While the future of nightlife remains clouded by the smoke of uncertainty – with the ripple effect of lockdowns, strict council regulations and financial demands from landlords leading to the shuttering of 65 UK clubs in 2024 – our dance floors have never been more exciting. Inside 10 Men Issue 61, we spotlight a series of DJs that are experts in their craft, taking eclectic sonics born on the British Isles to the biggest stages globally and providing soundtracks to the sort of nights out you’ll be telling your grandchildren about.
Sounds from the north are reaching a global stage, all thanks to Sheffield native Silva Bumpa. Having learnt how to produce when he was still in school uniform, the 23-year-old has emerged as a dance music wunderkind, touring through bassline wobblers, bubbly house and speed garage classics with his high-octane sets at Glastonbury, Boomtown and beyond.
Silva wears jacket by PURPLE MOUNTAIN OBSERVATORY, trousers by FRIZMWORKS
What’s one track that’ll never leave your USB?
Probably Shaun Banger Scott’s Reach for Me, the perfect combo of northern bassline and ravey late night club anthems.
What track never fails to fill a dance floor?
I’d say Prozak’s Dr. Beat – that intro is just so euphoric.
What makes a great DJ?
I love it when there are DJs like Dr Banana who are constantly digging for records. Music has the ability to bring people together, so DJs who are community-focused and build up other people around them and contribute to the scene are special.
What’s been the best night out of your life?
It was definitely when I saw Interplanetary Criminal, Main Phase and Big Ang at South in Manchester a few years ago. It was one of those first nights after lockdown where it felt new and fresh. I think everyone knew that in the crowd and I felt the energy in the air.
What’s a project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?
I have to say my residency at Hope Works in my hometown of Sheffield. So rewarding putting my favourite artists, club and city together.
What shaped your musical tastes?
My friends when I was growing up. I wasn’t exposed to dance music, as most of my family were into bands. But when all the people in my class started going to free parties in the Peak District and introducing me to speed garage and bassline I became instantly obsessed.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve seen from behind the decks?
I’m going to keep it sensible, but when I was in Belgium, I was playing this mad club with Girls Don’t Sync and Mella Dee. The hospitality was crazy. There was this woman who would bring us half-pints of Belgian beer, a hot towel and snacks at exact 30-minute intervals, not to mention the amount of stuff they gave us as a rider. I was getting handed cigarettes and bottles of Patron [tequila] and Moët. At the time I was still working part-time on building sites and it blew my mind.
What makes a great night out?
Great speakers, cheap drinks, a chill smoking area, good music. But actually, some of my best nights haven’t had any of these. I think a nice environment, where you feel comfortable and have plenty of room to dance, is maybe more important.
Taken from 10 Men Issue 61 – MUSIC, TALENT, CREATIVE – on newsstands now. Order your copy here.
THE FLOOR FILLERS
Creative Editor and Text PAUL TONER
Portrait BELLA MACGREGOR
Fashion assistant GEORGIA EDWARDS
Production ZAC APOSTOLOU and SONYA MAZURYK
