In this powerful episode, I sat down with drum and bass heavyweight Levela to explore the evolution of one of the scene’s most versatile and forward thinking artists. From his early jump-up roots to his refined, boundary pushing sound today, Levela shares the story behind his creative journey, the launch of his cutting-edge new label LVL Music, and the inspiration driving his incredible new album It Is What It Is. We go deep on life behind the decks, navigating the highs and lows of social media, and what it truly means to stay authentic in a fast moving industry. Raw, reflective, and packed with insight, Levela is one of the real ones both creatively and as a person
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1:19:11
THIS IS CLIQUES. - EP26 - TOM AUTOBOT
In this episode, I’m joined by Tom Autobot, a true veteran of the rave scene whose journey began at just 13 years old. By 15, he’d already signed to DJ SS’s legendary Formation Records, and since then, his career has spanned playing iconic club nights, releasing huge anthems with The Autobots across multiple genres, and producing and DJing for the one and only Bez. But beyond the music, Tom’s story is one of self discovery. Recently diagnosed with ADHD, he’s gained a new understanding of himself, one that’s reshaped his outlook and deepened his connection to who he truly is.
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1:35:46
THIS IS CLIQUES. - EP25 - CLAYTON HINES - RENEGADE HARDWARE
In this episode im joined by Clayton Hines, a name synonymous with uncompromising vision in the world of drum and bass. In an open and honest conversation we talked through legacy, disruption, and what it truly means to shape a movement. From the early days of Trouble on Vinyl to the iconic Hardware nights at The End, Clayton shares raw insight into the mindset that made Renegade Hardware a powerhouse known not just for its heavyweight releases but its renegade approach to literally everything it does. This conversation goes deep into his no filter approach to A&R, the label's ruthless commitment to quality, and why, even years after all these years, the Renegade Hardware brand is still so powerful.
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47:10
THIS IS CLIQUES. - EP24 - NICK HALKES (ARTIST MANAGER - LIAM HOWLETT - THE PRODIGY, CO-FOUNDER OF XL RECORDINGS AND POSITIVA)
Nick Halkes is a legendary figure in the dance music world. His achievements are numerous, including co-founding the iconic XL Recordings, creating the rave anthem The Bouncer, founding the world-renowned Positiva Records, and managing Liam Howlett of The Prodigy — among many others. This conversation went deep, offering incredible insight into what it takes to build a long-term career in the industry and the many cultural and musical revolutions Nick has witnessed along the way.
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1:46:07
THIS IS CLIQUES. - EP23 - JIM GASH - WEAPON AUDIO & FORMER RAM RECORDS LABEL MANAGER
Jim is one of our favourite people in drum and bass, always generous with his time, happy to give feedback on tracks from producers of all skill levels, and just an all round good guy. In this episode, we dive into his journey through the scene, from life and career reflections to what’s next for the man who played a key role in the release of countless iconic tracks. As the founder of Weapon Audio and former label manager at Ram Records for over 15 years, Jim brings a unique perspective on the evolution of the genre, the business behind it and all with some very funny storys peppered in.
CLIQUES. is an infamous dnb group who have been releasing bangers and anthems since 2021. ”THIS IS CLIQUES.” delves into their creative processes, renegade art philosophies, and features conversations with friends and legends, shedding light on careers, personal journeys, and experiences of people from all different walks of life.
UK