London? Are you excited about playing for You Are We?

London makes me wanna party like a rock star. I am always excited when I have to play, it doesn’t matter where I have to play but I’m sure I’ll have some fun! Lets break some rules!

For more information on You Are We this bank holiday Sunday click here!