DJ David Beans debuts at Ballantine April 5

DJ David Beans debuts Tuesday night as host of Willoughby entertainment lounge Ballantine‘s revived “Indie/Dance Night.” In six short years, Beans has established himself as more than a musical artist, he evolved from an electronic composer into a recording engineer and producer under the label of Division Sound, a venture he co-found with audio engineer Keith Vance last year. Now, he is embarking on a new exploration as a disc jockey.

“I intend on taking advantage of this weekly DJ gig to explore some sounds and technique of playing music,” Beans told The Rhythm Report in a recent interview.

The Rhythm Report: How did you land the DJ gig at Ballantine?

DB: Pure luck and word of mouth reputation. An old friend of mine from high school, Chris Patterson, who manages a different bar owned by the same individuals, was asked if he knew anyone who knew good music as Ballantine aspired to restart its previously successful indie dance night. Thankfully, Chris mentioned my name and the gentleman at Ballantine have been extremely courteous in letting me do this. I like to think this gig is a small payback and reminder that trying to be a kind and honest person eventually pays off. I'm really grateful for the opportunity, it feels like a natural progressive fit for me in regards to working with music.

RR: Your weekly set is called Indie/Dance Night. Describe “indie dance.”

DB: This is the third time I've been asked this question and I'm still struggling to give a good answer, I fear. Indie dance provides a safe haven between the music you hear on the radio and the dance music you might hear at a “techno club.” It generally has a more raw and genuine sound as opposed to Katy Perry or the Black Eyed Peas, with all due respect. I'm truly a fan of all music, and I think that while indie initially meant independent of main stream music, the genre has blended convincingly, as seen with Arcade Fire winning its Grammy.

RR: What can fans expect to hear?

DB: There are DJs who play one track to the next, and then there are DJs who attempt to provide a great mix, working with tunes harmonically and relatively close in beat. I intend on using these tunes as creative pieces to provide great mixes each night.

An arsenal of modern electro-indie artists comprise Beans‘ playlist including LCD Soundsystem, Animal Collective, Phoenix, M83, The Streets, Jonsi and La Roux, among others.

"As a DJ, I hope to just help people discover new music and have a good time. Simple as that," Beans said.

Starting April 5, Beans will be pumping beats from the booth at Ballantine’s Indie/Dance Night every Tuesday starting at 10 p.m. More information is available at Beans’ website, www.david-beans.com, and Facebook. 

Check out Ballantine’s entertainment schedule at the venue’s website.

Interview conducted by Priscilla Tasker, editor and creator of The Rhythm Report