Studio 89’s Nick Bennett: The Wednesday Alternative Mix

Studio 89 know how to party. Since 2011 they have been proving this whilst moving from basement to basement bringing with them an eclectic array of disco, funk, boogie, house, soul and everything in between. Originating in Cardiff they have captured what can be hard to find, the spirit and soul of days gone by. This is evident in the inspiration which they take from the disco era of Paradise Garage and Studio 54. Many have tried and failed to replicate the warmth and sincerity of a scene which vanished years ago, but in all honesty, Studio 89 are as close now to that you might ever find. We caught up with them ahead of Sunfall weekend where they will host Derrick Carter, Honey Dijon and Michael Serafini at Brixton Electric. Listen to the mix below and read an interview Nick Bennett below: 

Who are you, where are you and what are you? 

Hi! I'm Nick Bennett, a resident at Studio 89.  We are a disco night born in a basement in Cardiff beneath a noodle shop. We now play host to parties around the UK and occasionally Europe when we're lucky, with our base in Bristol. 

What does your music sound like? 

Interesting disco & house that has some heart, soul and emotion to it. 

Can you draw what you think it sounds like for us (an image from the old internet is acceptable)? 

A white horse in Studio 54.

Would you rather play at Sunrise or Sunfall? 

Depends on the setting but probably sunfall. 

What were your early influences? 

My parents rock & pop collection, followed by learning jazz instruments through my youth then discovering disco & house in a big way shortly after that.

How would you describe London club culture at present in one word? 

Vibrant. 

Where was the mix recorded?

In my living room in Brixton over the course of an afternoon.

What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?

Riding a white horse on a beach. 

What should we be wearing?

A sparkly cape of your choice.

What would be your dream setting to record a mix: Location, system, format?

A sunny rooftop with a quality sound set up and a load of my mates having a little party while giving feedback. 

Which track in the mix is your current favourite?

Depends on mood but for daaaaa club: Zusammen – Dance Disorder (Instrumental Version) – it's an overlooked Italo weapon.

What’s your favourite recorded mix of all time?

Genius of Time – Melbourne Deepcast 91. A live mix from my favourite house producers that never fails to amaze me. 

Follow Studio 89 on Facebook HERE. Catch them at Sunfall HERE.