Last week, we brought you the exciting news that UK pair Bontan and Josh Butler were set for a unique ‘Be True’ Tour, a house music bonanza that will see the guys go back to back for four hours. Well, we caught up with the lads ahead of their Dublin date at the Button Factory this Friday to get the lowdown on the tour, their penchant for House and a message for their Dublin faithful.
Thanks for taking the time to chat guys! Before we get into the thick of things, tell us about how you guys first met?
Josh: No worries cheers for having us. We met through a mutual friend about 6 years back. I was DJing in Leeds with our friend Jay at a day party and Andy came up from his home town to visit. Not been able to get rid of him since.
The ‘Be True Tour’ will see you go back to back for 4 hours in some great venues across the UK & Ireland. What was the inspiration behind the concept?
Bontan: We wanted to pay homage to the original house sound that got us both hooked many years ago. We want to share with the younger generation where we got our influences from.
Can you tell us a little bit about the thought behind the extended set?
Josh: we have built up such a collection of amazing music, we want to be able to share as much as possible. It gives us the perfect opportunity to blend between different areas of House music, old and new.
Who are the guys, for you, that are being true to house music right now?
Hector Couto, Christian Nielsen, Hauswerk, Joss Moog are just a few names that are doing it for us!
We’re told you guys have been busy working away in the studio together. Spill the beans!
Josh: haha yeah we’ve actually just finished our second collaboration, featuring vocals from Basement Jaxx’s Vula. I’d say the record itsself is pretty stripped back. Vula’s vocal is stunning so we really wanted that to shine!!
The tour sees you both returning to the Button Factory here in Dublin, you’ve got quite the following here in the capital. Have you got a message for the the lovers of House music here?
Bontan: Expect 4 hours of house history!
Can you give us one track to get us in the mood for your arrival February 20th?
Josh: Dj Sneak – Funky Rhythm
Lastly, we need to know! Have you guys set apart a portion of the touring budget for Nandos? We hear you’re fond of the chicken!
Bontan: If there’s a Nandos in Dublin were throwing a pre gig feast for all coming to the gig!