Mark Fanciulli took the time out of his busy schedule after playing his incredible set at this year’s The Social Festival to discuss music, his summer highlights, fashion, what’s in store for 2017 and much more…
Who influences you musically?
A lot of influences I’m getting right now are from BBC Radio 6. Whether it’s listening to an old blues track or something electronic.
Name three artists you had on your playlist growing up…
The Beastie Boys, Laurent Garnier and Steve Lawler.
When was the pinnacle moment you realised you could make a career in music?
Back in 2011 when I released “The Tide”. The track had a fantastic response and things took off from there really.
What’s been your biggest career highlight so far?
My career is my highlight! Being able to travel the world playing huge clubs, festivals and all kinds of parties, getting meet some lovely people.
If you could collaborate with one other artist, past or present, who would it be?
I’d have to say Laurent Garnier because I think he’s got such a broad and unique taste, he’s the DJ’s DJ, someone who I look up to. He played The Social Festival a year ago and I think his production is incredible. I always look forward to his new releases.
Where is the most memorable venue you’ve ever played?
If I had to pick one right now, I’d say Pacha in Buenos Aires. The room was just so incredible; it was everything I had heard and more. I was there early on to watch friends play and I was so excited when putting on my first record around 4 or 5am. The set couldn’t have gone any better. It was also the first time I’d been to Argentina and have enjoyed returning to other locations there since.
What/Who/Where is the most memorable performance you’ve ever seen?
One that stands out for me is when I went to Berghain in Berlin around 2009. I arrived around 8:30 in the morning and watched Joel Mull for two hours followed by Adam Beyer for another two and for the remaining eight hours of the day watched them go back to back. That was a real experience.
What do you enjoy most about playing festivals?
I think there’s an excitement in the crowd that you don’t get in clubs as the environment is totally different. They’re not as common as club shows so people seem to let loose a lot more, not that they don’t in a club.
How does the UK crowd differ from other countries?
It’s hard to put this into words but in the UK you have a crowd who aren’t afraid to show their feelings. I rarely play in the UK and it’s always special.
What song are you playing on repeat at the moment?
Bicep “Glue”.
What’s been your summer highlight of 2017?
Back in August I played an amazing gig in El Paso, Texas. I’ve been to the town a few times before and always have a great time but something crazy happened afterwards. Just after the plane had pushed back the engine started smoking and the fire brigade came out. We had to de-plane and unfortunately the tour got cut short there. Not the best highlight but these things happen.
What’s your guilty pleasure track?
I was talking to someone about this earlier. It’s got to be Donna Summer “I Feel Love”.
How do you spend your down time when you’re not performing or in the studio?
Whenever I’m at home I do my best to spend time with my family and friends. I also try to throw a few Netflix documentaries in.
Favourite film/TV series?
Right now, it’s “The Americans”.
Drink of choice on a night out?
Gin and tonic. I’ve got one right here in my hand.
Can you explain your fashion sense? How would you describe your style?
I like to keep colours simple, I don’t want to sound cliché but a typical black ensemble, especially when you’re at a festival in the UK. I think black jeans are a must and comfy footwear. Shop around and get yourself some comfy trainers. There’s so many cool designs out there which can work for lots of occasions.
Describe yourself in three words?
Passionate, meticulous and happy.
What’s next for 2017?
I’m heading to New York next week to play at Output, a club which has just been voted number one in the world at the Electronic Music Awards. I’m really, really pumped for it. I had the pleasure of playing there a few years back and this time I get to play the Panther Room. Plus, I get to celebrate my birthday out there and I’ve got a bunch of friends coming who I can’t wait to see.
What advice do you have for aspiring DJs?
It sounds cheesy but just do what you want to do. Always enjoy it, that’s the primary thing. If you can keep pumping away at it, keep making records, keep playing gigs. You’ll hit a lot of brick walls but you’ve just got to throw what you can at it. Don’t be scared to ask people questions, go to your local club and watch the resident DJ. Learn how to perfect the craft of the warm up, that’s something that gets overlooked but it’s vital.
Who’s better, you or your brother?
My brother.
