As an informed and astute reader of this
fine magazine, it is assumed that you are, at the very least,
familiar with the name Victor Calderone. In fact, you probably
already know quite a bit about the multi-talented master of
musical manipulation who helped redefine the role of the American
DJ in recent years while racking up an impressive array of
artistic accomplishments. So lets forego the biographical
information (which, incidentally, is marvelously presented
in great detail on his new award-winning website, VictorCalderone.com)
and jump right in to find out what the veritable virtuoso
is up to these days and just how hes remained at the
top of his game for so many years.
Advancements in technology continue to alter the face of the
music industry at a mind-boggling pace, making it nearly impossible
(and expensive) to keep up with all the latest trends. But
a visit to Victor Calderones home recording studio located
on the shores of Brooklyn, New York might make you think otherwise.
Inside the computerized chamber is an imposing electronic
arsenal of hi-tech synthesizers, samplers and software all
intricately linked to his second-most cherished companion
(upstaged only by his lovely wife, Athena), Apples PowerMac
G4 the command center at the heart of his
state-of-the-art studio.
I use software called Logic for arranging and recording
music when Im writing from a keyboard, Calderone
explains. Thats the main software I use to produce
and remix music. I spend most of my time behind the computer
because the entire studio is hooked up to it I can
call up all types of different sounds from drums to bass to
strings with the touch of a button. While the computer
helps him manage the creative process, he still likes doing
some things the old-fashioned way. Im a hands-on
guy, he says. I like to be able to turn knobs
and buttons. So I still use some of the older, classic synths
because they produce a really rich, warm analog sound that
cant be reproduced with the newer gear. That is,
at least not yet.
The Internet has also had a profound impact on the music industry.
While artists views on music sharing sites (where songs
are often illegally downloaded) vary widely, most have embraced
the World Wide Web as an invaluable tool for promoting their
careers. Calderone recently jumped on the bandwagon with the
launch of VictorCalderone.com. Creating this window
where I can communicate with fans and people who follow my
work has been really inspiring for me, says Calderone.
Before, I didnt have much connection to the audience
other than through my music. But now people are communicating
through e-mails and telling me how they feel and how Ive
touched them its been a really great, positive
experience for me.
When hes not sifting through e-mails, Calderone is usually
tucked away in his studio working on projects like producing
songs for Stings new album. Sheryl Crows Soak
Up The Sun is quickly climbing the Billboard dance charts
(the song was at #3 at press time) thanks to the mixes he
recently completed with Mac Quayle, and hes currently
remixing Beyonce (Destinys Child) Knowles first
solo record from the Austin Powers: Goldmember movie soundtrack.
Calderone is also preparing to unleash promotional copies
of his new original production, The Drive, which
will be featured on his forthcoming Tommy Boy compilation,
E=VC2, Volume 3.
While Calderones talent in the studio is undeniable,
its his live performances that truly showcase his boundless
energy and master of the turntables. Hes still waiting
for the right opportunity to resume a residency in New York
City, but he has remained in touch with audiences through
bimonthly residencies at Stereo in Montreal, Canada and Tribal
Sessions in Manchester, England. The jet-setting DJ also spins
monthly at Crobar in Miami and occasionally travels for special
events like Jeffrey Sankers Climax after-hours party
in Orlando on June 1st and the Dolce & Gabbana party for
Kylie Minogue in Milan, Italy on June 8th.
If you want to catch Calderone on his home turf this summer,
youll soon have your chance. Following the remarkable
success of last years Caligula event during New Yorks
Gay Pride Weekend, Calderone will once again be producing
a massive dance party at the Hammerstein Ballroom on Saturday,
June 29th. Dubbed Provocateur, this years event is being
billed as a mysterious, erotic and sexually charged masquerade
ball inspired by Stanley Kubricks Eyes Wide Shut. Hosted
by Alan Cumming (who also appeared in the movie), Provocateur
promises two special surprise performers and the return of
the symphony orchestra. DJ Escape will play the opening music
before Calderone takes over around midnight. Advance tickets
for Provocateur are $75 and can be purchased through TicketMaster.com,
FagTag.com or at Conquete in New York City.
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