Quickie Q and A with Danny Howells

3 months ago 02nd Sep 13:53

What was your overall approach to constructing a Renaissance mix?

With this mix, I had no clue as to what direction to take musically. It was a case of literally going through all of my music and pulling out all my favourite tunes, regardless of genre, from the last two or three years mainly.

I don't really worry too much about being super-upfront on a CD, because it's something that will hopefully stay in people's collections for a while, so I think timelessness is more important that being upfront. Once I'd collated all of my favourites I realised that a lot of them were in the melodic, deep house vein so that kind of gave me the direction in which to go.

Renaissance has a rich reputation in the mix CD spectrum. How do you feel about being given the opportunity to contribute to the series?

Well it's my second CD for them, but the first one I've done on my own. It's a great opportunity, they're a company I respect immensely and have a great history.

How would you describe the sound of the mix?

It's house, ranging from very deep to more peak time, but the bulk is very laid-back and also melodic and warm. I didn't really feel a need to be super-trendy or minimal; I think there's enough of that out there. I just used music I feel very passionate about and hopefully will still enjoy in years to come.

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