From the early days of me getting into music, Josh Butler has been an artist that has helped me the become the DJ that I am today. Pleasurekrafts chart topping remix of his track (Got A Feeling), is a personal favourite, that I used to play when I first started out.

During the catch up I got with Josh, we spoke about what Ibiza has had in store for him this year as well as talking about what his experience was like to play at Amnesia with Bontan, his top 5 festivals he played at this year and how he managed to produce the official remix of Fat Boy Slim’s new record ‘Love Life’.

Having played all over the globe, where other than Ibiza has been a country that will stick with you forever? 

South Africa is definitely somewhere I won’t forget in a while, Johannesburg especially was so much fun. Also I loved playing in Holland, Toffler in Rotterdam was a great experience along with Maassilo.

Having your version of Fatboy Slim’s ‘Love Life’ being the official remix must be a memory you will never forget. How did he contact you about this?!

It started with an email from his management asking if I was interested, as you can imagine I jump at the opportunity!

Prior to this, had you spoke/met before having the honour of this remix?

Yeah, we spoke after I had delivered the final track and to hear how happy he was about the way I remixed the original was pretty mind blowing for me. I used to listen to Fatboy Slim as a kid, in fact my Dad is a huge fan as well, I remember driving around with him listening to ‘You’ve Come Along Way Baby’.

You recently performed at the special Avotre showcase during ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) this year. Please tell us about your experience at the conference?

As a week on the whole, it was non stop with meetings in the day then club hopping all night. I had to travel back to the UK on the Friday night too for a gig in Cardiff, which was so worth it. It was great to be asked back to the Avotre showcase too, what a way to end the week.

Lets talk about Ibiza, and what it had to offer for you this year…What venues/events did you play at this year, and what was your favourite? 

I was a resident for Sankeys this year so spent most of my gigs were there apart from Amnesia and some pre – parties at Mambo and Savannah. Playing at Mambo’s is always one of my summer highlights. A load of my friends came down, plenty of Hierbas and playing some different records than I would in the club. There is no better way to set you up for a night.

You played this year at Amnesia with your pal Bontan. In two words, what was the experience  like?

Life goal.

https://soundcloud.com/pleasurekraft/josh-butler-got-a-feeling

You’re set to start a vinyl only project called KAHU. explain to us what’s the motive around you doing this?

Well I produce a lot of music, not just House. I like to experiment by combining elements of genres that I enjoy but very rarely release any of this stuff. I decided I wanted to create a package of vinyl only releases which musically was a little harder than my usual style.

KAHU – What does this mean?

Kahu is a Harrier Hawk that appears in Maori mythology. I spent most of my teenage years in the Bays of New Zealand, so Maori culture was a big thing and something I really respect.

On this project, do you have anything ready to be released?

I have 6 tracks ready to go, on 3 vinyls. As I mentioned, no digital release and limited pressings.

Playing at festivals is the highlight of the summer season for any artist, but where have been your top 5 festivals to play at this year?

Parklife

Secret Garden Party

SW4

Summer Fun

Ceremony

An inspiration who has helped you to be the musician you are today?

 My old college tutors, Tom, Ant and Bun. I still keep in contact with them today, they were a huge support for me when I had to make some difficult decisions about my future and career.

What track did you enter the scene with and what record label was the first to snap the track up?

My first release that significantly helped me was with Darius Syrossian on OFF Recordings called ‘Bass Play’. Then shortly after I sent some demos to MTA, Chase & Status’ label which they loved and really got behind what I was doing at the time.

If you could work with any rapper, who would it be and why?

Interesting. Possibly Q-tip. I think the tone of his voice is so unique.

Imagine you owned a nightclub. Where would it be and why? 

New Zealand. It’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world and it gives the perfect excuse to go and spend some more time there again.

Finally to end this interview, tell me what your plans are for NYE/NYD?

I’m going to be in Manchester with my man Dennis Ferrer.